Main content

Gateways Grind: London’s Secret Lesbian Club

Sandi Toksvig goes behind the iconic green door of one of the most famous lesbian venues in the world, The Gateways Club.

Sandi Toksvig goes behind the iconic green door of one of the most famous lesbian venues in the world, The Gateways Club in London. Starting off as a meeting place for bohemians, it became lesbian-only under the watchful management of the enigmatic Gina Ware and her sidekick Smithy until its closure in 1985.

The Gates’ former clientele recount the many stories of love, heartbreak, friendship, scandal and sanctuary that played out in the club, including the venue's appearance in a Hollywood film. They open up the secret history of this haven for women who could lose homes, jobs and children if their truth became known.

11 months left to watch

58 minutes

Last on

Tue 18 Jun 2024 23:25
±«Óătv Four

Clip

Music Played

Timings (where shown) are from the start of the programme in hours and minutes

  • 00:05

    Dusty Springfield

    Spooky

  • 00:20

    Baby Washington

    Breakfast in Bed

  • 00:40

    Shakin’ Stevens

    The Green Door

  • 00:53

    Carmen McRae With The Dixie Flyers

    Just A Little Lovin' (Early In The Mornin')

Credits

Presenter Sandi Toksvig
Executive Producer Lucie Warrington
Executive Producer Jacquie Lawrence
Executive Producer Fizz Milton
Production Company Jackdaw Media
Production Company Anubis Films

Broadcasts

Featured in...

  • LGBTQ+ Stories

    Celebrating the LGBTQ+ community in all its fabulous forms.

  • Celebrate Pride

    Join us in celebrating the LGBT+ community

  • LGBTQ+ Voices

    A celebration of distinctive perspectives and powerful voices.