London invented the private members' club. From the coffee houses of the 17th century to the gilded salons of St James's, the concept of an exclusive space for like-minded individuals has been woven into the city's social fabric for over three hundred years.
Today, the landscape has evolved dramatically. Traditional bastions like White's and Brooks's now compete with design-forward newcomers, creative hubs, and wellness-focused spaces. Whether you're looking for a quiet corner to work, a glamorous bar, or simply a reliable restaurant in a good postcode, there's a club for you.
The Classics
Annabel's, Berkeley Square
After a £55 million refurbishment, Richard Caring's reimagining of the world's most famous nightclub spans four floors of eye-popping interiors. The ground-floor restaurant is excellent, the garden terrace is one of London's loveliest outdoor spaces, and the basement club still draws an A-list crowd. Membership: £3,500/year. Waiting list: 12+ months. The reality: You need to know someone.
5 Hertford Street, Mayfair
Robin Birley's response to the sale of his mother's creation. More intimate than Annabel's, with a members-only restaurant (Loulou's downstairs) that serves some of the best food in Mayfair — and that's saying something. Famously discreet. Membership: By invitation only. The reality: If you're asking, you probably can't get in.
The Arts Club, Dover Street
Founded in 1863 for patrons of art, literature, and science. The current incarnation balances its heritage with contemporary art exhibitions, a strong restaurant, and an elegant bar. Less exclusionary than some Mayfair rivals. Membership: £2,500/year. Waiting list: 6–12 months.
The Creative Set
Soho House (various locations)
Love it or loathe it, Nick Jones's empire has redefined the modern members' club. The original Dean Street house remains the most charming, but the rooftop at White City and the countryside retreat at Soho Farmhouse offer very different experiences. Membership: £1,200–£2,600/year depending on tier. The reality: Easier to join than it was, which is both its strength and its criticism.
The Groucho Club, Soho
The literary world's living room. Less flashy than its Soho neighbours, the Groucho remains the club where you're most likely to overhear a book deal, spot a Booker Prize winner, or get into an argument about poetry. The food is fine; the atmosphere is everything. Membership: £1,050/year. Waiting list: Variable.
Home House, Portman Square
Three Robert Adam-designed townhouses make this one of London's most architecturally stunning clubs. The drawing rooms are magnificent, the spa is surprisingly good, and the bar is one of Marylebone's hidden gems. Membership: £1,800/year. The reality: More relaxed than Mayfair alternatives.
The New Guard
The Twenty Two, Grosvenor Square
Opened in 2022 in a beautifully restored Mayfair townhouse, with 30 boutique hotel rooms upstairs and a members' floor below. The interiors — by Natalia Miyar — are stunning, and the restaurant has quickly earned a loyal following. Membership: £2,000/year. The reality: Still building its community, which means it's a good time to join.
Mortimer House, Fitzrovia
Positioned as a "House of Creators," Mortimer House offers co-working, dining, and event spaces in a handsome Art Deco building. The rooftop restaurant and bar have excellent views. Less formal than traditional clubs. Membership: £1,500/year.
Pavilion Club, Knightsbridge
A women-only club (one of the few in London) in a beautiful Hans Crescent townhouse. Elegant interiors, a strong events programme, and a genuinely supportive community. Membership: £1,200/year.
For Business
The Conduit, Mayfair
A sustainability-focused club that attracts entrepreneurs, investors, and social enterprise founders. The programming — talks, workshops, roundtables — is genuinely impressive, and the food is better than most business clubs. Membership: £2,200/year.
67 Pall Mall
The world's first fine wine members' club. 4,000 wines available by the glass via Coravin, plus a serious restaurant and an extraordinary cellar. Essential for anyone in the wine trade — and a revelation for enthusiasts. Membership: £1,250/year.
How to Choose
The best club is the one you'll actually use. Before committing, consider: Do you want a quiet workspace, a social scene, or both? Is location critical? Will you use the gym, spa, or hotel rooms? How important is the food?
Most clubs offer guest visits — use them before committing. And remember: the joining fee (often equal to the annual subscription) is usually the real barrier, not the yearly cost.
For more lifestyle recommendations, explore our Lifestyle directory or speak to our concierge team.
