Business Details
46 Years
experience
Laird Hotel - Melbourne's Premier LGBTQ+ Venue Since 1980
Established in 1980, Laird Hotel has evolved from a historic Melbourne hotel into a globally recognised hub for the LGBTQ+ community. Our venue combines rich heritage with modern amenities, offering a welcoming space for diverse patrons. With decades of experience, we specialise in creating inclusive environments through curated events, accommodation, and community initiatives. Our team's deep understanding of the gay community's needs ensures a unique blend of tradition and innovation.As a cornerstone of Melbourne's social scene, we maintain rigorous standards of service while fostering connections between locals and international visitors. Our commitment to authenticity, safety, and cultural preservation has earned us enduring trust within the community.
Services
Accommodation
Spit and Polish
Mooning Event
Men on Men Art Competition
Laird Leatherman Competition
VicBears Den Night
Sunday Social
Pool Competitions
Trivial Hirsute
Sing Stud
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Australia's longest-running gay-owned venue with 45+ years of community service
- Hosts globally recognised events like Spit and Polish and Mooning
- Combines historic charm with modern amenities in Abbotsford
- Maintains male-only status while hosting inclusive community events
- Supports LGBTQ+ causes through annual charity fundraising events
Services
Accommodation
Our upstairs rooms offer comfortable queen beds, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour adult TV. Guests access three standard rooms with shared facilities or three private ensuite options. A continental breakfast with espresso is provided daily in our communal kitchen, which features modern appliances for guest use.
Spit and Polish
This weekly fetish event since 1980 welcomes leather enthusiasts and newcomers. Features include resident boot blacks, dark beats, and occasional demos in a cruisy atmosphere. The Games Room offers barber services while maintaining strict dress code requirements for specific areas to ensure appropriate environment standards.
Mooning Event
Annual fundraising event combining entertainment with HIV/AIDS charity support. Features wet jock competitions, talent segments, and auctions. Participants can win prizes while contributing to the David Williams Fund, with ticket options offering different donation levels and prize draw entries for enhanced community engagement.
Men on Men Art Competition
Annual LGBTQ+ art showcase accepting diverse mediums from male and male-identifying artists. Features judged categories including Grand Prize, People's Choice, and Photography Prize. Exhibition runs May-June with public voting on the opening day, supporting emerging artists through exhibition opportunities and monetary awards.
Laird Leatherman Competition
Annual competition promoting leather culture ambassadors since 2008. Winners represent Melbourne's leather community internationally while raising funds for charities. The event includes multiple rounds of judging, public appearances, and connects participants with global leather networks through international competition opportunities.
Questions
Is The Laird exclusively for LGBTQ+ patrons?
While primarily serving the LGBTQ+ community, our venue welcomes all patrons respecting our inclusive environment during regular events.
What accommodation options are available?
We offer six rooms upstairs with queen beds, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi, including three ensuite options and shared bathroom facilities.
Are themed events open to everyone?
Most events are men-only with specific dress codes, though special open days welcome broader participation with event-specific requirements.
How to participate in art exhibitions?
Artists can submit works through our online application process opening annually in April for the May-June exhibition period.
What transport options exist?
Closest train station is Collingwood (10-minute walk), with Uber/taxi services and airport shuttle connections available.
Can I book event tickets in advance?
Yes, most event tickets are available online through our booking system with limited door sales when capacity allows.
Reviews (2)
Adrian V.
Jun 24, 2020
Report
Hey congratulations to all at the Laird for handling Covid safety and looking after patrons with such friendly ease. It was even no problem waiting to go in. Chatted to some very nice friends we just met in the lovely Steven and his cuddly friend. Thanks for a great night. Welcome back :-))
Ps. So happy to see Ben back behind the bar. Such a lovely, handsome fella. Welcome back to you too :-))
Ps. So happy to see Ben back behind the bar. Such a lovely, handsome fella. Welcome back to you too :-))
Kevin Reader
Aug 20, 2019
Report
Fantastic venue with skilled and friendly staff and great drinks selection! Great for regulars and new comers alike, with a welcoming atmosphere that is difficult to find anywhere else in the world. There is always something happening, so make sure you check their website so you know whats on before you go or surprise yourself with an unexpected evening out!
