Royal Vauxhall Tavern

If you're seeking a very London gay experience, this is where to start. This pub-turned-legendary gay venue operates an anything-goes booking policy. Gloriously faded, a bit louche and with a colourful past (the gay Kray used to drink here, and Lily Savage got her start behind the bar), RVT just keeps surviving. The most famous fixture is Saturday's queer performance night Duckie with Amy Lamé hosting turns that range from strip cabaret to porn puppets; though recently the programme has expanded to include straight comedy events and variety nights. The aim is to please the crowd of regulars, who are reliably vocal in their feedback, and entice a broad range of newcomers.