Crockfords (est. 1828)
The modern image of a casino probably brings to mind a few different ideas. Firstly, there are the online deals offered by comparison sites like oddschecker, which connect players to convenient internet platforms for an optimal experience. Secondly, there are the massive physical casino lobbies with aisles of slot machines and vast floors full of table games.
But there’s an older image of the casino—one that is a bit more austere than today’s offerings of online sites that prioritize convenience and large casinos that focus on kitschy nights out. The historic casino was a place of refinery for the upper echelons of society. Locations like the Casino di Monte Carlo in Monaco and the Casino di Venezia in Venice stood out for centuries as elevated gaming halls. But the old guard hasn’t totally been lost. In fact, serious players in London have one of the oldest and most exclusive options when it comes to playing a game like roulette, poker, or baccarat. Enter Crockfords, a former gentleman’s club that is preparing to celebrate its bicentennial in 2028.
St. James Street Circa 1823…
Before Crockfords became London’s most exclusive casino, it functioned as an all-around gentleman’s club. Though considered one of the finest locations in the UK, the original Crockford’s, established in 1823, wasn’t an immediate success. The club first opened in 1823… then closed its doors again in 1845.
During its original twenty-two-year stint, Crockford’s was a rough-and-tumble locale where members could game with friends, including founder William Crockford. Though designed with opulence and intrigue in mind, the club also employed two of London’s greatest chefs, Charles Elmé Francatelli and Louis Esutache Ude.
The club soon soared in popularity. To expand, Crockford tore down four houses to transform the club into a palace. But, by 1845, the business closed down. Its doors didn’t open again until 1874, at which point it was converted into the Devonshire Club, which also focused on gaming.
However, financial trouble in the 1970s spelled disaster for the Devonshire Club. Like the original Crockford’s, it closed its doors for good—this time, in 1976.
The Unofficial Successor
It’s important to note that the modern Crockfords isn’t located on St. James Street where the very first club was founded. In fact, the current establishment isn’t even located in the palace constructed under William Crockford. Instead, it’s located on nearby Curzon Street—and its owners have no official affiliation with the original club.
Still, that doesn’t mean that the modern Crockfords casino isn’t carrying the torch for the original club. In fact, it proudly tells its members that it was founded back in 1828, and maintains a strict dress code and membership policy. The club is for serious players and requires all members to dress in smart tuxedo attire.
Open 7 days a week from 6 pm until 6 am, it’s designed for small social gatherings, high-stakes tables with experienced players, and a discerning attitude when it comes to décor and menu offerings. It’s also home to some of London’s biggest gaming losses. Back in 1999, Australian media tycoon Kerry Packer allegedly lost £11 million here… though it wasn’t his first or last loss at the tables.
Crockfords Circa 2022
With two hundred years of history, an austere approach to table games, and a membership requirement, Crockfords isn’t for the new or average player. However, it does keep its doors open to anyone. So long as you’re dressed the part, Crockfords lets new members sign up with only an ID.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all inside. The club only offers classics like roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and poker. It prioritizes high-stakes games for high rollers and VIPs, who have access to private clubs within Crockfords, like the London Room and its Penthouse Suites.
Clearly, the location is open to the public… but it’s not serving up entertainment like the typical modern casino. If you’re looking for a more historical, social, and extravagant approach to gaming, then Crockfords won’t disappoint—especially if you have a healthy bank roll.
