Guide to LGBTQ+ Friendly Places and Adventures in England

Planning an LGBTQ+ adventure in England? Find out when to visit, where to stay, what to see, and what to bring for the ultimate experience from travel expert Alexa.

England, regarded as one of the world’s most LGBTQ+ friendly places, offers a wide range of activities for the community. From attending spectacular Pride festivals in Brighton, Manchester, and London to exploring gay-friendly towns and cities like Margate and Leeds, there is plenty to keep you entertained here.

Below, we highlight the things to see and do for rainbow travellers in England. So, get ready to explore with our guide to LGBTQ+ adventures in England.

Best time to visit England on an LGBTQ+ adventure

The best time to visit England for your LGBTQ+ adventure is during the warmer months when events and festivals are in full swing. Summer is especially popular, and it runs from June to August. It is during this period that cities like London, Brighton, and Manchester host vibrant Pride parades. And thanks to the weather, summer is perfect for beach visits and outdoor activities.

Spring, from March to May, is another ideal time to visit England. The weather is mild, and there are usually fewer crowds. You can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene and, perhaps, check out some cultural attractions.

Fall boasts cooler temperatures, which run from September to November. Though not as busy as summer, there is still plenty to enjoy. You might be able to attend a few LGBTQ+ events and gatherings in big cities like London.

In the winter season, from December to February, England is colder. It’s an ideal time to visit indoor attractions, including LGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs. Since it’s the holiday season, expect the main streets to be festive, with bright lights and fun decorations.

Best LGBTQ+ friendly places to stay in England

England has a variety of LGBTQ+ friendly destinations that are the perfect places to stay for your holiday. Here are some of them:

London

England’s bustling capital is the hub of the country’s rainbow culture, so it’s an ideal place to consider for your holiday here. Picturesque neighbourhoods like Soho and Vauxhall are home to many gay-friendly accommodations. Plus, these places provide easy access to the city’s top attractions and some of the best nightlife spots.

Brighton

As the LGBTQ+ capital of the UK, Brighton is an exceptional place to stay. The lively seaside town has thriving rainbow communities with beautiful beaches, buzzing nightlife, and quirky shops.

Manchester

Manchester is another place in England with a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, especially in the Gay Village around Canal Street. Aside from having an energetic nightlife, the city hosts events and Pride celebrations.

Lake District

For a more serene escape, choose the Lake District. The region has stunning landscapes and exceptional accommodation options. Consider staying in luxury lodges. That way, you can relax in style after a day of exploring the scenic lakes.

There are also some fantastic Lake District lodges for sale, allowing you to make this beautiful destination your home away from home whenever you choose to visit.

Best things to see on LGBTQ+ adventures in England

Here are some of the best things to see in England on your adventure:

• Soho, London
  Soho is the heart of the LGBTQ+ scene in London, so it’s a must-see on your trip to England’s capital city. The bustling area has numerous bars, clubs, and cafés, and a great place for experiencing the city’s inclusive nightlife. You’ll also find a fantastic variety of restaurants to enjoy a meal before heading out for the evening.

• Brighton Beach
  Brighton, known as the UK’s LGBTQ+ capital, is a destination you won’t want to miss. Its lively beach offers plenty of activities, while a short stroll down to Hove beach brings you to a more peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxation. Check out the vibrant pier and explore the nearby LGBTQ+ friendly beach bars along the seafront.

• Manchester’s Gay Village
  Centred around Canal Street, this is a lively place packed with bars and clubs. It’s a vibrant hub for the gay community and the site of the famous Manchester Pride festival. In the warmer months, Sackville Gardens offers a relaxing spot to bask in the sun while locals and visitors enjoy drinks outside the bars, watching canal boats gently drift by.

• The V&A Museum, London
  The V&A Museum is one of London’s top museums. Here, you can explore exhibits celebrating art, history, and culture, as well as LGBTQ+ themes and events.

• Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
  Another museum worth a visit while in England. It has a section dedicated to LGBTQ+ history and frequently hosts exhibits related to the community.

Best things to do on LGBTQ+ adventures in England

You’ll surely have a great time in England, given the various LGBTQ+ adventures to enjoy here. For a more enjoyable trip, consider booking through excellent gay travel companies that can help you plan your perfect gay vacation. These tours ensure you get the most out of the exciting LGBTQ+ experiences in England.

Here are some of the activities to include on your tour:

• Explore Soho, London
  Explore the iconic LGBTQ+ neighbourhood of London, Soho. It is packed with inclusive bars, cafés, and clubs. This is where you can meet people and experience London’s lively LGBTQ+ nightlife.

• Attend Brighton Pride
  Brighton hosts one of the UK’s biggest and most colourful Pride festivals. Join the celebration of love, equality, and inclusivity with parades and parties.

• Walk the Gay Village in Manchester
  Stroll through the famous Gay Village of Manchester, where you’ll find LGBTQ+ friendly venues. Don’t miss the Manchester Pride for an even more unforgettable experience.

• Join LGBTQ+ walking tours
  Many cities in England, including London and Manchester, have LGBTQ+ themed walking tours. These guided tours take you through historic neighbourhoods, telling the stories of significant events and figures in the LGBTQ+ community.

What to pack for your adventure in England

Here’s a recommended packing list:

• Clothing
  England’s weather can be unpredictable. So, aside from the usual outfits, pack light jackets, sweaters, and a raincoat. And if you’re planning to enjoy the nightlife, pack a few stylish outfits for the evening.

• Pride attire
  When attending Pride events, bring your best rainbow gear or any statement pieces to celebrate.

• Comfortable walking shoes
  Since you’ll be exploring a lot, especially in cities like London and Manchester, make sure you wear a pair of shoes that are comfortable on your feet.

• Travel documents
  Don’t forget your passport, travel insurance, accommodation details, and visa (if you need one).
• Portable chargers
  Keep your phones and gadgets fully charged for taking photos and navigating the cities.

To supplement this list, get a copy of our free packing light checklist list when you sign up for the Albom Adventures newsletter.

Read next: England Road Trip: Enjoy the British Countryside from London to Alnwick

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About the author

Alexa is a talented photographer, writer, and world traveller who speaks four languages. She is equally comfortable walking around a city and exploring museums as she is out in the wilderness discovering nature and photographing wildlife. She is an avid coffee drinker, and can often be spotted in local cafes when she needs a break.