The glitz and glamour of a night at the casino is something that many high-rollers simply can’t resist, and the chance to place eye-watering wagers in opulent surroundings invariably keeps them coming back for more.
Although there’s no denying that the online casino has been experiencing a moment of late after a dramatic surge in popularity during the global pandemic and resulting lockdowns, there’s just something about a traditional land-based establishment that can’t be matched, and in the UK, English capital London remains a favourite hot spot for jet-setting luxury casino enthusiasts from across the globe.
With this in mind, it’s unsurprising that the casino scene in the city continues to evolve and grow, with one of the most exciting recent developments being news that the prestigious Park Land Club in Mayfair has recently completed a multi-million-pound revamp of its entertainment suite.
While there are many traditional casinos in the Big Smoke that have been notable names for decades now, the industry knows all too well the importance of adapting and moving with the times in order to retain a high-net-worth customer base, and offering the best gaming facilities, service and VIP perks is essential to keep their attention.
The Metropolitan Casino is a prime example, and opened its doors on December 1 to much excitement amongst the gambling community, both locally and further afield.
The Park Lane Club has been established at 22 Park Lane since 2014, having long sought to offer an exclusive gaming experience with a Middle Eastern twist, and has become known as a sophisticated, hospitality-focused venue positioned to appeal to the district’s highest earners. A ‘members only’ policy has seen many a keen gambler’s application for annual membership rejected over the years, prohibiting them from entering the casino – and it’s something that has only served to make it even more highly sought-after.
Six months ago, Metropolitan Gaming purchased the venue, and a dramatic refurbishment has followed, and while the Metropolitan Casino hopes to retain the air of exclusivity the Park Lane Club has always exuded, it has also become more accessible to the masses and is now open to the general public. It’s a controversial decision, and one that is unlikely to go down quite so well with its former members, but for the casual gambler, it can only be good news.
In fact, the move follows a more widespread trend across the gambling industry over recent years, and while exclusive casinos like the Casino Monte-Carlo in Monaco have held onto their prestige by retaining strict dress codes and limiting guests, others have been moving in the other direction to make popular casino games like Roulette, Blackjack and Poker accessible to all.
Casino capital Las Vegas, in Nevada, USA, is a prime example of this, and while opulent resorts like the Bellagio, the Venetian and the Wynn still offer lavish suites and impeccable service and facilities, an open-door policy has seen the number of gamblers entering their casinos surge.
However, in Europe, the focus on exclusivity and luxury has largely remained a focus, with considerably fewer venues operating these days and with a focus on quality customers over quantity. And, while the Strip’s ostentatious venues continue to bring in eye-watering amounts of revenue annually – hitting around $7.07 billion in 2021 despite the ongoing restrictions of the global pandemic – it’s those establishments that have remained true to their opulent roots that continue to attract the highest rolling gamblers of all.
The Metropolitan Casino, it seems, could be set to achieve the perfect balance – although whether or not this is truly possible remains to be seen. Open from 2pm to 6am daily, it now offers free membership to those who apply, with acceptance all but guaranteed – but its sumptuous surroundings and the lavish environment it offers remain intact.
Offering up all of the traditional casino favourites as well as a number of slot machines, as well as a stylish heated terrace and an upscale Art Deco-inspired restaurant, it has all the trappings of a great success. And, while the world’s whales might suddenly find themselves having to share the space with more guests than they are used to, a generous VIP programme is likely to keep them sweet.
And ultimately, more gamers equals more revenue for the Metropolitan Club – if only it can walk the line between exclusivity and accessibility without falling to one side or the other.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
