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.
One of the oldest pubs in London, keeps a low profile character while buzzing with hairy men, bears and admirers while remaining decent and friendly.Surely you can stop for a quick one after your trip to the Oxford Street shopping spree
Went there last saturday, stood there, tried to make conversation to the only guy standing alone but he didn't want to, no one else seemed to want to chat, left. Just like in The Smiths song. Other than that the pub is gorgeous, staff is polite, dj's music was nice, prices are correct.
Went there last saturday, stood there, tried to make conversation to the only guy standing alone but he didn't want to, no one else seemed to want to chat, left. Just like in The Smiths song. Other than that the pub is gorgeous, staff is polite, dj's music was nice, prices are correct.
I’ve been to Kings Arms several times before and felt welcomed and safe.But this evening a random guy came up to me and said i stole his wallet and he was going to punch me in the face.I complained to the managerHis response was dismissive. He said he would not serve the guy another beer, as though that’s enough to resolve a random threat of violence.Don’t come here if you value your comfort and safetyit’s a drag bc i liked this place.
I've been coming to this pub for ages and it’s by far one of the best places to have fun, make new friends and cherish the old ones. The bar staff are amazing, Gregory, Raf, Gareth, Shane and Conor!This guys have seen me from bad to good and they are always present in my life.Love you guys and Long Live the King’s Arms!!!
Been coming here for 20 years, came for a drink reccently and experienced very poor service behind the bar. I appreciate that it's a place well known to regulars with the staff but was appalled to have a staff member take my order then not pour the drink but say hi to a friend and walk out behind the bar to go talk to them.It was early eve and not particularly busy so I got served straight after however very poor service.The next bar member then took my order, didn't ask if I wanted a single or double and ended up with a £10+ double spirit and mixer. Was on a date so didn't want to make a big deal out of it but yeah! Very surprising as I've never experienxed this in the 20 years I've been coming here.
Our favourite pub in Soho for catching up with friends in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. My partner and I also recently held a birthday event in their upstairs lounge and were absolutely delighted by the experience. Managers Shane and Gareth and all the staff went above and beyond to ensure we enjoyed a wonderful event, even during a busy bank holiday weekend. Highly recommended!
Love this place on a Sunday night with the karaoke. Always a lovely vibe, feels more like a family event than a pub.Julie works hard on the karaoke to keep everyone happy and make sure everyone gets their turn, and the bar staff don't stop.The upstairs area is always a nice spot for when you want a quieter, more mellow moment, ideal for conversation. Or meditation.Need to get myself down for a Friday/Saturday night for a dance.
This has been the best bar we have been to. Jack, Felipe, and Josh are the best! Not only great but super attentive. The management has been amazing, Alan...
It's a great gay bar, a little away from the other gay bars. It is spacious and full of tables and chairs. It wasn't too crowded for me, but it had excellent energy. For a beer and a chat after work or even a few drinks after a long week's work. I would highly recommend a visit if you are looking for your local gay bar in Soho. This should be it.
I always feel very welcome here, and it's very easily my favourite queer venue in town. The staff are all wonderful, and this weekend Gareth in particular went out of his way to make my husband's birthday drinks very special for him and all of our pals.
Met a friendly bear, had a couple of pints, kissed. The place is a good spot to cruise - the man I met was also looking for some no-strings fun. We had a very pleasant afternoon. Will definitely return next time I'm in London.
Ignore all negative reviews! This pub really does have it all...great music the staff are so polite and friendly..you got a quiet area upstairs to chat to friends..I can't fault the place at all.A real special place that's close to my heartHighly recommend 🏳️🌈🏳️🌈🏳️🌈
Met a friendly bear, had a couple of pints, kissed. The place is a good spot to cruise - the man I met was also looking for some no-strings fun. We had a very pleasant afternoon. Will definitely return next time I'm in London.
Been a regular for years and keep coming back. The friendliest gay pub in London. It you like the big boys pop in. Tom behind the bar is always a sight for sore eyes, but all the bar staff are super friendly. The same with the quiz and karaoke hosts!
Has to be one of my favourite pubs in all of London!Every time we go there with friends we have a great time, the atmosphere is amazing and there's a good choice of beers, which is always nice.The whole staff is always super friendly and nice, but a special shout-out needs to go to Tom, who was really lovely and helped us on various occasions to pick drinks, a great addition to an already amazing pub!
Easily my favourite LGBTQ+ pub in Soho. Friendly staff, laid back atmosphere, great mid week drink deals with pints and doubles and mixers for £3.50 (bargain!). I was here last night for the pub quiz hosted by Alex, who was highly entertaining. The staff working last night Tom, Alex and Nick were really gorgeous, efficient and lovely. I can’t fault the place! Thanks for a great night guys!
I guess it's a gay bar, but since I really couldn't care less about nonsense like that I've to say I love that place. Nice people, reasonable prices, relaxed atmosphere, would do you want more. Will come back.
Fantastic little pub, great LGBTQ+ community venue and oozing with charm. The team are friendly and welcoming and the upstairs bar is a haven of calm just a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street. Pop in midweek for a low key games night or the crowd-pleasing quiz, at the weekend for a beer and a boogie with the bears, or on Sunday for the iconic Bearaoke with the legendary Jivin' Julie. Perfect for locals and tourists alike if you want a classic old boozer with a big dose of queer fabulousity.
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.
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 ✨🔥
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!!!
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 😊
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.
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
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!
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
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.
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.
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!!
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
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!
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
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.
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!
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.
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.♥️
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. 🙂
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.
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
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.
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!
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 ❤️
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 🙂
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!!!
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!!
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.
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 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 !
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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...
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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...
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....
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:...
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
Leave your comment