A new chapter begins on Old Compton Street as Coven, an inclusive LGBTQ+ club, opens its doors in the building that once housed the iconic G-A-Y Bar. Owner Matthew Jacobs Morgan, 32, has spent months transforming the space, battling stubborn purple paint and sourcing fire-rated tiger print wallpaper to create a modern haven for the queer community.
A Fresh Start for a Historic Venue
G-A-Y Bar closed in October after 22 years, with former owner Jeremy Joseph citing conflicts with Westminster Council, NIMBYs, and the area's decline. Now, Matthew aims to restore the street's reputation as an LGBTQ+ bastion. 'G-A-Y Bar was my first clubbing experience at 19,' he says. 'With Coven, we are making it more inclusive, rather than focused on gay men. All are welcome here.'
Remnants of the past remain—branded plastic cups in cupboards, a dimly burned logo on a screen—but the venue has been modernized. An antique fountain filled with queer history books and a grand piano now adorn the main room, where Matthew's music video plays on a wall of screens.
Community Support and Daytime Vision
Unlike many Soho venues, Coven has faced little opposition. 'I spoke with residents groups, and they were supportive,' Matthew says. The club will not stay open past 1am most days and will also operate as a daytime space for coffee and work, with tables and chairs outside.
The project has been a community effort. 'So many people have committed their energy into making this a great space,' Matthew explains. 'The piano was gifted to us, the bathrooms sponsored by businesses like Feeld. This space has been built by queer people, for queer people.'
Coven's opening signals a revival for London's nightlife, which has struggled in recent years. Mayor Sadiq Khan has proposed licensing reforms to curb residents' groups' 'undue influence' on council decisions, a move welcomed by many business owners.
