9 Sep 2015

Royal Vauxhall Tavern: famous gay pub given listed status

The Royal Vauxhall Tavern in London has been made a listed building following a campaign by Sir Ian McKellen and Paul O’Grady, a move protecting the UKs oldest gay pub from redevelopment.

The world-famous gay pub has been awarded grade II status, the first listing of its kind for a lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender venue.

The news comes amid concerns over the tavern’s future, following its purchase by Austrian property developers. Its newly acquired status will protect the building from significant changes to its use or look.

The move has been widely welcomed by campaigners fighting to secure the future of the venue, being hailed as a “victory against the odds”.

Built in 1860, RVT has a long history of hosting alternative, transgender and drag performances, with one of its most famous recurring performers being Lily Savage, who had a residency at the tavern between 1984 and 1992. The venue also appeared in last year’s hit film, Pride.

It has been listed both for its architectural interest alongside its historic and cultural significance as an “enduring symbol of the confidence of the gay community in London”.

‘Thrilled’

Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch said: “I am thrilled to be able to list the Royal Vauxhall Tavern as grade II – the iconic cultural hub in the heart of London is of huge significance to the LGBT community. I am delighted that the listing will preserve the history of this venue for future generations to enjoy – I hope that it continues to be filled with laughter and joy.”

Director of listing at the government heritage agency Historic England, Roger Bowdler, echoed the minister’s sentiments, saying: “The Royal Vauxhall Tavern is an enduring and important venue for the LGBT community.

“Built on the site of the Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens, it carries on the tradition of alternative and bohemian entertainment which is bound up in this part of London’s history and identity.”

The listing comes after a spate of closures of LBGT venues, the most recent being Shoreditch-based gay pub, the George & Dragon.