Best Pride Events in the UK
People across the UK are celebrating Pride Month in June and at CrossCountry we’re proud to support this great cause. We stand with colleagues and clients who identify as LGBT. Having really enjoyed the pride event in Birmingham last month, we’re casting our net wider to check out some of the best pride events the UK has to offer.
If you want to catch a train, download our mobile app or purchase your Advance ticket via our website.
To get you in the mood for Pride, listen to our playlist on Spotify:
Pride Edinburgh - 16th June
Scotland’s national gay pride event, Pride Edinburgh is now in its 22nd year and counting! With a theme of “True Colours” to celebrate 40 years since the creation of the pride flag, you can be sure to enjoy a bright day, even if the Scottish weather doesn’t hold out. The line-up promises big names as well as local talent. Plus, amazing food is available along the route. What more could you want in a pride event?
The March: The march at Pride Edinburgh starts outside the Scottish Parliament building at 12:00 noon and will wind its way through the city.
We’re Excited About… The traditional Scottish Ceilidh – there’s no better way to embrace this truly Scottish gay pride event.
Don’t Miss: Your chance to win a holiday to San Francisco at the main stage thanks to event sponsors Manchester Airport.
In Need of Refreshment? Year-round local favourite Café Nom de Plume is an LGBT-friendly café that offers a warm welcome and a hearty menu – perfect for a long day of marching.
Newcastle Pride - 20th-22nd July
With a thriving gay nightlife throughout the year, it’s no wonder that Newcastle Pride is one of the most popular in the UK. With a launch party on Friday night, and headliners Alexandra Burke and S Club 7 performing on the Saturday and Sunday respectively, this year’s event is gearing up to be a belter.
The Parade: The parade that takes place on Saturday, starts at 12:00 noon at Newcastle Civic Centre. Last year, over 1,600 people took part and this year promises to be even bigger.
We’re Excited About… the amazing nightlife! We don’t need to tell you that Newcastle has some of the best clubs in the North East and the partying at Newcastle Pride is always Legendary.
Don’t Miss: On Sunday there will be a Candlelight Vigil between 21:00 and 21:40 to reflect on all those across the globe for whom life is still difficult, despite the big leaps made by the LGBT community.
In Need of Refreshment? Drop by St Thomas’ Church who are laying on a special tea for the LGBT community. This is a great way to make new friends and meet up with old ones.
Leeds Pride - 5th August
Leeds Pride is set to be one of the most family-friendly gay pride events in the UK this year, thanks to the Barclays Family Hub. This will allow children, young people and their families to enjoy pride in an alcohol-free area alongside other rainbow families. Of course, the usual party is also available, with pumping music, plentiful bars, and the usual warm Yorkshire hospitality.
The Parade: The parade starts at the Millennium Square stage and makes its way to the Lower Briggate stage. Last year’s event saw over 40,000 people take part, so it’s worth getting there early.
We’re Excited About… Two distinct entertainment zones at Millennium Square and Lower Briggate.
Don’t Miss: A special performance by Bananarama. It’s worth noting though that although the main event is free you’ll need to book tickets for this event.
The Manchester Pride Festival - 24th-27th August
Manchester prides itself on its lively LGBT+ scene, so it’s no wonder that the Manchester event is one of the biggest on our list. With two festivals running simultaneously, there’s loads of choice when it comes to things to do – from debates and lectures, to music and dancing!
The Parade: This year there’s a ‘circus of acceptance” theme, meaning there’s sure to be plenty of excellent costumes and floats at the parade on August 25th.
We’re Excited About… The sing-a-long cinema is on Bank Holiday Monday, and this year you can choose what film you sing along to! Keep an eye on social media for more info.
Don’t Miss: The parallel family-friendly event Superbia promises to be a riot of music, film and discussion.
In Need of Refreshment? The Molly House in Manchester’s Gay village is one of our favourites year-round and the tapas-style means it’s great for groups sharing.
Pride Cymru, Cardiff - 24th-26th August
Rock on down to the City Hall Lawns for a weekend of fun that brings together Pride Cymru’s popular Pride Parade and the epic Big Weekend. Enjoy an amazing long weekend of fun and games, with funfair rides, a uniquely Welsh party atmosphere and the biggest names in UK entertainment.
The Parade: Last year saw 7,000 people stretch for over a mile and this year’s parade promises to be bigger, brighter and louder than ever. The fun starts at 11:00!
We’re Excited About… With just a quick glance of the line-up, we’re already looking forward to the gin bar! There’s nothing like a pride weekend to get us in the mood for a glass of our favourite tipple.
Don’t Miss: The Roller Disco – perfect for a nostalgic trip and lots of fun. This one’s a great one for kids of all ages.
In Need of Refreshment: You needn’t worry about getting peckish while you’re at Pride Cymru – there’s a whole street food fair on site!
Book your ticket to gay pride with CrossCountry. Travelling by train means you can enjoy an extra drink or two should the mood take you. Plus, you don’t have to worry about where to park your car or sit in lengthy traffic jams.
Written by Julia