The Backstreet is probably the last classic leatherbar in Europe that still sticks to the traditional dresscode of leather and rubber only. Avoid it like the plague if you are into colourfull aussibumfashion or fancy haircuts, but if you are admire that oldfashioned Tom of Finland look then this is the place. Private smoking area, friendly staff and affordable prices plus cold drinks in real glasses, not those wobbly plastic cups. The london scene can be very quiet and the Backstreet is no exception, people either go to Berlin for the weekend or play with their iphones only, so dont expect that international sensation in this big city.
Robert Tudor
The dress code is strict, but the guys are hot and friendly. You can get away with minimal leather/ruber if you're showing plenty of flesh (a jock and a waistcoat is fine, and they'll loan you a waistcoat!). Some nights are bussier than others. Check the website for 'events'.
Drinks are pretty cheap for London. Plenty of free condoms and lube and plenty of opportunity to use them ;)
Simon
This place attracts a very friendly crowd, isn't too loud and has really reasonable bar prices with efficient and no nonsense service. The venue does have a strict dress code but has a changing area if you are into stuff that you don't feel comfortable walking on the street in (though it's London, most people don't give a damn).
Clientele is very varied from early 20s up to 70s+ and everyone seems to be made welcome. Love that the music isn't too loud and it's not really a dancing club. It has an industrial theme to it with lots of bare concrete and dark little corners. Also has a smoking area out back which seems popular.
Sir Edington's this n that UK
London's only true fetish bar left. Very reasonable drinks prices. Located right on Mile End tube stop. Decor hasn't changed or been revamped since the 80s. Very run down in places but sleazy.
Lee Diffusion
The proper Backstreet nights which John the owner hosts catering for the leather and rubber scene are really good, and I would always recommend them. Really sleazy venue which hasn't changed much from the 80's. Not many of these venues left in London, so enjoy it while it lasts, especially with other venues closing and if you are into leather and rubber. But avoid Buff/ClubCP naked nights. The doorman/coat check is really grumpy and unhelpful. If you ask him any reasonable question his stock response is "How long is a piece of string." Hmm very helpful, NOT! Then he wanders off sulking, like a 'moon faced frog scouring the club for chicken' of which there is none! Really nice bar boy who is either in leather/rubber or naked. Update: Just noticed "Mr Grumpy" is in fact Alan who is writing his own reviews below. Scammer!
Nicholas MacCloy
London's oldest and only remaining leather bar. Great staff who are incredibly friendly. good atmosphere and always fun to visit
Jeffrey Tracey
Found the patrons very friendly if you approach them. Easygoing atmosphere, and all 100% leather. Didn't find the bartenders to be particularly friendly but thats perhaps just me.Reasonably priced drinks. Totally worth going and a. great experience overall
Hardpecs Bulge
This has to be the most authentic leather bars in London. Like all such places, the crowd varies but generally everyone is friendly and up for it. The barmen are welcoming. When I came here last week, I had a great time catching up with mates and enjoying what's on offer.
The london scene can be very quiet and the Backstreet is no exception, people either go to Berlin for the weekend or play with their iphones only, so dont expect that international sensation in this big city.
Drinks are pretty cheap for London. Plenty of free condoms and lube and plenty of opportunity to use them ;)
Clientele is very varied from early 20s up to 70s+ and everyone seems to be made welcome. Love that the music isn't too loud and it's not really a dancing club. It has an industrial theme to it with lots of bare concrete and dark little corners. Also has a smoking area out back which seems popular.