Like other world capitals, London has a thriving escorting scene. Yet, it remains a mystery to those not familiar with it. We’ve spoken with promo model Kim to learn what it takes to take on the world of escorting in London.
From the good to the bad, we’re looking at how to navigate escorting and sex work in London.
Scroll down to learn more.
Breaking stereotypes in the capital: Common misconceptions about escorting in London
There are general misconceptions about escorting, but some specific myths and rumours about the London scene aren’t true. Many think it’s tough to make a name for yourself or that the competition is too thick and the rates too low. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
London is a vibrant city full of diverse people. There’s a high demand for escort services, and the rates aren’t pennies. Plus, the escorts working in London have chosen to be in the profession thanks to the city’s dynamic culture and non-stop buzz.
Promo model Kim says that her biggest challenge when working as an escort in London was “advertising and safety. As soon as you say you are an escort in London, the advertising prices go to the roof”.
Why consider escorting in London?
If you’re interested in escorting, you should consider where you want to base your services. Your location can affect your business and introduce you to different types of clients, so don’t limit yourself by choosing a small town.
London is a popular destination due to its size, large client base, and open-minded atmosphere. With 8.9 million inhabitants, finding clients and meeting like-minded people is easier than ever in this capital city.
Even within London, there are different areas to consider. High-class escorts base themselves in Chelsea and Kensington. LGBTQ+ escorts tend to focus on Soho and Vauxhall. If you want to make the most of the nightlife culture, Old Compton Street might be for you. Knowing the city is a secret weapon when choosing your base.
Kim agrees with how important choosing your location can be. “Location is super important. It all depends on what type of clients you want to attract and why are you escorting to start with, whether it’s a full-time job or a side hustle.”
I haven’t ventured much in other parts of London so I can’t comment on that. Only once I worked in the London/Surrey areas and it was as good as being in central London. The only difference is the number of clients to the amount charged. Central London I charge a higher rate and I see fewer clients whereas in Surrey I charge less but see more clients which kind of evens it all out.
Plus, escorts also have the option to work with agencies or be independent. Agency assistance isn’t available in some cities, and you definitely won’t find it in rural areas. So, this is something to consider if you’re not ready to go solo.
Typical clientele and relationships in London
As we’ve mentioned, there are more chances to meet clients in London due to its large population and the fact it’s a worldwide business hub.
You might have a mental image of swanky businessmen and sugar daddies. While plenty of these types are in the city, they’re not the only ones looking for escort services. Like London’s population, escorting clients in this city are of different ages and genders. How you market your services and whether you choose a niche will likely affect your target market the most.
Regardless of your clientele, knowing how to set boundaries and nurture a healthy client-escort relationship is critical. Escorting is a job, and you need to keep your mental and physical health protected. Learn how to set boundaries as an escort here.
Escorting can have an emotional effect on some. But maintaining a professional demeanour while working is paramount, especially in the city. As an escort, you’re a business providing services. While working with clients, you need to be cool, calm, and collected to get good reviews and tips.
That being said, you must take time for self-care and remove yourself from toxic or abusive situations. Your well-being comes first.
Are you a client looking for an escort in London? Find your London escort here now.
Escorting in London and the law
You should never dive into escorting without knowing the local laws.
In London (and the UK), the exchange of sexual services for money is legal. However, it’s not that simple.
After the Sexual Offences Act 2003, certain activities have been deemed illegal. These include:
- Trying to get clients on the street or in public (soliciting)
- Paying for sex worker services from someone forced/threatened into it
- Advertising sexual services, such as putting ads in phone boxes
- Pimping
- Owning or managing a brothel (a place used by more than one person for sex work)
So, it’s best to stay under the radar when connecting with clients – even if you’re not soliciting them on the street.
Is there any stigma attached to escorting in London?
Though the exchange of sexual acts for money is legal in London, there is still a stigma attached to sex work and escorting. London is a more open-minded city, so there’s not as much stigma as you’ll find elsewhere.
However, you might experience rude comments or judgment if you disclose your job. Sex workers still aren’t 100% safe in this city. This could impact your mental or physical health. So, consider this before getting started.
Thousands are joining together to create safer working spaces for sex workers, and many are advocating for sex workers’ rights. Each year, the climate for sex workers improves. But there’s still a long way to go. Learn more about sex work advocacy here.
How to stay safe and protect your well-being while escorting in London
Escorting in any bustling city environment requires some safety prep.
Promo model Kim shares her safety tips with us from working with others to sharing her live location with someone. She however says that it all depends on the venue you’re working from. “Working in a flat with other girls, there is safety in numbers and I guess most such places have a camera outside or at the entrances, someone to answer the phone etc.
“Hotels are quite safe in their own right, however, we need to be careful as more and more hotels become intolerant towards working girls. The same applies to services apartments.”
“I personally always have my personal alarm, spray (pepper spray is illegal to carry but there are alternatives), always have a mini camera placed outside of the door (front door or building where I’m working from.
I want to know and see who is there when they call to say they’re at the address. I always tell at least 2 people when/where/how long I’m gonna be for and ask them to call me at certain times or have an alarm set. I always send my live location to a few people when I do outcalls with instructions on what to do if I don’t reply or call back etc.
Some other ways to stay safe while escorting include:
- Know exit routes whenever meeting a client
- Meet clients in public first
- Tell a friend your location
- Carry a personal alarm
- Use ClientEye to check numbers and report clients
- Use the NUM tool to check for red-flag punters
- Don’t give away any personal information
- Keep your professional and personal social media profiles separate
- Trust your instincts
- Use condoms and practise safe sex
You should also ensure you have a support system in place for your mental well-being. This could be your friends, family, or other loved ones. If you don’t want to tell your family you’re escorting, you can create a community of other sex workers.
Kim shares how much work goes into making sure you stay safe as an escort. “Vetting clients, battling timewasters, constant pests (online and offline), checking apps like ClientEye and UglyMugs, checking online handles/social network handles etc..”
Five tips for succeeding as an escort in London
Success doesn’t come overnight. But there are some steps you can take to make your escorting business more successful in London.
Build a professional network
A strong professional network is vital in all industries. Once in London, you should connect with other professionals or agencies to learn more about the scene and enhance your visibility. This is best done online or through real-life meetings.
Adapt to the cultures
London is a melting pot of diverse cultures. So, don’t stop learning! Being adaptable and culturally sensitive will help you please clients of all cultures. Respect and understanding should always come first. If you’re unsure, ask or Google your question to ensure you don’t offend anyone.
Stay informed about legalities
You never know when laws are going to change. Staying on top of London’s laws will keep you safe and compliant. Legal risks are the fastest way to tank your career and reputation.
Invest in safety tools
Safety measures are with their weight in gold. Invest in robust online and physical tools to keep yourself protected. Popular options include VPNs, personal alarms, and separate work phones.
Maintain professionalism
Working in London requires a high degree of professionalism. Establish clear boundaries with clients and keep things professional when working to build a positive reputation. Unprofessional behaviour can quickly leave you with bad reviews and fewer bookings.
Promo model Kim who previously spoke to Vivastreet about her experience as an Eastern European escort in London talks about her “luck” when starting out as an escort in London.
“I was lucky enough to start escorting in London when everything was a lot easier – escorts weren’t ‘forced’ to be cam girls/sexters/porn models, ie ‘OnlyFans stars’ for the punters to ‘pick’,” she says. “There wasn’t price, services, time haggling and a lot less timewasters, weirdos and dangerous people around.
Adultwork was pretty much the main place where everyone used to go – punters and escorts. Craigslist and Gumtree were still a thing and mags or newspaper adverts still brought most of the clients as well as word of mouth. It didn’t take me long to establish myself as everybody loves ‘fresh meat’ or a ‘newbie’ in the area. I just managed to keep my clients for years after, plus the ones who followed from my online/offline advertising and extra activities as a party girl, porn model, glam and fetish model etc..
The pros and cons of escorting in London
Escorting in London isn’t a decision you should make lightly. We’ve collected the pros and cons to ensure you’re left with a transparent opinion. There are many positives to escort work, but a balanced view is essential.
Here’s the good and bad of the London escorting scene in a nutshell:
Pros of escorting in London
- Financial independence
- Flexible schedules
- Lots of client opportunities
- Diverse culture
- Chance to work with agencies
- Higher rates available
Kim shares how escorting in London isn’t much different to working in any other big city. “You have to be a therapist, psychologist, pornstar, girlfriend, mother, actress. Within your own limits and boundaries of course and the law. Marketing guru, computer tech, accountant etc. etc.. Pros and cons are pretty much equal, to be honest. For me at least the freedom to work as much or as less from wherever I want is a massive plus.”
Cons of escorting in London
- Stigma & misconceptions
- Potential legal risks
- Security concerns
- Social isolation
- Emotional toll
Kim also mentions some challenges of escorting. “On the other side, you have all the legal challenges – law, taxes, etc. and the human factor where there are always gonna be unpleasant, rude, dirty, dangerous people or mentally unstable who can harm you for whatever reason. All this considered, I personally won’t be giving up just yet.
“Doing this is my choice and I love the freedom it gives me in so many aspects of life. Like all things in life, there are bad moments but they are not so bad that will make me stop.”
Being an escort in general is helping my mental health and overall well-being, as weird and f*cked up as that might sound. My family knows, my husband and kids know, even some of my neighbours too. All this is empowering for me and I’m proud of who I am and what I do.
The takeaway
London is like no other city. As our professional sources have proven, it’s a diverse city with lots of opportunities. However, you must put yourself first and establish boundaries and safety measures. You should also endeavour to understand the nuances and complexities of different cultures. Understanding the cultural landscape of London is your best friend while working here!
Learn more about professional sex work via our educational blog now.
