It’s been the year of the private member’s club, but oh – which one to choose? From a wellness retreat inspired by adventure, to an under-the-radar treasure that lets members train with chess grandmasters, here’s our guide to the best of the new bunch and their joining fees, some of which are lower than you might think.
The Ned
This monolithic members-club-cum-hotel occupies a former Midland Bank in the heart of London’s financial district. With nine – that’s right nine – restaurants, this is a great choice for foodies. The Ned has two pools, including a hammam-style retreat on the lower levels and an infinity pool on the roof. The pièce de résistance is The Vault – an exclusive members’ bar hidden behind an original 2-tonne safe door. This is perfect for those who like their experiences big and bold.
Membership at The Ned starts from £1,500 per annum, with a £250 joining fee for under-30s / for over-30s: £3,000 pa, plus a £1,000 joining fee. Discounts are available to Soho House Group members.
The Curtain
The latest project from hotelier Michael Achenbaum combines several exciting elements under one roof, including Red Rooster from celebrity chef – and friend of Obama – Marcus Samuelsson. Its Southern-inspired menu and Sunday gospel brunch bring a slice of Americana to London’s East End. There’s also The Curtain’s louche late-night members’ lounge Billy’s Bar, live music space LP and a leather-clad screening room to name just some of the amenities on offer. This is one for the big kids.
Membership at The Curtain starts from £1,000 pa, with a £250 joining fee.
Chess Club
Hidden in the heart of Mayfair, this quirky little club gets the simple things right. There’s great food from celebrity chef Jackson Boxer, with a world-class menu of cocktails and vintage spirits. Not surprising as Chess Club is the latest project from Experimental Club, whose portfolio includes Chinatown’s Experimental Cocktail Club and Henrietta Hotel. Inspired by the classic board game, members are welcome to train with a grandmaster once a week. This is the thinking person’s choice.
Membership at Chess Club starts from £350 pa, with no joining fee for under-30s / £450 pa for over-30s, plus a £200 joining fee.
South Kensington Club
Inspired by the spirit of adventure, this club combines elements of different cultures from around the world. There’s a real focus on wellness, with a saltwater watsu pool, (not just one, but two) Russian banyas and a Turkish hammam. Christina Franco – one of the world’s foremost female explorers – is on hand to help guests plan their own once-in-a-lifetime trip and there are fireside chats hosted in its colonial-style drawing room. This is one for the wild-at-heart.
Membership at South Kensington Club starts from £2,750 pa, with a £500 joining fee for under-30s / for the over-30s it’s £3,500 pa and a £1,000 joining fee.
Devonshire Club
Hidden away behind one of East London’s busiest streets, the Devonshire Club and hotel is a luxury oasis for the city’s high flyers. The Brasserie serves Mediterranean cuisine and sushi presided over by executive chef Oliver Lesnik (Claridges and The Connaught), while three distinctly different bars ensure no one goes thirsty. With no less than 12 Louis XIII cognac cabinets, which members can own for a mere £4,000 per year, the club exudes luxury. This is one for the big-spenders.
Memberships at the Devonshire Club starts from £2,000 pa, plus a £2,000 joining fee.
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meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
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Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
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