Club Helsinki: Leicester's Premier LGBTQ+ Nightlife Destination
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Located at 94 Rutland Street, Leicester, Club Helsinki is the city's foremost gay nightclub, renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ atmosphere, dynamic drag shows, and late-night parties. Open primarily on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from late evening into the early morning, it offers an inclusive space with multiple music styles across several rooms. With a welcoming vibe and affordable drinks, Helsinki is a key hub for Leicester’s diverse nightlife scene.
A brief summary to Helsinki
- 94 Rutland St, Leicester, LE1 1SB, GB
- +447366568997
- Visit website
- Duration: 3 to 6 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 11 pm-3:30 am
- Friday 11 pm-5 am
- Saturday 11 pm-5 am
Local tips
- Visit on Wednesdays, Fridays, or Saturdays for the best party nights and drag performances.
- Students can enjoy free entry with a valid student ID—perfect for budget-friendly nightlife.
- Check the club’s event calendar online for special themed nights and Pride Month celebrations.
- Arrive late to experience the full energy of Helsinki’s extended hours, often until 5 or 6 am on weekends.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Helsinki location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Helsinki
A Hub of LGBTQ+ Culture and Nightlife in Leicester
Club Helsinki stands as Leicester’s flagship gay nightclub, a cornerstone of the city’s LGBTQ+ community since its establishment. Situated on Rutland Street, the club has evolved into a vibrant social and cultural venue, hosting a variety of themed nights and events that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Its reputation as a welcoming space for all is supported by a lively program of drag performances, live music, and DJ sets that keep the energy high well into the early hours.Atmosphere and Entertainment
The club boasts multiple rooms, each offering distinct music genres including house, dance, hip-hop, and pop, catering to a wide range of tastes. The atmosphere is electric, fueled by enthusiastic crowds and spectacular drag shows that have become a signature feature of Helsinki’s entertainment lineup. The venue’s late-night hours, often extending until 5 or 6 am on weekends, make it a prime destination for night owls and partygoers seeking an energetic and inclusive environment.Community and Events
Beyond regular club nights, Helsinki plays a pivotal role in Leicester’s LGBTQ+ calendar, especially during Pride Month when it becomes the epicenter for celebrations and special events. The club also supports student nights with free entry for those with valid IDs, making it a popular spot for younger visitors and international students. Seasonal events such as Christmas jumper parties and summer graduation celebrations add to the club’s dynamic event roster.Design and Setting
Following a major refurbishment in 2010, Helsinki features a modern interior designed to enhance the clubbing experience. The venue balances a sleek, contemporary aesthetic with functional spaces that encourage socializing and dancing. Its location in Leicester’s city center places it within easy reach of other nightlife venues, contributing to a vibrant after-dark scene.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Club Helsinki’s central location on Rutland Street ensures easy access by public transport and on foot from key points in Leicester. The club’s welcoming policy and lively atmosphere make it a safe and enjoyable space for the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike. While some past concerns about cleanliness and door staff have been noted, the venue continues to attract a dedicated following due to its inclusive spirit and entertainment quality.Significance within Leicester’s Nightlife
As one of the longest-standing LGBTQ+ venues in Leicester, Helsinki holds a special place in the city’s cultural fabric. It not only offers nightlife entertainment but also fosters community connections and cultural expression. Its role in supporting LGBTQ+ visibility and celebration contributes significantly to Leicester’s diverse and vibrant social landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Welford Place
0.7 km
Explore the historic John Biggs statue at Welford Place, a Victorian landmark celebrating Leicester’s reformist legacy and civic pride.
23 St.Nicholas Pl
0.8 km
Leicester's oldest place of worship, where Roman foundations meet medieval splendour and 1,100 years of history.
Leicester Roman West Gate site
1.0 km
Explore Leicester’s monumental Roman baths and the iconic Jewry Wall, a testament to ancient urban life and architecture.
Museum Development East Midlands
4.6 km
Supporting East Midlands museums with expert guidance, grants, and training from County Hall, Leicester.
King Lear
5.7 km
Explore Leicester’s legendary ties to King Lear, where Roman ruins and medieval myths converge in a captivating historical landmark.
Earl Shilton Castle
13.7 km
Discover the Norman motte and bailey earthworks of Earl Shilton Castle, a historic hunting lodge and fortress near Leicester.
Memorial Clock Tower
19.4 km
A towering Gothic-revival memorial in Coalville honoring 354 fallen WWI soldiers with a commanding clock and rich community history.
Westmorland Drive
28.1 km
Experience seamless travel in Nuneaton at the Westmorland Drive bus stop, your gateway to local attractions and vibrant community life.
Bedworth Water Tower
29.8 km
A towering Romanesque water tower blending industrial heritage, architectural charm, and urban wildlife in the heart of Bedworth.
Rushton Triangular Lodge
32.1 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Rushton Triangular Lodge, a unique heritage building steeped in history and stunning design.
Old Trent Bridge
33.5 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
Coton Manor Garden
34.1 km
Explore the enchanting Coton Manor Garden, a botanical paradise filled with vibrant flora and serene landscapes, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Lamport Hall
34.4 km
Explore Lamport Hall, a stunning historical landmark in Northamptonshire, where rich heritage and breathtaking gardens await every traveler.
Wollaton Park Lake
34.6 km
Discover the tranquility of Wollaton Park Lake in Nottingham, an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
34.8 km
Discover the enchanting Sneinton Dragon, a striking public art sculpture in Nottingham, embodying local heritage and artistic expression.
Unmissable attractions to see
Leicester Market
0.4 km
Europe’s largest outdoor covered market, blending 700 years of history with vibrant multicultural produce and lively community spirit.
Town Hall Square Fountain
0.5 km
Historic Victorian fountain in Leicester’s Town Hall Square, a symbol of civic pride and architectural elegance.
Veeno
0.6 km
Experience authentic Sicilian wines and Italian small plates in Leicester’s vibrant St Martins Square at Veeno.
Highcross
0.6 km
Leicester’s vibrant shopping and entertainment destination with over 120 stores, diverse dining, and a luxury cinema experience.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
0.7 km
Discover the incredible story of King Richard III’s life, death, and rediscovery at the site where history was unearthed beneath a Leicester car park.
Leicester Cathedral
0.7 km
Discover the historic Leicester Cathedral, home to King Richard III’s tomb and centuries of Gothic splendor in the heart of Leicester.
The Guildhall Museum
0.8 km
Explore 600 years of Leicester’s history in a beautifully preserved medieval timber-framed Guildhall, from Shakespearean theatre to Victorian police cells.
Leicester Museum and Art Gallery
0.8 km
Discover Leicester’s rich heritage through captivating art, natural history, and interactive family galleries on historic New Walk.
Jewry Wall & Roman Baths
1.0 km
Explore one of Britain’s largest Roman masonry structures and immerse yourself in Leicester’s ancient Roman baths and heritage museum.
The Newarke Houses Museum
1.0 km
Explore Leicester’s Tudor heritage, immersive WWI trench, and vibrant Victorian shops amid tranquil historic gardens.
Leicester Castle
1.1 km
Explore Leicester Castle’s medieval heritage and royal connections in the heart of the city, where history and architecture intertwine.
Abbey Park
1.2 km
Discover Abbey Park, Leicester’s historic riverside haven blending tranquil gardens, medieval ruins, and family-friendly fun just north of the city centre.
Leicester Abbey
1.5 km
Explore the evocative 12th-century Leicester Abbey ruins amid tranquil riverside gardens and family-friendly attractions in historic Abbey Park.
The Blackbird
1.8 km
A welcoming Leicester grill pub serving hearty sizzling dishes and classic pub fare in a lively community atmosphere.
National Space Centre
1.9 km
Explore the UK’s largest planetarium and iconic rocket tower at Leicester’s National Space Centre, a hub of space discovery and interactive science fun.
Essential places to dine
Casa Romana Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm at Casa Romana, Leicester’s cherished seafood and pasta haven.
The Frame
0.6 km
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant and bar in Leicester’s St Martins Square, blending refined flavours with stylish, inviting surroundings.
Merchant of Venice
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and Renaissance-inspired charm in Leicester’s Merchant of Venice, a unique dining destination blending culture and cuisine.
Bistrot Pierre - Leicester
0.6 km
Experience authentic French bistro dining in Leicester’s city centre with classic dishes, seasonal specials, and a warm Parisian atmosphere.
The White Peacock
0.7 km
Elegant modern European dining with innovative tasting menus and warm service in Leicester’s vibrant city centre.
Varanasi Boutique Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Indian fine dining in Leicester’s majestic Varanasi Boutique, where culinary artistry meets opulent ambiance.
Wygston's House Bar & Restaurant
0.8 km
Historic 15th-century timber-framed house in Leicester’s Old Town serving classic English pub fare and real ales in a vibrant, heritage-rich setting.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Stylish British dining and vibrant bar in Leicester’s heart, blending timeless glamour with all-day menus and festive event spaces.
Restaurant263
0.8 km
Experience innovative modern British fine dining with personal chef touches and vibrant vegan options in Leicester’s stylish city centre venue.
Sapphire Seafood Kitchen - Leicester Restaurant
1.0 km
Savor fresh seafood and American-inspired dishes in a lively, casual setting at Leicester’s vibrant Sapphire Seafood Kitchen.
OGGI Italian Restaurant
1.1 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with fresh ingredients and warm hospitality at OGGI Italian Restaurant in Leicester’s vibrant London Road.
Restaurant Romanesc Leicester (Romanian Restaurant) Grande Gusto
1.6 km
Authentic Romanian flavors and generous portions await you at Grande Gusto, Leicester’s cozy hub for traditional Eastern European cuisine.
Black Iron
3.6 km
Modern British steakhouse in a historic Georgian mansion, offering charcoal-roasted meats and a refined dining experience in leafy Leicester parkland.
Sapori Restaurant & Bar
5.8 km
Family-run Italian dining in a stylish Victorian setting, blending Neapolitan tradition with modern elegance and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dom restaurant and bar
10.6 km
A celebrated small plates restaurant in Thurlaston offering refined flavors and a warm, intimate dining experience in a charming village setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Pot Pourri Shop Leicester
0.3 km
Discover Leicester’s hidden gem for natural aromatherapy and handcrafted gifts on Free Lane, blending quality, charm, and personalized service.
Haymarket Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Leicester's pioneering indoor shopping centre with 60+ stores, dining, and award-winning facilities.
St George's Shopping Park
0.5 km
A vibrant open-air retail park in Leicester offering diverse shops, extended hours, and convenient amenities for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Urban Outfitters
0.5 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Leicester: a stylish blend of fashion, accessories, and homewares in the vibrant heart of the city.
The Source
0.6 km
Discover unique, high-quality gifts with expert service at The Source, Leicester’s cherished family-owned gift shop on Church Gate.
Just Fair Trade
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s ethical gem offering fair trade gifts and sustainable clothing with a heart for global artisans.
The Wardrobe
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Leicester’s longest-running vintage clothing shop in the historic Royal Arcade.
Nim's Boutique ltd
0.6 km
Discover timeless Indian and Asian women's fashion with inclusive sizing and exquisite bridal wear at Nim's Boutique Ltd in Leicester.
Very Bazaar Leicester
0.6 km
Discover Leicester’s vibrant Very Bazaar, a colourful haven of crystals, unique gifts, and mystical charm in the city centre.
Set
0.6 km
Award-winning gifts, jewellery, and cards in a historic High Street gem with royal connections.
Menkind
0.6 km
Discover unique gadgets, quirky gifts, and exclusive toys at Menkind Leicester in the vibrant Highcross shopping district.
Arciide
0.7 km
Leicester's premier vintage and Y2K streetwear destination for curated pre-loved fashion and authentic brand collections.
Niche Store
0.7 km
Discover unique gifts and thoughtful treasures in Leicester’s charming Niche Store, where quality meets personal service.
The Range, Leicester
1.6 km
Inspiring homes and creative lives—where furniture, décor, and imagination meet under one expansive roof.
Valley Discount Store
1.7 km
A vibrant Leicester discount store offering diverse homewares, kitchenware, toys, and more under one roof with great value and friendly service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Brick & Beam
0.2 km
A stylish rooftop bar in Leicester offering live jazz, craft drinks, and unique event spaces with stunning city views.
The Exchange Bar
0.2 km
Historic charm meets vibrant culture in Leicester’s iconic Exchange Bar, a lively hub for drinks, music, and community spirit.
Watson's Cocktail Bar
0.4 km
A vibrant vegan-inspired cocktail bar in Leicester blending quirky charm, expert mixology, and a warm, inclusive atmosphere.
Fat Cat Cocktail Bar & Lounge
0.5 km
A vibrant Leicester hotspot blending creative cocktails, lively entertainment, and a stylish atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Inside No 9
0.6 km
A stylish Leicester cocktail bar blending expert gin craft, live music, and intimate private events in a historic city centre setting.
Tønne Bar
0.6 km
A stylish craft beer and cocktail bar in Leicester’s heart, perfect for late nights and diverse drink lovers.
Knight & Garter
0.6 km
A stylish Italian-inspired steakhouse and vibrant bar in Leicester, offering expertly cooked local beef, boutique drinks, and a lively weekend atmosphere.
The Bottle Garden Leicester
0.6 km
An urban garden oasis in Leicester serving creative cocktails and live jazz in a stylish, relaxed setting.
The Distillery
0.6 km
Lively city-centre pub offering craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, stacked burgers, and a vibrant atmosphere for dining and socializing in Leicester.
The Globe - Pub & Kitchen
0.6 km
A traditional Leicester pub blending classic Everards ales, hearty local fare, and warm community spirit in a cozy historic setting.
Duffy's Bar
0.6 km
A vibrant, affordable city-centre pub in Leicester known for its welcoming atmosphere and lively social scene.
Firebug
0.6 km
Leicester’s energetic pub and live music venue blending cocktails, comedy, and culture in a vibrant city centre setting.
The Gadabout
0.7 km
A stylish, quirky cocktail bar in Leicester offering a vast selection of drinks in an intimate, character-filled setting.
The Blue Boar
0.7 km
A historic Leicester micropub blending traditional real ales with a fresh, sociable atmosphere and classic British pub fare.
The King's Head
0.7 km
A traditional Leicester pub famed for its exceptional ales, warm community spirit, and charming character in the city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Helsinki
0.0 km
Leicester’s vibrant LGBTQ+ nightclub with electrifying drag shows, diverse music, and late-night celebrations in the heart of the city.
Waikiki Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Leicester’s electric nightlife with futuristic vibes, trendy cocktails, and top RnB beats at Waikiki Nightclub every weekend.
Motto Nightclub
0.4 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at Motto Nightclub, a dynamic venue where music, dancing, and late-night energy come alive.
The Fan Club
0.5 km
Leicester’s vibrant weekend nightclub with four rooms, diverse music, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
TRUTH Leicester
0.5 km
Experience Leicester’s vibrant nightlife at TRUTH, a dynamic nightclub pulsing with music and energy in the city centre’s entertainment heart.
Club Republic
0.5 km
Experience Leicester’s ultimate clubbing hotspot with immersive audiovisuals, live gigs, and a vibrant student-friendly atmosphere.
Corah Works
0.6 km
Experience Leicester’s rich textile heritage transformed into a vibrant nightlife hotspot at Corah Works on St John Street.
The Basement
0.6 km
Leicester’s underground hotspot for late-night dancing, eclectic music, and unforgettable private events in a vintage-inspired setting.
Mosh
0.9 km
Leicester’s vibrant three-floor alternative nightclub, buzzing with indie, emo, and metal beats and budget-friendly drinks.
The 2Funky Lounge
1.3 km
Leicester’s energetic two-floor nightclub with live music, private parties, and a rooftop terrace for unforgettable nights out.
Echo's Night Club
16.1 km
Loughborough’s energetic nightclub with dual rooms, affordable drinks, and a lively student-friendly atmosphere on Biggin Street.
The Emporium
19.3 km
Experience Coalville’s vibrant nightlife at The Emporium, where legendary DJs and electric atmospheres create unforgettable weekends.
Tubes
21.7 km
Energetic nightlife and affordable drinks come alive at Tubes, Melton Mowbray’s go-to nightclub and bar for fun and dancing.
Ciros Nightclub
26.2 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
Ocean Nightclub
34.8 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Adult Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Teen Friendly