Lesbian* Speed Mates: the best way to find your new queer besties 🧡
Like speed dating, but for mates. Fewer butterflies, more banter, and absolutely no awkward small talk.
Finding new queer friends in London is harder than it should be. Group chats go quiet, “we should hang out!” never turns into a plan, and the usual scene is too loud or too dark for real conversations. So we’re making it easier: a cosy pub, a friendly crowd of lesbian* (FLINTA) folx, and a bit of structure so nobody has to walk up to strangers and wing it.
What to expect:
- Low pressure. A cosy pub, and no need to be “on”. Just turn up as you are.
- Newbie-friendly. Come solo or bring a mate. Most people come on their own, so you’ll be in very good company.
- Speed mates, but make it fun. For the first two hours (7.30-9.30pm), we’ll run a facilitated speed mates activity. Short chats, new faces, and no awkward “so... what do you do?” on repeat.
- Conversation starters included. Skip the small talk and get straight to the interesting stuff. Think guilty pleasures, celeb crushes, travel disasters and other kinds of questions you'd ask your closest mates.
- Drinks and a social afterwards. It’s a pub, so when the speed mates are done, grab a drink and stay for a natter with your new favourites. A few table games available, and no rush to leave.
- “Here’s my number” slips. Found your people? Swap details easily without faffing with your phone.
- Only £5. Because making new friends shouldn’t cost more than a pint.
What’s LSW all about?
I’m Hannah, the organiser of LSW events. When I moved to London in 2022, I quickly learned that making queer friends here can mean a lot of travelling east. After one too many hour-long journeys, I looked out my window in Tooting, saw queers everywhere, and thought: why not start my own?
My first social was an accidental big lesbian pub garden takeover, and it was brilliant. Some of my closest friends came from that day, and the community has been growing ever since. Since 2023, our events have led to friendships, dates, sports teams, craft groups, bandmates and more.
London can be loud and busy, and the queer scene can feel intimidating. LSW is the antidote: all about community, connection and conversation. We keep our events relaxed, cosy and south of the river, so you can meet people close to home, without the long trek or the big bill.
So come and find your new besties. Your next best friend might be one speed mate away. 🌈
When: Thursday 12th November, 7pm (speed mates runs 7.30-9.30pm, with pub social after)
Where: The Clapham North Pub
Tickets: £5 or PWYC - because making new friends shouldn’t cost more than a pint.
Want to see photos from our past events? Head to our Instagram @LesbianSWLondon or join our WhatsApp community to stay connected 💜
*please note we use the term ‘lesbian’ because it helps with searchability and alorithms. This is an inclusive event for those who identify with the LGBTQ+ community, particularly FLINTA folx. Friends and allies always welcome as long as inclusivity and safety is always a priority.