Hi all, I’m hoping for a bit of perspective and maybe some recommendations.
I'm a 37yo trans woman,out to my long-term partner for over a year (she’s supportive), and have known I’m trans for a while now. At home I present femme most of the time, but I’m at the stage where I’d really like to start experiencing that side of myself outside the house too, and ideally connect with other trans people along the way.
I live fairly rurally, so I’m happy to travel, especially for a weekend. I’d love suggestions for places in the UK that feel particularly trans-friendly and safe for someone’s first few ventures out... whether that’s a city, a specific area, or even certain venues or events where it’s easy to just… exist.
I’ve looked at local groups, but they’re not quite the right fit for me, and being close to home makes me a bit cautious at this point in time. Travelling feels like it might give me the space to relax and be myself more fully.
If anyone has experiences they’re happy to share, or recommendations for places that helped them feel comfortable and confident early on, I’d really appreciate it. Equally, if you’ve been in a similar position, I’d love to hear how you navigated it. Thanks!
My first time out in public was in Manchester. The gay village around Canal Street is popular with trans people. My first visit there as myself was to the Sparkle weekend. It’s a trans festival and I can happily recommend that weekend if you fancy a weekend away in June.
Brighton is supposed to be good, although I’ve never been because I’m a northern girl.
Leeds is good and there a monthly Friday meeting. Blackpool is very popular too.
To be honest though, most places are trans accepting, despite what you read in the news and on social media. If you fancy having a nice meal out with your partner, then go for it.
LGBT venues and trans events can be good when you’re finding your feet. If you go to the same place a few times, which in my case was Canal Street, I started to feel more comfortable each time I went. After a few times I went for a walk elsewhere in Manchester, then started popping into the supermarket on the way home, getting a takeaway, slowly setting myself small targets.
I hope some of this helps and enjoy discovering who you are xx
By the way, I forgot to mention that I was into the BDSM/kink scene before I went out in public. I was living in denial when I first got into it, but made some good friends through it. The kink scene is very LGBT friendly, so when I started exploring my gender again, my friends were extremely supportive. If you and your partner enjoy kinks together, it’s a good way of making friends. You can dress however you want and nobody will care.
Again, good luck xx
Another vote for the kink scene. The people are awesome!
Rural? If you are in the Cotswolds please feel free to reach out, I'm a few years older but out and on HRT :) I even have a neighbour 4 doors down who is trans too - what are the odds!