King’s Arms

King’s Arms

London's Premier Bear Bar

Average Reviews

About

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Soho, King's Arms stands out as a legendary spot in London's gay scene. Known affectionately as 'London's favourite bear bar,' this establishment has a rich history, having transitioned from a 'gentlemen’s bar' in the 1970s to an officially recognized gay bar in 1981. Its legacy continues to thrive, making it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike.

King's Arms exudes an old-school, cozy charm that might remind you of a country pub, yet it's unmistakably urban and buzzing with energy. The bar is particularly popular with a stocky, hairy, beardy crowd, embodying the true spirit of a bear den. However, it's the welcoming atmosphere that really sets it apart – everyone is welcome here, regardless of how they identify.

Entertainment here is as varied as its patrons. From the legendary Bearaoke nights that have been a hit for over 20 years, to midweek quiz nights, cabaret shows, Dragaoke, and LGBTQIA+ open-mic nights, there's something for everyone. The weekends are especially lively, featuring guest and resident DJs spinning everything from disco to house and electro beats. And if you're a sports fan, don't be surprised to find live sporting events being screened too.

Located just a five-minute stroll from Old Compton Street, the King's Arms is more than just a bar – it's a vibrant slice of London's gay history, a place where memories are made, and a beacon of inclusivity in the heart of the city.

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Reviews

King's Arms
4.4
Based on 606 reviews
Mark Siddle
17:14 25 Jan 24
Really nice pub, friendly staff and great manager. Good prices and regular happy hours. Would recommend to anyone
Jeferson Kozenieski Couto
18:53 07 Jan 24
It’s a gay bar, very interesting and with good weather. Beer is not the cheapest, but it is important to come here to drink, talk and visit. It is in a very important region for the city and for the gay scene.
Karl Newell
15:21 22 Dec 23
Walking past the pub, chatty doorman said " it's a great pub " so we gave it a try. Good priced drinks and a bit of karaoke 10/10.
Kent Johnston
13:47 22 Dec 23
One of the friendliest bars in London, period.The entertainment that is put on from Quiz Nights and themed DJ Nights to the extra special - and definitely - the best Karaoke night in London, on a Sunday evening, with our very own Jivin-Julie 🎶 🎤The fantastic Shane, beautiful Gary (😉 if you know you know), and the rest of the wonderful friendly bar staff are irreproachable in their customer service, and their efforts in making an evening in here a great night to remember ✨🔥
Elisabeth Hoftun
11:17 15 Dec 23
Nice LGBTQI+ place with DJ at ground floor and quiet cosy talking place upstairs with an unisex toilet.
Γεώργιος Χριστόπουλος
21:29 11 Dec 23
Nice pub, good beer, lively atmosphere, but also a quiet firsy floot lounge... They like bears and if you are one it's one of the best places to be...
Seamus Riley
01:48 21 Nov 23
Went on Sunday and there's no karaoke, so I'm not sure what those reviews were about. Fantastic food, service, and prices though.
Bill Edwards
11:12 19 Nov 23
We always try to pop in for a drink when we're in London. It's a relatively unspoiled traditional gay pub, which has seating! Seemingly quite rare for gay pubs in London.It is though often very crowded and the music can be a bit too loud for us old fogies.
Gaston Bengolea
23:35 07 Nov 23
I hired the lounge for my birthday. Had a great time, the place was very convenient and the staff helpful to set the mood.
stew simpson
18:05 09 Sep 23
Didn't try any food but there were some tasty snacks around the bar, mmmmm bears. Just a lovely atmosphere and beautiful bears. What more do I need.
Matt Powell
19:09 02 Aug 23
What a lovely queer pub! Also a great find so close to Oxford Street. Top tip there’s a quiet room upstairs with more tables.
Kurtis Scanlan
15:27 25 Jul 23
One of the best pubs in soho when we are in London we always head to the Kings Arms Sunday nights karaoke just amazing 👏 very highly recommended 👌
M P Wilson
09:23 03 Jul 23
Shane (Manager) was very helpful and informative when organising my recent birthday there. Was great that you could reserve the space upstairs for a private event, but still enjoy the atmosphere in the pub when you wanted.Also the staff are always friendly.
Misty Hirschbein
05:46 13 May 23
This place was hopping! Friendly, fun, and excellent service provided by Joanna and Kuba.
Meir Cohen
14:09 22 Apr 23
Great pub just one step from oxford St to rest from shopping or have a good night out! Great atmosphere, brilliant staff and welcoming feeling!There is different entertainment almost every night and you can always get more information and recommendations from the staff.Nice selection of drinks and beers (try the rainbow 🌈)The pub is 18+ and does not serve food or hot drinks.
pietro parisi
23:16 09 Feb 23
Always excellentStaff superfriendly (mark is fantastic and has got beautiful hair) and lots of nice people.Karaoke on sunday is always fun.And Thursday karaoke with Ade is excellent, friendly and professional and always brings the cheese savouries marked with allergens.
Chris Behan
11:48 20 Jan 23
Lovely vibe, equally lovely bar staff (Jesse, Jay… Would you believe?!). A G&T is unfortunately astronomical (£8!) and a Desperado is over a 5er (hurts every time) but given that the KA is by far - the best karaoke joint in central, I stick around and stomach the remortgage each week. I suspect I’m not the only one that does.The difference with this place (and I’ve only ever seen it in one other venue, 10 years ago in Brighton) is that you do not have to wait to get up and sing. I feel confident to try things that I wouldn’t normally, knowing that I will likely have another opportunity that night - which is unusual as Thursdays are almost always flat out!The host puts someone up and only plays background music while he is waiting for the next singer to get to the stage. It’s like a production line and keeps punters in the bar, because they know they’ll be able to pretend they’re on the Queer-factor. I hate it when other hosts play full tracks in between singers; the theory of people sticking around and buying drinks, while waiting; in that particular instance is long dead. I know I’d leave.There’s always a fun atmosphere, when a bunch of (mostly) talented queens, get up and have a laugh on stage. There are so many people that don’t get up and sing, but they stick around and enjoy the entertainment - it’s like free cabaret.Why else would anyone want to spend their rent cheques in a quiet venue?Rock on and keep doing what you’re doing KA - but maybe let’s reconsider the cost of that G&T!
Alex Townsend
21:01 18 Jan 23
Went in to this place on Sunday, Bear-e-oki night. A good eclectic mix of people, younger, older, all colours and sizes enjoying themselves together which is always a good inclusive and welcoming sign to me.The singing participants were all brilliant (some probably professional performers?) with a supportive and encouraging crowd.As a passing visitor I felt there was a regular/local crowd who were all welcoming, friendly, smiling, happy and easy to converse and have a laugh with.The drinks prices were well below average for London and the Bar Tenders were both speedy and polite, remembered your preference, which made tipping much more palatable. I will definitely return and recommend this place to anyone.
Pepe Herrera
12:00 03 Jan 23
We passed my first New year's Eve with friends. But there all people are wery friendly. From waiters to the rest of people. The best environment we could have found. We came back yesterday night: Great!!!!. You must try it. Congratulations!!!
Shantanu Mishra
08:17 08 Nov 22
Great place. Really friendly and accommodating staff. Jesse has been wonderful to us everytime we've visited. Definitely would recommend to others in London or even passing through. Thanks for creating such an inclusive space and strong drinks 😊
Darren Doherty
23:05 04 Nov 22
Been coming to Kings Arms for years, karaoke sundays is one of the best nights in london, the staff are excellent and personable, Jesse is one of my faves. The place has a proper local feel and always feels welcoming for new and old customers. Honestly cant rate this place enough. Thanks to the team for making so many good nights.
_mukkaz x
17:22 05 Aug 22
Love it here! So friendly and welcoming and decent priced pints. Mark is a great host!
Mike Wright
17:37 26 Jul 22
Best bear bar in London! We had such a blast on our first evening, we returned on our final day for happy hour. Gets packed for karaoke on Sundays.
Anthony Price
17:18 26 Jul 22
Mark was incredible. Great service, super friendly! Good vibes!
Paulo Cunha
17:15 26 Jul 22
Amazing building, great atmosphere, and super friendly staff! Love the events too! A must go-to place for me!
Edward SmithIrl
19:12 19 Jul 22
Mark is so helpful. Let me use his charger- thank you!!! This bar is in a great location and has a karaoke , quiz and other events on different nights - check their site. Really great drink deals Tuesday too.. Bottle of Pinot less than 10pound!!! And it's in Soho!! Highly recommend 👌 Gay bar I think but a mixed crowd - all are welcomed
Yashasvi Girdhar
19:12 19 Jul 22
Great beer and ambience ! Mark was super helpful in choosing the right beer
Kyle Jackson
18:26 05 May 22
I love the vibe and the music on Friday and Saturday nights, and it’s a great place to chill out after work during the week. The drag karaoke on Sundays is amazing, and the bartender Mark in the best! The Kings Arms is definitely my favourite pub in Soho!
Gavin Sealy
12:29 01 May 22
In the words of Tina Turner, they're simply the best. They always have something going on everyday of the week. Thursday drag karaoke with Joy Oi is a highlight for me and a great night thanks to Will, Jay and Geoff behind the bar
Angelo Basile
19:58 30 Apr 22
Best place in London so far. Mark was absolutely a star he made our night a really special one. Love you guys
Tommy B
17:17 29 Apr 22
Terrific gay pub! The bartenders Mark, Jay and Raf all helped me pick a beer and made me feel welcome. Definitely recommend if you are in the area and looking for a non pretentious place to be yourself.
Lewis Morgan
01:16 29 Apr 22
Had such a great time when I visited London. Extremely friendly and cute staff, great management and fantastic prices for drinks. Jay was super lovely and kind when I was there, genuine and accommodating. Had an absolute blast! Would thoroughly recommend.
jaya oswal
22:12 28 Apr 22
Amazing pub! Me and my boyfriend just walkedIn on a Thursday night… it was karaoke night… cant express how much fun it was!!! Joy oi andBig liz were the best hostsss ever ❤️ And jeff and jay were the best bartenders to make u feel at home… love these guys and this place!!
nuno marques
17:51 18 Apr 22
I have been drinking in the Kings Arms for many years and always have a great time there. The staff always go the extra mile. Recently the entertainment has increased making it an even better destination. Long may it continue as we need it. Raf and Jeff always take care of things brilliantly and are a great company. Thank you
Sophie Lea
13:16 21 Mar 22
My all-time favourite place in London. The best staff (especially Mark who has always been the highlight of my visits), super inclusive and fun atmosphere and an amazing location. Would highly recommend to anyone (and I do). Thank you for creating such an amazing space!
Peach Emoji
20:44 19 Mar 22
I went recently for Candy’s show. My friend was late so I was there alone for over and hour and I’ve never felt more comfortable in a venue. The staff are lovely, the customers are welcoming and kind and I had a great time. I will definitely be planning to spend more time here with friends 💖 oh also the show was great and will be back for more
Garry Bryan
20:46 10 Mar 22
The Kings Arms has always been a great place, and now there seems to be even more events most nights of the week. We love the new alternative night on Saturdays, been to a few now and it is a great atmosphere and vibe, everyone loving the music. Jeff and everyone else always makes sure everyone is having the best time.
James White
20:16 27 Feb 22
I love this bar! Best nights out ever and absolutely lovely staff. James is a brilliant barman and a great laugh, Geoff is a sweetheart. Will is fun to talk to, Raff is kind and very easy on the eye (they are all cute), Jay is another good barman and a sweet lad. They are all lovely and welcoming and I’ll keep coming back!
D
23:10 26 Feb 22
Popped into the Kings Arms a few weeks back for the first All Sorts night. Had a great time and the DJ played some fantastic tunes. Barman Jesse was really attentive and he’s all kinds of hot too which never hurts.
Melita Smylie
01:31 24 Feb 22
The Kings Arms in Poland Street made me feel at home from the moment I walked in. My ears heard the live vocals and laughter from down the road. it made me gravitate towards its doors I’m so glad I did. What a fabulous evening spent with total strangers.♥️
Charlie B
23:45 23 Feb 22
Had a few really lovely nights here. The entire bar staff did everything possible to make sure me and all my friends had a great time, but special shout out to Jay for going the extra mile to help ensure everyone was taken care of throughout the night. 🙂
Damian Johnson
22:02 30 Jan 22
Lovely little gay pub, with great staff. There is one bartender who was rather handsome and who looked after me and my friends fantastically when I took my friends in the other day. I’m almost certain he said his name was Louis - you don’t get so many friendly staff in bars these days he’s a credit to your team.
Materiaboitv
22:58 28 Jan 22
Fantastic evening, awesome juke box friendly bar stuff. Guy called Jay super friendly behind the bar, great service and really looked after our table can't thank him enough. Friendly atmosphere, good drinks and wonderful atmosphere can't wait to come again
Jonathan Brett-Warren
07:51 16 Jan 22
Great social bar, with a fantastically welcoming and friendly atmosphere. The new barman, Jay, is super attentive and ensures every customer receives the best service. The whole team do a great job to provide fun entertainment.
Jane P
09:25 11 Jan 22
I can't express enough how much fun the quizzes are every second Tuesday night at this friendly warm pub.The staff are excellent - everyone seems happy to be there and easy to chat to. Always welcoming and friendly - they look out for everyone and make all feel comfortable whether you are alone or with friends.Louis is a star, he's always quick on his feet and nice to chat with!Alex and the quiz are second to none - it truly is a fun night out and am looking forward to coming back for the next Tuesday night quiz.Keep up the good work!
Mel Roberts
15:48 08 Jan 22
Whenever I’m in Central London I head to the King’s. No matter if I go alone or with friends, I always meet someone new and interesting. The staff are lovely and down to earth and always take the time to ask how I am. The bar guy Louis is great for a chat about music. Came to a recent Tuesday quiz night which was so much fun, and caught some of the drag karaoke night the other Thursday which was hilarious! One of my favourite places in the world ❤️
Freddie Stan
12:58 07 Jan 22
LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BAR!!! I don't live in London but I have heard good things aboout the Kings Arms. I decided to finally check it out! It was a Sunday night and there was karaoke! The atmosphere was so warming and I felt very at ease. I didn't get up to sing as I was too shy (maybe next time). The bar staff were amazing and Louis (I think that's his name) kindly gave me directions to Old Compton St where I was meeting a friend. REALLY recommend this place. It felt safe, warm and incredibly friendly 🙂
Big Boxer
19:21 04 Jan 22
Had a great night at The Kings, bar staff were cracking and hard working, big shout out to the cute bar man Louis who catered to my every whim! I ventured upstairs and the bar was lovely and cosy, it was a bit quieter up there so it meant I could have a good chat with some of the other punters. Next time I’m in town I’ll be heading back.
Michelle Evans
19:10 04 Jan 22
I have been drinking in the Kings Arms for some years now and I absolutely love it. As a woman I have always felt comfortable drinking in there, often being the only woman and have never felt out of place or unwelcome. The staff are always friendly and attentive and there is a wide range of drinks. The last time I was in there Louis made me feel super welcome and we had a lovely chat, I look forward to my next visit, keep it up KA team.
John Barker
20:28 03 Jan 22
We spent a week in London and visited the Kings Arms twice. Both times me and my wife were treated amazingly by the staff. On the Sunday we were treated to Karaoke like we've never seen before. The atmosphere was electric, a great pint of Guiness Too! Thanks to Jeff and Jay and Nancy. We will be back!
jay barnham
22:21 22 Dec 21
Amazing atmosphere, love the vibes. Nance and Jeff were really cool. They have great karaoke nights and an axinf selection of drinks. They got all the spirits, me favourite bar. So friendly and all staff were amazing. Great music and will change it if you're not a fan, love it and would always return.
Jonathan Cox
21:51 18 Dec 21
Used to be the best bar in Soho. I wonder if the excessively loud music is putting people off? Conversation almost impossible downstairs. Down to three stars. Will try again next time we are in town.
Giorno Gillespie
18:05 22 Nov 21
There are few places left in Soho or even London that offers such a warm and friendly atmosphere. I have sadly only had the opportunity to set foot in this pub a handful of times but every time I have had has been amazing. Also one of the few pubs I enjoy that also offers cheap pints early week!!!
Jennifer Damarjian
21:52 22 Oct 21
I had such a fun time at Sunday karaoke! It was the highlight of my stay in London! Great atmosphere and friendly service, especially Will and Ryan who sang karaoke duets with me!!
Jenny Freeman
21:36 16 Oct 21
We had such a brilliant night on Friday. DJ was amazing, playing a perfect mix. Such a great vibe in this place. We will be returning very soon. Staff were off the scale. Love it.
Veronica Duarte
21:06 16 Oct 21
what an amazing place, and the staff is 5*. i love Ryan and Mark, they are the best. very friendly, always smiling and doing the best they can to accommodate your requests. just simply love them.
The Shooting Gallery Recordings
12:34 11 Oct 21
The Kings Arms is easily the best pub in London. Always welcoming and has a real sense of community. Great on a Friday evening unwinding from work stress !
GazmanHead
12:42 05 Oct 21
Had a great time Saturday night, as always. I love this pub. A great mix of people and a proper traditional boozer. Staff are always friendly and welcoming. Came in with a friend, my niece and nephew and all had a great time. Looking forward to revisiting very soon... the Karaoke on a Sunday night is something not to be missed, it takes the edge off of the oncoming Monday 🙂 Thanks to Jeff, Ryan, Mark and Nancy behind the bar, always a delight.
Ben Collins
10:37 03 Oct 21
How have I only just discovered this. Definitely my new favourite pub in London. Conveniently located just of Oxford Street and not far from Tottenham court road station. Atmosphere was great, really friendly bar staff. Good choice of beers.
Angel Aimee
18:41 13 Sep 21
Amazing pub with great choice of drinks, safe space with the most welcoming staff, Mark was an amazing and very gracious host during my numerous visits! Prices are reasonable as well considering it’s based in Central London!
Gavin Duff
16:57 13 Sep 21
When ever I’m in soho I always make sure I come here, it’s fantastic pub with great staff. Mark is always polite, friendly and chatty
Derek Goodwin-Morgan
18:01 29 Aug 21
It describes itself as the Favourite Bear Bar of London. At the weekend nights, lots of bearded men gather there, but it's quiet during the day
Richard Cohen
11:22 29 Aug 21
A friendly bear bar in Soho with a relaxed atmosphere. It helps to be of a certain girth and to have a bit of facial hair. A nice place to drop into for a drink.
Jonathan Shearn
22:40 30 Jul 21
Amazing staff members! Make me feel.at home and safe. Always a safe space and great service!
Spunky Boi
15:48 22 Jul 21
This is an extremely friendly bar, doesnt matter your size, age or colour you will be welcomed at the Kings Arms. the staff are extremely friendly. Mark (Twinkle cub??) is such a friendly young lad and went out his way to make sure make sure i was ok - as i was alone. thank you mark!
Jon Arrowsmith
18:34 10 Jul 21
One of the best, if not THE BEST Pub in Soho - had been to The George and got rudely spoken to by a bar wench for ‘standing up’ - Moved onto the Kings Arms & Mark has taken complete care of us! Would recommend!
javier rubinan
09:39 04 Jul 21
A true local in the heart of Soho. Had the best time with mates, Jamie served us and he was lovely. Love the jukebox!
James Perry
21:24 03 Jul 21
Lovely place! Made us feel right at home. Ordered from their app drinks they don't serve but then gave us drinks of same value ❤️
Alex G.
13:03 02 Jul 21
Great to see Jamie and his team still serving the best beers and providing the friendliest service in London despite COVID and restrictions. Best for Bears...
Simon Egan
12:43 22 Jun 21
We had a lovely Saturday afternoon (19th June) at the warm and friendly Kings Arms, staff couldn’t do enough for us while still steering us efficiently around the Covid rules. The staff were cleaning constantly which was reassuring. I can’t recommend this lovely gay bear bar highly enough.
Oliver Blatherwick
08:49 21 Jun 21
Great little lgbtq+ bar just off the beaten track of Soho. Jamie (the manager) was the perfect host and they were very attentive with our drinks orders and customer service. A MUST for visiting the lgbtq+ scene.
Timo Holtappels
06:04 20 Jun 21
The King's Arms Pub in Soho is a institution worth and recommended to visit. The staff is welcoming, friendly, approachable and service oriented, ensuring you have the best time while staying.The ambiente is rustical and embodies the Soho spirit in a traditional context, a public living room and to a wider extent even a home away from home.Cheers for the great times.
Craig Brodie
17:23 07 Jun 21
Great crowd great staff great atmosphere
Kurkum
13:05 22 Sep 20
fantastic place! good service. nice people
Cecile Stlouis
03:41 08 Jun 20
My son and I stopped here on our way to Hyde Park for the day. We had great drinks and it happened to be two for one drinks! Awesome they don't have that in the USA. The bartender was a great guy very friendly and helpful. The place is very clean and beautiful interior.i love the outdoor seating area where you can drink eat and smoke.. that's awesome, they don't have smoking in outside seating areas in the USA. I totally love London
M Hovezak
11:33 17 Feb 20
Tucked away in Poland Street, this is one of the old-skool Central London gay pubs. Relaxed, with the usual array of drinks and loads of seating.
Russell Graves
21:05 18 Nov 19
Traditional pub in the heart of Soho that is a fantastic venue on any night of the week. Regular drinks promotions and super friendly bar staff and clientele will keep you coming back again and again. The pub has an upstairs room which is a great relaxing space away from the downstairs party vibe. This room can also be hired for private functions. I had my 40th birthday party there and the staff bent over backwards to make the night special. A massive thanks to Alex and Louis who manned the upstairs bar all night and made the event truly special.
Daniel P.
14:43 07 Apr 17
Great pub for a Sunday dinner, good selection of beer. Would defiinitly go again.
Joey A.
04:21 15 Oct 14
Just got back from London , I GOT THE PLEASURE TO BE THERE 10 DAYS, I LOVE THAT CITYdurring my stay , my friend recommended me that place to go...
Chris T.
10:38 04 May 14
This is Gay bar near to SOHO and Oxford Street, the crowd is mainly bears and otters and its a great friendly crowd, theres an upstairs lounge which is nice...
Kyle G.
08:42 13 Apr 14
Had my fantasy for this bar burst with a unemotional and rude bartender. Your dark black beard doesn't look that good on you because your unable to smile....
Sean O.
05:53 07 May 13
This pub is probably my favourite watering hole in London. How many places will actually turn up the volume when you put Morrissey on the jukebox? Answer:...
David J.
05:35 01 May 07
This is a very traditional, gay male pub, just off busy Oxford Street, which has become a centre for the 'bear scene' in recent years. (For the uninitiated,...

King’s Arms eviews from Google Maps, Yelp and WhereIs.Gay

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Map

Today Open now UTC0

04:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Monday
    04:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Tuesday
    04:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Wednesday
    04:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Thursday
    04:00 PM - 11:30 PM
  • Friday
    04:00 PM - 12:00 AM
  • Saturday
    12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
  • Sunday
    01:00 PM - 10:30 PM

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Last Updated

27 January 2024