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Tucked behind a discreet façade on a quiet street in Mayfair, Lansdowne Private Club offers a unique retreat in one of London’s most historic neighbourhoods. Its entrance – marked not by bold signage but by a subtle emblem – signals membership to those familiar with its reputation.

Its long been a sanctuary for the elite – a place where deals were sealed over fine cognac, and the air whispered with intrigue. Within these opulent walls, Winston Churchill once dined and debated, his cigar smoke curling through rooms that have witnessed everything from clandestine wartime strategies to the birth of art world movements.

If walls could talk

Commissioned in 1761 by John Stuart, third Earl of Bute, and designed by neoclassical architect Robert Adam, the building stands as a rare example of refined Georgian architecture. Adam’s signature “lighter touch” is apparent in the curved walls, domes, and elaborate plasterwork – a marked departure from the heavier Georgian houses of the late eighteenth century. Notably, the structure boasts an impressive 18th-century ballroom that has served as the backdrop for many significant historical moments.

Historical records suggest that in the Round Room cocktail bar, Benjamin Franklin had a hand in drafting parts of what would become the Treaty of Paris in 1782 – a document fundamental to American independence. The club also counts literary icon Charles Dickens among its past visitors, and in the 1920s, Harry Gordon Selfridge, the American pioneer behind Selfridges department store, even resided here temporarily.

Since its transformation into a modern private members’ club in 1935, Lansdowne has maintained a policy of inclusivity uncommon among traditional clubs. Both men and women have been welcome since the club opened its doors – a progressive stance that set the tone for its enduring legacy.

Art Deco elegance

Inside, the club offers a setting that speaks to both its historical significance and its commitment to contemporary comfort. The interiors feature a blend of deep-hued velvet settees, moody lighting, and a carefully curated art collection that spans both emerging talents and established masters.

The library, with its richly panelled mahogany walls, has been a quiet meeting place where many a significant conversation – and perhaps even a novel’s first draft – has taken shape. The bedrooms, nod to golden Twenties Art Deco, are a pleasure to dawdle in.

The Club is home to a tempting selection of bars and restaurants; from the Art Deco Dining Room and Piano Bar, to the al fresco Courtyard Brasserie, historic Round Room Cocktail Bar, or the relaxed Aqua Bar. Each of the menus have been expertly crafted by Executive Head Chef Henry Brosi to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients.

Beyond the cigar lounge

One of the main advantages of the club is its leisure facilities, namely an inviting 25-yard pool, four squash courts, gym, and London’s only private fencing salle d’armes – a nod to traditions as enduring as the club itself.

Golfers can hone their skills in the club’s cutting-edge Trackman simulator, while a Hiro Miyoshi salon and wellness treatments, including physiotherapy and massage, ensure members can unwind in style.

There’s even a billiards table, said to be once graced by Winston Churchill, offering a tangible connection to the legacy of British history.

Dressing the part

Elegance is at the heart of The Lansdowne Club’s ethos, and its strict dress code reflects this. Members and guests are expected to uphold a refined standard, ensuring the club maintains its timeless atmosphere.

Daywear is smart casual – think collared shirts, tailored trousers, and formal dresses or skirts. In the evenings, the dress code is more formal: jackets and collared shirts for men, with ties encouraged; and cocktail or evening attire for women. Sportswear is permitted only in designated fitness areas, and trainers or denim are not allowed in the club’s main spaces.

This attention to detail preserves the club’s sophisticated charm, creating a setting where tradition and style are always in fashion. With that said, the strict dress code has gradually softened over recent years, but there’s still posters on the wall showing what’s allowed and what’s forbidden.

The furry royals

Rounding out the club’s distinctive character are two well-known residents, Harry and Rose, a pair of cats adopted from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. Their names pay homage to the club’s rich history – Harry is named after Harry Gordon Selfridge, the founder of Selfridges, who resided at Lansdowne House from 1921 to 1929, and Rose honours his wife, Rosalie.

Harry and Rose are often seen lounging in the club’s elegant spaces, adding a touch of warmth and charm to the refined atmosphere. Their presence has become a delightful aspect of daily life at The Lansdowne, embodying the club’s unique blend of tradition and comfort.

More information about the Lansdowne Club can be found here.

 

Image credits: © The Lansdowne Club