Making queer friends as well as dates
Key facts
| Sport | Out To Swim offers free taster sessions |
|---|---|
| Singing | Many Voices in London has no auditions |
| Socials | Queer Career Women meets monthly in Manchester |
| Key tip | Keep going back. Friendships take time |
Moving somewhere new can be lonely, especially if you don't know the scene. The good news is there are groups in most cities. Here are a few ways in.
Join an LGBTQ+ swim club
Out To Swim Brighton & Hove welcomes LGBTQIA+ adults of all abilities, with pool sessions through the week and sea swims in summer. You can register for a free taster. Out To Swim also has clubs in London, Bristol, Newcastle and Bournemouth & Poole.
Source: Out To Swim: Brighton & Hove, checked 8 November 2026
Sing for fun
Many Voices is a London group for LGBTQI people and friends who sing for fun, with no auditions and no concerts to worry about. Songs are learned by ear. If you want to perform, the Pink Singers and Diversity Choir are other London options.
Source: People First: LGBT activity and social groups, checked 8 November 2026
Go to a monthly social
Queer Career Women meets about once a month in central Manchester for LBT women to socialise and network. There's also a lesbian and bi women's walking group in the North West. Regular meet-ups are the easiest way to become a familiar face.
Source: Manchester Pride: Queer women's hub, checked 8 November 2026
Questions
Is it odd to join a group just to make friends?
Not at all. That's exactly what most people are there for.
What if I go once and don't click with anyone?
Go back a few times. It usually takes a few visits before people start to feel familiar.
Can friends become dates?
Sometimes, yes. But a good friend is worth having for its own sake too.