London’s casino scene offers a diverse range of venues, from historic buildings to modern entertainment spaces, inspiring curiosity and excitement about exploring different options.
Whether you’re interested in trying your hand at poker, enjoying an evening of roulette or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a stylish gaming venue, London has plenty of options to explore. Many of the capital’s casinos offer more than gaming alone, with restaurants, cocktail bars and live entertainment creating a broader night-out experience.
With so many venues to choose from, finding the right casino for your evening comes down to the atmosphere, games and facilities you’re looking for. Some stand out for their historic architecture and extensive entertainment options, while others are known for their poker rooms or more exclusive settings. To help you decide where to go, here are five casinos in London worth knowing about, each offering a different experience.
The Hippodrome Casino, Leicester Square
Few venues make an impression quite like the Hippodrome Casino. Housed in a Grade II-listed building that opened in 1900, it underwent a £40 million restoration before becoming a casino in 2012. Spread across several floors, it combines gaming tables, slot machines, restaurants, bars and a rooftop terrace overlooking Theatreland. It also has a dedicated PokerStars LIVE room, making it a notable destination for poker enthusiasts. Its central location makes it easy to incorporate into a West End evening.
Empire Casino, Leicester Square
For a lively atmosphere in the heart of London, Empire Casino is another option. Its extensive gaming floor features roulette, blackjack, poker and all the best casino games, alongside bars and an Asian restaurant. The venue also has dedicated areas for different gaming experiences, including a poker room. With Leicester Square right outside, it is conveniently placed for anyone looking to combine a night of entertainment with the surrounding restaurants, cinemas and theatres.
Genting Casino Stratford
East London offers another option at Genting Casino Stratford, located in Westfield Stratford City. Its large gaming floor features slot machines, table games, and poker facilities, while the wider shopping complex offers plenty of dining and entertainment options before or after. The venue also has a sports betting area, a lounge and a rooftop bar with views towards the Olympic Park. Excellent transport connections make it a practical choice for an evening away from central London.
Grosvenor Victoria Casino, Edgware Road
Often known as The Vic, Grosvenor Victoria has a long-standing reputation among London’s poker community. Its dedicated poker room hosts cash games and tournaments, while the main gaming floor offers slots, electronic roulette, blackjack and baccarat. It also has a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor terrace. For visitors looking to explore London’s established poker scene, this venue deserves a spot on the list.
The Palm Beach Casino, Mayfair
If you prefer a more refined setting, The Palm Beach Casino offers an alternative in the heart of Mayfair. Its gaming selection includes American roulette, blackjack, baccarat and poker, with Texas Hold’em and Omaha among the poker options. The venue also features a restaurant serving international cuisine and a bar, making it suitable for those who want to combine gaming with dinner and drinks.
Planning your London gaming night carefully can enhance your experience; explore these venues responsibly and enjoy the capital’s vibrant nightlife.
Each location has its own personality, from the Hippodrome’s scale and entertainment offerings to The Vic’s poker-focused atmosphere. The best choice depends on the kind of evening you have in mind, as well as the location and facilities you prefer.
Before visiting, check the venue’s current opening hours, entry requirements, and any membership or dress-code rules to help you feel prepared and in control of your experience.
Most importantly, set a budget before you play and treat gaming as entertainment, not a way to make money. With a little planning, London’s varied venues can offer a different perspective on the capital’s nightlife.
