UncategorizedImperial Arms

Imperial Arms

28/02/15: It seems that whenever I open a magazine these days there is a sad story about the demise and closure of a gay venue, or a call to action to fend off a developer who has their sights set on one of our iconic gay establishments.

But roll back the calendar a couple of decades and the thriving heart of the gay scene was based in Earls Court; indeed my first ever gay bar at the age of 17 was the Colherne where the likes of comedian Kenny Everett, ballet dancer Rudolf Nureyev and singer Freddie Mercury used to hang out. Well, last week a new beacon was lit in that former wonderland in the form of the Imperial Arms, a gorgeous traditional bar just a few metres from West Brompton station. New owners Nye and Jimmy have dusted off the cobwebs from this abandoned gem and injected some much needed life back into the area. They flung the doors open just after 7pm and the bar was packed within the hour as customers greeted friends old and new and munched away on a glorious buffet. Sadly, the planned cabaret called in sick but the day was saved when the magnificent Sky stepped out from behind the bar and took to the stage in a performance worthy of any Saturday night TV talent show. And with that kind of teamwork, the Imperial Arms has a bright future indeed.

8 Lillie Road, Fulham, SW6 1TU
Words and photos by Chris Jepson

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