Where Dignity Meets Greatness
The Laird, Melbourne, is one of Australia's longest running gay-owned and operated venues. With a rich history dating back to 1980, The Laird has established itself as a staple of the local gay scene, both locally and internationally. Our venue is proud to have a strong connection to the gay community, and we take pride in providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for same-sex attracted CIS and Trans males.
As one of the oldest hotels in Melbourne, The Laird O'Cockpen Hotel, built in 1847, has seen its fair share of owners and operators over the years. From being a hub for illegal gambling in the early 20th century to hosting famous and infamous figures, The Laird has played a significant role in Melbourne's history. In 1980, The Laird underwent a significant change when it transitioned from a traditional pub to a gay-owned and operated venue. This decision allowed The Laird to cater to the gay community, providing a welcoming space for men who shared similar interests.
Over the years, The Laird has evolved to become a versatile venue, offering a range of services and events that cater to the diverse needs of the gay community. We have three bars and a massive beer garden, making it an ideal spot for social gatherings, parties, and events. Our unique accommodation options upstairs offer a comfortable retreat for visitors from around the world.
The Laird is proud to have a strong reputation within the leather and motor club community, with numerous local clubs and organizations making it their home. We have also established strong ties with international leather and bear communities, making us a popular destination for visitors from abroad.
Throughout its history, The Laird has been committed to supporting the local and international gay community. We have played a significant role in hosting events such as the Vic Leather Open Day, Men on Men Open Day, and Northside Bizarre, which have become annual fixtures in the gay calendar. Our dedication to the community has earned us recognition as the oldest "Male-Only" hotel in Victoria, a status granted to us by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) in 1998.
Today, The Laird continues to evolve, modernizing and improving its services to ensure a memorable experience for all who visit. We remain committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for the gay community, and we look forward to welcoming you to our iconic venue.
Our Services
The Laird offers a range of services and events to cater to the diverse needs of the gay community. Some of our services and events include:
- Three bars and a massive beer garden
- Unique accommodation options upstairs
- Regular events such as Vic Leather Open Day, Men on Men Open Day, and Northside Bizarre
- Supporting local and international leather and bear communities
- Providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for same-sex attracted CIS and Trans males
Service and Staff
The reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences with the service and staff of the Laird. Some reviewers, like Shane Jacob, have had excellent experiences, praising the staff as "super friendly" and the events as well-managed. However, others, such as K. Rv and Natasha Howey, have reported dealing with rude and unprofessional staff, with one reviewer even describing being kicked out into the rain without shelter. Thomas Lobley's review highlights a personal experience of being insulted by one of the owners, which led him to reassess his opinion of the bar.
Location and Ambiance
Reviews have mentioned the bar's location, with some reviewers praising its proximity to public transport and others noting its walkability. Frank New and A. J. M. have both mentioned the bar's atmosphere, with one reviewer describing it as having a great vibe and the other praising the decor.
Accommodation and Events
Some reviewers have stayed overnight at the Laird, with A. J. M. and Frank Carlin both reporting positive experiences. A. J. M. was particularly impressed with the cleanliness and decor of the room, as well as the helpful staff. Frank Carlin attended the Sunday social and was pleased with the sausage sandwiches and relaxing atmosphere.
Concerns and Controversies
Several reviews have raised concerns about the bar's treatment of customers, with some highlighting incidents of disrespect and unprofessionalism. Allen W. was disappointed to see the inclusion of the word "res-erection" in an Easter promotion, which he found in poor taste. Thomas Lobley's review also touched on issues with the bar's management and respect towards customers.
Overall Experience
While some reviewers have had enjoyable experiences at the Laird, others have reported negative encounters with the staff and management. It appears that the bar has a mixed reputation, with some reviewers praising its atmosphere and service while others have raised concerns about respect and professionalism.
