Gay Bar in London
Guide To Comptons of Soho
Comptons of Soho, located at 51–53 Old Compton Street in the heart of London's vibrant Soho district, has been a mainstay of the city's gay scene since its establishment in June 1986. Situated in a building with a rich history, Comptons has evolved from The Swiss Hotel to The Swiss Tavern before finally becoming the beloved gay pub it is today.
The Swiss Hotel: A Victorian Landmark
Designed by architects W. A. Williams and Hopton, The Swiss Hotel was constructed in 1890 and showcased its unique architectural style at the Royal Academy exhibition. The building’s original design can be seen in an illustration published in The Builder in October 1890.
By the 1950s, the Swiss Hotel had transformed and was renamed The Swiss Tavern. It quickly gained a reputation as a meeting place for gay men at a time when homosexuality was still illegal. The tavern became known as “not entirely straight,” attracting a diverse crowd.
1986 a significant change occurred as the Swiss Tavern was renovated and rebranded as Comptons of Soho. With this transformation, the pub openly embraced its identity as a gay bar, becoming a beacon of inclusivity and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community.
The Pub’s Layout and Atmosphere
Comptons of Soho is a large, Victorian-style pub spread across two floors. The ground floor features a horse-shoe bar, drawing in a diverse crowd of gay men, including both locals and tourists. The atmosphere is casual and cruisy, creating a relaxed environment for socialising and meeting new people. Upstairs, a lounge area provides a more decorative and sit-down setting for patrons seeking a quieter experience.
Ownership and Evolution
As of August 2015, Comptons of Soho has been operated by the Faucet Inn pub company, ensuring its continued success and status as a beloved LGBTQ+ establishment in London. The pub has maintained its popularity throughout the years, attracting a mature crowd of beer enthusiasts and creating a welcoming space for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Unique Features and Events
Comptons of Soho is known for its attention to detail and unique touches that set it apart from other gay pubs in the area. The upstairs bar, for example, has been recently improved, providing a quieter space for patrons seeking a more relaxed atmosphere and faster service. Additionally, the pub boasts a carpet woven from a pattern used aboard the Titanic and its sister ship, the Olympic, adding a touch of history and intrigue to the space.
The pub also hosts various events and promotions catering to different interests within the LGBTQ+ community. Leather Alert, a monthly event, appeals to leather enthusiasts of all ages, providing a friendly and cruisy social gathering in the upstairs bar.
Comptons of Soho Pictures
Comptons of Soho Reviews
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Great place to make new friends in Soho. Mostly older guys
Dropped into Comptons when we arrived in London for a pint of Fullers London Pride – good fun friendly pub, good team, busy bustling street and a pint of Pride – great way to start a weekend!
PICTURES OF PEOPLE LEAVING OF AN ALREADY QUIET PUB Why play the music so loud when upstairs is empty? 14 April 2025. The clientele is both older and people wanting to be on a date etc. It is half past 8 on a Monday evening and the music is so muddy as it bounces off the empty floor and walls.
I have worked in many bars and you READ THE ROOM. The people who ARE up here are just trying to ignore the volume.
WORSE is the music is best suited for Admiral etc you know, a place where you go to dance? Nobody wants to hear a tacky Danni Minogue remix in a place where people are trying to relax? Downstairs was not overly busy either… I think they are driving their customers away.
What an amazing experience and an amazing bar. Came here on holiday and got to experience Wednesday to Monday. DJ everyday. Vibes were amazing. You can actually approach people and tell which I valued. Great deals on Monday. Thank you to the bar staff who are wonderful!
This was the first gay pub I’ve ever been in London and still going strong.
Love the people and their friendly attitude…the staff are also great and always welcoming and cheerful.
