The directors of one of London’s most famous LGBTQ+ venues have said they are leaving after 20 years.
The Royal Vauxhall Tavern (RVT) has been a key part of London’s LGBTQ+ scene since the 1950s with a rich history of drag performers.
The venue’s directors’ James Lindsay and John Kerr announced on Wednesday night that they would be stepping back from the venue “with a very heavy heart”.
The pair said in a statement on X "After 20 years of stabilising and growing The RVT, it is with a very heavy heart, John and I have made the decision that we are not the right people to continue running The RVT.
"We have decided to sell our business interest and have instructed agents to make this happen.
“I would like to thank everyone who has supported us, particularly our invaluable team."
STATEMENT: From James Lindsay - CEO The Royal Vauxhall Tavern pic.twitter.com/bvRhLtdZDE
— Royal Vauxhall Tavern (@thervt) May 15, 2024
The pub has been a staple of London’s nightlife for decades and there are rumours that Freddie Mercury once took Princess Diana in disguise for a night out at the venue.
The venue was also home to Paul O’Grady for eight years, who performed as drag queen Lily Savage there four times a week.
The late comedian once started a riot at the club.
Following their death close friend Peter Tatchell recalled that in 1987 officers “burst” into London’s Royal Vauxhall Tavern wearing rubber gloves as the late comedian was on stage as his alter-ego Lily Savage.
After O’Grady spotted the gloves, which the officers were allegedly wearing due to misconceptions that HIV was contracted through touch, he told them “Oh good, have you come to do the washing up?”.
