First time visiting London as a gay man. What are the best gay venues and gay touristy things to visit?

Lived here 25 years. Always a new gem to discover, but I couldn't tell you anything about any gay venues or bathhosues. I always found more interesting things going on.

Gaycities has been my go-to for years. When I traveled to London 24 years ago I carried a Damron guide. Yes, I’m old. 😀

Head to Compton St. My favourite hangout is Comptons. When ever I’m back in the U.K. and in London I basically live there. Always meet people and make friends. Wonderful pub.

If you are here on a Saturday go to duckie it's a club queer daytime party it's brilliant lots of performance a nice mixed crowd you will love it and it's on during the day!

It's been about 10 years since I lived in London so I don't remember a whole lot, and I'm not sure if any of the places I used to go to have closed down or not. I used to go to nights called Push The Button at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern which were pretty good. I think that event has been gone for a few years now, but the venue itself is still alive and kicking. They do an event twice a month called BeefMince that's co-run and DJed by someone I was friends with while I lived in London who is a super nice and sweet guy. It's billed as a night for bears/cubs/chubs etc. but there's always a diverse mix of people there. The venue can get pretty packed on popular event nights though so if that's not your thing then you may want to steer clear.

The RVT also hosts a ton of other themed nights, so I'm sure they'll have something to suit you. The schedule can be seen on their website if you want to have a look.

I don't know the first thing about London's gay scene but I asked ChatGPT for you:

London is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich LGBTQ+ culture. There are many gay-friendly venues and attractions to visit. Here's a list of some of the best:

Soho: This area is known as the LGBTQ+ heart of London. You can find many gay bars, clubs, and cafes here, as well as the popular Old Compton Street.

Vauxhall: This district is another hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with many gay clubs and bars such as Royal Vauxhall Tavern, Eagle London, and Fire.

Heaven: One of the most famous gay nightclubs in the world, Heaven is located near Charing Cross Station and hosts various events and themed nights.

G-A-Y: With multiple venues across London, G-A-Y is a staple of the LGBTQ+ scene. The G-A-Y Bar, G-A-Y Late, and G-A-Y at Heaven offer different atmospheres and entertainment options.

Dalston Superstore: A trendy bar and club in East London, Dalston Superstore hosts regular LGBTQ+ nights and events.

Ku Bar & Klub: Located in Soho, this stylish venue offers a bar, club, and a popular cocktail lounge.

XXL: A popular gay club located in Southwark, XXL is known for its bear and leather nights.

Gay's the Word: A historic LGBTQ+ bookshop in Bloomsbury, this is a great place to find books, magazines, and films relating to LGBTQ+ culture and history.

British Museum: This iconic museum has a collection that includes LGBTQ+ history and art. Look out for the Warren Cup and the Ain Sakhri Lovers sculpture.

Tate Modern and Tate Britain: These renowned art galleries feature work by LGBTQ+ artists such as David Hockney, Francis Bacon, and Derek Jarman.

The Institute of Sexology at the Wellcome Collection: This unique museum explores the history of human sexuality, including LGBTQ+ history.

London Pride: If you're visiting in June or July, you might catch London Pride, a massive celebration of LGBTQ+ culture, featuring a parade, performances, and parties throughout the city.

Remember that London is a welcoming city, and you'll find plenty of places to explore and enjoy. Have a great time!