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Royal Vauxhall Tavern
Bars

Royal Vauxhall Tavern

London's iconic and Grade II listed LGBTQ entertainment venue

London, UK
4.3
860 reviews

Neighbourhood

London

Category

Bars

Vibe

Cocktails, Comedy +1

Official website

About Royal Vauxhall Tavern

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.

Vibes

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Location

Royal Vauxhall Tavern

Royal Vauxhall Tavern, Kennington Lane, London, UK

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WhereIs.Gay rating

4.4

860 reviews

Overall rating across WhereIs.Gay and Google Maps.

Rating by source

  • WhereIs.Gay
    4.7
  • Google Maps
    4.4

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WhereIs.Gay reviews

Submitted by WhereIs.Gay visitors and approved by our team.

pedro.nido

8 May 2017

Best place to go if you need cheering up! Most evenings is fun show - from bingo to drag acts. Duckie on Saturday nights is ace night with great music and weird and wonderful performances. If you haven't booked tickets (on their website) get there early. Think doors open at 10pm and already a queue when we arrived.

WhereIs.Gay review

oliden

9 Oct 2015

You may know this venue may disappear, and it shouldn't! Nice venue, nice people, nice shows, good music. I love going there on Sundays afternoon as the best way to enjoy the week end until the end!

WhereIs.Gay review

Featured Google Maps reviews

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

Denis Ryan
Denis Ryan

3 weeks ago

I had fond memories of going here during the late 2000s/early 2010s, but that all went up in smoke over Gay Pride this weekend just gone. TWO hours of queueing outside to get in, only to find in the last half an hour that entry would not be guaranteed. The security were too busy laughing amongst themselves to care (a special mention to the female security guard who denied my request for some of her water towards the end - I was gasping having been stuck in the queue not being able to leave for fear of losing my place). The only half-redeeming feature of the whole process was the chap who came out at the end with entry wristbands, who took the trouble to apologise for the delay. Even though I was determined to stay and get value for my trouble, I was too angry to really enjoy myself afterwards. Massive let down. Never again.

Review from Google Maps

Stefan Brown
Stefan Brown

3 months ago

A london LGBTQI+ venue that makes you feel like your family . The Bar staff are incredible!!! Long live the RVT

Review from Google Maps

Astir Astir
Astir Astir

9 years ago

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.

Review from Google Maps

Rich Irvine
Rich Irvine

6 months ago

Turned up on a Thursday at 9.30 and was turned away rather abruptly as it was apparently closed for a private party. No apologies. Won’t bother travelling far to try there again.

Review from Google Maps

Mihael Štefanac
Mihael Štefanac

6 months ago

After consistent 12 years of visiting/supporting/promoting it happened that my batt was low and they refused to charge it! 🔥🔮NEVER EVER

Review from Google Maps

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Listing details

Last updated
27 January 2024
Listed in
London › United Kingdom
Data from
WhereIs.Gay community, the venue and Google