The Laird

The Laird is a genuine Melbourne institution, Australia's longest-running gay-owned and operated bar and accommodation, welcoming men since 1980. Housed in a handsome late-19th-century hotel in Abbotsford, near Collingwood station, it holds a rare legal male-only status granted by Victoria's tribunal in recognition of its history and service to the community, opening exclusively to same-sex-attracted cis and trans men (with a few community open days a year). Formerly known as Melbourne's only bear and leather bar, it's grown into a much-loved haven and party space for the leather, bear and alternative crowds, with two bars, a great beer garden and a full week of themed events, from relaxed pool competitions to hardcore dress-code nights and signature parties like A Week of Leather and Northside Bizarre. Upstairs, comfortable rooms (some en suite) with a communal kitchen make it the go-to place for gay men to stay in town, with famously warm, caring staff. Friendly rather than raunchy and fiercely true to its values, it's now formally recognized as an LGBTQIA+ heritage landmark and a must-visit slice of queer Melbourne.