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The London Members’ Clubs Worth Knowing

From old-guard Mayfair institutions to new-school Soho hideaways, these are the London members’ clubs where access still comes with a certain amount of theater.

London has been home to members’ clubs for centuries. It’s housed so many, in fact, that the city is often considered the birthplace of these elite establishments. Gentlemen's clubs, used primarily for gambling, began to populate the city in the 18th century, primarily for the wealthy aristocracy. The 19th century saw a rise in institutions like the Athenaeum Club, founded for arts and sciences professionals to mingle, and still exists today. Women’s clubs emerged later, and by the 20th century, it was easy to find a club to join—that is, if you had the right connections. London has maintained that tradition, with dozens of clubs available across the city, some of which, like Soho House, have expanded globally. Today, only a few of the particularly uptight, historic clubs remain separated by gender—most of London’s more contemporary iterations are far more progressive. Still, getting access typically comes with being well-connected. 

Even though not every club is tailored specifically to a wealthy, well-connected crowd, joining can still be an expensive, time-consuming endeavor. And each comes with its own set of benefits, whether it’s gym access, networking events, office space, rooftop pools or special events. Soho House, which has over 10 locations across the city, is perhaps the most well-known, but smaller, less obvious clubs can better suit those looking for a more personalized experience. Others, like Annabel’s, are about clout. Here are 12 of London’s top members’ clubs, groups that may bring you one step closer to society’s poshest set. Or, at least, give you access to what is perhaps London’s rarest amenity: a pool.

The Best Members' Clubs in London

46 Berkeley Square, London W1J 5AT

Mayfair’s elite club Annabel’s first opened at 44 Berkeley Square in 1963. It was founded by the late Mark Birley, who named the club for his then-wife, Lady Annabel Vane-Tempest-Stewart. It was one of London’s first nightclubs and was (and remains) a popular haunt for the British aristocracy, as well as royals like Princess Diana. After years of success, the Birley family sold Annabel's in 2007, shortly before Mark Birley's death, and it was later reopened next door in 2018. It has a huge waitlist of prospective members, and the specific criteria for acceptance are kept secret. The fashionable club has a strict dress code (no ripped denim, formal shoes, no shorts for men under any circumstances, and a required blazer for men after 6 p.m.) and disallows any photos or videos. Members—and their chosen guests—have access to several restaurants and bars, as well as a cigar salon. Annabel’s often hosts parties for fashion week or around awards shows like the BAFTA Film Awards.

40 Greek Street, London W1D 4EB

76 Dean Street, London W1D 3SQ

180 The Strand, London WC2R 1EA

2 Queen Street, London W1J 5PA

1 Ebor Street, London E1 6AW

2 Television Centre, 101 Wood Lane, London W12 7FQ

191 Portobello Road, London W11 2ED

162-166 Chiswick High Road, London W4........

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