April 14, 2014

Glitter and Be Gay... in the U.K.!

Matthew Wexler READ TIME: 2 MIN.

While England may be filled with glorious pomp and circumstance, it also has its fair share of glitz, glamour and gay. Same-sex marriage legislation was passed in England and Wales in 2013, with the first marriages scheduled for March 29, 2014. Whether you're looking to visit the Crown Jewels or present one to your betrothed, there are plenty of LGBT celebrations scheduled throughout the year where you can express your love or find a romance "across the pond."

Birmingham Pride, May 24-25, 2014
The largest Pride festival in the United Kingdom includes two days of revelry and its signature Carnival Parade.
www.birminghampride.com

Swansea Pride, Wales, June 28, 2014
Let's not forget about Wales, which also legalized gay marriage in 2014! The coastal town of Swansea provides a picture-perfect backdrop for those looking for a smaller, more community-driven festivities.
www.swanseapride.com

Take a peek at last year's celebration:

Manchester Pride, August 22-25, 2014
Pride events have taken place in Manchester for more than 21 years. The four-day celebration recently added an indoor arena, which houses a lifestyle expo during the day and high-energy dance party at night.

The weekend culminates in the George House Trust Candlelit Vigil, remembering those lost to AIDS and the continued fight against this worldwide epidemic.
www.manchesterpride.com

5 Can’t Miss Gay Spots... Any Time of Year

5 Can't-Miss Gay Spots... Any Time of Year

  • Established in 1979, Gay's the Word is the UK's largest LGBT bookstore.
    66 Marchmont Street, London

  • Looking for a gay "superstore"? Celebrating 40 years in business, Prowler is the largest gay owned and operated business in Europe, with locations in London, Brighton and Birmingham.

  • Brighton's Gay and Lesbian History Trail offers insights into the city's colorful fast as well as guidance to LGBT-friendly areas like St. James Street and New Steine.

  • Head to Cardiff (the capital of Wales) for a night at Minsky's Showbar, an all-inclusive entertainment venue with drag performances on Friday and Saturday nights.
    42 Charles Street, St. David's Centre, Cardiff

  • Grrr... Discover Bristol Bear Bar, the only "purpose built bear bar in the UK." We're not exactly sure what that means, but you'll be sure to discover plenty of sturdy men and their admirers. Located in the heart of Bristol's Gay Village.
    2-4 West Street, Bristol

    by Matthew Wexler

    Matthew Wexler is EDGE's Senior Editor, Features & Branded Content. More of his writing can be found at www.wexlerwrites.com. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @wexlerwrites.

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