The Molly House

The eighteenth century equivalent of a gay bar, a Molly House was once a place where men could meet others like themselves, without fear of prosecution and public hanging. These days, the only worry is finding a space at the bar.

The décor is a mix of bordello, tea room and vintage chic, while the music covers indie, pop, world, even music hall, and is kept at a volume that allows you to hold down a conversation without shouting. The door policy is as mature at the soundtrack – hen parties and 'all drinks a pound' revellers are kept very much at bay.

It's not a big venue, but it is spread over two floors, with wooden tables, bar space and the kitchen on the ground and chaise longues, rugs, a fireplace and a portrait of Molly herself in the upstairs bar, which also has an outside terrace. Molly manages to attract a diverse crowd, as well as a refreshing mix of 'types', so don't be surprised to see a group of burly bears sat next to a table of cute trendy girls and a boy who’s just come out with his mum (in more ways than one).