Comptons in London: photos, reviews

About

Top Choice Award

2025 Gay, Lesbian Bars

Comptons of Soho, a legendary spot on London's vibrant nightlife map, offers an inviting and cozy atmosphere embraced by a wood-panelled bar that resonates with charm. Popular for its affordable drinks, Comptons invites a diverse LGBTQIA+ community and tourists who revel in its fashionably casual vibe. With its welcoming staff and lively weekend DJs, it's the perfect place to meet up with friends, effortlessly mixing relaxed lounging upstairs with lively main-floor energy. Whether you're savoring a cocktail, enjoying happy-hour specials, or sharing a bottle of wine, Comptons stands ready to provide memorable evenings without breaking the bank.

Price

$$$$ 10 - 20 GBP

Services

Reservations available

Offering

Serving alcohol, Happy-hour drinks, Serving cocktails, Serving beer, Serving wine

Payment

Payment by credit card, Payment by debit card, NFC payment

Atmosphere

Fashionably, Casual, Cozy

Best for

Meet up with friends

How to get here?

The nearest public transport options for your convenience.

Tottenham Court Road

Bus stop 421 m walk

Haymarket / Charles II Street (Stop P)

Bus stop 404 m walk

Piccadilly Circus (Stop B)

Bus stop 451 m walk

Piccadilly Circus

Bus stop 451 m walk

4.4

based on 1,246 reviews

Google

4.4/5 1,246 reviews

Nicholas Martin

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Comptons of Soho (Old Compton Street Bar) Comptons of Soho has long been a central pillar of Soho’s LGBTQIA+ nightlife scene. Established in 1986 at 51–53 Old Compton Street on the site of the former Swiss Tavern, it proudly holds the title of “Grand Dame of Queer Street” . Brilliant Atmosphere & Vibe The bar occupies a two-story Victorian-style space with a ground-floor horseshoe bar and a more relaxed lounge upstairs . Comptons attracts a diverse crowd—longtime locals, visitors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community—solidifying its status as a welcoming, inclusive spot with deep roots in Soho's queer culture . Location: Based at 51–53 Old Compton Street, a prime spot in the heart of Soho’s “gay village” . Vibe: Lively music, animated conversations, and a mix of pride and nostalgia—one of those places where the community feels deeply embedded in the atmosphere. Upstairs lounge: Offers a more chill retreat if the ground-floor bustle gets too much.

The Wavesmith

Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Always enjoy Compton's. The bar staff are lovely, especially Leo xx

Kaz

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

First time and definitely not the last! I visited for the first time last night and honestly, it was an amazing experience from start to finish. The security team at the door (especially the ones working last night) were incredible, kind, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. I wish I’d gotten their names because they really stood out. The bar staff were just as brilliant fast, friendly, and super polite. The whole place had such a great vibe, and I felt comfortable, safe, and completely at ease the entire night. Loved every minute of it. I’ll definitely be back! ❤️

Comptons in London