Hufflers Arms in Hythe Street, Dartford reopens after LGBT+ relaunch
10:14, 13 January 2022
updated: 10:15, 13 January 2022
A town's newest gay-friendly venue has reopened its doors after relaunching as an LGBT+ pride bar.
The Hufflers Arms in Hythe Street, Dartford welcomed back punters last week after shutting temporarily during the New Year period.
The pub has undergone a makeover inside and out to provide an LGBT+ friendly space.
Other changes include a new cocktail menu and a host of extra events including drag nights and "Camp Kareoke".
The relaunch is being led by a new management team, the Woolwich pub company, which has taken over behind the scenes during the pandemic.
It has recently resurrected it as a community pub and hosts a string of weekly events, including performances from live bands and DJs.
Some staff are members of the LGBT+ community, whilst others are allies and have thrown their support behind the changes.
Speaking ahead of the relaunch, general manager Chris Leeder, said: "We want to keep it as the community pub that it is and still offer everything that we offer now but just have that as the safe hub where the LGBT+ community will feel safe."
The 34-year-old added: "We are really happy, all the staff are on board and all the locals are on board as well."
Last Friday the pub held its relaunch party and shared pictures of the bash online.
The pub sits opposite the council's new Langley Square development, where hundreds of new residents have moved in near the train station.
In addition to the venue's usual billing there's a host of drag queen shows, comedy open mic nights and other events in the works.
To find out more about upcoming events click here.
This summer Gravesend held its first ever physical Pride event.
It comes amid a growth in such spectacles globally and the resurgence of community-led events following closures during the pandemic.