Members Only: Inside London's Most Exclusive Clubs
Want a fast-pass to London's social scene? Join one of these insiders-only establishments.
Private clubs have long been a part of London's social scene. (Since the late 17th century, in fact.) From to old-world aristocrats to Charles Dickens and Frank Sinatra, London's high flyers were well-known for their memberships to exclusive clubs. Now, establishments like Soho House and Home House are frequented by London's most in-demand creatives and A-list celebrities. Here, the 10 most exclusive, luxurious and sophisticated members-only clubs in London—your fast-pass to the city's five-star social scene.
Devonshire Club
At nearly 60,000 sq ft., London's brand new Devonshire Club beautifully embraces the glamour of the 1950's and 60's–pairing the service and sophistication of the West End with the downtown cool of the East End. Just off Liverpool Street, this private club boasts an incredible food and beverage program, as well as a plethora of amenities for members–like a private gymnasium, a winter garden with an adjoining cigar terrace and a summer terrace for al fresco dining and lounging. With 68 guest rooms, Devonshire Club is potentially the hottest members-only spot in the city; expect to pay approximately £2,000 for a yearly membership.
Devonshire Club; 4 & 5 Devonshire Square, London EC2M 4YD, +44 020 3750 4545.
Soho Farmhouse
Although outside of the city, Soho Farmhouse in Oxfordshire is one of the UK's most notable members clubs. It's rural setting makes the property quite unique–and keeps the atmosphere that much more exclusive. Like the brand's other properties across the city, Soho House members can access the Farm House and enjoy its amazing spa, restaurant and retail offerings.
Soho Farmhouse; Great Tew, Chipping Norton, OX7 4JS, +44 (0)1608 691 000.
Morton's Club
40 years of history are tucked away in this private club in Mayfair. Perhaps London's most sophisticated members club, Morton's is where the Bentley brothers spent much of their time in the 1920's. Overlooking Berkeley Square, the club boasts a night club for members and their guests, space for events and weddings and an enormous 1,700-plus wine list at their bar and restaurant.
Morton's; 8 Berkeley Square, London W1J 6EN, +44 020 7499 0363.
Home House
London's acclaimed Home House is a vibrant members club known for its spectacular décor and a-list social events. Yearly membership is just shy of £2000 annually but puts an unrivaled mix of dining and bars at their members' disposal.
Home House; 20 Portman Square, London W1H 6LW, +44 020 7670 2000.
Annabel's
Annabel's, located in Berkeley Square, is one of the most sophisticated and well-respected members clubs in the world. Known for its stringent dress code and amazing entertainment, the crowd here tends to be a running list of the it-crowd and the who's-who of London proper. Case in point: Frank Sinatra was one of its first members.
Annabel's; 44 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5QB, +44 020 7629 1096.
The Club at the Ivy
The Club at the Ivy is a relatively new establishment, having been founded in 2008. The club sits above the Ivy restaurant in London's West End and as new as it may be to London's social scene, its discreet entrance and chic décor make it one of the most desirable memberships in town.
The Club at the Ivy; 9 West Street, London WC2H 9NE, +44 20 7557 6095.
The Groucho Club
Originally founded in 1985 as a gentlemen-only club by publishers, writers and their agents, The Groucho Club remains a staple for membership clubs in London. Located in Soho, membership criteria here is rather simple. The first questions on the house's referral application read: 'What has this person achieved?' and 'Would you like to have a drink with this person?' The boring, uncultured and underachievers need not apply.
The Groucho Club; 45 Dean St, London W1D 4QB, +44 020 7439 4685.
5 Hertford Street
5 Hertford Street is a newcomer on the London club scene, created by visionary Robin Birley. Birley is best known for his work at Harry's, The Ivy Club and Le Caprice to name a few and his vision to create a long-standing Mayfair staple is well underway. Don't be discouraged by this club's waiting list of thousands–becoming a member is well worth it. The club's restaurant-come-nightclub, Loulou's, is a staple on the fashion social scene–and members get priority access to enjoy it year-round.
5 Hertford Street; 2-5 Hertford Street, Mayfair, London W1J 7RB, +44 020 7408 2100.
Shoreditch House
Shoreditch House is an extension of the Soho House brand–much like Soho Farmhouse, Dean Street Townhouse, Electric House, Little House and the many other properties owned by the notable private club collection. Located in East London, the Shoreditch has a fabulous roofdeck and pool (like New York's Soho House) along with excellent fitness and spa facilities. In true Soho House fashion, the club prides itself on it's great food and beverage outlets and, of course, its exclusivity.
Shoreditch House; 1 Ebor St, London E1 6AW, +44 020 7739 5040.
