Casino culture has deep roots in London.
In this age of online slots and live streaming poker it’s important to look back on how gaming became a big part of nightlife and entertainment for adults in the British capital.
It all started after the Civil War in the 17th century.
Informal London casino houses began attracting the aristocracy and wealthy merchants.
These establishments offered games such as faro, a card game of French origin, and hazard, an early dice game that evolved into modern craps.
In the genteel society of the time Chelsea Bun Houses became notorious venues.
These were town houses where casino games blended with lively male social gatherings.
The Gaming Act of 1710 introduced taxes, but casino gaming still thrived in clandestine circles, especially in wealthier parts of the city.
The rise of London’s gentlemen’s clubs
By the 19th century, casino gaming shifted into more exclusive venues: clubs in Mayfair and St James’s.
These clubs provided private, luxurious spaces where the upper class could casino game.
White’s Club, formed in 1693, was originally a chocolate house that became a centre for gaming.
The White’s Betting Book recorded wagers which might involve personal duels or betting on events like raindrops racing down windows.
Brooks’s Club (1764) also served as a major social hub, favoured by prominent figures like the Prince Regent – later King George IV.
Whist and Macao, a precursor to modern baccarat, were among the games played.
Legalization and the birth of modern London casinos
The Betting and Gaming Act of 1960 was a pivotal moment.
It legalised casinos with strict licensing supervision.
This move sorted out illegal gaming dens, creating a regulated and safer casino environment.
London saw the rise of iconic casinos during this time, including:
The Clermont Club (Mayfair): Founded in 1962 by colourful John Aspinall, the Clermont Club epitomized exclusivity. It attracted celebrities, royals and tycoons.
Its lavish setting and strict dress code symbolized the elite world of London casino gaming.
Crockfords Club (Mayfair): Originally established in the 1820s by William Crockford, it was revived as a luxury casino.
Today Crockfords remains one of London’s most prestigious casinos, catering to wealthy players from around the globe.
The Ritz Club (Piccadilly): Situated in the basement of the world-famous Ritz Hotel, the Ritz opened as a casino in the late 20th Century.
It became a favourite of international high rollers before closing in 2020.
The 1968 Gaming Act allowed casinos to expand, allowing more games like roulette, blackjack and poker.
Modern casinos and online influence
London’s casino industry grew further under the Gambling Act 2005.
This allowed casinos to advertise.
It was the beginning of high-end, tourist-friendly venues alongside established clubs.
Key modern London establishments now include:
The Hippodrome Casino (Leicester Square): Originally a theatre, the Hippodrome was converted into a casino in 2012.
It offers not just gaming but live performances, bars and restaurants.
Empire Casino: Also in Leicester Square, it combines a vibrant atmosphere with accessible gaming options.
Aspers Casino (Stratford): Opened in 2011 as the UK’s first super casino, Aspers provides a more relaxed experience, with over 150 slot machines and dozens of gaming tables.
At the same time, the rise of online casinos has reshaped the landscape.
This has also created a new generation of casino lovers.
London’s brick-and-mortar casinos remain attractive venues, especially to those seeking a social or luxurious experience.
London’s casino culture
London’s casinos have consistently influenced the city’s cultural and social life.
From aristocrats gaming in parlours to high-tech super casinos catering to tourists, the city remains a key gaming destination.
Today, casinos contribute significantly to the city economy, driving tourism and providing thousands of jobs.
They also maintain London’s reputation as a global entertainment capital.
The future of London casinos
The casino landscape in London is experiencing significant shifts.
Physical casinos are expanding to include luxury accommodations, fine dining and entertainment.
This trend aims to attract a broader clientele.
Meanwhile the popularity of live online casino games is rising.
Games like live roulette, blackjack and poker are providing the social aspects of casinos from the comfort of home.
But they are also generating an appetite for more real casino visits.
The future of London’s casino industry, both physical and online, depends on technology advances, customer expectations and global trends.
Augmented and virtual reality could bring immersive gaming experiences to real casino floors.
London’s physical casinos will continue to shift focus from pure casino gaming to premium experiences.
Expect combinations of private gaming rooms, five-star dining and high class entertainment that can’t be found anywhere else.
Picture credit: Free to use from Unsplash
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