A new chapter for South London: Beth White and Molly McCabe unveil Dorothy's, a pub that honours the legacy of the Gateways Club.
◆The Brief
- Dorothy's opens as a dedicated lesbian bar in Camberwell, South London
- Created by Beth White and Molly McCabe from film and TV backgrounds
- Named after the Gateways Club password, offering a safe, inclusive space
- Community-centric vibe with nods to queer history and curated drinks
The full story below↓
The Concept
Beth White and Molly McCabe, both from a film and TV background, are transforming an old Camberwell pub into Dorothy's, a dedicated lesbian bar. Named after the password for the historic Gateways Club, Dorothy's aims to be a sanctuary for the lesbian and sapphic community in South London. The project emerged from a desire to create permanent spaces in London that are welcoming and inclusive, offering safety and community beyond heteronormative venues.
What to Expect
Dorothy's offers a warm, inclusive atmosphere, with its decor nodding to the history of queer spaces. The renovation has unearthed challenges, such as the absence of a proper floor beneath two layers of laminate. The pub promises a space where holding hands or sharing a kiss isn't met with judgement. It's a place for both the questioning and the confident, where conversations are encouraged over carefully curated drinks. Expect a community-centric vibe, inviting all who seek a refuge from the ordinary.
The Verdict
A significant addition to South London's bar scene, Dorothy's is both a tribute and a necessity. Visit for the community as much as the drinks. Ask about their events programme.
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