Pro Queer London: Finding love in the UK vs. the
Rest of the World
By Sanchia Saunders
In a world where queer love is still politicised, London is standing tall as one of the most progressive and
Pro-Queer cities on the planet (which is so crazy to even think, that little old London is doing its BIG one)
But what does it actually mean to find love in the UK, and how does it compare to other places globally? From bustling Soho nights to swipe-right success stories, the UK, especially if you zoom into London’s queer scene, is proving to be a beacon for LGBTQ+ dating culture. And with platforms like
Evntful Dating helping queer singles find more than just a hookup, the conversation around authentic, community-rooted love is evolving, and it’s very beautiful to see.
So let’s break it all down.
Queer Love in the Global Context:
Globally, queer people still face intense discrimination, from criminalisation in over 60+ countries to societal shame in places with no legal protections.
According to ILGA World’s 2024 report, only 35 countries have fully legalized same-sex marriage, and many queer individuals are still navigating love through fear.
Compare that to the UK, where civil partnerships have been legal since 2004 and same-sex marriage since 2014, creating a safer backdrop for relationships to grow.
Despite the dating scene in London not being perfect, it’s radically better than cities where even holding hands can be dangerous.
As when you really step back and look at the bigger picture, London has really become a beautiful melting pot of self expression, culture, sexuality and love all in one place, and many other countries should take a leaf out of the UK’s book!
Why is London leading the way?
London is
not just a major city, it's a cultural megaphone for queer rights.
With over 250 LGBTQ+ venues and events every year (according to Visit London), it’s no surprise the city ranked #3 globally for queer inclusivity in a 2025 Queer Cities Index.
The rise of community-first dating platforms like Evntful Dating (designed by and for queer people) is pushing London’s dating culture into a more intentional, emotionally-safe space.
Unlike traditional dating apps like Tinder & Hinge, that often prioritise fast swipes and hookups, Evntful connects people in real life through curated events- making it easier to form genuine bonds over shared experiences.
Graphics by: Ioanna Lambrou
The Queer Dating Gap: UK vs. the World
Ever tried dating while queer in a small town in Eastern Europe?
Or even parts of the U.S. where anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is surging? It's a very different vibe to what we experience here in London.
In fact, a 2023 Pew Research survey found that 56% of LGBTQ+ people in non-Western countries feel unsafe dating openly.
Compare that with the UK, where 78% of queer individuals report feeling comfortable expressing affection in public (YouGov, 2024).
While rural UK still has its gaps, cities like London and Manchester offer unmatched cultural and legal protection. It's not just about legality; it’s about vibe, visibility, and access to inclusive spaces that nurture queer love.
The Future is Queer (and IRL)
Queer love deserves more than just apps built for straight people.
That’s where Evntful Dating comes in: it flips the script by blending community, safety, and intentional connection through IRL events.
From sober brunches to creative workshops to chaotic drag trivia nights, it's not just about dating - it's about building a life surrounded by queer joy.
In 2025, as digital fatigue rises (Gen Z spends 4.5+ hours/day on their phones), intentional, real-world dating is making a comeback.
And cities like London, with its deep-rooted queer culture and political progress, are the perfect playgrounds for love to bloom.
But what do you think, is London really the place to be for our queer siblings?!
Credits:
- LGA World (2024): State-Sponsored Homophobia Report: https://ilga.org/state-sponsored-homophobia-report/
- GOVUK:https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a750cd2e5274a59fa717007/140423_M_SSC_Act_factsheet__web_version_.pdf
- Queer Cities Index (2025), Visit London LGBTQ+ Events Report (2025): https://www.visitlondon.com
- Tinder: https://tinder.com/
- Hinge: https://hinge.co/
- YouGov LGBTQ+ Survey (2024): https://yougov.co.uk/topics/politics/explore/topic/LGBT
- Pew Research Center (2023) - Global Attitudes Towards LGBTQ+ Rights: https://www.pewresearch.org/global/2020/06/25/global-divide-on-homosexuality-persists/
- Evntful Dating:
https://www.evntfuldating.com
