Industrialist Andrew Carnegie, one of history’s greatest philanthropists, came to Skibo in 1898 and transformed the estate into what he rightly termed ‘Heaven on Earth’. London is very much still a working city, and the square mile known as “The City” is the driving force behind it. Crammed into this district are financial institutions that influence lives across the world, from New York to Hong Kong.
Imagine strolling into your club after a busy day and being greeted by a world-class spa offering the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. Many private members’ clubs have raised the bar when it comes to wellness services, offering everything from tailored fitness programmes to bespoke spa treatments. Starting off with one of the most iconic names in private members’ clubs, Private Club Annabel’s in London is in a league of its own. Founded in 1963, it’s been the go-to spot for the rich and famous, from rock stars to royalty. After a £65 million revamp, the club now boasts some of the most opulent interiors you’ll find anywhere in the world, with every corner designed to impress.
- Albert’s club is known for its exceptional service and a vibrant atmosphere, attracting a diverse crowd of creatives, entrepreneurs, and high-profile guests.
- Deals are done in opulent surroundings where the finer details can be discussed in peace rather than in a busy office or sterile boardroom.
- Well, now you won’t have to, for we’ve put together the list of the coolest, oldest, and most exclusive members-only clubs around the world.
- Across the Pavilion, offices accommodate companies of all sizes, from individuals in one-person studies to large corporate teams, with room to grow without leaving the Club.
- Non-members can book in to stay at the house – the club also operates as a romantic hotel.
- 5 Hertford Street is a private members club in Mayfair that was once described as London’s most secretive club.
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The Roof Deck is a casual area to meet and mingle in a relaxed environment – and is open air in the Summer months. Here’s a closer look at the top 8 private clubs in London, detailing their famous members, attractions, membership fees, and exclusive benefits. These exclusive clubs provide a rarefied world of indulgence and opportunity, whether seeking serenity in the countryside, access to fine dining, or a dynamic social scene. As an Insignia member, we can unlock the doors to these elite clubs, granting you access to a world of privilege reserved for only the most discerning individuals.
Yellowstone Club, Montana
Paying homage to playgrounds of the past, in the lounge you’ll find spirited illustrations of raucous Georgian high society parties – some hung upside-down for added effect. In public venues, volume and turnover are the name of the game, forcing players to rush. In a private venue, players can focus on strategy, intuition and finding their own fair share of luck.
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Its neo-classical mansion is situated in 42 acres of landscaped gardens adjacent to the River Thames in Fulham, London. Every members’ club has a unique application process, some of which we’ve outlined below. For example, you’re more likely to be accepted to Soho House if you’re part of the city’s creative community. Soho House was founded by Nick Jones in 1995 as a private members’ club aimed mostly at those working in arts, politics, and media. The site of the first club was 40 Greek Street, Soho, and it fast became a hotspot for young interesting creatives. At the original site, Jones was offered rooms above his restaurant Café Boheme accessed via a small door around the corner.
The cheapest membership option is a ‘social membership’, granting unlimited access to most areas all day on weekends and from 5pm on weekdays. 1 Warwick also hosts open days, allowing prospective members to explore and use the spaces for £25. Those happy to access a limited number of The Ned’s members-only spaces should look into Ned Friends membership, which costs a fraction of the price. After dinner, Madeleine and I poke our nose into the Demob bar, the name is a nod to the club’s ex-service women members of decades past (which included Queen Mary). The theme continues with a tented ceiling, green walls, and a distinct prohibition bar feeling – cosy and dark, just the place to share secrets and gossip over cocktails on a wintry evening.
However, the club cleaves to its heritage as a space for members to meet and converse, rather than work; business papers may not be referred to, and mobile phones may not be answered (though a silent phone may be checked). A strict dress code must be adhered to, requiring a jacket, collar and tie at all times. Private members clubs have adapted to the evolving demands of contemporary society. Traditional clubs, once resistant to technological advancements, have made concessions to modern working practices.
Cypress Point Club – California, USA
Today, Ten Trinity Square is a hub for business, dining and relaxation, featuring a spectacular array of amenities. Take in stunning views of the Thames from the club’s opulent rooftop bar, indulge in delicious cuisine by the Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic, or unwind in the exclusive spa and wellness centre. The Ministry prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, with a focus on promoting diversity and equality. Members can take advantage of a range of events and workshops, from music production to mixology, and enjoy access to a thriving community of creatives, entrepreneurs and cultural innovators. With its cutting-edge facilities and forward-thinking ethos, The Ministry is a great choice for those looking to work, play and connect.
- With exquisite glassware by John Jenkins and Krug as the house champagne, Oswald’s is a wine lover’s paradise.
- Almost 150 years after it was founded, the Arts Club has survived twists and turns (and even a direct hit during the Blitz), and is still a lively home for the city’s leading citizens.
- It’s the place where London’s elite come to unwind in style, and if you manage to snag an invite, you’ll be in very good company.
- Members get access to everything the club has to offer, from a rooftop pool and terraces to a late-night bar in the original bank vault.
- The Conduit was founded in 2018 by Nick Hamilton, Paul van Zyl and Rowan Finnegan with an aim to accelerate solutions to the world’s greatest challenges.
- As an Insignia member, we can unlock the doors to these elite clubs, granting you access to a world of privilege reserved for only the most discerning individuals.
- The Ministry prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, with a focus on promoting diversity and equality.
Ever since the opening of Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean has seen a tremendous uptick in guest satisfaction and profitability with a private destination that caters directly to the wants and needs of its guests. Additionally, a second beach club in Cozumel, Mexico, is slated to open sometime in 2026. Looking for a creative event partner to help turn your event into an unforgettable experience? At my dainty circular table, I bash away on my laptop, the view of the elegant gardens of Sloane Square a nice backdrop. Even the arrival of my friend Madeleine, a fellow journalist and girl-about-town, does not distract me.
In short, they’re looking for people who will uphold their standards and contribute positively to the club’s community. Take Annabel’s in London, for example, where initiation fees start at around £1,750, with annual fees stacking up to nearly £3,250. Then there’s the exclusive Aspen Mountain Club, where members can expect to part with well over £200,000 for the privilege of membership.
An Insignia membership means holding an iconic, high-status premium payment card—a passport to a world of refined living. As a member, you’ll enjoy a wealth of benefits, including exceptional financial services and award-winning lifestyle management. So much so that keeping track of new openings, reopenings, and rumours of openings can be a wearying endeavor; the exact number is currently thought to top 130.
Private members’ clubs don’t get much more iconic than Annabel’s, which has presided over Mayfair’s Berkeley Square in some form since the early 1960s. The original members’ club doubled as one of London’s first nightclubs, where aristocracy, royalty and stars of stage and screen would gather for raucous evenings and glitzy celebrations. After being passed down through the Birley family for decades, businessman Richard Caring bought the group in the noughties and relocated Annabel’s from 44 Berkeley Square to number 46 in 2018. The club allows members to use state-of-the-art sports equipment and personal coaching programs. The cuisine of 39 Dining is entrusted to young New Zealand chef David Knapp, who has previously worked with Gordon Ramsey and Gary Rhodes and later at Monte Carlo Beach, Avenue 31, Twiga, and Cipriani. Gaining entry to a good members’ club can feel a bit like scoring backstage access at a concert—here it quite literally is that, so practice your most convincing lines.