When it comes to the world’s greatest luxury casinos, you could be forgiven if your mind drifted instantly to the bright lights of Vegas or the opulence of Macao. Considering these two destinations are home to some of the highest concentrations of high-end, land-based casino resorts in the world that report eye-watering revenue figures every year, it makes sense that they are two of the biggest hotspots for big spenders, and attract some of the world’s most renowned high rollers as well as a host of celebrity guests.
Nonetheless, they aren’t the only casino destinations in the world to have plenty to offer players with money to burn and nerves of steel, and the UK, too, holds plenty of appeal. Despite often being underrated, there are currently over 130 casino premises currently operating across the country, with gaming revenue estimated to exceed £15.5 billion.
Online casinos, too, have become immensely popular, accounting for roughly 40 percent of this – and with sites like britishgambler.co.uk making it easy to find the best websites and apps to play through, it’s perhaps little wonder it has taken off to quite the extent it has. Online gaming became particularly popular during the two years of lockdown restrictions that came with the global pandemic, and new sign-ups remain higher than ever – but still, there’s no denying the allure of a traditional, bricks-and mortar casino, and now that they have opened their doors to the public once again, the glitz and glamour is more tempting than ever for many.
Perhaps one of the main reasons the UK offers such a vast and varied casino gaming scene is due to its relaxed gambling laws, which places it streets ahead of many nations and states where it’s still either prohibited, or heavily restricted. And if you think about it, it really isn’t that surprising it has so much to offer high-rollers – you need only remember the number that have featured in the iconic James Bond film franchise – which has made a total of 25 007 flicks since 1962 – and it’s clear that the UK has always been an attractive spot for whales eager to indulge in traditional games like poker, roulette and baccarat.
With so many high-end casinos to choose from on British soil, the options when it comes to a night of gaming are plentiful – so where exactly are the best spots for high-rollers to play? Here, we take a look.
The Hippodrome Casino
The biggest casino and entertainment venue in the entire country, the Hippodrome can be found adjacent to the city’s bustling Leicester Square, and is a cornerstone of West End life in the capital. Boasting an impressive 45 live table games and over 100 slots, this international-style casino might be located in the UK, but it feels as though you’ve just stepped straight onto the Vegas strip, with four levels of entertainment including an 180-seat theatre and cabaret area, a string of opulent bars and world class dining options.
Open 24/7, its central location ensures that it’s as popular with jet-setting high-rollers who are just passing through as it is with local high-flying businessmen and women, and with a host of celebrity guests known to have attended over the years, as well as excellent VIP and loyalty schemes, which shower the biggest spending players with perks and gifts, its allure is as strong today as it ever was.
The Empire Casino, Leicester Square
Just a stone’s throw away from the Hippodrome is the opulent Empire Casino, where an affluent crowd gathers in the evenings to play classic games like blackjack and baccarat and place eye-watering wagers while they do so. Home to one of the best casino rooms in all of London, here you can be certain of a buzzing atmosphere, and there’s always a lively crowd around the roulette wheel.
With round the clock cash games and poker tournaments happening throughout the year, the experience is world class – and while there’s no denying it’s a glamorous establishment, a smart-casual dress code means it’s a welcoming spot for spontaneous visitors, too.
Grosvenor Casino Leo, Liverpool
For those venturing a little further north for their gaming fix, Liverpool is home to one of the best casinos in the region. The Grosvenor Leo enjoys a privileged location just adjacent from the city’s famous Royal Albert Dock, and as well as plenty of table games and slots, is home to two lavish cocktail bars which offer spectacular views down over the River Mersey. A popular spot amongst Texas Hold’Em poker fans, it also offers a host of modern twists on classic games and plenty of digital and video options, too.
Please gamble responsibly (18+ UK) – check age restrictions before participating
