Ever wondered what secrets lie behind those discreet double doors? Welcome to the Groucho Club a legendary London institution.
This isn’t just any members’ club. The Groucho Club opened in 1985. It quickly became a haven for creatives. Think writers journalists actors musicians and artists. Its name a cheeky nod to Groucho Marx’s famous quote about not wanting to belong to any club that would have him as a member. This rebellious spirit defined the Groucho from the start.
The early years were wild. Jeffrey Bernard the Spectator’s infamous Low Life columnist was a regular. He famously fell asleep on a grilled turbot his reading glasses covered in tartare sauce. The club’s bathrooms became notorious for more than just powdering noses. Rumours of hedonism and high jinks regularly escaped those Dean Street doors. Britpop stars and Young British Artists (YBAs) frequented the club in the 1990s. Damien Hirst even famously stashed his \u00a320000 Turner Prize money behind the bar.
The Groucho Club wasn’t just about revelry. It was also a hub for serious conversations and collaborations. It fostered a unique atmosphere a blend of creativity and camaraderie. The club boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art curated by its longest-serving employee. Nicki Carter a Goldsmiths graduate started collecting artwork in the 1990s. This collection which continues to grow reflects the club’s eclectic history.
Ownership changed hands over the years. In 2022 Hauser & Wirth a renowned art firm bought the Groucho Club. This acquisition cost \u00a340 million. This signaled a new chapter in its history. But the club’s recent license suspension hints at a more complicated present.
Today the Groucho Club stands as a testament to London’s creative spirit. Its walls hold countless stories of laughter mischief and artistic genius. While its most hedonistic days may be behind it the Groucho continues to attract a vibrant membership. It remains a place where creativity and conversation collide a truly unique London landmark.