In 1828, the pioneering Crockfords became the first ever casino to open its doors in London. It was a huge success. Today, over twenty casinos are open for business in London, proving the thrill of gaming is still extremely popular.
Casinos have benefitted from the loosening of government legislation and changes in cultural attitudes towards gaming. But their success is also based on the unique atmosphere and social buzz that the venues provide, not to mention the excitement afforded by the many classic games on offer to players.
Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, and Poker, plus a wide variety of popular slots machines such as the Eye of Horus slot and many more, are available to enjoy at casinos across the capital. But with so many impressive venues to choose from, we’ve decided to narrow it down and pick out our favourites.
The Hippodrome
Opened in 1900, the Hippodrome was designed to look like a ship, and that unique quirkiness help the venue stand out to this day. During its music hall days, it once hosted the likes of Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and even The Jackson 5.
It wasn’t until 2006, after a substantial renovation, that the venue became a casino. Now it’s a hugely popular entertainment space, offering four floors of gaming and three themed casinos with a wide range of tables slots, and electronics.
There’s a Baccarat lounge as well as a dedicated poker floor, a three-tier outdoor terrace, and a sports lounge. Away from the tables, the Hippodrome boasts a host of impressive bars and restaurants, plus a theatre and live music cocktail lounge.
Located on Leicester Square in the famous West End of London, the Hippodrome the UK’s largest and most popular casino and entertainment venue. No membership required.
The Sportsman
The iconic Sportsman is situated in Marble Arch in the heart of London. While the offering here isn’t comprehensive, it’s impressive location, professional staff, and intimate atmosphere make it worth a visit.
The casino offers a choice of tables, including Blackjack, Punto Banco, American Roulette, and Three Card Poker. There’s also a wide variety of slot machines and electronic games available, offering classic and popular titles such as Lucky Lady’s Charm, Book of Ra, and Dolphin’s Pearl.
A Mediterranean and Asian-inspired restaurant menu offers delicious food, while a choice of bars caters to a variety of tastes. No membership required.
Park Lane Club
Opened in late 2014, the Park Lane club is a private members’ club and casino situated in the Hilton Hotel, Mayfair. The glamorous location amongst the capitals 5-star hotels, offers an insight into the luxury that awaits visitors.
Park Lane stands out not just for its location, but also its crystal ceilings and luxurious décor. There’s also the impressive Gaming Terrace that offers incredible views of London, plus delicious food, impressive service, and large screens showing all the latest sporting action.
For gamers, there’s American Roulette, European Roulette, Punto Banco, Omaha, and Texas Hold’em. There are plenty of slot machines to choose from too, all linked to major and progressive jackpots.
Empire Casino
One of the liveliest venues in the city, the Empire Casino has everything you need: Blackjack, American Roulette, Punto Banco, Slots, and Electronic Games. Plus, the iconic London Poker Room that offers players round-the-clock cash games as well as tournament Poker.
Open 24/7, the Empire is renowned for its round-the-clock entertainment and vibrant atmosphere. Located on Leicester Square in the heart of London, its smart casual dress code makes it a more relaxed, fun space for gamers.
There’s a wide choice of bars here too, including the impressive Kings Bar with its big screens displaying the latest sporting action. Foodies will enjoy the Asian fusion restaurant. Entry is free and no membership is required.
Forty Five Kensington
Across the road from the world-famous Natural History Museum, the Forty Five Kensington has undergone a substantial transformation since it first opened it’s doors in the 1960s. The casino claims its new offering “redefines luxury and elegance” and one glimpse of the impressive interiors make it hard to disagree.
The new Kensington Floor is style and sophistication personified. State-of-the-art design combines with the building’s historic architecture, and luxurious décor, to create a glamorous but welcoming atmosphere.
This exclusive, upmarket gaming venue provides a unique blend of the old and new. Historic architecture combines with state-of-the-art gaming equipment to create a vibrant atmosphere. All the games you would expect are here too: Roulette, baccarat, and poker, plus multiple e-game tables.
For slot fans, the new Queensbury room boasts a wide variety of the latest slot machines, including progressive jackpots and a £20,000 top prize. Slot hosts are also on hand to help the less experienced gamers with any questions they might have, or offer friendly advice.