Mayfair is the most exclusive, high-end area in London. Bordering Hyde Park, behind its doors lie some of the most exclusive members-only clubs on earth. Housing the best dining and intimate casinos, they are excluded from all but the most honored patrons. We lift the curtain on some of Mayfair’s most secretive members’ clubs in this article.
Aspinalls
The founder of this club, John Aspinall, was one of history’s most notable characters. His two passions were building zoos and gambling. Born in India during the days of the British Raj, he became central to London high society during the 1960s, and was friends with the famous Lord Lucan. This club was his sancturary.
Originally, the club was known as the White Elephant. While still a private members’ club, it is now owned by a large gaming chain. This has increased its casino provisions, with around 16 tables that are frequently used for global poker tournaments.
The culture of poker is bigger than ever. The ability to play online has meant that people can now try out casino games and titles without even leaving their sitting room. This led to a boom in well-loved games of skill and chance. People can log onto the best poker apps and play opponents from around the globe, honing their skills. They can then move into physical casinos to try their knowledge face-to-face, and if they are lucky enough, do it in settings like this.
Park Lane Club
The Park Lane Club is one of London’s most well-known clubs, in one of Britain’s most upmarket postcodes. It is central to the rest of London’s entertainment and nightlife. Despite the ups and downs of the last few years and increasing competition, The Park Lane Club has managed to maintain its place at the head of the table when it comes to attracting patrons from London and the rest of the world.
It is not just its intimate casino floor that gives it the high-class touch either. The hospitality is exceptional, with a five-star dinner menu that changes by the season. This brings dishes that have a fusion of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine. If you want to relax after this, there is also an outdoor shisha terrace.
Les Ambassadeurs Club
Located at 5 Hamilton Place, this club dates back to 1941, when it was housed at Hanover Square. It was an amalgamation of several different entities: Les Ambassadeurs Club itself, along with another members club, The Milroy. The latter was well known as a place where Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, would frequent in his younger days. This later merged with a gambling floor, known as Le Cercle, in 1961.
The club also has a storied place in popular culture. It was where the famous casino scene in the original James Bond film, Dr. No, was filmed. The Beatles also used it for scenes in their first movie, ‘A Hard Day’s Night.’
There are plenty more of these clubs in Mayfair and the wider area. The hardest thing is becoming a member, as many are invite-only. You may try contacting them or asking around to see if a friend can put you on the guest list. You will be sure to find some great gaming in the best surroundings.
