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Retro Bar
Bars

Retro Bar

Independent LGBTQ+ bar near the Strand with a brilliant jukebox

London, UK
4.2
710 reviews

Neighbourhood

London

Category

Bars

Vibe

LGBTQ+ bar, Charing Cross +5

Official website

About Retro Bar

Retro Bar is an independent LGBTQ+ bar hidden in George Court, a narrow passage just off the Strand. Small, unpretentious and full of personality, it offers a welcome alternative to the louder and glossier venues of nearby Soho. The walls celebrate queer and alternative music icons, while the soundtrack moves through indie, new wave, pop and rock rather than defaulting to club anthems. The main bar is best for relaxed drinks and conversation; occasional quizzes, karaoke and events bring a livelier crowd. An upstairs area may open for selected evenings or private use. Because the entrance is tucked away, first-time visitors can easily walk past it. Come for a genuinely mixed LGBTQ+ crowd, a good jukebox and the feel of a queer local in the centre of London.

What to expect

Expect a small, characterful and music-led LGBTQ+ bar. It is generally better for conversation and a few drinks than for a full club night.

Vibes

Good to know

Practical tips before you visit

The entrance is in George Court and easy to miss from the Strand
The upstairs room is not always open
Check the venue's listings for quizzes, karaoke and special events

Gallery

Location

Retro Bar

Retro Bar, George Court, London, UK

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WhereIs.Gay rating

4.6

710 reviews

Overall rating across WhereIs.Gay and Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • WhereIs.Gay
    4.2
  • Google Maps
    4.6

Been here? Rate Retro Bar

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Featured Google Maps reviews

Selected by Google Maps. Read more reviews on Google Maps.

Katarzyna Berk
Katarzyna Berk

9 months ago

The venue managed to accommodate me with a 48 hour notice for a 25 people booking and absolutely saved my birthday! Everyone was absolutely wonderful and I honestly cannot thank them enough for being so sweet, I even got a bingo shout out! Cannot recommend more if you’re looking for a space to host or just have a couple drinks with friends.

Review from Google Maps

Eve M
Eve M

3 months ago

My girlfriend took me to Retro on our second date, and now 1.5 years later it's still one of our favourite places to go! Lovely little bar, very warm and welcoming staff members, vibes are amazing from both staff and patrons. I love coming here, it feels incredibly safe, cheerful, and snug inside. The one major downside is that it can sometimes difficult to grab a seat, but once I have that I'm in heaven. Drinks are Central London priced.

Review from Google Maps

Beckett LeClair
Beckett LeClair

6 months ago

Super cozy and welcoming bar with nice theming. Good beer on tap!

Review from Google Maps

Jacob
Jacob

a year ago

The ground floor space was more packed and had no available seats and the music was very loud, but the upstairs area was much more chill and you can easily talk to the people around you — perfect if you want a change of atmosphere either way round. It was also quite quick to get a drink despite it being a Saturday night and the prices were better than many bars in soho and central London. This bar overall is so pretty I love the colour pink they had going on, and there is a gender neutral toilet. The lighting was perfect and I felt very safe and comfortable, I definitely recommend!!

Review from Google Maps

Martin McBride
Martin McBride

a year ago

Great little bar down a secluded alleyway off The Strand jam-packed with pictures of 80s/90s popstars, fairy lights, and sheer enjoyable campness. Friendly service, good range of beers, and manages to be cozy even when rather full. Been several times and will be back. Nice bar.

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
12 September 2026
Listed in
London › United Kingdom
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google