GayMates

Looking for genuine connections, authentic conversations, This is a welcoming, light-hearted environment designed specifically for men who love men to share stories, enjoy great company, and form meaningful bonds. Whether you are looking for deep friendships, a sense of companionship, or potential dating, this meetup strips away the pressure of typical social apps and replaces it with real human interaction.
✨ Why Attend?We design our spaces to be deeply relational. Instead of superficial small talk, you are invited to bring your curiosity and get to know each man as a whole person.

• Introductions & Easy Ice-Breakers : To kick things off smoothly and shake off any nerves.
• 1-to-1 Breakout Rooms: For deeper, intimate conversations where you can truly get to know someone.
• Small Group Chats: To share perspectives and laugh together in a relaxed setting.
• Open Contact Exchange: If you spark a connection, you are completely free to exchange details directly in the Zoom chat!

🌿 Upcoming Theme: "Wellbeing, Exercise & Spirituality". According to our recent survey, our members are most interested in these topics as our theme for conversation.
📝 Event Details & Registration

Looking for something different from the usual night out? A chance to slow down, meet other men and reconnect with yourself?

Since 2009, 15–40 gay, bi and trans men have been meeting every Monday in central London for meditation, relaxation and connection.

It’s a warm, friendly and non-judgmental space where you can simply arrive as you are. Some people come for the meditation, some for the sense of community, and many for both.

No meditation experience is needed. Everything is guided, and experienced meditators are equally welcome.

What happens?
We begin with gentle movement and grounding before moving into a guided meditation. Halfway through the evening we stop for tea and an informal chat — an important part of the evening and a chance to get to know people.

After the break, we explore a second practice or return to another session of mindfulness so we can dive in a little deeper.

Practices change from week to week and might include loving-kindness, self-compassion, mindfulness of the body, gratitude, breathwork or other contemplative practices.

The emphasis isn't on being good at meditation. It's about learning ways to become more present, less reactive and kinder towards ourselves — while practising alongside other gay, bi and trans men.

Why a space specifically for gay, bi & trans men?
There can be something very different about practising in a space where you don't have to explain or edit parts of yourself.

The group offers an opportunity to slow down, connect with others and develop friendships outside the usual bars, clubs, dating apps and nightlife.

People come for many different reasons: reducing stress, developing a meditation practice, meeting others, navigating difficult periods in their lives, or simply having two hours each week to stop.

Monday evenings: 7–9pm - Doors open 6.45pm

Friends Meeting House
52 St Martin's Lane, London WC2N 4EA

Near Leicester Square & Charing Cross

Chairs are provided, with mats and cushions available if you prefer sitting on the floor.

£10 first visit · £16 standard · £13 concession

You can book in advance or simply turn up and pay at the door.

Your teacher
Nick Kientsch has practised meditation for over 30 years and spent seven years as a Buddhist monk in the Thai Forest tradition. He has facilitated this group since 2009.

His approach combines traditional Buddhist meditation with contemporary mindfulness and embodied practices, taught in an accessible and non-religious way.

“The connection here is transformative – stress-free, supportive, genuinely inclusive.”

Come on your own or bring a friend. New people join us regularly and you're very welcome.