BIG GAY OUT

Connection over cliques. Community over competition.Big Gay Out is a non-profit (CIC) dedicated to the wellbeing of gay, bi, trans men, and non-binary people in London. We provide an alternative to the typical scene—fostering real friendships through shared experiences, not filters.

The Mission: Why We Are a CIC?

More than a social club…

London is one of the most connected cities in the world, yet it can be one of the loneliest for our community. Big Gay Out was established as a Community Interest Company (CIC) to address this head-on.

As a non-profit, our mission is to create a supportive, stable environment where members feel validated and seen. We focus on:

Reducing isolation: Providing a consistent “front door” to a social life that doesn’t revolve around apps or nightlife.
Supporting mental wellbeing: Creating a space where you can be your authentic self without the pressure to perform or fit a specific mould.
Fostering “Chosen Family”: Building a network where members look out for one another, creating a genuine safety net in the city.

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From the Founder

Hi, I’m Owain, and I started Big Gay Out after realising I’d had enough of the same-old scene: parties, clubs, and conversations that rarely went deeper than surface level. I knew I couldn’t be the only one who felt that way.

So, encouraged by my therapist, I sent a message to a few friends asking if they’d be up for something different — maybe a hike, or a theatre trip, or just hanging out without the pressure of drinking or hooking up.

The response was overwhelming.

Since then, BGO has grown into a buzzing community of almost 500 members. We’ve shared laughs, tears, meaningful conversations, and unforgettable memories. It’s become more than I ever imagined — a chosen family for those of us who wanted more than the scene had to offer.

This website is a front door for those who’ve been waiting to find something like this.

BGO is no longer just my project—it’s a collective resource. By becoming a member, you aren’t just joining a group; you are helping us build a more resilient, supportive London for all of us.

Welcome in.

Owain

Hear from our members

“I came to BGO at a time when I felt stuck between who I was and who I wanted to be. What I found was more than just a social group; it’s a chosen family I’ve yearned for, one that has made space for me to grow, heal and truly belong. From unforgettable socials to honest conversations during my lowest points, BGO has given me community, laughter and genuine friendships. It’s one of the biggest reasons I’m moving back to London, because this kind of connection is rare, and it’s real.”

Mithun

"I joined BGO early on, and have had the joy seeing this idea to provide our community with an inclusive, fun and social space into the warm-hearted bright community it is today. I’ve met so many people who are now friends, and tried things I before had never even considered. London can be a lonely place, but BGO makes it feel like a home.”

Detmer

“Before BGO, I genuinely struggled to find real friendships outside of going out and partying. I was in a pretty bad place mentally and didn’t realise how isolated I’d become. Joining BGO changed that — I’ve met some of the kindest people, and it’s had a massive impact on my mental health and just the overall quality of my life. It’s been such a game-changer.”

Omar

🌈 The Big Gay Out Manifesto

Big Gay Out exists to build something different.
Not just a group. Not just events. But a vibrant, intentional community where LGBTQ+ people can feel genuinely connected — without pressure, pretence, or performative cool.

We’re an alternative to the usual scene.
To the club nights, the dating apps, the party lifestyle.
We’re here for something softer. Safer. More real.

Here’s what we believe in:

🟢 Real connection.
Friendship, fun, support, and shared experience — all rooted in genuine, in-person moments. Some have even found their true love at our events

🟡 A safe space for everyone.
Whether you’re new to the city, neurodivergent, introverted, or just a bit burnt out from the usual scene — you’re welcome here. No cliques. No judgment.

🔵 An alternative to hookup culture.
We’re not a dating app or a space for casual sex or substance-fuelled nights out. That’s just not our vibe. If connection happens here, it happens with mutual respect and care.

🟣 Kindness before chaos.
We value considered, respectful conversation. This isn’t a place for drama, divisive rants, or performative posting. Think before you speak, and aim to uplift.

🟠 Curiosity is welcome.
Got an idea for an event? A suggestion? A new way to bring people together? Brilliant. BGO grows through shared creativity, not top-down control.

⚫️ Boundaries are beautiful.
The admin team is here to shape the space with care. We listen, we reflect, and we make decisions based on what protects the heart of BGO.

BGO is about connection — not perfection.
We’re proud to offer something thoughtful, joyful, and a little bit different. If that speaks to you, then you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. 🧡

How It Works?

Joining Big Gay Out is simple — and being part of it is all about showing up as you are.

1. Join the Community

Click the Join Our Community button and fill out a short sign-up form. You’ll be askedto agree to our values (kindness, respect, fun, and bravery) before being added to ourprivate WhatsApp groups.

2. Introduce Yourself

Kick things off by saying hi in the BGO New Member Intro Group — it’s the best way to start connecting, share a little about yourself, and get to know some friendly faces before jumping into your first event!

3. Explore Our Events

We host 1–3 events every week — from brunches and hikes to drag nights, fitnessclasses, theatre trips, and talks. Each event has its own dedicated WhatsApp group soyou can ask questions, chat with other attendees, and plan ahead.

4. Come Along

Pick the events you’re into — there’s no pressure to come to everything. Whetheryou’re feeling social or shy, there’s space for you. Most of our events are open toeveryone in the group, and we keep things low-pressure and welcoming.

5. Suggest Your Own Ideas

This is your community too. Got a great event idea? Want to co-host something? Welove when members take the lead — just message one of the admins or suggest it inour noticeboard group.