Royal Vauxhall Tavern

Name: Royal Vauxhall Tavern
Address: Royal Vauxhall Tavern, Kennington Lane, London, UK, London
Telephone: +44 20 7820 1222
Rating: 4.4

London's iconic and Grade II listed LGBTQ entertainment venue

Average Reviews

About

Nestled in the vibrant heart of South London, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT) stands as a beacon of LGBTQ+ culture and nightlife. This iconic venue, with its roots reaching back to the 19th century, has evolved into a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable night out in London.

RVT, affectionately known to its patrons as a cherished hangout, offers a unique blend of entertainment that caters to a diverse crowd. Every night is a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, with an eclectic mix of events that include everything from cabaret shows to drag performances and pulsating club nights. It's not just a bar, it's a cultural hotspot where history and modernity blend seamlessly.

The tavern is renowned for its intimate and welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for those who appreciate a close-knit community feel. Among its many popular events, the legendary Duckie and Butch, Please club nights stand out, offering unforgettable experiences filled with laughter, music, and dance.

As a venue that has witnessed significant moments in LGBTQ+ history, including a famous police raid in 1987, the Royal Vauxhall Tavern is more than just a place to spend an evening; it's a testament to resilience and the joyous spirit of the community. Today, it continues to thrive, attracting a wide audience with its fantastic lineup of entertainment and its unwavering commitment to being a safe and inclusive space for all.

For anyone exploring London's dynamic LGBTQ+ scene, a visit to the Royal Vauxhall Tavern is an absolute must. Whether you're looking to catch an amazing drag show, dance the night away, or just soak in the rich history of one of London's oldest LGBTQ+ venues, RVT promises an experience that you won't forget.

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Reviews

4.4

Based on 881 reviews

Paul Jauncey

09:20 18 Dec 24

We go every Christmas for the panto, which is always riotous fun!

Steven Hedger

10:25 18 May 24

Incredibly sad news to hear that James and John have decided to sell up and move on. Over many years the RVT has built itself up to be a landmark of the London Gay Scene and without doubt James and John have played a significant part in achieving that, through some extremely challenging times. Very sad to see them go.

Alex Frayne

14:56 10 May 24

Refusing to open the venue due to the participation of a 20 year old Israeli girl at a music competition is the kind of racism I didn't realise this venue associated itself with. How sad.

Lauren Buckley

14:54 05 May 24

Went to their Star Wars themed drag night, never been to this venue before, best night out I've had in ages! Blown away by the talent, humour, creativity and intelligence of all the acts, can't wait to go again

Luis Lopez

01:25 05 May 24

Absolutely no idea this place was male only. They made me and a female friend queue for over an hour; only to then not let our female friend into the venue, stating we ‘should have known it was male only’.Do not bother

Chuan Lun Wu

20:36 02 Apr 24

I went for BAR WOTEVER under heavy rain, but the entrance only takes cash, I choose to go home than finding free ATM under rain, it's sucks. 2024 already... Come on.

A Baughan

13:01 27 Mar 24

Attended a show here. Lovely place, host was amazing and great atmosphere.

Marie-Louise Wellness

11:08 01 Feb 24

This place is just fantastic! A historical queer venue that's seen battles, bravery and beauty through the ages. This stage focused pub is small enough for performances to feel intimate, but big enough to get a good vibe and big cheers.The owners and staff are all really friendly and run an inclusive and relaxed space. Wheelchair assessable, and will make reservations for those who need a space for them. There's a large verity of shows, performances and music themes nightly. Whenever you go, the atmosphere is always friendly and fun. Love it!

Enrico Salerno

00:31 01 Jan 24

Never again in this place. We went for the beefmince on new year eve! The management has clearly oversold the tickets as the place was dangerously over capability in breach on any health and safety regulation. Also the "lovely" tall security sort of lady stopped me for going out for a bit of air aggressively telling me to go through the other exit on the very other side of the venue (impossible to cross) and then what do I see????? She allowed her "friends" with kisses and hugs to go out from that exit carrying their drinks!!! For a gay bar...getting discriminated !!!You should be ashamed for this behaviour and if there is ever a petition to knock the place down I would gladly sign for it....getting discriminated in a gay bar what a joke

Aaron Kane

13:08 16 Dec 23

We do the Panto every year and we have to say we were thoroughly let down this year. The panto wasn’t really fun, no humour, it was far too much based on politics… it shouldn’t be so personal. Also to the guy who checked us in, told us off twice for talking during the show, granted it can be off putting however when he told us off for the second time, it was during the interval. We were left feeling not very good tbh and probably wont use again. Shame

Ida Magnusdotter Ganeteg

08:01 12 Oct 23

Had this place recommended and it did not disappoint. Nice fresh venue, good selection of drinks (they had good non alcoholic too for those like me who don’t drink), lovely staff, fun shows, friendly visitors… a good night out

April Arm

02:06 13 May 23

love partying here with all my fab sisters!!! if felt good to be dancing wall to wall with the Brits!! best party EVER! ❤️

Mario Gómez Zepeda

03:50 12 May 23

We went there for the Eurovision 2023 semifinals - parties, and enjoyed a lot. Nice crew, wonderful people and amazing atmosphere.

Shayne Fergusson

21:34 01 May 23

Was coming to see the Bank Holiday Cabaret. Was turned away at 9pm and told the place was closing in 15 minutes. It is now close to 11pm and my friends are still there and show is still going on. Haven’t been to the RVT in a few years. I now remember why… won’t be donating to save that place again.

Richard G

21:55 12 Feb 23

Fantastic night. One of the owners was a bit snappy at the bar which was taken offence to. But redeemed himself by giving a free drink.Entertainment was brilliant, both Suz and Mary mack were hilarious, had great engagement with the audience and were decent singers. Thank you for a lovely evening.

Haz B

23:14 01 Jan 23

Having spoken to one of the owners on the phone (who was absolutely lovely) to confirm we could buy tickets on the door, my friend and I travelled to the RVT from Canada Water, on recommendation from friends. Within minutes of being there, as the only female in the bar, someone threw their entire drink over me and told me that I “brought it on myself” for going there. Another man commented on my cleavage after speaking to his friends about wanting to make me feel uncomfortable, and people looked at me like I was less than the dirt on their shoes. Having paid £15 for entry and quickly downing my pint, I begrudgingly left after 15 minutes after being made to feel less than welcome. The owner I spoke to was lovely, but please visit here with caution unless you are a male - LGBTQI+ women, you have been warned!

Cliff Orpin

20:10 01 Jan 23

We went New Years Eve! Super small venue but very friendly and Lola Lasagne hosting was the best. Older, bear crowd, just so you know

Guillaume David

00:06 31 Dec 22

My boyfriend and I were there on the 30th of december to watch the show. We weren't very kin at first, but in the end we had a very good time. The show was very funny and the atmospher great. I had already spent time there in the garden during the summer and it was cool. As long as you just are yourself and in the mood of enjoying the moment, you've got to go there ! Plus, the place is part of London's identity !

Peter Jarvis

22:45 09 Dec 22

"Private event" on a Friday, it's either true which is ridiculous or a lie which is also ridiculous. Everyone in London knows this place isn't what it once was, I don't know why they even open. Shame, it was historic, now it's a mess.

Themis Von-Blanc

19:01 26 Oct 22

I love it here, not just because of the Freddie/Diana/Kenny Legend. Looking forward to seeing Kim Wilde in December. Not been here for ages but it was always fabulous and I always left with a smile on my face

Kaye Eugene Medcalf

19:38 24 Aug 22

Today The Royal Vauxhall Tavern refused me entry due to having an assistance dog.They claimed that access for assistance dogs isn't covered by the equality act 2010 (untrue).They claimed that it was unsafe for the dog but wouldn't help make it safe (I just needed a space to sit) and said they had to put the dogs needs above that of a disabled person (me) despite Nettle going through lots of training to help her be able to cope in loud environments (and having sunshades to protect against any stobe lighting).John and James (owners) inferred I was being cruel as saying they wouldn't put their two pet dog in that situation - I explained my assistance dog has been yrained to being able to handle noise and flashing lights and I had come there prepared (eye protection etc).Dan the doorman told me I wasn't telling the truth about the law (I had said that an assistance dog is an auxillary aid and the same as a wheelchair) and said he had been on a course so felt he knew more that me.They also lied about never having dogs in the venue ever (despite having seen a friend often having pet dogs in before the show started at bar wot)James Lindsey who I had previously gotten on well with stated that he knew all about me (not sure what thats about other than trying to be threatening)Having been regularly there once a week for years before the pandemic I am so disappointed to be discriminated against at a place that's supposed to be about inclusion, refused entry and instantly talked down to, and spoken to rudely -implying I am cruel to my dog, that I am not able to judge what she can handle or can't handle (if she had been distressed at any point I would have instantly left), that I am not telling the truth and that they know more than do

Jonathane Ribeiro

17:43 21 Aug 22

Very nice place with drag queen show, close to the tube station, nice ambience, not too crowded

Richard Cox

08:23 12 Aug 22

Recently went to see Crayola at the Tavern , what a show and also so lovely to go back to the tavern after so many years , still one of the best places to see acts and properly highlights what an inclusive and diverse city london is.

World travel

18:21 31 Jul 22

Show is great and also good atmosphere. So pity that management of this pub has such a rude person on the door. Customer service training very desirable!

jasim uddin

19:43 11 Jul 22

Monday I attend Rl Vhxl Tavern quit and nice entertainment overall I enjoyedTnx Vauxhall team that’s Amazing

Hugh Porter

03:52 05 Jul 22

Cabaret stop off on way home! Quite full and lively.

Malachi Regis

15:43 12 Apr 22

Fantastic crowd, drinks aren’t outrageously expensive, and had an absolute blast for their Duckie event

win task

14:29 12 Apr 22

Built in 1863, this iconic and eclectic Grade II listed London pub provides a diverse entertainment. Basically a LGBTQ venue which holding entertainment events such as drag queen for the community. Located is great as it’s beating the heart of Vauxhall.

Nikko

14:39 16 Mar 22

Good fun night out. The acta we saw on Saturday night were not really great. Not funny, not tragic. Just confusing with people not knowing how to react. Miming to the audio of old commercials/adds has been done millions of times before and way more successfully than what we saw on our last visit.

Sarah Beresford

08:29 04 Feb 22

If I could give more stars I would. We celebrated my daughters 16th at RVH and it was a fantastic night. The owners & the staff were just brilliant, the crowd amazing!! this made my daughters birthday much more special.Thank you again for allowing us to bring her & also showing her what a great community she is going into

Becky Brockwell

19:51 20 Jan 22

Fantastic night! Great atmosphere and lovely team! Can't wait to go back!

Y H

17:51 25 Nov 21

Such a great venue! Friendly and safe atmosphere.

Kenny Montgomery

12:59 04 Nov 21

Toilets are FILTHY, rest of the place not much cleaner. Staff unhelpful and lazy. More staff standing about using vulgar language than there is doing any actual work.

Marco

21:49 03 Oct 21

Always a good night out. Mixed crowd, great service, nice music. I like the fact that they have a rather generous outdoor area for London's standards.

Róbert Routen

15:51 18 Sep 21

Great venue in a former listed victorian concert hall. Great atmosphere, easy to chat to people, friendly hardworking bar staff. Good selection of drinks. As the venue is very popular sometimes not easy to get in so better to visit early to avoid the queue.

Michael Ryan

11:18 31 Aug 21

Great venue. Had a good time but! Had come to the entrance of the tavern nearly got rugby tackled by a woman bouncer who was busy chatting than doing her job properly than tackling me. 3 of us there same drinks all night but the prices were all different by different bar person. I like to think I go back.

The Savages

06:10 21 Jul 21

🌈🏳️‍🌈 wonderful staff, covid safe measures

Leon Barnfield

09:50 26 Jun 21

What an outstanding venue, the staff are totally amazing, so professional and we felt so at home. Will be going again xx

Kain Christopher Behan

19:58 20 Jun 21

Lovely staff and bouncers, a very welcoming environment with a fantastic atmosphere! Drink prices very reasonable for Zone 1/2 too.

Shaidon Smith

17:19 05 Jun 21

My knight Is shining SIA armour, managed to grab a drink and use the loo on a busy Saturday eve thanks Estelle hope to see you soon

Monsieur Hairy

12:59 10 Dec 20

I recommand Duckie on saturday nights, great music (thanks To Readers' Wives) great cabaret hosted by the greatest Amy Lamé...

John Paul Maytum

09:22 09 Dec 20

An absolute gem of London society and important cornerstone on the city's LGBT+ history. Doing a really good job keeping going given the constraints of Covid. Still fabulous after all these years.

Ashley Humphreys

20:51 05 Dec 20

Saw the Christmas Panto Pricked and it is amazing! Hilarious, talented performers, all the laughs and great venue. Wonderful staff, all social distancing and covid-safe measures followed. Support live theatre and have some holiday joy!

Kathleen Stinson

12:35 04 Dec 20

The staff here are wonderful. Had issues with a date of an event. Speaking with Dave he was able to sort the issue out! So helpful and very appreciated ! Thanks a mill

Aida Explorer

07:27 14 Oct 20

One of my favourite venues in London. Very inclusive, safe and fun. Also their shows are very entertaining, specially Bar Wotever, it can get very political and educational, very recommended.

Rob Sinclair

21:36 05 Oct 20

What a fantastic, historic and famous gay pub. Fantastic cabaret shows. Wonderful lovey crowd. Really great place to celebrate how far the community has come to support eachother

Herbie H.

05:52 16 Dec 18

I love places like Royal Vauxhall Tavern - places loaded with charm, good people, and a lot of relaxed & excited queer energy.During our visit to London,...

Nancy F.

23:09 14 Dec 18

I'm an American and during my London trip I wanted to check out some local drag shows and boy am I glad I did!I saw a show at this historic building and...

Elizabeth H.

00:27 17 Feb 18

THIS VENUE IS OPEN AND OPERATING.Sort of a duh for such an historic and storied place, but since Yelp activity lags in the UK and there's no recent review...

Astir Astir

14:08 19 Aug 16

I was invited by a friend to support this historical venue for the LGBT community. So we went a big group of 11. Didn't know what to expect but I was happily surprised.What a lovely welcoming atmosphere. The place has an old charm and a very well stocked bar.Watched a few acts loved the whole entertainment very different from what I am use to but never the less extremely enjoyable.Overall a very lovely experience.

Alex W.

13:22 26 Jul 16

Stumbled upon this place with my partner after the UK Black Pride event in the Pleasure Gardens nearby. It was JAM-PACKED with guys and there was a drag...

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