While the spin of the slots and the roll of the dice make up part of the quintessential casino experience, it’s the chips and the cards that have long been the hallmarks of classic gambling. And if you’re looking for in-person thrills to supplement those you get through your favourite PayPal casino or other online casino, London deals out some of the best card game action out there today.
Each borough has its own venues that reflect its unique vibe, like the upscale district of Mayfair or the down-to-earth nature of Stratford. It’s all about deciding what kind of experience you’re after and finding the right establishment to match.
If you want to immerse yourself in the card scene in London, our list features some of the city’s most well-known brick-and-mortar casinos.
The Hippodrome Casino (Leicester Square)
Starting this list is London’s pride and joy—the Hippodrome Casino. The Hippodrome is the UK’s largest and most popular casino and entertainment venue, situated comfortably right by iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.
With over 120 years of history, the venue boasts four gaming floors, a dedicated poker floor, and 24/7 access. You’ll find world-class card table games like blackjack, three-card poker, and baccarat for both casual and seasoned players. As a frequent stop on the UK & Ireland Poker Tour, it’s clear that the Hippodrome is a hot spot for poker, specifically.
Dress code: Despite its glitzy appearance, the Hippodrome doesn’t enforce a strict dress code. People wear anything from a football shirt to a cocktail dress. Just note that if you’re entering the cabaret room or joining a specific event, you might want to put on something smarter.
Hours: 24/7
Casino Extras: Rooftop terrace, restaurants and bars, Magic Mike Live, live performances
Aspers Casino (Stratford)
Aspers Casino is a bustling venue located within the Westfield shopping centre. Because of its location, it has a busy and vibrant environment that touches on just about every aspect of gambling there is. You’ll find a betting shop and a whole host of card game options, including poker, Heads up Hold ‘em, baccarat, three-card poker, and more. On Fridays and Saturdays, the Low Stakes Zone allows inexperienced players to learn the basics of the game and enjoy minimum bets starting from £1.
More experienced poker players can consider signing up for one of the Aspers’ tournaments or joining the Redtooth Poker League and potentially win a trip to Vegas.
Want to have a little fun or take your casino gaming seriously? Aspers Casino caters to both styles.
Dress code: Aspers has a smart-casual dress code, with those wearing caps, hoods, trainers, and other inappropriate articles of clothing refused entry into the casino. Interestingly, those wearing away team shirts on days that West Ham United FC plays are also not allowed into the casino on match days within the casino.
Hours: 24/7
Casino Extras: Live music, swanky Terrace Bar, live sports, restaurants
The Palm Beach Casino (Mayfair)
Many London tourists and residents head to the Palm Beach Casino for exclusive, high-stakes play. The Palm Beach Casino, found in the affluent Mayfair district, is surrounded by luxury properties and world-class restaurants. While the venue doesn’t have as many frills as the others covered on this list, it focuses heavily on its premier gaming offerings. The floor features a blackjack table, three-card poker, TCP Stud poker, and electronic gaming terminals for baccarat, but what sets it apart is its private gaming.
The Salle Privée offers a space to play live table games with a personal croupier. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle, this intimate area provides a more relaxed setting.
Dress code: The Palm Beach Casino has a well-enforced smart casual dress code, with formal business attire often preferred in the evenings. The rules are strict, so be sure not to risk entry and dress to impress.
Hours: 24/7
Casino Extras: The Palm Beach Restaurant for Asian and European fare and the Lounge Bar for drinks and bites.
Grosvenor Casino, St Giles (West End)
With a chain of 53 locations, you can’t go wrong with a Grosvenor Casino. Dotted around the city, each venue boasts a unique atmosphere and a reliable experience. One of the favourites in London is the newly refurbished St Giles branch, which features a traditional and well-rounded casino scene offering table card games like blackjack, three-card poker, and punto banco (baccarat).
The Grosvenor is most suitable for a laid-back casino outing without the pressures of a posh environment or a room packed with professional players.
Dress code: Although Grosvenor Casinos is a chain, patrons are still required to wear smart casual or classic business attire. Those wearing sneakers, tracksuits, and other clothing deemed unsuitable for the casino environment will be denied entry.
Hours: 24/7, live gaming open from 12 pm to 6 am daily
Casino Extras: Sports viewing area, restaurant, bar and lounge
Grosvenor Casino, Victoria
Known fondly as ‘The Vic’, this historic Grosvenor Casino is best recognized for its new state-of-the-art Slots and Electronics lounge, Card Room, and modern gaming floor. It’s a must-visit if you’re a poker fan or want to get into the game because of the casinos’ long-standing focus on a quality poker experience. The venue is committed to dealer training and has London’s largest and longest-running card room.
Dress code: Guests are required to wear smart casual or classic business attire. Those wearing ripped jeans, tracksuits, dirty trainers, sunglasses (even in the poker room), and other unsuitable articles of clothing will be denied entry.
Hours: 24/7
Casino Extras: The Loft outdoor gaming area with big screens and rooftop dining, and an indoor restaurant
