Nestled in the heart of Soho, Comptons has stood as a beacon of the London gay scene for decades. This beloved pub, with its rich history and evolution, exudes a unique charm that makes it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.
As you step into Comptons, you're greeted by an ambiance that blends traditional pub vibes with modern, gay-friendly energy. The pub's interior, characterized by its exposed brickwork and timber beams, provides a cozy yet vibrant setting for a night out. Whether you're flying solo or with a squad, Comptons offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening or a lively start to a night of club-hopping.
What sets Comptons apart is not just its atmosphere but also its ability to cater to a diverse crowd. Known for its reasonable pricing, the bar is a hit among those looking for a fun yet affordable night out in London. The clientele is a delightful mix of gorgeous men, and the staff's friendly and welcoming nature adds to the overall experience.
Comptons isn't just a bar; it's a social hub. It's a place where conversations flow as freely as the drinks, where new friendships are formed, and where every visit promises a new story. On a typical Friday night, the bar buzzes with energy as Soho's socialites gather for pre-drinks before exploring the city's nightlife.
For anyone visiting London or those living in the city, a night at Comptons is more than just a drink at a bar. It's an experience, a celebration of the vibrant and inclusive gay community that London boasts. It's a reflection of the city's diverse and accepting spirit, making it a beloved spot for all.
First time in here for a long time. As with most gay bars, little changes but the atmosphere was good and drinks reasonably priced at £7:45 for a double Bourbon and Coke.
Mark was so accomodating from the moment we walked in. He found us a table and it was the best seat in the house! Attentive, polite, and kindness. Just what we needed on this blustery London evening!The weather outside was frightful!But Mark’s short shorts were quite delightful!
Comptons has been around for a long time, looks the same for years, and still manages to pack in the gay crowd especially in evenings and weekends. Don't...
I have still awarded 4 stars, but last night I had a bad experience there. I was out with a few friends, quite normally, and went out with a friend for a cigarette. On return, a female bouncer refused to let me back in. I wasn't even allowed to collect my coat, and suffered the indignity of a friend having to fetch it for me. I was simply told I wasn't barred but could not come back in tonight. You might think this happened because I was causing trouble, or was very drunk. But neither of things are true. I had been drinking, of course, but was steady on my feet and completely in control. I never make trouble. I had simply been chatting to friends - no arguments, no raised voices, no reason I can think of to be profiled in this way. I am in my 50's and know my alcohol limits. This has never happened to me before. As a result of this, I'll be apprehensive to drink in this bar when she is on the door, which is a shame. It's a meeting point for me and I have been a customer for many years.
My absolute favourite bar in Soho! Incredible service with a great atmosphere and very handsome staff 😋 With DJs every night of the week you cannot go wrong coming here. Special mention to the ginger bearded barman who goes above and beyond for his customers
A few days ago, I visited your pub and I have to say I was quite disappointed. I ordered a double vodka with Coca-Cola, but it tasted like water. I asked the bartender to remake the drinks, and I even watched him pour the vodka from the bottle. However, the drinks still tasted watery.I can't help but wonder if the bottles actually contain quality vodka. I think it would be worth sending an inspector to take a closer look, because the drinks are quite expensive, and I expect to enjoy something of good quality.Overall, my experience was not what I hoped for, and I left feeling unsatisfied.
This Bar is so vivid I always have such a wonderful time it’s the place to go if you’re looking for a just a fun night!!The staff are all lovely, however Colin is my favourite Bartender!! I sat upstairs one night one the second floor and he was so attentive on a busy Friday night, not to mention my drinks were delicious!
Best pint in Soho!Great staff, service & atmosphere. Served by the Irish girl behind the bar who went above and beyond for us. She even danced a jig at one stage. 10/10 will be back
It's a tale of two bars. Staff are great in both. Downstairs is busy and pick-upy whereas upstairs is great for having quiet chats with old friends and new. Drinks are a bit pricey but that's Soho for you. It's well-run and friendly with attentive security staff. Toilets are well-maintained.
Such a vibrant and welcoming spot in Soho. I’m in most days.The bar attracts a friendly crowd of mature gay men, adding to the warm atmosphere.Always great service provided by the bartenders. I feel very comfortable there and their sense of humour is fabulous.Special shout-out to Ivan, who always takes time out to chat and make you feel welcomeDavid
Just had the most fabulous family day out in Comptons of Soho. We were thoroughly looked after by a very polite, attentive young Irish man (Leo I think he was called) who could not do enough for us. As my parents were Irish themselves -he made them laugh as they swapped tales and he was super attentive to them. We all had a great time - and if I’m in the area again - this is definitely the spot for me, a cracker….
I recently visited Compton’s in Soho and had an great experience. This historic pub boasts a lively and welcoming atmosphere that perfectly captures the spirit of Soho.The highlight of my visit was the exceptional service from Jakob, one of the bar staff who closes upstairs. Jakob’s friendly and attentive nature made a great impression. He was not only quick and efficient in serving drinks but also took the time to chat and make me feel welcomed!Perfect end to an evening!
Clearly this is the most popular gay bar in Soho, right? When Jamie W. and I sauntered by on a weeknight evening, we were quite intimidated by the number of...
I have always loved Compton's and I always will!It's literally my No.1 go to pub in all of London that always feels like returning to home away from home!The throbbing pulse of Old Compton Street and the Heart and Soul of Soho where EVERY DAY IS PRIDE!!Long live Comptons!
Disappointing Anniversary Experience Due to Unprofessional ManagementMy partner and I revisited Compton's Bar to celebrate our 23rd anniversary, as we met 23 years ago upstairs at Compton's. We bought a bottle of Veuve Clicquot to mark our milestone and decided to sit upstairs at the same table where we first met. We had a lovely time for about 90 minutes until we were rudely interrupted by a woman claiming to be the manager.Her approach was unprofessional at best. We were told we couldn't sit upstairs because the upstairs bar was still closed, even though there were no signs indicating this. When we explained our special reason for sitting upstairs, she was dismissive and unwilling to listen. Her insistence that we leave, despite us having already been there for almost two hours, was very frustrating.The manager's excuses about potential wine theft and her lack of trust because "it's Soho" were directed at us in an accusatory manner. This small-minded attitude and lack of training in politeness were evident. Her behavior lacked class and empathy, which is particularly disappointing in a gay establishment where one might expect more understanding and professionalism.I would suggest that Compton's Bar reconsider the suitability of this manager for their establishment. A manager should exhibit discretion, direction, and above all, respect for their guests. This experience left a sour taste on what should have been a joyous occasion.Never to return. Even though it hold so much memories
Amazing!Such a safe and inclusive space, I've never felt so accepted so quickly. If you're in Soho this is a must!Special thank you to Hannah for helping me out on my visit!
Great day bar in the heart of Soho. A friend of mine took me there. He knows that I'm into older men so he knows what he was doing to suggest trying this place. It was like heaven to me, especially in the afternoon, it was full of daddies. Now I know where to go next time I'm in Soho. All the daddies are gathering there. The drinks were nice. The staff were friendly. And the place is huge, it's 2 floors.
Comptons was a welcoming and enjoyable place to wind down after a long day of exploring London and its distinctive neighborhoods.The bartenders were attentive and friendly to newcomers, foreigners and locals alike. This isn't always the case in many gay bars elsewhere, where the atmosphere feels cliquish and standoffish to outsiders. Thankfully Comptons was inviting from the moment we walked in the door.We especially appreciated the fact that the clientele was mixed-age and made you feel accepted, no matter if you were a young 50 year old or an exuberant 20 year old... both were equally at home in this place.
This otherwise famous gay bar needs to move on with time and realises not everyone would want to drink cold drink and alcohol all the time, they should offer some nice and also warm non-alcoholic drinks. And no this is not for religious reasons just am a bit health conscious.....
Visited Comptons with a friend last week. Had a great time, met some lovely locals as well as tourists such as myself. All in all a fun must check out spot if you are passing through SoHo.
Great decor, good pours and friendly staff. Been here several times and always had a good time. Other patrons were friendly, the staff was welcoming, and...
Love this place. Got bloody expensive but all of stonegates Gay bars are. Over £7 a pint. They own them all so can rip of the gays all they want. Such a shame when they own so many bars!!! Stops us from going to these venues when we are supposed to support our community.
Busy and big historic gay bar in central Soho. Atracts a slightly older crowd and known for those looking to 'meet'. Usually packed after work up to closing, with friendly staff serving as quick as possible.
This place holds a special place in my heart. I come back here whenever I can. Fantastic, friendly atmosphere, really nice staff and great music on a Friday night. Not the Grand Dame of Soho for nothing 😀
I have been going to Comptons for decades. Hadn't been for a long while. It was always a vibrant pub where people used to talk to each other. You were never alone for long without making friends. So I was looking forward to visiting again.Now, guys don't look at you, let alone talk! Even the older regulars kept to their own little cliques. Out of anyone, they should know better to be inclusive. Such a great pub once. I don't think I'll be going back in a hurry. The three stars are for the great memories when Comptons was fun and people didn't just stare ahead of them or give shady looks. Oh, and the bar staff were rude and unless you were Adonis, they weren't even going to bother being polite. So sad.
Absolutely legendary pub. The atmosphere is always giving, and the staff are the best in soho. Huge shout out to the Deputy Managers Han & Seàn who are simply impeccable at their jobs 🩵
I loved the vibe at this place. We had beer and i loved the interior, we went in the afternoon so it was pretty chill. The service was good and i loved the interior.
Not a local, so I was wandering around and fancied a pint in a gay/queer-friendly pub. The man who served me was very pleasant, but when I asked where the toilets were he directed me to the women's toilet and not the men's. I'm a (passing, imo) trans guy, so that kinda bummed me out as I wanted to feel safe and have a pint around other queer men. Nice enough atmosphere though! But yeah, trans guys, especially if you're a lil-femme, just be aware.
They put security people in the bar. Watching everyone so they don't do anything "illegal". Is there a list of things you mustn't do? Like holding hands? , embracing?, kissing?, touching? I find it absolutely against all principles of a free gay bar. This is like being back in the fifties, when it was illegal to kiss a man. It's against the human rights to be watched by security. I felt like being imprisoned. It will have been the last time I ever go to the Comptons.
Emma is a fantastic bartender, very helpful & efficient in everything that she does. Can’t ask for better service. Without her it wouldn’t be Comptons.
We come here for drinks and a good time, really enjoy talking to everyone, especially the new bar man Jamie, he is so friendly and helpful, made us feel like home!
On a solo day trip to London last week and fancied a lunchtime beer. Went into Comptons without realizing it was a gay pub - it just looked good from the outside. What a brilliant pub - good beer, great ambiance, no loud customers and a silent TV showing BBC News Channel with subtitles. Clientele of an age similar to Wetherspoons but far more civilized.
I use to come to this bar a lot and is one of my favourite ones in soho however tonight the bartender on the upstairs bar was very unfriendly. We arrived around 10:50pm and asked if the bar was still serving, the bartender looked at us and just grunted.
Great gay pub in the heart of Soho. Been there for ages but doesn't feel dated and tatty. Friendly staff and great selection of drinks. Usually quite busy, even weekdays when you would expect it to be slow. A great place to dive in for a pint or two.
It is a cool and old fashioned gay bar, like sitting upstairs instead of being watched downstairs. I wish the bar man with ear ring can be friendlier, I didn’t want to tip after his rude attitude.
We had a great time celebrating with my husband at Comptons. Anthony the GM was a true gentleman and reserved us a great table to see in the NY. The staff were all lovely, friendly and great bartenders. Thank you for having us and for the great hospitality. Xx
Love this bar, the atmosphere inside is cozy with all the wood (no pun intended haha) around the place. Toilets are clean. Bar staff varies in terms of friendliness so I subtract one star, I usually just have a cider and I think it's a reasonable price for a London venue. Met and spoke to a few people there a few times 🙂 I don't know if it's a London thing but it seems like there might be cliques? Sometimes I found that just smiling at someone was met with a blank stare or turning the head away which is kinda sad in a social situation, but hey that's not the bar's issue. Will be happy to keep going back and I absolutely recommend it when visiting Soho 😁
Last night (Monday), I came for first time here with my best mate who is living in US. Strangely, as long as I knew, there was Happy hour for some of the drinks (£2,95).The bar team served a guy before me, who actually ordered the very same drink as me, and charged him £2,95 - I was charged £5,15. These £2,20 are not going to change my life, but it is disrespectful.Service was okay, just the short boy - I believe he is italian, is quite rude.
I came here a couple weekends ago with a friend of mine and was thoroughly impressed with the hospitality of the staff. The managers were incredibly friendly and accommodating and the bar staff were so enthusiastic. It’s so nice to go to a place where the environment seems like everyone is genuinely happy being there. The prices were also great for a pub in Soho which was a nice plus! We had a lovely evening and will definitely be back soon.
It was my first time in a gay bar... I was very shy but I was greeted by this blue eyed Adonis called kristian, I was unsure of what to drink but he said I looked like a cosmopolitan kind of guy... I quietly accepted his recommendation and he started mixing my cocktail with the skill I have only ever seen in the savoy carousel bar.... He made sure to eye contact for every thrust of the cocktail shaker, and it was hypnotic and quite erotic .... I came for a drink but I left with an experience!
Amazing place. The absolute centre of Soho. As I entered I connected with the deep assure blue of the Barman’s (Christian) eyes. Never before had I seen such beauty in a man. I immediately knew I was in the best places in London, and spent the night drinking and dancing, surrounded by amazing people. Like a wild lucid dream of hope and enlightenment. 5/5 would go again.
Great gay bar in soho. Always a fun place to go and meet all types of guys for a great night out. Bar staff always fun and friendly. Cheers especially to Kristian David Shaun an Anthony, always looking after there customers.
Great atmosphere. I’ve been coming for years and always have a fantastic time. The staff is very nice and friendly. I applause Anthony for looking after his team so well. I always come back as much as I can.
The bar literally smells like toilet. They have a sanitary and hygiene issue. Can not recommmend. If anyone questions this, just try it out for yourself. And for patrons who are ok with the odor....???? Says a lot. The staff are incredibly nice.
Yeah bar is good, always nice to have a few drinks, sometimes the dramatics behind the bar can be a bit annoying. Also I don't think it's appropriate for a bar person to be snogging their bf or random squeeze either across the bar or at the doorway, it would be appropriate in any bar, that's my opinion anyway. Nice to have some level of preffesionalism
Every time I go here, its amazing. The door staff I've interacted with (Mike & Dave) are super friendly, so are the bar staff. Prices could be cheaper based on the fact Stonegate own all pubs on the road, but I get why it isn't, the ambience is great. Highly recommended pub. 😁
We had a lovely experience in the Upstairs Lounge on Sunday evening! I booked for some family and friends for my son's 21st Birthday pre - dinner Drinks and we all had a fab time and were very well looked after by Hayden.The atmosphere in the Lounge is relaxed and chilled - it's a very attractive space and we will definitely go there again!Such sweet and attentive staff in Comptons.Thank you!Naomi .
Was served by a lovely man called Christian x he was very friendly and made us feel very welcome xx he will remember us as the ladies that have been together 26 years... He is defo a credit to the bar xx Thank you
Great bar, great staff and lovely atmosphere. Just back from weekend in London and we spent some great time in this bar. Thank you all for making our weekend great x 👏👏👏
Great decor, warm atmosphere, friendly, attitude-free bartenders, no drama and drinks are still served in glass, which is a great bonus! This is actually one of few (or maybe even the only one) gay bars that actually serves drinks in proper glasses rather than cheap plastic that just trashes the planet. I applause them for that 👍
Went for my birthday for the weekend and was recommended by a friend DAN toGive it a good. Had a blast amazing bars great services everything you could ask for highly recommend to others
Great gay pub in the heart of Soho. Been there for ages but doesn't feel dated and tatty. Friendly staff and great selection of drinks. Usually quite busy, even weekdays when you would expect it to be slow. A great place to dive in for a pint or two.
Great bar, very friendly staff & a fantastic atmosphere! Love this place. Daniele is my absolute favourite! Always provides service with a smile on his face!
I had an amazing experience! Drinks were great. Atmosphere was friendly and comfortable. And the staff were PERFECT. Thanks to Dan for being a face to remember!!! Xx
Had a cracker of a time here! I'd arranged to meet a tinder date here but he bailed so I was feeling pretty miffed as I'd already bought a drink. The barman, Reece, was very sympathetic and engaged me in conversation, and before too long I'd forgotten all about it! He was a total charmer (sadly already taken) and basically rescued my night. The bar seems to attract a friendly clientele, and one group took me under their wing and showed me a fantastic time. I ended up pulling one of them and patching work the next day! Topper! Thanks Reece (and another of the staff whose name I've sadly forgotten)
Heartbreaking experience tonight. I was kicked of my table with my partner ‘for being too drunk’. Good looking gays were given our table instead. So we got up and left. We went downstairs in Comptons and no one said anything. Racism, colourism, looks looking a certain type of way… welcome to the gay scene in London. Sometimes it’s so unfair and it hurts x
I visited this wonderful little place on Thursday evening with a small party and we were all very impressed. It's nice to see a proper pub still standing strong. Beautiful homely and rustic décor with a great selection of drinks and a large downstairs bar. The upstairs "lounge" is like stepping into the Ritz with its plush seating and beautiful views out onto Soho. Service was quick, efficient, and friendly from the young barman despite it being very busy. All the staff were amazing, and we will most likely visit again when we are next back in London. Just wish it was open till later.
It would be 5 stars but the security guy on the door is so rude and very miserable, as the first face you see when you arrived, is does not making it very inviting. Maybe that is not the job for him if he cannot be welcoming.Once you are inside is a all different experience. Don't let the security deceive you
Had the best night last night. Fun Drag DJ, interacted with the crowd. Attractive and friendly bar staff. Super busy bar but didn't have to wait long to get served
It was a busy saturday with great music with a drag DJ and fun bar staff. nice and sociable place with a good drink selection. Loved the amazing drag queen hostess called Xander
Ejected for absolutely no reason for trying to find the bathrooms. Literally asked if a that was the toilets and was then swiftly kicked out and told to go outside. Unfriendly, rude and dead atmosphere.
Apologies this review has been a long time coming. A big shout out to the barman William (with the blue cardigan) who looked after our birthday group. Impressed with the service provided and his knowledge of wines and going to the trouble to bring out several bottles as we were all undecided and rather demanding.Despite booking a table in advance we had to wait for the previous occupants to clear off. the staff handled it well and we were well looked after so thank you Compton's!
I went to this place yesterday night for a few drinks and I loved it!! Daniele the bartender is super fun and they have the shiniest floor I've ever seen!! 🙈Honestly, that floor is worth a visit!
Went in with the wife while on a pub crawl. Absolutely the best night ever. People are so nice. Downside was waiting outside the women's toilets holding the wife Radley bag
The staff were so lovely - we were in a group of young girls and some men came to speak to us. The staff were so kind and came to check if we were okay and offered to help us if we wanted - we appreciated it so much!! Shout out to the man in the blue top on the top bar ❤️
I take my hat off to Compton's who seem to be juggling the covid-19 restrictions with such aplomb and accommodating my booking with a preference to venture upstairs. The grand piano has long since gone but it was a thrill to be back at the Grand Old Dame of Soho.Fellow patrons were also respectful of the covid-19 restrictions which created a safe, convivial and pleasant atmosphere, so much so, that when I mentioned me and my friends would like to stay longer than our allotted slot they juggled their bookings to accommodate us.
I was taken to Comptons for the first time since lock down, great atmosphere and staff. Friendly and would recommend either inside or out, the staff appeared to know what they were doing even in these difficult COVID times. Great to see the old place alive again !
I visited Compton's in late May with a friend and was overjoyed with the experience I had. It was our first time our post-lockdown and we were naturally apprehensive about how things would be operating. The bar was clean and lively with clear protective measures in place for the safety of both staff and customers. The service was quick and polite. A great bar to check out if you're in Soho
I am absolutely disappointed about costumer service in this place . I would never comeback...The skinny tall guy who is organising all people in every table shouldn't work there . It's the rudest guy I ever met in a bar... He almost banned to go to the toilet .I wasted my time and my money in this place..
Only if I could give 0 (ZERO) stars - I would.I am not a random person with few reviews here and I absolutely dislike and disagree with a standards of a customer service at Comptons.People who work there are simply mean and rude, arrogance is an acceptable attitude to anyone who I guess they don’t know or simply are not interested in.I gave a try many times to this iconic place for last 10 years I guess?!?! But finally I decided to do something with that and say - FFS you need to develop rather than go backwards!!!
Some people might not like Comptons, but I've always enjoyed it. Good honest pub, cute bar staff, easy to meet people. Real mixed bag of customers, but if your friendly you'll always find decent company and a good chat.
A large Soho bar with hardly any lighting apart from White Christmas tree lights EVERYWHERE! This is a man's bar. The one lady that walked in when I was...
A gothic looking gay bar in Soho. I'm not too sure what crowd its trying to appeal to, there seems to be a very broad mix of age groups, men from twinks to...
A bar truly for men who like their men manly, Comptons of Soho is a vital part of the gay scene, being one of the oldest bars in Soho. Not the prettiest...
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