Unless I’m mistaken, I feel as though most folk associate strip clubs with a sort of gnarly, grimy vibe. Like a sort of end-of-the-night, coke infused, let’s-go-to-the-strip-club-because-it’s-the-only-place-still-open sort of attitude.
Or if you’re a non-strip club goer, you might imagine strip clubs as sticky floored places for lecherous lonely hearts and cold-souled harlots dancing their sorrows away.
The truth is that yes, some strip clubs feel sort of old fashioned in our fast progressing sex-positive society.
Stripping feels like a more outdated form of sensual work, and many strip clubs still give off sexist vibes.
But that’s not all strip clubs.
The reality today is that there are plenty of cool strip clubs that are fun and forward thinking or at least elegant and sophisticated in their traditionalism. Here’s the scoop on the hottest and most progressive strip clubs in town.
Extra-vaganza: The Box Soho
Although The Box isn’t technically a strip club, but a theatrical night club, it still puts on a show that involves tasteful nudity. Where Kate Moss and all the other high profile Cockneys have been known to frequent, The Box Soho is all about pushing boundaries and creating a wild, anything-goes atmosphere.
It’s over-the-top and sex-crazed, but in show-stopping sort of way. It’s London gritty mixed with London grace. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that breaks the mould.
Soho
£££
Diverse delights: SophistiCats
When it comes to top-notch entertainment and a respectful vibe, SophistiCats strip club is where it’s at. They take pride in their diverse lineup of performers.
It showcases a wide range of talents, including international dancers, aerial artists, and burlesque performers, all in a space that’s welcoming and inclusive, not to mention elegant. If you’re looking for a very ‘typical’ strip club experience but done to top quality, look no further. Get ready for a wild night of sophisticated sexiness.
Soho & Euston
££
Luxury unleashed: Platinum Lace
Looking for a touch of luxury? Platinum Lace strip club is the place to be. In the midst of the purples, pinks, velvet and glassy chandeliers, this spot sells itself on its sophistication while keeping the party vibes alive.
It’s rare to find somewhere so upbeat and fun that still manages to maintain such class. Keep an eye out for their special nights that usually are themed around upcoming world events.
££
Leicester Square & Piccadilly Circus
Class revamped: Browns
Browns strip club know how to mix traditional sophistication with a progressive attitude. Step into a world of trendy elegance where everyone’s boundaries and consent are respected.
It’s classy but also a little quirky with its East location (perfectly situated right by the buzziest Shoreditch bars), and retro decor that veers away from the conventional. The vibe is known for being very clean & courteous- even the bouncers are bloody lovely!
£
Shoreditch
Pints & pasazz: The Horns
Sister club to Browns, The Horns is surely the most British strip club you could ever think of- it’s a strip club in a pub for God’s sake! The exposed brick and wooden floor gives it a unique atmosphere and a warmth that most strip joints fail to possess. The contemporary twist draws in a younger crowd and there is a mix of both traditional and modern performances.
Old Street
££
Urban cool: Metropolis
Posing a normal nightclub sometimes and a strip club at others, Metropolis attracts a varied crowd and is probably the most underground cool strip club on the list. It’s a well-established and popular venue offering a standard yet stylish setting and pulsating soundtrack. The dancers here are laid-back and the intimacy of the small stage area doused in red creates an atmosphere that feels anything but soulless.
Strip clubs aren’t for everyone. We don’t all like venturing into an open sexual space to get horny in public. But you can still enjoy the beauty of sensual dance in privacy. Sensuali is all about finding or creating unique sexual experiences that fit your specific desires. And if that’s a sensual striptease in the comfort of your own bedroom, that’s completely cool.
Remember that although it’s nice to go to a strip club purely for the #vibes, it’s also important to be a good customer at a strip club and always tip.
Related playlist: songs to strip to — alt girls edition.
