The Peel Hotel

Great happy hour prices. Friendly helpful staff. Plenty of room to find your spot. Inclusive and fun. Friday night pop goes off. Love the extra large disco ball.

Finding these current reviews super interesting and reminded me of an experience I had on my birthday a few years ago that left me humiliated. Upon trying to enter I was told by one of the bouncers that I wouldn't be going inside "dressed like that" and proceeded to say they had a modesty clause. I initially thought it was a joke because I had been in before wearing similar without a problem and once or twice in the exact same thing. So he turned me away and, as I walked, I heard the other two bouncers arguing vigorously with him that they felt I was dressed appropriately and there was nothing wrong. He was arguing back and screaming so loud about what I was wearing that people were turning to look and could be heard two blocks away. I was wearing much more than some of the other women in their reviews, and more than many of the shirtless male patrons. I will try and include the exact photo here so you can see for yourselves. I am still baffled and humiliated to this day because I was wearing much more than most standard clubbing fare. I am a straight woman and was with my two male gay friends and I fully support people feeling included and safe in a space, but I really do not believe any of the males felt threatened by what I was wearing (the contrary, in fact, many would stop to tell me how pretty and amazing I looked and compliment me on previous nights in the SAME dress). I wonder if it was a cultural thing for that bouncer or something, but I do appreciate his two colleagues for standing up for me. My legs and arms were exposed but it was always boiling in there so I was also dressing so I didn't pass out. I decided I finally want to speak up for myself because it has stuck with me how awful I was treated that night and still cannot work out why it happened when the other two bouncers were all for my entry and accused this guy of being on a power trip. It is discrimination and it made me feel like nothing, on my birthday no less. It makes me feel sad that many wonderful and inclusive clubs closed over time and this place continues while treating patrons like this. I also understand anyone has a right to refuse service and have a dress code, but I am also fair enough to agree if my outfit was too much. But the fact two other employees of the establishment also felt I was dressed appropriately and within code tells me this was something else.

If I could give zero stars I would. Not an inclusive place at all. Marketing should be changed to “gay men only” and anyone presenting any other way will be refused entry. Used to love coming here but last few experiences were awful and got refused entry because I’m female presenting but was with 5 men who had no issues and they were no longer accepting “guests”. Goto Sircuit instead!!!! Actually a friendly and inclusive venue and not nearly precious as The Peel.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a great experience with the security team at The Peel Hotel, especially Julie. She really stands out for all the right reasons. From the moment you arrive, she creates a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere with her friendly personality and warm smile. Julie is professional, attentive, genuinely kind and approachable. She handles situations calmly and respectfully, making people feel safe without being intimidating. It’s clear that she cares about patrons and takes pride in her role. She’s a real asset to The Peel and a big part of what makes the venue enjoyable. However, I do want to raise a serious concern about the way women are treated and whether certain decisions could be perceived as discriminatory towards women. I understand that The Peel is a gay venue and that its primary purpose is to provide a dedicated LGBTQ+ space, particularly for gay men. I completely respect that identity and the importance of having safe spaces for the community. That said, if women are being refused entry or asked to leave simply because they are women, particularly when they are not causing any issues, I believe this deserves further consideration. If the venue has specific entry policies around who can attend, these should be clearly communicated and applied fairly and respectfully. The situation involving women kissing guys also raised questions for me. I understand that The Peel is a gay club — have you been here before? — but I also believe there is a difference between protecting the culture and purpose of a gay venue and making women feel unwelcome or discriminated against. The Peel has an opportunity to be a safe, welcoming and inclusive space while still maintaining its identity as a gay venue. I hope management can look at these concerns and ensure that everyone who enters the venue is treated with dignity and respect. Despite this concern, I want to give particular recognition to Julie and the security team for their professionalism and kindness. Julie is genuinely wonderful and deserves to be recognised for the positive experience she creates for patrons. 🏳️‍🌈💙

literally the best gay bar / club in the country. This establishment is the theme-park of clubs. Make sure you visit smokers island on your way to front bar town but not before you get trapped in the spooky cubicle coaster line.