Comptons (of) Soho

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Soho Icon With Heart, History & the Friendliest Team Around Comptons in Soho isn’t just a pub—it’s a living piece of LGBTQ+ history, and every visit reminds you why it continues to matter. The moment you walk through the doors, there’s an undeniable sense of belonging, community, and pride woven into the building’s heritage. It has stood as a safe, joyful, and empowering space for decades, and you genuinely feel that legacy in the atmosphere. But what truly elevates Comptons is the incredible staff—especially Sean and Ivan. They’re the kind of people who don’t just serve you a drink—they make you feel seen, welcomed, and completely at home. Their warmth feels effortless, their energy is infectious, and their hospitality sets the tone for the whole venue. Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, they greet you like old friends. Service is friendly, attentive, and impressively fast, even when the place is buzzing. Comptons remains one of those rare places where history meets modern LGBTQ+ culture—where people gather not just to socialize, but to celebrate identity, community, and connection. It’s comfortable, uplifting, and full of character, and the team clearly takes pride in keeping that spirit alive. If you’re in Soho and want a place that feels authentic, vibrant, and genuinely welcoming, Comptons is—and always has been—the heart of it all. Thanks to legends like Sean and Ivan, it continues to shine.

Absolutely gorgeous bar in the middle of Soho 🏳️‍🌈♥️ loved it there.. service can be a bit slow but that is due to the popularity of the place and almost always busy. But do go there and enjoy the afternoon or the party at night. Music could be a bit more diverse though, very mainstream.

Always had a great experience in this bar; it's a lively crowd and moderately to very busy most of the time. The beer specials were attractive (patrons as well), and the bar staff were friendly, spirited, and welcoming. It's a great space during the week to find a reliable after-work crowd and, of course, busy on the weekends. Thanks for making my visit. We're welcoming and look forward to future visits.

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.

It was my first time there and It won’t be the last, the staff are very friendly from security to the bartenders, the atmosphere was great, if you want to have some drinks on a Saturday evening, this is the place!