Churchills

What it is

Churchills is not a gay bar in the strict sense. It is a proper old-fashioned town pub that has long had a loyal LGBTQ+ following alongside its straight regulars. It sits just south of the quarter on Topping Street, so it is often the first or last stop for locals heading into or out of the Rainbow Quarter.

The atmosphere is relaxed and chatty, with a strong community of regulars, many of them older. Nights are built around karaoke, bingo and poker rather than DJs and drag.

History in brief

The building was once the Criterion Hotel, one of the town-centre hotels that served Blackpool's holiday crowds, and it was photographed in 2021 for a national survey of the town's historic high streets. As Churchills it has been known for years for real ale, and at some point it also became a comfortable place for the town's gay drinkers. That mix of traditional pub and inclusive crowd is why so many LGBTQ+ locals still count it as one of theirs.

What's on

Churchills runs regular weekly karaoke, bingo and poker nights. Days and times change through the year, so ask at the bar or check before you go. Expect it to be busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Drinks

Cask ales are the speciality, with a rotating selection alongside the usual lagers, ciders, wines and spirits. Prices are pub prices rather than club prices.

Who it suits

Churchills suits real-ale fans, older gay men and women, mixed groups of friends, and anyone who prefers a pub with a bit of character to a themed bar. It is also a useful daytime option, opening from mid-morning.

Entry

Entry is free. The usual pub age rules apply.

Accessibility

No accessibility information is published. Ask staff about access when you arrive, or phone ahead.

Location and nearby

Churchills is on Topping Street in the town centre, a few minutes south of Talbot Road and Garlands, and about ten minutes' walk from the Queen Street bars. Topping Street is also home to Aunty Social, the arts space that has hosted LGBTQ+ history events.