London’s casino scene isn’t just about slot machines and roulette wheels-it’s a full-night experience
If you’re looking for more than just a quick spin at a betting shop, London delivers high-energy casino nights that blend luxury, live music, and elite dining. Forget the dull, smoke-filled rooms of the past. Today’s top casino venues in London are sleek, social, and designed for people who want to enjoy the full spectrum of nightlife-drink in hand, music thumping, and the thrill of the game close at hand.
The Crockfords Club: Where high rollers meet hidden elegance
Open since 1938, The Crockfords Club sits in Mayfair like a secret whispered among the wealthy. It’s not a flashy casino-it’s a members-only sanctuary with velvet booths, polished mahogany, and dealers who’ve seen it all. The minimum bet at the baccarat tables starts at £500, and the blackjack tables run even higher. This isn’t for casual players. It’s for those who treat gambling like fine dining: slow, intentional, and unforgettable. The dress code is smart casual, but most guests wear tailored suits or evening gowns. You won’t find a single slot machine here. Just live dealers, quiet conversation, and the occasional clink of champagne flutes.
Aspers Casino Westfield: Big, bright, and built for the crowd
Located inside Westfield London in Shepherd’s Bush, Aspers is the most accessible casino in the city. It’s open until 2 a.m. on weekdays and 4 a.m. on weekends, making it a favorite for post-theater crowds and young professionals. With over 400 slot machines, 40 table games, and a dedicated poker room, it’s the place to go if you want variety without the formality. The bar serves cocktails until closing, and the food menu includes gourmet burgers and truffle fries. On Friday nights, DJs spin in the main lounge area, turning the casino floor into a hybrid club-casino. You can win £10,000 on a penny slot one minute and dance to a live set the next.
The Hippodrome Casino: Glamour, shows, and late-night energy
Right in the heart of Leicester Square, The Hippodrome isn’t just a casino-it’s an entertainment complex. The main gaming floor has 200+ machines and 35 table games, but the real draw is the nightly live shows. From cabaret performers to magic acts and stand-up comedians, the theater hosts top-tier talent every night. After midnight, the casino transforms into a nightclub with a dance floor, LED lighting, and a bar that stays open until 5 a.m. The VIP area offers private roulette tables and bottle service. It’s the only place in London where you can watch a burlesque show, win big on blackjack, and then dance until sunrise-all under one roof.
Flamingo Club: The retro-chic hotspot for younger crowds
Opened in 2023, Flamingo Club is the new kid on the block that’s already stealing the spotlight. Located in Soho, it’s designed to feel like a 1960s Miami lounge meets modern club culture. Neon signs, mirrored ceilings, and pink velvet booths give it a bold, playful vibe. The casino floor features classic games-blackjack, roulette, craps-but with a twist: you can play with £5 minimum bets. The crowd is mostly 25-35, and the music leans toward disco, house, and retro pop. The bar serves signature cocktails like the “Golden Roulette” (vodka, elderflower, gold leaf) and “Lucky 7” (gin, citrus, sparkling wine). They also host weekly poker tournaments with buy-ins starting at £20. It’s the perfect spot if you want to gamble without the stuffiness of Mayfair.
London Club Casino: A hidden gem in the City
Tucked away in the financial district, London Club Casino is quiet during the day but comes alive after 8 p.m. It’s a favorite among bankers, lawyers, and traders who want to unwind without the tourist crowds. The gaming floor is intimate, with only 12 tables and 80 machines. The blackjack tables have favorable rules: dealer stands on soft 17, double after split allowed. The house edge is among the lowest in the city. The bar offers single-malt whiskies and craft beers, and the kitchen serves steak tartare and truffle risotto until 1 a.m. It’s not loud, it’s not flashy-but if you know how to read the cards, you’ll know this is where the smartest players go.
What to expect: Rules, dress codes, and tips for first-timers
London casinos have strict rules, but they’re easy to follow. You must be 18 or older to enter, and ID is checked at every door. Most venues require a valid passport or UK driver’s license. Dress codes vary: Crockfords and The Hippodrome expect smart attire-no flip-flops, shorts, or hoodies. Aspers and Flamingo are more relaxed. Always bring cash or a debit card; credit cards are rarely accepted for gambling. Some casinos let you cash out chips at the bar, others require you to go to the cage. Tip dealers only if you win big-it’s not expected, but appreciated. And never chase losses. The best players walk away when they’re ahead, even if it’s just £50.
How to plan your perfect casino night in London
- Decide your vibe: Do you want luxury (Crockfords), energy (Hippodrome), or affordability (Flamingo)?
- Check opening hours-some close at midnight, others stay open until 5 a.m.
- Book a table in advance if you want blackjack or roulette during peak times.
- Set a budget: £100-£500 is typical for a night out. Stick to it.
- Combine your casino visit with dinner. Most top venues have Michelin-starred or upscale restaurants.
- Use the London Underground after midnight-many casinos are near Tube stations.
What’s new in 2025: Tech, apps, and loyalty perks
This year, every major London casino rolled out a mobile app. You can now reserve tables, earn loyalty points, and get real-time bonuses through your phone. At Aspers, you get a free cocktail after 30 minutes of play. At Flamingo, members get free entry to all live shows. Crockfords offers private chauffeur service for members who spend over £1,000 in a night. And for the first time, London casinos now accept crypto deposits-Bitcoin and Ethereum are accepted at Aspers and The Hippodrome.
Where to go after the casino closes
Most London casinos close between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., but the night doesn’t have to end. The Hippodrome’s rooftop bar, The Sky Lounge, stays open until 6 a.m. with DJs and skyline views. In Soho, bars like The French House and The Eagle remain open all night with live jazz and cheap whiskey. If you’re in the mood for something quieter, head to The Wolseley for 24-hour coffee and croissants. And if you’re feeling lucky, the 24-hour betting shops on Oxford Street still have lines at 4 a.m.-some people swear the odds are better after midnight.
Why London’s casino nightlife stands out
Unlike Las Vegas or Macau, London’s casinos aren’t isolated resorts. They’re woven into the city’s fabric-next to theaters, museums, and historic pubs. You can visit a 19th-century gambling den, then walk 10 minutes to a modern club with a neon roulette wheel. The mix of old and new, high-stakes and low-key, creates a nightlife experience you won’t find anywhere else. It’s not just about winning. It’s about the atmosphere, the people, the music, and the moment.
Are London casinos open 24 hours?
No, most London casinos close between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., depending on the venue. Aspers Casino and The Hippodrome stay open until 4 a.m. or 5 a.m. on weekends. Crockfords and London Club Casino close earlier, usually by midnight or 1 a.m. Always check the specific venue’s website before heading out.
Can tourists play in London casinos?
Yes, tourists are welcome at all licensed London casinos. You must be at least 18 years old and show a valid passport or government-issued ID. No visa or special permit is required. Most venues accept foreign credit cards for food and drinks, but cash or debit cards are preferred for gambling.
Is it safe to gamble in London casinos?
Yes, all licensed casinos in London are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission. They follow strict rules on fairness, security, and responsible gambling. Cameras cover every table, dealers are trained to spot problem behavior, and self-exclusion programs are available. If you feel you’re losing control, ask for help at the front desk-they’ll connect you with support services.
What’s the minimum bet at London casinos?
It varies by venue. At Crockfords, minimum bets start at £500 for baccarat. At Aspers and The Hippodrome, you can play blackjack for £5. Flamingo Club offers £5 minimums on most tables. Slot machines range from 10p to £5 per spin. Always check the table sign before sitting down.
Do London casinos have dress codes?
Yes, but they differ by location. Crockfords and The Hippodrome require smart attire-no sportswear, hoodies, or flip-flops. Aspers and Flamingo are more casual. London Club Casino is relaxed but prefers neat clothing. When in doubt, dress like you’re going to a nice restaurant.
Can you win real money at London casinos?
Absolutely. All licensed casinos in London pay out real cash winnings. You can cash out chips at the cage or use them for food, drinks, or hotel stays. Some venues allow you to transfer winnings to your bank account via bank transfer or PayPal. The average player walks away with £100-£500 after a night out, but big wins do happen-especially on progressive slots.
Final tip: Don’t just gamble-experience it
The best casino nights in London aren’t about the jackpot. They’re about the clink of glasses in a velvet booth, the buzz of a live dealer calling out ‘red 17,’ the way the lights dim when the music starts. Whether you’re a high roller or just curious, London’s casino scene offers something real-something you can’t get from an app or a website. Go with an open mind, a clear budget, and a willingness to enjoy the moment. That’s the real win.