Words: Guy Aubrey Devito
We all enjoy the dignity and austerity of a gentlemen’s club; the old oak paneling, the excellent service and the distinguished clientele. But at the same time they can seem like throwbacks to another age and a discerning, fashionable young gentleman might be dubious about seeking membership at one of these institutions. There certainly are clubs ideal for those in their twenties – they’re cool, atmospheric and they won’t cost you the world.
SOHO HOUSE – FOUNDED 1995
Soho House is a new type of members’ club aimed at young, affluent professionals who work in the arts and the media. Although there are now several ‘houses’ around the world, Soho House in London’s Soho is the original and is a vibrant club, mainly frequented by those in their twenties and thirties. A special membership rate for applicants under 27 is available, though to apply for membership you must be first be nominated by two current members.
ROYAL AUTOMOBILE CLUB – FOUNDED 1897
The Royal Automobile Club or RAC is an example of an old school gentlemen’s club that is actively encouraging younger members to join. It has, as its name suggests, a car inspired theme and still has links to the automotive industry. It has a range of sport facilities at its London headquarters and at its Surrey campus. Members in their twenties will pay a reduced membership fee between £405 and £755 a year (depending on age), as well as an initial entrance fee.
SHOREDITCH HOUSE – FOUNDED 2007
Shoreditch House is one of the Soho House group’s newest ventures and is situated on the top three floors of a converted East London warehouse. It differs from the Soho location in that it turns on its head the concept of what a members’ club should be. The decor is definitively ‘shabby-chic’ and its clientele are the quintessential hipster-cum-media lot that work in the various trendy corporations around Old Street, Dalston and Hoxton.
THE ORIENTAL CLUB – FOUNDED 1824
Based in one of the most elegant buildings in London (Stratford House), the Oriental Club is one of the most prestigious gentlemen’s clubs in the world but it is also attempting to cultivate a younger membership. It offers discounted rates to those in their twenties – if you’re under 25 you only have to pay £175 a year and those between 25 and 29 pay £355 a year. As it’s name suggests it has a connection to Asia, dating back to the days of the East India Company and has a great collection of oriental art and curios.
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