Your Best Options
Your Options, From Open-Access to Exclusive London’s casino scene is a dynamic blend of timeless elegance, buzzing nightlife, and high-stakes thrills. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant public venues or discreet private clubs, the city has something for every type of player. From Leicester Square’s energy to the refined calm of Mayfair, we’ve explored the most iconic gaming destinations open in March 2025.
This guide covers two distinct tiers:
Public casinos you can walk into with valid ID (like The Hippodrome and Empire)
Private clubs where membership or reservations are required (like The Ritz Club and Les Ambassadeurs)
We’ve selected these locations based on atmosphere, gaming options, dining, feedback, and uniqueness—to help you find your perfect night out.
London’s Top Public Casinos
01.
The Hippodrome Casino
In the heart of Leicester Square, The Hippodrome is London’s most visited casino, attracting over 1.2 million guests each year. It spans five floors in a Grade II-listed building and hosts 45 gaming tables (roulette, blackjack, poker), 120+ slot machines, and Europe’s largest dedicated poker space.
It’s also the only central London casino offering craps. Cabaret shows run nightly, with burlesque and magic acts rotating since early 2025. The rooftop terrace features a year-round heated VIP section with London Eye views. The Heliot Steak House overlooks the gaming floor and serves premium cuts.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
02.
Grosvenor Victoria Casino (The Vic)
Tne of the UK’s oldest operating casinos, “The Vic” is a poker landmark. Located near Marble Arch, it boasts 35 poker tables (the largest Poker Room in Europe), plus 50 slots and electronic games. Pros and newcomers mingle here, especially during headline events like the UK Poker Tour.
Its alfresco Loft gaming area and casual food options keep the atmosphere easygoing. Free Grosvenor membership can be done online to speed up entry and access perks.
🎟️ No membership needed (registration optional for perks)
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
03.
The Empire Casino
A Vegas-style spot in Leicester Square, The Empire spans over 55,000 sq. ft. inside the former Empire Theatre. With 50 gaming tables (including Punto Banco), 127 slots, and a dedicated poker room, it’s known for energy and scale.
Multiple bars—Icon Balcony, Shadow Bar, and Kings Sports—add nightlife variety. Asian-fusion dining is available at FuLuShou. For higher-limit players, Dragon Lounge offers private tables and premium service.
Winner of the British Casino Awards 2020.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
04.
Grosvenor Casino The Rialto
Housed in a beautifully preserved cinema near Piccadilly Circus, The Rialto blends art deco charm with a modern gaming setup. Expect over 50 slots, touchpad roulette, dim sum in the Baccarat Lounge, and sports screens throughout.
Recently updated with a new pizza bar menu, this is an easygoing choice for West End evenings.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
Pros and Cons Breakdown
Hippodrome: Reviews from Trustpilot (2.2/5), Google Maps (3.9/5), and TripAdvisor (3.6/5) highlight the atmosphere—“electric, especially during cabaret nights,” per a December 2024 Google post. The central location, diverse entertainment (gaming, shows, dining), and rooftop terrace are praised, but slow service—“waited over an hour on a March 2025 Saturday,” a Trustpilot user noted—high drink prices (£15 cocktails), and dated decor in some areas frustrate.
The Vic: TripAdvisor (3.7/5) and Google (3.8/5) laud the Poker Room—“best in the UK,” a February 2025 review said—alongside friendly staff (e.g., croupier Jonathan). However, understaffing (“an hour wait for a table,” March 2025) and high prices (£4.75 slots win for £1 spin) draw complaints, with some calling the decor dated.
Empire: Google (3.9/5) and TripAdvisor (3.6/5) praise the Vegas vibe—“like Vegas in London,” a February 2025 review noted—but high drink prices (£15 cocktails), rude security (“arrogant bouncers,” Google, December 2024), and overcrowding are issues.
Rialto: TripAdvisor (3.6/5) loves the location—“perfect near Piccadilly,” February 2025—but limited seating, high prices (£10.80 vodka Red Bull), and outdated slots disappoint.
Elite Members-Only Clubs
01.
Les Ambassadeurs Club
In the heart of Leicester Square, The Hippodrome is London’s most visited casino, attracting over 1.2 million guests each year. It spans five floors in a Grade II-listed building and hosts 45 gaming tables (roulette, blackjack, poker), 120+ slot machines, and Europe’s largest dedicated poker space.
It’s also the only central London casino offering craps. Cabaret shows run nightly, with burlesque and magic acts rotating since early 2025. The rooftop terrace features a year-round heated VIP section with London Eye views. The Heliot Steak House overlooks the gaming floor and serves premium cuts.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
02.
The Palm Beach Casino
Open to walk-ins with ID, The Palm Beach still feels exclusive, nestled in Mayfair. It mixes modern design with a friendly vibe. Games include American Roulette, Baccarat, Blackjack, and Three Card Poker, plus slots and electronic tables. It hosts live DJs and serves globally inspired cuisine.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
03.
The Park Tower Casino
In Knightsbridge, just steps from Harrods, this Grosvenor venue offers upscale gaming in a refined setting. Its restaurant gallery overlooks the tables, and the game selection includes Roulette, Blackjack, and Poker in a sleek, boutique-style space.
🎟️ Membership or guest registration recommended
🪪 ID required
👔 Smart-casual or formal dress
04.
The Sportsman Casino
Located in Marylebone, The Sportsman brings international flavor to its events—think themed nights with global cuisine and music. Classic table games meet stylish interiors and an award-winning restaurant.
🎟️ No membership needed
🪪 Valid ID required
👔 Smart-casual dress
05.
Crown Aspinalls
Still operating in 2025 as a premium members-only casino, this Mayfair staple is transitioning to new ownership under Wynn Resorts. Known for private salons and high-stakes Baccarat, it caters to global elites seeking discretion and class.
🎟️ Members only
🪪 ID required
🤵 Formal attire expected
06.
The Ritz Club
As of early 2025, The Ritz Club remains closed, though it continues to be one of London’s most iconic names. Formerly operating beneath the Ritz Hotel, it was once the epitome of luxury gaming. Stay tuned for potential updates later this year.
Quick Tips & Final Thoughts
- Entry: All public casinos are free to enter with valid ID (passport or driver’s license). Private clubs may require invitations or prior approval.
- Dress Code: Smart-casual in public venues. Private clubs may request formal attire.
- Getting There: Parking is limited across central London. Use public transport or ride-hailing apps.
- Perks: Loyalty programs like Grosvenor One offer benefits in public venues.
Plan Your Night: Interactive Casino Map
Pick Your Casino Experience
From the iconic lights of Leicester Square to the hush of Mayfair salons, London’s casinos reflect the city’s dual personality—open to all, yet layered with exclusivity. Whether you’re chasing cards or cocktails, the night is yours to play.
Want to explore from home first? Check out our top online casinos for trusted platforms that mirror some of London’s best.
