Southampton’s LGBTQ+ friendly pub popular with drag queens

Couple David and Ray Riley-Cole have been running the show at The London Hotel for 21 years this September.

The Oxford Street watering hole is renowned for its impressive schedule of performances – from DJs to drag queens – and for serving delicious Sunday roast dinners.

READ MORE: Huge crowds turn out for annual Southampton Pride parade

David, 59, remains as passionate about the pub today as the day he took over.

He said the venue has welcomed “dramatic change” since 2003 as its clientele has increased.

David, right, and Ray Riley-Cole (Image: David and Ray Riley-Cole)

“When we started welcoming more people, some of our older regulars did not like the fact they were sharing the space, but that is what we have always fought for,” David said.

He added: “We are a straight friendly, all-inclusive space and that is how it should be.

“We want The London to be a safe space for everyone involved.

“A lot of straight women come to the pub and tell us they feel safe coming here alone, which is amazing.

“We are a community space in the city centre.”

This is reflected in the acts they host - from dextrous DJs to dazzling drag queens - and the groups they sponsor, including The Trojans U7’s and U*'s and the Wessex Wyverns inclusive rugby team.

David and Ray have faced many challenges in their time at The London – from bouncing back from the Covid-19 pandemic to business changes.

But one challenge remains – dealing with homophobic abuse.

David said: “Only last week someone ripped down one of our Pride flags, while a group of customers told us we had too many gay people in our venue.

“Homophobia is still out there, and we are providing a safe space.

“A week doesn’t go by without us receiving homophobic abuse, but we remain positive.”

Some of the amazing acts at The London Hotel (Image: David Riley-Cole)

David and Ray’s love for The London is bolstered by their adoration for fellow business owners on Oxford Street and the vibrant community they have all created.

He said: “We are now the longest-standing owners of a business in Oxford Street.

“All the venues and their owners here are marvellous.

“We only serve food from Wednesday to Sunday at lunchtimes, but there are so many other amazing places to eat along the street.

“People come to the London for the safety, the atmosphere, and the drag queens.

“We are not going anywhere anytime soon; we are here to be seen.”