We’ve all had it rammed down our throats that Liverpool is the European Capital Of Culture. But could it also be a worthy rival to swinging London town as THE place to be a young gay boy? Is Britney Spears a train wreck?!

Ask most Londoners what images the word ‘Liverpool’ evokes and you’ll probably get the usual suspects; scallys, scousers and those bloody Beatles. But there’s much more to the city than that. As well as being an exciting cocktail of different cultures it’s also a fantastic place to be gay.

The city has an ever-growing number of gay or gay friendly pubs, clubs and restaurants, and the gay community is warm and welcoming - much like their fellow heterosexual Liverpudlians.

So why is London still seen as the ultimate Mecca for gays who dream of the bright lights of the city?

Well, let’s be honest – London’s great too.

While it’s often comforting to see the same familiar faces out and about in a smaller city like Liverpool, there’s no shortage of fresh faces to befriend or befoul in good old LDN. Whether you think this is a blessing or a curse is a matter of personal taste, but one thing’s for sure; this is one area in which the two cities are poles apart.

Liverpool has a small, albeit perfectly formed, selection of gay places – and while we know that size usually doesn’t matter there’s no denying that the selection is much bigger in London. But does bigger necessarily mean better?

London is widely recognised as one of Europe’s gay capitals and it is famous for its Pride Festival, Gay and Lesbian Film Festival and some of the most outrageous club nights you’re ever likely to see. There’s also plenty of eye candy to choose from. Everything happens in London.

But wait, what about Liverpool?

Liverpool’s not far behind. As we said before, it’s fast becoming a great place to be gay. While it doesn’t have it’s own Pride, it does play host to Homotopia - a fantastic annual festival full of Queer culture. Celebrations include theatre performances, films, music, art, photography, performance and historical events. There’s also the Outsiders Film Festival; the city’s very own version of London’s Gay and Lesbian Film Festival.

And while there’s not quite as much eye candy in the City Of Scousers, you’re guaranteed to meet a load of friendly faces and a fair share of fitties. Liverpudlians are lovely.

But does Liverpool really rival London as the definitive destination for a happy gay life?

Here’s the answer – there isn’t one.

It’s like asking which is better, Pepsi or Coke – it’s a matter of personal taste.

Liverpool’s friendly atmosphere and small but perfectly formed scene couldn’t be more different to London’s busy and bustling, large and lively scene. But they’re both equally as great; each in their own very special way.