G-A-Y Bar to Close as Soho “Loses Its Vibrancy”

Admin

January 27, 2025
2 min read

G-A-Y Bar to Close as Soho “Loses Its Vibrancy”

Soho, once considered the beating heart of London’s LGBTQ+ scene, has undergone significant changes over the years. Now, one of its iconic venues, G-A-Y Bar, is set to close after more than 15 years. Owner Jeremy Joseph announced his decision on Instagram, describing it as “more than just a bar,” but also his home. His announcement comes after months of challenges, including financial and emotional setbacks.

Joseph has been vocal about the difficulties facing LGBTQ+ venues in Soho. He cited issues such as safety concerns, opposition to late licence applications, and the financial impact of his fight to reopen his other venue, Heaven, after its temporary closure in the wake of a serious incident.

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“Soho has lost its vibrancy,” Joseph wrote. “It doesn’t feel like they care about LGBT venues anymore. Old Compton Street has lost its queer identity.”

He reflected on how the street, once a hub of LGBTQ+ culture, now feels more like a mix of restaurants, cafes, and takeaways.

Joseph’s announcement follows the closure of G-A-Y Late in December 2023, attributed to rising attacks on customers and staff, as well as ongoing development works in the area. Despite these challenges, he expressed hope that G-A-Y Bar could remain an LGBTQ+ venue under new ownership, though he admitted the current climate makes this uncertain.