The tradition of casinos has been a long-standing aspect of British society, providing entertainment, communal gatherings, and the thrill of gambling for many years. Some of the oldest and most storied casinos in the UK are still in operation, with a history that dates back centuries.
Of course, these days the casinos don’t ever get a mention or are barely spoken about due to the shift in casino habits which sees most casino activity being enjoyed online. This is for a number of reasons, with convenience and ease of access being 2 main ones.
But, these venues have hosted members of the royal family, notable personalities, and wealthy gamblers, solidifying their significance within the social framework of the nation. For this reason, we want to share with you some of the British casino culture that many experienced way before online gambling was a thing.
7 Oldest UK Casinos
Here is a list of the top 7 oldest casinos in the UK;
The Clermont Club
The Clermont Club, located in London, is one of the UK’s most iconic and historically significant casinos. It was established by John Aspinall in 1962 and quickly became a popular destination for the wealthy and influential.
The type of audience it attracts comes at no surprise when you realize it’s situated in a splendid Georgian townhouse in Mayfair’s Berkeley Square. The club was renowned for its opulent atmosphere and restricted membership. It attracted prominent patrons, including nobility, politicians, and celebrities.
Despite its tumultuous past, which involved changes in ownership and a brief shutdown, The Clermont Club still stands as a symbol of traditional British gambling sophistication.
I’m sure many of us would have loved to have been a fly on the wall back in the day and witnessed what some of the most authoritative members were gambling with.
Crockfords
Crockfords, located in London, is another well-respected establishment. It was founded by William Crockford in 1828. Originally a fishmonger, Crockford later became a gambling tycoon. Probably not the most common of career paths but hey-ho, he certainly made it worthwhile.
The venue initially served as a gathering place for the upper class to gamble and socialize, which seems to be a common theme with these old casino venues.
Its luxurious décor, including chandeliers, lavish furnishings, and exquisite dining, made it extremely popular among the wealthy. Though Crockfords does not offer bonuses, it is still one of the most prestigious casinos globally.
However, what it lacks in bonuses it has in gaming options. Thus upholding its reputation for exclusivity and opulence. Don’t forget that if you prefer a casino experience that involves bonuses in abundance, then your best bet is going online to websites like johnslots.com/en/ where you can see a list of the best casino bonuses available for you to claim.
The Ritz Club
The opulent Ritz Club is an icon of extravagance and tradition. It is located on the lower level of the renowned Ritz Hotel in London, a place known to many, whether you have been yourself or not. It blends old-world allure with contemporary elegance.
Established in 1978, the casino is part of a hotel with a rich history dating back to 1906. The Ritz Club’s refined ambiance, exceptional service, and superb location have made it the top choice for high-stakes gamblers and celebrities. Despite being relatively new, The Ritz Club has firmly established itself as one of the UK’s most esteemed gambling establishments.
The Casino at the Empire
The Empire Casino, located in the lively Leicester Square in London, was originally established in 1884 as the Empire Theatre. The theater served as a venue for ballet, opera, and cinema. In 2007, it was rebranded as a casino, seamlessly blending the historical value of the building with contemporary gaming amenities.
The Empire Casino offers a wide range of gambling options, catering to both casual players and high-stakes gamblers. Its central location and rich historical atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
This casino is not one closed off to just the rich and wealthy. It appeals to a wider audience and is relatively new in comparison to some of the others we’ve listed. If you find yourself within the vicinity then why not check it out?
The Hippodrome Casino
The Hippodrome Casino in London is a great example of how historic venues can be repurposed. Originally opened in 1900 as a circus and variety theater, it was transformed into a casino in 2012.
The casino seamlessly blends historical architecture with contemporary gaming and stands as one of the largest and most renowned casinos in the UK. It offers multiple gaming floors, bars, restaurants, and a theater.
The casino’s compelling history and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for those with an interest in the UK’s gambling legacy.
Genting Club Queen Square
The Genting Club Queen Square in Liverpool is located just outside of London. It is situated in a beautiful Grade II listed building from the 19th century.
Originally a men’s club, the establishment has been carefully restored to preserve its historical features while offering modern gaming facilities. In this captivating historical setting, the Genting Club Queen Square provides a variety of gaming options, including classic table games, poker, and slot machines.
The Victoria Casino
The Victoria Casino, affectionately known as “The Vic,” is a well-established casino situated on Edgware Road in London. Since the 1960s, it has been a prominent fixture in the city’s gambling community. The casino is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, diverse selection of gaming options, and frequent poker tournaments.
Over the years, The Vic has attracted a loyal following among both casual players and professional gamblers. Its rich history and commitment to providing an exceptional gaming experience have solidified its position as a beloved establishment in London’s casino scene.
Conclusion
The oldest casinos in the UK have more to them than just being a place of wagering. Some of them actually have some pretty cool stories to go with them. Whether it be who they were set up by or what the venues were used for before being a casino.
The fact that some of them were strictly for authoritative members of society shows that perhaps gambling back in the day was not something that any demographic over the age of 18 did in the UK as they do nowadays.
These places are deeply rooted in history and cultural significance. These establishments have transformed over time, adjusting to evolving preferences and fashions while safeguarding their distinctive heritage.
From The Clermont Club and Crockfords with their sophisticated allure, as we mentioned before, to the lively ambiance of The Hippodrome Casino and The Vic, each of these casinos provides a glimpse into the extensive history of gambling in the UK.
It shows to me that there was something for everyone. Each venue had its own feel and vibe to it and you chose which one you wanted to visit based on the experience on offer, which is exactly what we see with online casinos now.
