The 5 most iconic casinos of London
There's a certain magic to London's historic casinos that you just don't get anywhere else. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the stories whispered in opulent halls and the history etched into the very walls. The allure of London's historic casinos is enduring, although many today prefer online casinos due to the ease of accessing bonuses and offers and the opportunity to interact online with other players around the world. Furthermore, there are specific online comparison sites, such as casino offers at oddschecker, which allow you to stay up to date on the best bonuses. But for a truly unforgettable experience, stepping into one of these legendary venues is like stepping back in time. You can almost feel it.
A legacy of luxury and chance
These iconic spots have been the backdrop for secret political meetings, the playground of royalty, and the stage for some of the most famous faces in history. From grand buildings that dominate the skyline to discreet clubs tucked away in Mayfair, each one offers a unique chapter in London's vibrant social story. Let's take a closer look at five of the most iconic casinos the city has to offer.
Metropolitan Casino: where gaming meets modern hospitality
Owned by Silver Point Capital, the Metropolitan Gaming group brings a fresh perspective to the classic casino night out. They're passionate about creating memorable experiences that go far beyond the gaming floor. Think of it as a full evening of entertainment. Their venues often feature a diverse portfolio of bars and restaurants, and they were actually the first UK casino group to introduce dynamic leisure facilities like celebrity chef restaurants from the likes of James Martin and Marco Pierre White right within their properties. It’s a perfect blend of modern hospitality and the thrill of the game, all under one roof.
The Ritz Club: unparalleled opulence
Now, if you're talking about pure, unadulterated luxury, The Ritz is the name that springs to mind. While famously one of the most romantic hotels in the world, its casino offering is every bit as grand. The hotel itself opened its doors way back in 1906 and has been a magnet for high society ever since, hosting everyone from King Edward VII to Winston Churchill. The Ritz was also the first and only hotel to be granted a Royal Warrant for banqueting and catering services, a distinguished honour it received from the Prince of Wales and, more recently, from King Charles III. Gambling in such a regal atmosphere, surrounded by Louis XVI-style interiors, is an experience that is very, very difficult to top.
Hippodrome Casino: the heart of entertainment
Standing proudly in Leicester Square, the Hippodrome is a true London legend. This place has seen it all since it first opened in 1900. Designed by the famous theatre architect Frank Matcham, it started life as a venue for spectacular circus and variety shows, complete with a massive 100,000-gallon water tank for aquatic performances. Over the years, it transformed into the nightclub The Talk of the Town, hosting legends like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, before eventually becoming the sprawling casino it is today. With three floors of gaming, multiple bars, a steakhouse, and the famous Magic Mike Live show, the Hippodrome perfectly captures the buzzing energy of London's entertainment scene.
Les Ambassadeurs Club: discretion and prestige
Often just called "Les A" by its members, this club in Mayfair is the definition of exclusive. Housed in a magnificent building at 5 Hamilton Place with a history linked to Leopold de Rothschild, it oozes aristocratic heritage. This is the kind of place where history was made, and not just at the tables. It was here that the inaugural James Bond film, Dr. No, had its fictional casino scene filmed, forever linking Les Ambassadeurs with 007's sophisticated world. With a predominantly Middle Eastern clientele and a reputation for high-stakes action, this club offers a discreet and incredibly prestigious environment for its distinguished members.
Maxim's Casino: a gentleman's retreat
Tucked away in the heart of Kensington, Maxim's Casino carries an air of refined tradition. The building itself dates all the way back to 1862 and was originally constructed for John Foster, a friend of the author Charles Dickens. It’s famously known as 'the house built for gentlemen, by gentleman,' and that classic, clubby atmosphere very much remains today. The main gaming room is situated in the grand drawing room, complete with beautiful marble fireplaces and pearwood paneling, offering a sophisticated and intimate setting for play. It’s a quiet escape from the city's bustle, a place where history and gaming comfortably coexist.
A bet on history and glamour
In a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, these iconic casinos stand as living monuments to London's glamorous past and its vibrant present. They offer a tangible connection to stories of royalty, Hollywood stars, and secret deals. Drawn to the theatrical spectacle of the Hippodrome or the hushed prestige of Les Ambassadeurs, a visit to any of these legendary houses is a wager on experiencing a true piece of London's soul. It's a reminder that while you can place a bet from anywhere with Bitcoin, you can only find this unique atmosphere here.