My 2025 London Tourist Guide

1. Gay’s The Word

Start your London adventure at Gay’s The Word, the UK’s first queer bookshop located in Bloomsbury. This cozy haven is a treasure trove of literature celebrating queer voices. Whether you’re looking for a new read or a classic, this shop has it all. Don’t forget to browse their selection of my books, too. It’s a perfect spot to pick up a few titles to enjoy while exploring the city!

2. The Vagina Museum

The Vagina Museum is the world’s first museum dedicated to vaginas and vulvas, so deserves an impressive round of applause for that. It’s both educational and fun, featuring exhibits that promote body positivity and sexual health, and let’s face it, a whole lot of twats (the good kind).  It also promotes intersectional, feminist and trans-inclusive values. Plus, you can buy a pendant necklace with the word ‘Cunt’ on it. Score!

3. Go East

Head to Dalston and Stoke Newington, two vibrant neighbourhoods that are rich in queer culture. Explore the eclectic street art, quirky cafes, and unique shops. Don’t miss The Divine (the new Glory), queer pub and performance space known for its lively drag shows and community events. Want to drink where Jess & Lucy did in London Calling? Head to Hoxton Square. Meanwhile, Hackney Wick is known for its diverse atmosphere and queer vibe. Walk the canal, dine on a boat, then party in Queen’s Yard until the early hours.

4. Explore the Regent’s Canal

This runs from Paddington to Limehouse, and you can hop on and off at numerous points. Walk from Paddington to King’s Cross; from Islington to Broadway Market; from Dalston to Limehouse. Along the way, you can take in Little Venice, with its canals in suburban roads; Abbey Road, home of the The Beatles; London Zoo; Islington, especially Upper Street for great food; Camden; Victoria Park; and Broadway Market, famed for its eclectic shops & market.

5. Camden

Next, dive into the eclectic atmosphere of Camden. Known for its bustling market, Camden is a hub of creativity and diversity. Stroll through the market stalls featuring everything from vintage clothing, to craft beer and unique art. Camden is also the music capital of London, so while you’re there, take in a gig at one of its many venues. The Roundhouse is superb, but the dodgy pubs with sticky floors are really where it’s at. Pay homage to Amy Winehouse in The Hawley Arms.

6. Greenwich

It’s a world heritage site sat on the Thames with an impressive palace and royal observatory, plus the Queen’s House is fascinating. There’s also a cool market, oodles of ace pubs by the river and a sprawling royal park (where Kate and Meg kiss in This London Love). If you fancy a queer pint, head to Ye Olde Rose & Crown for great drag and a warm welcome. You can catch the Thames Clipper water taxi from the centre of town, or just get the DLR/Tube. Find out more here.

7. Visit Soho/Fitzrovia/Bloomsbury

Top spots are Exmouth Market, Covent Garden for tourist photos, Waterloo Bridge for a great view of London. China Town is worth a visit, and then stroll the streets of Soho: Wardour St, Dean St, Frith St, Greek St and Old Compton St. It’s gay and it’s alive! She Bar on Old Compton St is lesbian, but the best gay bar is Friendly Society. If you want the low-down on LGBT bars, click here.

8. Notting Hill

No trip to London is complete without a visit to Notting Hill. Famous for its colourful houses and the iconic Portobello Road Market, you can also walk around and  pretend you’re Julia Roberts/Hugh Grant from the famous movie. Browse through antiques, enjoy delicious food stalls, and take in the charming streets. Notting Hill is also home to the annual Notting Hill Carnival, one of the largest street festivals in Europe, celebrating Caribbean culture and diversity.

9. Take In A West End Show

My favourite is The Book Of Mormon, but Hamilton is worth the effort, too. Steer clear of Harry Potter – the show is six hours long and you get a two-hour dinner break. No show should need a dinner break. Off West End, venues like the Bush Theatre, the Arcola or The Yard Theatre often showcase queer narratives.

10. Explore the Many Parks

Finally, take advantage of London’s beautiful parks. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Clapham Common are perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or just relaxing in the sun. Many parks host queer events, especially during Pride, making them great spots to connect with your tribe.

Happy exploring! You can shop for all my books, including my much-loved London Romance series, by heading to clarelydon.shop