Royal Vauxhall Tavern
Indestructible Victorian pub with a singular gay history — including drag performances since the middle of the last century — and a relentless party spirit. Themed nights showcase comedy, drag, burlesque, and alternative cabaret. Among the pub's other claims to fame is the joint visit in 1988 by singer Freddie Mercury (a former Coleherne regular), comic star and broadcaster Kenny Everett, and, incognito as a man, Diana, Princess of Wales.
- 30+
- 40+
- 50+
- dancing
- drag
- outdoor seating
- bears
- mixed LGBTQ+
- pub
- $$
- British
- historical site
- live entertainment
- cabaret
- themed
- casual
- good for groups
- locals
- lively
Hours
Mon to Thu 7pm—midnight
Fri 6pm—9pm, 10pm—4pm
Sat 10pm—4am
Sun 4pm—11pm
Nominee for Best of GayCities '23
Hours
Mon to Thu 7pm—midnight
Fri 6pm—9pm, 10pm—4pm
Sat 10pm—4am
Sun 4pm—11pm
Your support makes our travel guides possible
We believe that LGBTQ+ people deserve safe vacations that allow them to be their authentic selves. That's why our City Guides aren't locked behind a paywall. Can you contribute today?
Cancel anytime · Proudly LGBTQ+ owned and operated
Reviews
Add a reviewSunday nights with Charlie Hides are the best! Show starts at 5.30p (ish)
Iconic place in Vauxhall
This is one of the most famous gay bars in the entire world. The RVT is one of the oldest gay bars in all of London and with its extensive history it’s constantly hosting a variety of different events including comedy performances, party nights, drag shows and more. The most popular times are usually on Sunday afternoons because there are a variety of great shows on at these times.
Cool Pub
I love this place. Fun crowd, great music and some nice looking sleek older dudes.A definite must for 20 somethings - 50 somethings.
So Different
The Vauxhall tavern is an awesome bar, a bit on the small side, but plenty of atmosphere and some great cabaret.
A Vauxhall institution
It popularity endures down through the decades... every Sunday, like church! Most people who visit will only have soft focus memories