The Best Gay Friendly Bars in Birmingham For Non-Stop Fun
famous LGBTQ+ nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a classy wine bar for a romantic evening or a non-stop club with plenty of party anthems and stiff cocktails, this list will include a match for you.
Most of the top gay bars in Birmingham are in the Gay Village area. We’ve included these and a few of the best gay-friendly bars outside the Gay Village to ensure you have a diverse selection.
Ready? Text the group chat and start planning your next big night out now.
1. Cafe Lovelife
Looking for a relaxed bar and restaurant to start the night? Scroll no further. Digbeth-based Cafe Lovelife is here to provide creative cocktails and delicious Mediterranean-inspired food to fuel you before you hit the dance floor.
What’s your poison? Spicy margaritas? Pornstar bellinis? Or a classic pineapple martini? No matter your preference, the Lovelife drinks menu is the ultimate way to prepare for a night in the Gay Village.
Alternatively, Lovelife also makes for a romantic spot for a date night with your partner. Tapas to share and authentic Mediterranean wines? Yes, please.
2. The Village Inn
When it comes to gay bars in Birmingham, it's a crime to ignore The Village Inn.
This is one of the city's oldest LGBTQ+ spaces, and it's known for some of the area's best themed nights and entertainment. From top queer talent to tongue-in-cheek drag shows, this is the place to be if you want to get familiar with the city's iconic gay scene.
Whether it's a Tuesday or a Saturday, this venue is always lively. Perfect for a cheeky mid-week drink or a long weekend with your mates.
3. Sidewalk
Sidewalk is another historic LGBTQ+ venue in Birmingham. This happening bar started life as a 1930s car showroom and turned into ‘Laurie’s International Club’ in 1996, just in time for Birmingham’s first pride parade.
What makes this space so famous is its large glass windows, which allowed the public to see inside before attitudes towards the community had changed.
Today, Sidewalk is a pillar of the Gay Village. Whether you want a perfectly mixed cocktail or want to watch live dancers, this venue has plenty of different events and affordable drinks. Awesome!
4. Missing Bar
If you're looking for gay-friendly bars in Birmingham that keep the drinks and pop classics flowing, Missing Bar should be on your list.
Missing Bar is known as the Gay Villages' best non-stop party bar and is a great place to grab drinks at the end of the week. Nothing feels better than a few drinks here after a stressful day in the office!
The bar boasts mirrored walls, go-go dancers, DJs, and an upstairs outdoor smoking garden. It also hosts regular cabaret acts. So, if you're planning a night to remember, don't leave this bar off the list.
5. The Loft
The Loft provides a night medium between a relaxed restaurant and a crazy party bar. You’ll find this spot next to the Birmingham Hippodrome, just a few minutes from New Street Station.
Here, you can enjoy a range of hearty plates, tapas, and flatbreads. Plus, there’s a never-ending drinks menu, perfect if you’re stopping by for a bite and a tipple or two before a night out.
While The Loft is great for a drink or a date in a more chilled-out atmosphere, it still hosts plenty of LGBTQ+ events. From Drag Race viewing parties to live drag shows, this gay-friendly bar is apt for every occasion!
6. Equator Bar
Equator Bar is another classic stop in Birmingham’s Gay Village. With 20 years of experience in the local LGBTQ+ community, you can always expect a good time here.
This bar is known for its social atmosphere. So, if you’re looking for somewhere non-judgemental or want to make friends, this is a great place to stop by.
It’s also known for its sophisticated interior and extensive drink menu. Whether you fancy a craft pint or a cold, dry wine, the Equator bar is stocked and ready to serve!
7. The Fox
If you're looking for a great lesbian-friendly bar in Birmingham, make sure to add The Fox to your list.
While it’s open to everyone, it has a rich history as a welcoming spot for gay women and remains a favourite today. Everyone is welcome to join the fun!
Expect non-stop pop tunes, drag shows, karaoke, and quiz nights in the week. Check out the bar’s social media page to see what’s on during your visit.
Final Thoughts on the Best Gay Friendly Bars in Birmingham
Birmingham’s LGBTQ+ nightlife scene is truly one of the best in the country. If you’re in town for the weekend, visit one or two of these iconic bars to see the scene at its best!
But before you go all-in, start the night with some tasty tapas at Cafe Lovelife.