The original private members clubs were referred to as ‘gentlemen’s clubs’. Clubs took over the role occupied by coffee houses in 18th century London to some degree, and reached the height of their influence in the late 19th century. The first clubs, such as White’s, Brooks’s and Boodle’s, were aristocratic in flavour, and provided an environment for gambling, which was illegal outside of members-only establishments. Today many of the original gentlemen’s clubs are available for private hire, and make a stunning setting for the most exclusive of events.
City of London Club, EC2N
Formed in 1832, the club is the oldest in the city of London with the Duke of Wellington and Sir Robert Peel amongst its prominent members. The elegant club house was specifically built for the club and boasts several spaces available for private hire as well as a beautiful roof terrace overlooking the City skyline. The Main Dining Room is perfect for receptions of up to 300 guests or 120 for dinner, whilst the stately Drawing Room can accommodate up to 250 guests. The 2nd Floor offers versatile rooms ideal for break-out areas, smaller meetings and private dining for up to 80 people.
Hurlingham Club, SW6
Bordering the Thames in Fulham and set in 42 acres of magnificent grounds, The Hurlingham Club is a green oasis of tradition and international renown. The striking Georgian clubhouse is fully adaptable for formal or informal events depending on individual requirements. The Hurlingham Suite can accommodate up to 1,000 guests for a seated dinner, 1,200 for stand up receptions and 600 for conferences. The glass-domed Palm Court & Orangery provide unrivalled views across the verdant grounds leading down to the river for receptions of up to 1,000 guests. The purpose-built Mulgrave Theatre provides state-of-the-art facilities for all your conference needs.
Lansdowne Club, W1J
Built in 1763, the Lansdowne House became a Social Club in 1935. Today it is considered one of the most exclusive and traditional private clubs in London. Unlike its contemporaries, The Lansdowne Club admitted men and woman as equal members since its doors opened. Regular visitors to the Household include Lord Byron, Charles Dickens and Thomas Moore amongst many other great literary talents and politicians. The club house offers a selection of private function rooms to suit both corporate and private events. The Ballroom designed by Robert Adam is a particular highlight. The 18th century room with vaulted ceilings is ideal for wedding receptions, dinners and larger conferences for up to 200 guests.
National Liberal Club, SW1A
Founded in 1882, prestigious members have included Winston Churchill, George Bernard Shaw, Bram Stoker, Dylan Thomas, and H.G. Wells. The building is a masterpiece of Victorian design by Alfred Waterhouse, with a stunning terrace and dining room overlooking the Thames and the Embankment Gardens. The ornate club rooms, decorated and furnished in the elaborate late Victorian style, provide an impressive setting for lunch and dinner events, seminars and weddings for 120 guests.
The In & Out Naval and Military Club, SW1Y
The club was founded in 1862 because the three then existing military clubs in London – the United Service, the Junior United Service, and the Army and Navy – were all full. It is a private members club based in St James’s for ladies and gentlemen, and officers of the Armed Forces. The grandeur of the Grade II listed building’s historic and illustrious past provides the perfect setting for any occasion. Whether it is for a small dinner party, business lunch or for a large celebratory occasion, the club offers magnificent staterooms with original period features. The Coffee Room is a highlight with elegant views across St James’s Square Garden for 250 guests. The Courtyard is a unique outdoor space for hosting the perfect summer reception for up to 300 guests.
Oriental Club, W1C
The Oriental Club has the Duke of Wellington as one of its founding members and was created as a haven for returning officers and officials from India and the East. Established around 200 years ago, it is one of the oldest clubs in London. The stately interiors of Stratford House exhibit an art extensive collection which brings the history of the club to life. The Dining Room is a focal point with floor-to-ceiling windows and is a dramatic space for large dinners for 120 guests or receptions for up to 160. The Drawing Room is awonderful event space with ornate gilded ceilings and can be used with the adjoining Smoking Room for larger reception dinners.
Royal Over-seas League, SW1A
The Royal Over-Seas League is a non-profit Commonwealth private members organisation founded in 1910 and supports Commonwealth art, music and welfare projects. The club house is set within a grade I listed building, Over-Seas House, London, offers guests splendid period function rooms which are ideal for holding everything from small syndicate workshops to major conferences, corporate and private dinners and wedding receptions. Seven meeting and function rooms are available, with the largest accommodating up to 250 guests whilst others seat between 2 and 50 people.
Savile Club, W1K
Established in 1868 by a group of the most distinguished writers and artists of the time, the club is set within a fine 18th century house right in the heart of Mayfair. The huge Ballroom with its sweeping imperial staircase and vaulted ceilings provide a dramatic space for dinners and receptions with the adjoining gilded Dining Room. The secluded Courtyard and upper Roof Terrace provide a wonderful and unexpected space for receptions, parties and barbeques.
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