The UK has a long history of gambling, in which many Brits love to head over to a casino to try their hand at a local slot game in a pub after work. While brick and mortar casinos have generally declined in the UK over the past decade, the capital city still has a thriving casino scene. From the fanciest venues in South London, to underground speakeasies, there’s something for everyone’s experience level and budget.
Below, we’ll take a look at some of the top casinos in London. However, if you’d like to get some practice in beforehand, this UK list of top online casinos is an excellent resource to get you started.
Maxim’s Casino
Maxim’s casino’s is one of the most sophisticated venues in the capital city, in which it’s best reserved for those fancy occasions where you get out your suit. With more of an exclusive speakeasy feel than a casino, Maxim’s features two floors of intimate gaming rooms where players can get lost in a scene similar to that of a James Bond movie.
If you’re looking for class, maxim’s features crackling fires in grand marble fireplaces, pearwood panelling lining the Victorian walls, and even a grand old library with a striking glass roof. Those who appreciate traditional casino games in a classic setting will love visiting Maxim’s. Even more so, why not hire out a private gaming room for a special function to get even more of an intimate casino experience.
For those who enjoy modernity, there’s no need to avoid Maxim’s. The casino was recently kitted out with a brand-new electronic gaming room that features the very latest slot games and electronic roulette. For those who enjoy themed slot games, you’ll find plenty of the latest in Maxims, in which the games feel more like a video game than a slot machine game as you become immersed in the characters’ world.
Overall, Maxim’s is also in a fantastic location at No1. Palace Gate House. Rumour has it that the venue was even frequented by the likes of Charles Dickens in its prime.
The Hippodrome Casino
Lying in the heart of the theatre district in Leicester Square, the Hippodrome Casino is perhaps one of the most famous in London. With a history of over 100 years, the venue is able to seat more than 180 people and features events from Jazz to Swing, Soul, Burlesque and Cabaret to name a few. The casino itself features a wealth of games, from electronic slots, to roulette, baccarat, craps, poker, blackjack and much more, spread across 3 floors.
What’s more, for those that want to make it an evening out, the casino features a great selection of 6 different bars, as well as a famous steakhouse, serving top class British food.
Empire Casino
Again located in Leicester Square, the Empire Casino is one of the most popular casinos in London. Visitors can find a variety of poker tables, blackjack, roulette and the very latest electronic slot games. For those visiting on a Friday or Saturday night, there’s also a live DJ, adding to the vibrant and authentic environment on offer.
In order to get the full experience at Empire Casino, guests must pay a visit to the fabulous cocktail bar that serves a variety of exciting cocktails. If you’re favourite isn’t on the menu, simply ask and they’ll give it their best shot at making it for you! Later, when you’re ready for a bite to eat, head over to the FuLuShou Asian restaurant for some authentic oriental cuisine.
Aspinalls Casino
Looking for another exclusive and elegant casino away from the crowds? Lying in the heart of the exclusive Mayfair district, Aspinalls casino offers an environment similar to that of a James Bond film. Head over to what looks like an ordinary residential street, where you’ll be whisked inside a grand old Victorian building, complete with chandeliers, silks and velvets lining every corner of the room.
While making its name in the 1970’s, Aspilanns has been visited by the likes of James Goldsmith, the Sultan of Brunei, Tiny Rowland and Adnan Khashoggi. Rumour has it that once a lucky player won as much as £12 million, causing the owners to seek re-financing at the time, although Aspinalls prefer to be discreet about this for good reason.
The popularity of online casinos
While brick and mortar casinos across London still remain highly popular, online casinos have greatly influenced the success of the industry in which their presence has significantly increased in recent years. Thanks to their ease of accessibility, enhanced gaming experience with new interactive features, and impressive graphics and sound, players get to enjoy an experience where the physical and digital world meet through the latest technologies.
Overall, when visiting London, visitors must pay a visit to some of the city’s world class casinos for the most authentic experience. However, if you can’t wait in the meantime, there’s also a wealth of online casinos available to explore straight away.