The Ultimate Guide to Heaven Nightclub London: Party Like a Local

If you’ve ever wandered the streets near Charing Cross at midnight, you’ll know that London's club scene hits different. Tucked under the old arches, Heaven Nightclub isn’t just another late-night haunt—it’s an institution. From the pounding sound system to the rainbow-lit tunnels, this place has shaped London nights since the late ‘70s. Mention it in Soho, and watch faces light up: it’s not just a club, it’s a rite of passage. Heaven Nightclub is the beating heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, but you’ll find every sort of Londoner here, each ready to dance away whatever the world threw at them that week.

Finding Your Way and Queuing Right

First, let’s kill a common rookie mistake: yes, it might sit in the shadow of Embankment’s grand old buildings, but you don’t wander in by accident. This club is hidden, set under the railway lines. Even lifelong Londoners admit the entrance can be tricky to spot if you’re not in the know. Look for the crowds spilling onto the street—easy on Friday or Saturday—but if you turn up early, the space can seem almost secretive. Tube-wise, you’re spoiled for choice; Charing Cross is your best bet, but Embankment works too, and nobody’s too posh to hop a late-night bus from Trafalgar Square.

The legendary queue is all part of the ritual. No one gets a VIP pass to skip it, and—believe it or not—this bit can be fun. Out here, you’ll spot everything: club kids in glitter, drag queens balancing on precarious heels, confused tourists, and even a minor celeb or two. If you’re planning a big night like G-A-Y or the famous Porn Idol contest, expect to wait, especially after 11pm. Tip: show your student card for a discount if you’ve got one, and get your ID ready—security’s tight here, with no exceptions for looking ‘mature’. Dress code isn’t stuffy but have some fun; go bold if you want, and remember trainers are usually fine unless it’s a big-ticket event.

Heaven is famous for themed nights spanning pop, house, and decades parties. G-A-Y has basically been the city’s main event for under-30s since Stonewall was still a new slogan. Big stars have graced its stage before they hit the charts: Lady Gaga, Madonna, Kylie, to name a few, all performed here before selling out O2. If you’re hoping for live acts, check the Heaven website or G-A-Y’s socials before you pitch up. Arrive before midnight for cheaper entry or early-bird cocktails—it really pays off.

Inside Heaven: What to Expect When You’re Dancing

Walk through those hallowed doors and you’re hit with it: the thump of bass, the epic laser show beaming over throngs of dancers, and the sense that nobody here is judging your moves—not even a little. Heaven is a maze at first, but that’s its charm. The main room is legendary for its phenomenally loud sound system built to keep the walls vibrating until sunrise. On busy nights, this place packs out in waves, especially during big events or surprise performances. The upstairs ‘Balcony Bar’ gives you a break from the chaos. Downstairs, side rooms switch genres: expect anything from deep house to cheesy pop, depending on who’s DJing.

Don’t worry about sticking out—come with mates, solo, or arrive as a pair, you'll be swept up by sheer friendliness. This club is a haven for every letter of the LGBTQ+ rainbow and all kinds of allies. During student nights, expect £2 or £3 drinks (watch out for sticky floors though, it’s cheap for a reason). Fridays and Saturdays cost a bit more, but no one goes hungry: there’s usually a pizza booth near the main bar for essential late-night snacks. The cloakroom is reasonably priced (around £3–£5 per item), so bring a coat, especially if you’re planning to spill outside at 3am when London’s weather can turn savage.

The bathroom situation? Surprisingly good by London standards: big mirrors, and (for once) a decent queue system. No unnecessary faff. Smoking area’s outdoors, tucked under the arches on Villiers Street, easy to find but bring a jumper because you’ll freeze in winter. Don’t try and sneak drinks out—bouncers have seen every trick. And for anyone new to the scene: keep your valuables close; as with every London club, pickpockets can be a stealthy bunch.

If you’re celebrating something big—birthday, job win, survived the Central Line—Heaven lets you reserve VIP areas, but these can sell out quickly on weekends or for big-name gigs. Check in advance and book online. Some regulars swear by arriving just after the doors open to claim space on the balcony for people-watching; others stake out the dancefloor, right in the laser light, and don’t leave till closing. Each room feels like its own party, but the magic is in the collective rush when everyone belts out an ‘80s anthem or one of those G-A-Y classics you pretend not to love.

Staying Safe, Partying Late, and London Nightlife Essentials

Heaven has a rep for being one of the safest spaces to let loose in the city, but there are golden rules. Watch your drinks—London’s clubs all deal with opportunists, especially close to the bar. The security team is visible and friendly but totally strict if things get rowdy. If you’re new to the city or on your own, flag staff if you feel uncomfortable; they’re legendary for looking out for first-timers. And don’t forget: Heaven welcomes everyone, but London rules apply—be respectful of others’ space, gender, and good vibes. Fancy dress is often encouraged (and rarely out of place), especially on themed nights. Drag, glitter, out-there hair—if you go for it, you’ll fit right in. If you’re worried about getting home, know that London’s Night Tube runs on several lines, but Charing Cross doesn’t offer this—your best bet after 1am is usually a bus from Strand, Uber, or walking to Leicester Square for the Piccadilly Line.

Cash or card? Both work, but clubs across London are going increasingly contactless, especially since 2023. Heaven doesn’t have a “minimum spend”, but the bars get rammed after midnight, so get in fast for your first round. If you want a full night out nearby, a bunch of Soho’s late bars and after-hours diners are within fifteen minutes’ walk. The famous Balans on Old Compton Street never judges your 4am breakfast order. If you want to impress a new mate, take them to the riverside before heading in—striking views of the Thames and the London Eye are right on your doorstep.

Not sure when to go? Here are some favourite nights, direct from the locals who fill Heaven week after week:

• G-A-Y Thursdays/Saturdays: The classic. Pop bangers, wild competitions, glitter everywhere.
• Porn Idol (occasional dates): Only in London, only at Heaven—a not-for-the-shy strip contest that’s now a city legend.
• Student Nights (Mondays): Super affordable, especially for freshers with energy to burn.
• Gay Pride After-Parties and New Year’s: The busiest, brightest, wildest nights you’ll ever see indoors in London.

Average drink prices in central London clubs (2025):

It’s also worth knowing: Heaven was one of the first big LGBTQ+ venues in London after homosexuality was decriminalised. That means you’re dancing in a slice of queer history at every party. There are few places left in central London where the past and present collide this openly—soak it up and make memories. If you want that iconic London night out—it’s here. Swing by for the drag shows, the anthems, and the pure freedom of being whoever the hell you want for one wild night among the arches.