Membership in a high-society club is the ultimate stamp of exclusivity. Such clubs go beyond a simple congregation of mutual interests – a shoe-in to such clubs means enviable access to exclusive events, premiere establishments, and a star-studded book of contacts.
The Best Private Members Clubs in Mayfair
Mayfair has long been the stronghold of London's elite. As such, it is home to some of the most impenetrable private member clubs. Read on to discover the most exclusive private member clubs in Mayfair .
Annabel’s
Founded in 1963, Annabel’s is one of London’s most elegant and exclusive clubs. It’s known for its ostentatious decor, prestigious events, and wild all-nighters. It has a jaw-dropping roster of members, including Lady Gaga, Anna Wintour, and Leonardo DiCaprio. A playground for the richest of the rich, it is famous for being the only club Queen Elizabeth has ever visited.
Set in a Georgian townhouse, it was designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studios. The walls are draped in silk wallpaper and sculptured bronze lamps. The ladies' washroom has been described “as the most beautiful room” ever beheld by the visitors.
The dress code encourages people to revel in shimmery partywear. Anything remotely shabby or unfashionable, such as ripped jeans or sandals, is not permitted. Photography on the premises is strictly forbidden.
Annabel’s is nearly impossible to get into. One needs to be referred by a member to buy membership in the club. If you're invited to join by an insider, membership at Annabel’s will set you back £3343 every year with a £1230.85 joining fee. Unforgivingly restrictive, non-members will most likely never see the interiors of this flamboyant paradise.
The Arts Club
Set in a charming five-storey townhouse on Dover Street, the Arts Club is a homage to the arts, literature, and sciences. A haven for the creatively inclined and literarily engaged, figures like Charles Dickens, Auguste Rodin, and Charles Halle were integral to the foundation of this club. Actresses Gwyneth Paltrow and Kim Cattrall are active members of The Arts Club.
Over the years, it has built a reputation for being an intellectual sanctuary, hosting exhibitions and panel discussions. Its art collections, curated by Wedel Art, form the soul of this club. Its permanent collection, sprinkled throughout the premises, features Tomas Saraceno, John Baldessari, and John Stezaker. Temporary collections are showcased in the Drawing and Ante rooms. Lanserhof, London’s foremost wellness clinic, and a state-of-the-art gym also form part of the club.
Its eight large bedrooms, paired with 24-hour butler service, penthouse suite, oyster bar, nightclub, and Japanese restaurant are other accessories of the Arts Club. Clad in boastful chandeliers, rich drapes, hand-painted walls, and plush furniture, the Arts Club is certainly decked out to be a getaway for the creatively powered.
Membership in the club will entitle you to utterly unique and gate-kept experiences and bespoke goods. One can apply to be a member if they have an interest in the arts. Membership costs £2461 per year, exclusive of the £1,969 joining fee. Membership to the Lanserhof will add another £318 to your bill per month.
George
Located on Mount Street, George is known for its iconic navy blue frontage and Mayfair’s largest heated outdoor terrace. George boasts intricately tiled mosaic interiors, delicious Mediterranean bites, and a canine-friendly atmosphere. Guests are welcomed by the club’s resident dachshund, named George.
A lavishly ornamented door will whisk you into an idyll world of life’s finer things, such as pretty pastries, mirrored ceilings, legendary artwork, and designer paraphernalia. A luscious red room clad in velvet furniture is occupied by a theatrical bar that is famous for its Mediterranean-themed cocktails. Dogs are also treated to a five-star menu – the “dog caviar” is a favourite.
David Hockney’s artwork adorns the establishment. The striking bronze sculptures of Dachshunds and German Shepherds were crafted by Jill Berelowitz. The club’s love for the four-legged creatures is further testified by its affiliation with The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, which aims to support dogs and survivors of domestic abuse. Membership in George can be obtained through an application form. The annual membership cost is £3200, plus a £1,723 joining fee.
5 Hertford Street
Colloquially known as 5HS, the club has been described by many as one of London’s most secretive clubs, closely affiliated with Britain’s Conservative Party members. Former Cabinet Minister Nadine Dories wrote her book, The Plot, at this club. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife, Akshata Murty, have been spotted here. According to some sources, 5HS was the location of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s first date.
Maroon doors swing open to a winding staircase, which leads members to an obscenely opulent basement. Glimpses on social media reveal extravagant walls, clusters of flowers, bright lights, sparkling mirrors, and stately woodwork. Its brimming luxury is obscured by the discretion surrounding it. Membership is highly exclusive. One needs two letters of reference from existing members, after which there is an interview stage. Membership at 5HS starts at an annual rate of £1,772.
AllBright
Founded by Viviane Paxinos, AllBright aims to empower women professionally. AllBright resides in a townhouse in Mayfair and provides women with spaces to unleash their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Here, you will be on friendly terms with female industry leaders and CEOs. Moreover, talks, groups, and panel discussions are designed to arm women with invaluable resources. There are also spaces to unwind, such as rooftop dining spaces, a bar with tantalising cocktails, and a salon.
There are different membership plans based on one’s career progression. Membership for an enthusiastic self-starter is priced at £1,949 annually. A senior executive would be charged £6,735 per year.
Nikita
With its signature scarlet walls and sultry atmosphere, Nikita’s enticing affairs are shrouded in mystique. Known for its glamorous wild nights behind thick curtains, what happens at Nikita, stays at Nikita. The club and its members are tight-lipped about events at Nikita. A low-lit Haussmannien flat, Nikita has an old-world Parisian charm and serves ample buttery caviar. Champagne, wines, and delicious cocktails reflect the club’s suave.
It is neighboured by its sister restaurant, Mr. Nice. Apparently, Mr. Nice is connected to Nikita via a secret tunnel. Membership in Nikita costs £984 per year with a £147 registration fee. A joint membership is priced at £1,476 annually.
Maison Estelle
Maison Estelle is set in an old Georgian townhouse. The club is known for its plethora of bars, as well as its restaurant and nightclub. However, there are virtually no details about the private member club. Its unassuming website simply bears a simple inquiry form and contact details. Maison Estelle interiors’ elegance is matchless. Excess, luxury, and unbridled freedom thrive behind its old walls. However, the biggest perk is the privacy the club grants its members. Celebrities worn out by the spotlight could possibly unwind here.
Maison Estelle treats its covert profile very seriously – those who manage to walk through the club’s doors are ordered to place a sticker on their phones’ cameras. While its membership fee and alumni are unknown, Gordon Ramsay and Idris Elba have been spotted leaving the premises.
Access to some of these clubs is a near-impossible feat. They are unapologetically selective and veiled in secrecy. If you want to experience the sheer heights of decadence and prestige, it’s time to leverage your book of contacts.
