A few years ago, struggling with insomnia, I found myself counting London’s private members’ clubs (PMCs) instead of sheep. Starting with well-known establishments like The Garrick, Annabel’s and 5 Hertford Street, I reached 50, then surreptitiously consulted my phone to complete the tally. The sheer proliferation of these exclusive spaces, a topic I’d recently commissioned a piece on, occupied my thoughts. By the time I reached 70, sleep finally came, and I mused that “The Land of Nod” would be a fitting name for a club of my own – a venture I still contemplate.
London boasts a greater density of PMCs than any other city globally, and with few exceptions – the women-only AllBright and the celebrity-focused Bungalow 8 being notable closures – these clubs generally achieve success quickly. The enduring appeal of these exclusive spaces speaks to a desire for curated experiences and a sense of belonging within a specific community.
The appeal of these clubs extends beyond mere exclusivity. They offer a combination of amenities – cocktail bars, roof terraces, and intimate performance spaces – that have revitalized venues like The House of KOKO. The House of KOKO, with its blend of restaurants, bars, and entertainment, exemplifies this trend.
The allure of membership was evident even decades ago. Recalling a 1985 visit to The Groucho Club, I observed the intense scrutiny of new members by established patrons, including the music journalist Jon Savage. This initial experience underscored the club’s status as a desirable, and often challenging to access, social hub. The desire to be *in* the Groucho Club, and by extension, any of these exclusive spaces, remains a powerful draw.
While some, like Soho House, have faced criticism for expansion, the organization has responded to member feedback, refining its approach to membership and improving its offerings. The recent opening of Soho Mews House, accessible only to members of 20 years’ standing, highlights the premium placed on long-term loyalty. Alongside Soho Mews House, new and revitalized clubs like Maison Estelle, The House of KOKO, and the renovated Roof Gardens in Kensington – which recently welcomed Mick Jagger – are shaping London’s exclusive social scene. The Roof Gardens has reportedly regained its former glamour with Jagger’s membership.
The expansion isn’t limited to London. Oxfordshire is increasingly seen as an extension of the capital’s social scene, with The Ned set to open near Soho Farmhouse. A notable departure from the norm is Long Lane, poised to become the UK’s first alcohol-free members’ club, catering to a growing “sober generation,” though virgin cocktails are already available at Soho Farmhouse. This demonstrates a broadening of the PMC concept to encompass diverse lifestyles and preferences.
Further afield, a new venue is emerging in King’s Cross. Town Hall by Bottaccio, occupying 60,000 sq ft within the historic Camden Town Hall, aims to revitalize the area and attract a creative crowd. The space, designed by Tom Dixon and managed by Bottaccio, includes a members’ club component, Town Hall Society, led by Romy Westwood. The club’s stated aim is to foster a “membership community rooted in connection, curiosity and creativity.”
The enduring appeal of these clubs, even those with origins dating back to the 19th century – like The Garrick Club, founded in 1831 – suggests a fundamental human desire for exclusivity and community. While Londoners often espouse values of inclusivity, the allure of a “velvet rope” remains strong. A visit to the Town Hall Society space revealed a striking interior, reminiscent of a 1980s New York loft, further fueling the desire to join.
Dylan Jones, a noted figure in the London social scene, highlights several favored PMCs. These include The Chelsea Arts Club, established in 1890 (Chelsea Arts Club website), the notoriously difficult-to-enter Soho Mews House (Soho House website), 5 Hertford Street (5 Hertford Street website), The Groucho Club (The Groucho Club website), Little House, The House of KOKO, The Arts Club (The Arts Club website), Home House (Home House website), and The Hurlingham Club (The Hurlingham Club website).
Looking ahead, several new clubs are slated to open in 2026 and beyond. Nick Jones is developing the St Clement Hotel, while Jeremy King is reopening Simpson’s in the Strand, a launch anticipated to have a significant impact on the dining and social scene. The Pembroke Club in Belgravia and 16 Charles Street in Mayfair are also set to join the landscape. The continued expansion and evolution of London’s private members’ clubs suggest a sustained demand for exclusive spaces and curated experiences.
The ongoing development of these clubs reflects a dynamic social landscape, catering to evolving tastes and lifestyles. As new venues emerge and existing ones adapt, London’s position as a global hub for private members’ clubs appears secure. What remains to be seen is how these clubs will continue to innovate and maintain their appeal in a rapidly changing world.
What are your thoughts on the rise of private members’ clubs? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below.
