Historically, exclusive members' clubs were a domain reserved for affluent men in high society. The origins of gentlemen's clubs can be traced back to the 17th century, with London, particularly around St James and Pall Mall, emerging as a prominent hub known as Clubland. Various clubs catered to specific clientele, with politicians gathering at the Reform Club and diplomats convening at the St James Club. Fortunately, significant changes have occurred over the years, with most clubs now welcoming women (with a few exceptions, like the Garrick Club in Covent Garden, which has faced controversy over its gender policies). Although many traditional clubs still exist, the landscape has evolved, and competition is abundant. Interested in joining? We can assist you in finding the perfect match. These establishments feature exquisite interiors, workspaces, excellent restaurants, and trendy cocktail bars, providing its members with access to curated events and programs.
- Annabel's,
In the early 1960s, Mark Birley, an Old Etonian, conceptualized Annabel’s by acquiring a townhouse in Berkley Square and transforming it into a venue where aristocrats could gather, featuring a basement nightclub named after his then-wife. Notably, it is rumored to be the only nightclub ever visited by Queen Elizabeth II, who attended in 2003 at the age of 77. In 2018, Annabel’s, now under new ownership, reopened just two doors away from its original location. The revamped venue, designed by Martin Brudnizki, boasts a maximalist aesthetic with a mix of contrasting prints and textures. Club members enjoy access to all areas, including the basement nightclub, top-floor restaurant, terraces, bars, cigar salon, and spa. Additionally, membership grants participation in various events, ranging from parties to educational series featuring notable figures like Joanna Lumley or Roger Frampton.
A full annual membership costs £3,250, plus a £1,750 joining fee. There’s also an under-35 membership option (£1,750 per year plus a £500 joining fee) and an under-27 membership option (£1,250 plus a £250 joining fee).
- Home House
The Georgian townhouse on Portman Square holds a rich history of numerous celebrations. In the 18th century, it was the residence of Lady Home, who earned the moniker 'Queen from Hell.' In more recent times, Madonna temporarily resided here while renovating a nearby townhouse, and the venue witnessed Annie Lennox's wedding and hosted Pamela Anderson's birthday. Renowned for its legendary parties and a 'no rules' policy, the club is known to see approximately 20,000 bottles of Champagne consumed annually by its members. Beyond its famed nightlife, the club offers a diverse range of experiences – from breakfast meetings in the restaurant to afternoon tea in the luxurious drawing room. Additional amenities include a subterranean gym and health spa, a charming garden space with a rotating menu, and a dedicated cigar snug. For those who revel into the early hours, the club provides 23 distinctive bedrooms for a comfortable stay.
The full annual membership costs £2,250, plus a £399 joining fee. The under-35 membership option costs £1,450, plus a £399 joining fee.
- George
Situated across from Mayfair's charming Mount Street pub, London's newest members' club stands as a sibling to one of the city's most renowned establishments. If Annabel's, its sister club, is celebrated for its opulence, George is considered its spirited counterpart. Founded in 2001 by Mark Birley and named after his devoted dachshund, George underwent a substantial 18-month renovation led by owner Richard Caring and his wife, Patricia. Staying true to its dog-friendly theme, the club offers a menu of canine treats alongside the ground floor restaurant's Mediterranean-inspired cuisine by chef Marcus Eaves, featuring delicacies like oysters, caviar, and seafood cooked 'a la Plancha.' On weekends, the expansive terrace, the largest in Mayfair, becomes the ideal spot for brunch, while evenings see a vibrant crowd of young individuals gathering in The Hound Bar downstairs. Here, tapas bites and cocktails are served in the red Art Deco rabbit warren, featuring various lounging nooks and private rooms.
The full annual membership costs £2,000, plus a £1,250 joining fee. The under-35 membership option costs £1,000, plus a £500 joining fee.
- Ned’s Club
When The Ned made its debut in the Square Mile in 2018, it swiftly became the sought-after London destination. Conceived by Nick Jones, the founder of Soho House and New York's Sydell Group, the ground floor exudes a seductive, unapologetically flamboyant ambiance, housing a plethora of restaurants and bars all centered around a lively central band. Beyond the vibrant lobby, members gain entry to every intriguing corner concealed within the captivating former bank, with its 1920s facade. An exclusive rooftop space awaits members, featuring a heated pool and a restaurant. At the opposite end of the building, there's a basement club with live music. The facilities also include a sleek gym and a spa. Members enjoy discounts at the ground-floor restaurants from Monday to Wednesday (and after 4 pm on Sundays), as well as at any Soho House restaurant open to the public.
Standard Ned’s Club membership costs £3,465 annually, with an under-30s option available at £2,200 annually. Discounted memberships are available to existing Soho House members. Ned Friends membership costs £250 annually or £25 per month.
- AllBright
AllBright emerged in 2018 as a refreshing alternative to the traditional, male-exclusive members' clubs that were once predominant in London. The tangible embodiment of this collective spans a five-floor townhouse, complete with rooftop terraces, private dining spaces, workspaces, and a salon. The team diligently curates cultural programming, encompassing events such as investment talks, networking evenings, or industry lunches. Members have the opportunity to enroll in courses led by experts, covering diverse subjects from enhancing job applications to delving into the realm of NFTs.
Standard annual membership costs £1,650 a year. Under-27s membership costs £1,320 a year.
- Soho House
The most expansive among the clubs mentioned, Soho House has expanded significantly in the 25-plus years since the inaugural establishment opened on Greek Street in 1995. From Malibu to Mumbai, numerous outposts have emerged worldwide. Beyond London, locations include Farmhouse, Brighton Beach House, and Babington House in Somerset. Expanding globally, Soho House has opened houses in cities like Rome, Berlin, Mykonos, Nashville, Toronto, Hong Kong, and beyond.
Members enjoy the privilege of access to these international spaces, where they can dine in the restaurants, stay overnight in meticulously designed bedrooms and relax in communal areas. The clubs also host events tailored for the creative community that constitutes its membership.
Local house membership costs £1,100 annually (under-27s pay from £550). Every house membership costs £2,500 annually (under-27s pay from £1,150 annually). Soho Friends membership costs £100 annually and Soho Works membership costs £400 monthly.
