London has long been a mecca for those who gamble, it was a pastime of the rich for centuries. Then Queen Elizabeth I introduced the first national lottery and having a flutter became accessible to all.
Mayfair is the most elegant of London neighbourhoods, where people come to shop and dine. It boasts some of the finest hotels in the capital, including The Dorchester, The Connaught and Claridge’s.
It’s also where many of the best casinos in the capital are located. It’s no surprise that the first casino James Bond appeared in is one of Mayfair’s finest establishments.
People come to gamble here as it’s associated with affluence. The casinos are lavish, opulent and quintessentially British.
It is also a centre for business, so wealthy people come to the casinos to unwind after doing deals.
If you can’t make it to a real-life casino in the meantime, you can find the best live casino sites by checking out this guide.
Les Ambassadeurs Club
No. 5 Hamilton Place is a luxurious venue known to regulars as ‘Les A’. It has a fascinating history – from being owned by the 4th Earl of Buckinghamshire to its most recent acquisition.
It is now owned by Mr Cho Hung Suen, who also owns Birmingham Football Club. It is a private member’s only club, open 24 hours a day.
Players can even dine as they eat, in the Marble Room, a private area for esteemed guests. The Four Seasons fresco by Edmund Thomas Parris on the ceiling of this room is a talking point.
The most extravagant room is The Leopold Room, named after one of its former owners, Leopold de Rothschild. Bronze lights made from Murano glass, a gold patterned fireplace and a great view of Mayfair through the French doors.
Baccarat, Blackjack and Three Card poker are all popular here, although roulette is played too. Members get access to private jets, unlimited vintage Champagne and exclusive events around the world.
Crown London Aspinalls
Founded by John Aspinall, who was friends with the mysterious Lord Lucan, this venue is a testament to his legend. It is also a private member’s club that was founded in the 1960s, serving many of Aspinall’s Oxford contemporaries.
Crown London Aspinall’s can be found at 27 – 28 Curzon Street in the heart of Mayfair. It’s walkable from Hyde Park or Green Park, if you need to get some air between games.
It was recently refurbished, so while it retains some older fittings, it has a contemporary feel, especially in private areas. The main room is The Club Room, while VIPs can play in the Jade or Sapphire Rooms.
You can apply to be a member here, but privileges are only extended to those with an invite. Many of the world’s high rollers visit here on a regular basis.
The Colony Club
Oozing sheer class and modernity, The Colony Club is a destination for new money. It’s popular with media personalities and sports stars from across the globe.
Membership is free, so you can stake a claim to a seat at the table in Mayfair. The casino is located at 24 Hertford Street in the upscale neighbourhood.
After playing several hands of Blackjack, you can quell hunger pangs at the famed Teppanyaki Bar. Dining is a delight here, and much attention is paid to presentation.
It also offers electronic and online gaming to customers and slots with progressive jackpots. All the usual table games are available, and VIPs have access to private rooms.
Crockford’s
Practically next door to Aspinall’s is Crockford’s, which dates back to 1828. It is a sister casino to The Colony Club.
William Crockford decided to develop a gaming hall and social club for aristocrats and nobility. Gambling was illegal at the time, but Crockford didn’t care – he simply paid the fines and carried on!
It welcomes people from everywhere with an open-door policy, although ID is required. That doesn’t mean it comes cheap – table minimums are £50 – £100 per hand.
The décor has been well-preserved so that it feels like you’re playing back in the 19th century. The lack of slots here enhances that vibe.
Crockford’s is temporarily closed, but this institution of British gambling is expected to reopen and regain its fortune once more.
Playing at the Most Exclusive Casinos
Given that this neighbourhood is known for its wealth, it’s expected that the dress codes are strict. Polished shoes and sharp tailoring are the norms, and there won’t be a lot of flesh on show.
This isn’t the place reality stars come to play, it’s a relaxed atmosphere for only the highest earners. When you play in Mayfair, you’re afforded that extra respect and all the perks that come with money.
London has many more gambling emporiums, but none have that air of prestige that can be found in Mayfair.
