SPECIALFEATURE
CAMP, MARGATE campmargate. com CAMP describes itself as a queer bar and community space, and that dual identity is central to its appeal. Owned and run by a team of five, it has quickly become a place where Margate’ s LGBTQ + community gathers not just to drink, but to connect.
The space is informal and welcoming, designed to encourage conversation as much as celebration- regular events, DJ nights and collaborations sit alongside quieter evenings, giving CAMP an upbeat energy that reflects the breadth of its audience. Its success also solidifies that it’ s somewhere people come back to, whether to meet friends, support events or simply spend time in a space that feels comfortable and familiar, which speaks volumes.
In a town known for its creative energy, CAMP plays a key role in making queer culture visible as part of everyday social life.
La!, MARGATE la _ margate
Opened in December 2024, gay-owned, gay-managed La! brings a sense of theatre to Margate’ s LGBTQ + nightlife. Bold, colourful and self-described as‘ out and proud’, it positions itself as a safe space for the LGBTQ + community and allies, with a strong emphasis on performance, cabaret and late-night fun and frolics. Inside, the atmosphere is playful and expressive, with neon-lit interiors designed to match the show-led programme. Cabaret sits comfortably alongside club nights and food here, creating a venue that works well across the entire evening- from early drinks to full-on nights out- and crowd is mixed and sociable, drawn together by the promise of entertainment as much as the welcoming mood.
La! adds a confident, celebratory note to Kent’ s queer nightlife, offering a space where visibility is embraced and enjoyment comes first.
THE COTERIE, FOLKESTONE thecoteriebar
Self-described as queer and inclusive, The Coterie offers a softer, daytime-toevening take on queer-inclusive hospitality, combining café-bar energy with a garden setting that encourages lingering, whether that’ s over coffee, wine or a casual catchup with friends.
The stylish interiors are relaxed and calming, and the atmosphere attracts a broad mix of customers from locals dropping in during the day, creatives working remotely and evening visitors
looking for a welcoming place to meet. Events and gatherings are thoughtfully programmed, reinforcing the sense that this is a space built around connection rather than crowds.
For Folkestone’ s LGBTQ + community- and for visitors who they welcome with open arms( and some great homemade pastries!), The Coterie provides a place that feels both social and genuinely inclusive.
THE SHIP INN, ROCHESTER shipinnrochester
A long-established presence in North Kent( the oldest gay / gay friendly pub in the county no less), The Ship Inn describes itself as one of the county’ s premier gay venues and has built its reputation on lively nights and a consistently welcoming atmosphere. Entertainment is central here, with drag, disco and themed evenings drawing a loyal and varied crowd.
Reviews regularly highlight the friendliness of the space and the ease with which newcomers are welcomed. For many, The Ship is a regular meeting place- somewhere to celebrate, socialise and feel part of a wider community, and its longevity speaks volumes, offering a reminder of the importance of sustained LGBTQ + spaces beyond the coast.
CAMP THE COTERIE
LA!
THE SHIP INN
www. insidekent. co. uk • 35