The coronavirus pandemic has left huge losses in Cardiff's nightlife scene, especially gay and LGBT+ venues.
Following the closure of WoW Bar and Minsky's last year, Eagle 50 on Charles Street has unfortunately buckled under Covid-19 restrictions leaving Cardiff with an even smaller LGBT+ nightlife scene.
Eagle 50 is a separate venue to its namesake Eagle Bar, which re-opened on the May 19 this year after a long hiatus. Unbeknown to some, the closure of this iconic and somewhat infamous venue is a massive blow to the gay community and one of its sub cultures. Gay bathhouses.
Records of gay bathhouses date back as far as the 15th century with more modern ones created at the beginning of the 20th century throughout the world including London and New York. At the time they were an asset for gay men to meet up in societies that deemed homosexuality illegal.
Opening 27 years ago formerly as 'The Locker Room' in 1993, Eagle 50 has been a staple for gay men in south Wales and beyond for decades.
"The cost of running the business during Covid has been far too prohibitive and with no dates even pencilled in for re-opening it is with much regret we have decided to move on," a statement read.
"Pre-pandemic we’d never have envisaged this happening - it’s sad things that have happened this way are totally out of our control."
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The iconic venue was a way of life for some. Causing disbelief when the announcement was first publicised earlier this month, the venue was a hit with gay men on the LGBT+ scene and was a place for people to come and socialise without being disrespected or feel unsafe due to their sexuality.
Owner of Eagle Bar, Haydn Price, said the closure came as a big "shock" to the city and customers.
"It's a great shock, the sauna has been an established part of the city gay scene for near 28 years," he said.
"Unfortunately, we weren't able to survive the pandemic. We decided we had to jump at the time when when we could because our lease was due. If we didn't, if we didn't go with this weekend, we'd be liable for another three years on during these uncertain times. We just couldn't afford to take that risk."
At one point, Charles street was a bustling hub for LGBT+ club goers. Falling into the likes of Minsky's, Club X and Exit, Eagle 50 was a welcomed addition and last to close its doors.
"But the whole idea of what was created as a gay village in the city has disappeared," Haydyn added.
"The whole gay scene has transformed into something different. Some people will argue it's better and some people will argue it's not."
Both Eagle venues have been the start of relationships, friendships and even marriages. A place for people to go and socialise if they didn't want to go out and drink, Eagle 50 was a party alternative for some.
Haydyn said: "We love to think that we've helped get two people together and are now sharing their life together. That's a lovely thought. And if it wasn't for Eagle 50 they may not have met.
"So many have now closed or changed in this country, and that's very sad."
