Betting Big in the Big Smoke: London’s Best CasinosBy Angelica Malin
London is one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant city destinations and receives more than 21 million international visitors each year. There is a rich variety of cultural and entertainment activities to do in this city, whether it’s visiting museums, catching a show in the West End or enjoying a glamorous night out at one of its casinos. In fact, London is one of the top locations in the world for casino gaming. There are a number of venues, each with their own quirks and features, spread out across the city. Here are just five of the casinos that visitors to London should take a trip to:
The London Hippodrome, Cranbourn Street
First in the list is the grand London Hippodrome, a standout feature in London’s West End. A former theatre, this venue now has five floors of casino gaming. On the ground floor is the Grand Casino with an array of table games including poker, blackjack, baccarat and roulette.
You will also find a selection of electronic slot machines located here. While online providers have a bit more freedom when it comes to various game themes like the Eureka Blast Slot Machine, people flock to The London Hippodrome to soak up the atmosphere while they play.
At the top of the venue is The Gods, this exclusive space features the only Dice Table in the entire city. Below, there is also Lola’s Casino with a chilled speakeasy vibe. Between games you can grab a bite at the venue’s Steak House or drinks at one of the bars.
The Hippodrome is also home to the famous Magic Mike Live.
The Empire Casino. Leicester Square
Open 24 hours a day, seven days of the week, The Empire Casino is also near the West End district. It is a welcoming, relaxed venue with a smart casual dress code. The busy gaming floor has everything you could need, including blackjack, American roulette, punto banco and slots.
Poker fans can venture into the free to enter poker room. There is a jam packed schedule of tournaments and a monthly cash race.
If you fancy a break from gaming, head over to the King Sports Bar. All high demand games and matches are on TV here, you can even reserve a seat ahead of time. Food and drinks can also be brought to your table, with an American themed cuisine and special match day menu to enjoy.
Crockfords, Curzon Street
Based in a beautiful historic building, the exclusive members only Crockfords Casino is situated in the affluent area of Mayfair. The venue was opened in 1828 and has two private VIP rooms, a high stakes gaming room and the main gaming floor.
Games on offer include baccarat, poker, roulette and blackjack. Formal wear is required here, with suits and tuxedos expected – no jeans or sportswear. You can also enjoy fine wines and quality cuisine in the opulent ballroom and restaurant.
Maxims, Palace Gate
A stone’s throw from Kensington Gardens is Maxims Casino. This venue is based within the grand Victorian Palace Gate House. This is also an exclusive members only club that is known for its high stakes games.
You can enjoy all the typical casino games here, including baccarat, blackjack, multiplayer poker roulette and three card poker. Private poker parties can also be arranged here in the Dickens card room.
Between 7pm and 3am, visitors can dine at the international restaurant with Chinese, European and Middle Eastern cuisine. There is also a whiskey bar openly daily for a quiet drink between game sessions.
Aspinall’s, Curzon Street
Lastly, also worth visiting during your time in London is Apinall’s casino in Mayfair. This is a truly luxurious casino near to Hyde Park with a very elegant feel to it.
There is the main gaming floor with all the games you could want, followed by six private rooms for high stakes games. Their highly trained chefs are tasked with providing an international fine dining experience in the casino’s restaurant.
You will notice the giant Elephant figure when you enter the venue, this is a nod to the casino’s history and the White Elephant Club from the 1960s. Celebrities and royalty would visit here for an exclusive dining experience when invited.
A formal dress code is also enforced at Aspinall’s and a paid membership is required for gaming.
