London is a haven for the filthy-rich. They own multi-million pound properties, drink Cristal like it’s ALDI Prosecco and flit round the city in outrageously inappropriate supercars.
But where do they go in their spare time to unwind and relax, away from the masses? Well, we’ll show you where. London’s exclusive members’ clubs are home-from-homes for our wealthy residents. These clubs boast rigorous referral and selection processes – usually, you have to attend an interview and get character references from two existing members – and most membership costs start at well over £2000 per year.
Oh, and did we mention that the cost of the membership buys you relatively nothing? You still have to pay through the nose for food, drink, massages, and gym classes once you get inside. Anyone else feel like this setup is a little ridiculous? We do have to admit however that we’re all are a teensy bit jealous of these places. After all, if we could afford the extortionate prices we’d probably become a bit less skeptical…
1. The Devonshire Club
One of the simplest clubs featured in our collection The Devonshire Club is a place for wining and dining – probably with the very important business clients you will inevitably have alongside a membership to this place. The club features three bars, two lounges, a brasserie, a garden room, an outdoor terrace, and a series of private event rooms. This place is perfect for any high-powered businessman or woman looking to ‘blur the lines between business and pleasure’. Oo-er.
2. The South Kensington Club
The South Kensington club is perfectly located for all the Made in Chelsea types out there. The club claims to ‘draw on ancient rituals from around the world to promote fitness, health and the spirit of discovery.’ Errr, if you say so. It does however offer anyone willing to shell out for a membership access to their facilities, which include a saltwater pool, a Turkish hammam style bathhouse, a steam room and a state-of-the-art gym.
3. Shoreditch House
This one has to be our favourite. Part of the impressive Soho House group, Shoreditch House is definitely the coolest members club of them all. It’s aimed at young, arty, creative types – they predominantly choose to accept individuals who ‘work in traditional creative industries’. This six-story converted tea warehouse houses two restaurants, two bars, a heated outdoor pool, a fitness centre, a games room, and a spa that exclusively uses Cowshed products.
The Shoreditch House operates a strict ‘no photos’ policy to encourage celebrity membership, so the Instagram addicts among you might be disappointed that you can’t share a snap of your cocktails by the rooftop pool. This place is well and truly #goals.
4. The Arts Club
This club was founded in 1863 and is specifically aimed at Londoners searching for a more intellectual social crowd, as it’s said to be ‘instituted for the purpose of facilitating the social intercourse of those connected with, or interested in Art, Literature or Science’. The Arts Club isn’t an ideal choice for those who like to dress down, because it operates a strict dress code – requiring members to wear smart dress at all times. In return members gain access to a series of opulent bars, restaurants, and lounge rooms, along with a nightclub that frequently hosts live music and theatre events.
5. Home House
Home House has branded itself as ‘London’s most exclusive private members’ club’ and boasts multiple bars, restaurants, and party rooms, as well as a garden, a gym, a spa, and a selection of suites. This club certainly has a high opinion of itself and one look at its stunning interiors makes it easy to see why. This place is not for your average Londoner.
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