In 2006, when aNews of the Worldphotographer attempted to ambush George Michael while he walked around the notorious cruising area in London’s Hampstead Heath, the star famously shouted at the snapper: “Are you gay? No! This is my culture. Fuck off!” In doing so, he brought global attention to the already-established cruising zone.
Hampstead Heath was used by cruisers long before the arrival of the pop superstar, and its popularity as a cruising destination continues long after his death. But the memory of his presence there is preserved by those who still frequent it in the hope of meeting a lover. Indeed, every year, a party — aptly titled the This Is My Culture Party — is thrown in Michael’s memory. It serves as a celebration of both the man himself and of cruising culture writ large.
Generally speaking, the presence of cruisers on the Heath is accepted by most people — including, somewhat surprisingly, the police. But this harmonious status quo appeared to be under threat earlier this year, after the erection (pardon the pun) of posters which read: “Cruising for sex? Homosexuality is legal. Use a hook-up app like Grindr or Sniffies and get a room.” The posters also encouraged dog walkers to purposefully walk through the small area in the centre of the Heath that is frequented by cruisers to intimidate them into staying away. “Please give West Heath back to the local neighbourhood,” the posters said.