Private members’ clubs have always had their place in British life – quietly prestigious, slightly elusive and deeply rooted in tradition. But today, these clubs are experiencing a revival. With the pace of life accelerating and more of our time spent in public or online spaces, there’s a renewed appeal in places that offer privacy, community and a bit of breathing room.
For some, a club means tennis courts and long summer lunches; for others, it’s a space for getting through emails without the buzz of a café. Either way, the appeal is simple – good spaces, good service and a sense of belonging that's increasingly rare in a city this fast. Unlike the formality of old-school institutions, many clubs today are adapting and offering better access, updated facilities and a stronger focus on wellbeing, flexibility and social connection.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up five of the most interesting and well-established private members’ clubs in and around South West London.
The Hurlingham Club
Often described as a country club in the city, The Hurlingham Club is one of the UK’s most iconic private members’ clubs and it looks the part. The Georgian-style clubhouse is set across 42 acres of manicured lawns along the Thames and feels a world away from central London, despite being just a short journey from Chelsea.
Founded in 1869, Hurlingham has long been associated with sport and leisure. Lawn tennis and croquet are all part of daily life here and the facilities are as polished as you’d expect. The Hurlingham Club's event calendar is a highlight of London's social season, with the Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic, scheduled for 24–28 June 2025, featuring games between top-ranked players ahead of Wimbledon.
However, it’s not just about sport as members also enjoy a range of dining and entertaining spaces, from the elegant Main Restaurant serving seasonal British and European cuisine to the relaxed Garden Room and Pavilion Bar, perfect for meals or drinks overlooking the polo grounds. It’s also a venue for private events, with beautifully appointed spaces suited to everything from weddings to corporate gatherings.
Membership at Hurlingham Club is selective and often comes with a waiting list, but once admitted, it’s one of the most impressive clubs to be in, anywhere in the city.
The Sloane Club
Tucked just off Sloane Square, The Sloane Club is a well-established private institution with a history that spans over 100 years. It first began life as a service women’s club and has since evolved into a hub for Chelsea locals and those who regularly travel to the area for work or leisure.
The Sloane Club is entering a new chapter, with the addition of a wellness suite, expanded dining and bar areas, a retractable-roof terrace, dedicated workspaces and beautifully refurbished rooms – all designed to honour the building's heritage while elevating the experience. Members can enjoy a variety of dining spaces, from all-day classics at Helena’s and its terrace to cocktails at the lively Demob Bar, quiet moments in The Library, and private dining in the elegant Lady in Black. Opening later this summer, Venus – The Sloane Club’s signature restaurant – will showcase the best of land and sea, alongside the Wren Room, a refined space for intimate gatherings.
One of the biggest draws here is the accommodation, the club has 66 bedrooms with luxurious en-suite bathrooms and bespoke fittings, making it a convenient base for those living out of town. Membership options are available for individuals, couples and families, with annual fees starting from £1,950 and exclusive rates for members under 35.
Chelsea Arts Club
Chelsea Arts Club leans into a different kind of legacy – creative, bohemian and slightly eccentric in the best possible way. Founded in 1891 by artist James McNeill Whistler, it’s long been a gathering place for painters, writers, musicians and other working creatives and is owned by its Members and operated on their behalf.
The building itself – a wisteria-covered house just off the King’s Road – is adorned with art, character and personality. A bar, a garden and a full calendar of exhibitions, performances and themed parties complete the offering.
The club’s kitchens are open daily and offer casual bites in the Billiards Room, from light dishes and pub-style classics, to more refined fare in the Dining Room with a set Artist’s Menu, full à la carte selection, plus an extensive wine list. Membership is open to anyone working in the arts and while there’s a review process, the emphasis is on passion and engagement rather than status. A completed Proposal Form is needed from all parties, and there is currently a waiting list for the election.
Roehampton Club
Established in 1901, Roehampton Club is one of London's most exclusive private members’ sports and leisure clubs, situated on 100 acres a stone’s throw away from Richmond Park. Known best for its immaculate 18-hole golf course, award-winning tennis facilities and spa, the club offers a welcome sanctuary for its members. Membership categories mainly fall into golf and/or tennis and permit members to use the Health Club – gym and swimming pools, along with all games and facilities also available. With a waiting list and a strict application process, potential members are encouraged to visit for a Club Tour and upon making the decision to join, they should submit application forms, a registration fee and supporting paperwork.
The Conduit
Though technically located in Covent Garden, The Conduit draws much of its membership from South West London – particularly those with a focus on sustainability, impact and conscious business. It was originally founded in 2018 as a space for social entrepreneurs, activists and forward-thinking professionals and that ethos runs through everything; from the sustainably designed interiors to the programming, which includes talks, workshops and cultural events that tackle global issues. A relatively new entrant among London private members clubs, The Conduit offers a range of membership options starting from £1,215 per year, plus a £475 joining fee. Rates vary based on age, location, access times and whether the applicant works in the non-profit sector.
These clubs all offer something different, however, they have one thing in common – they become a place to slow down, connect and enjoy this corner of London. Whilst some of them lean heavily into tradition, others embrace change, but at their best, all these clubs offer exclusivity, connection, purpose and a space that feels like your own.
