Garrick Club, London

This is a club, which means that the bar may be only open to members.

Named after David Garrick and founded in 1831 as a venue where actors and men of refinement could meet on equal terms, as at that time actors were not considered very respectable! Past and present members include those from the acting profession plus the literary, legal, Government and visual arts worlds. The club currently has a membership of around 1300 and there is a long waiting list.

The Clubhouse was designed by Frederick Marrable and was purpose-built; the club moved into it in 1864. The building houses a superb collection of paintings and other theatre-related artworks. In addition there is a library, roof terrace, cards room, and billiards room.

The club offers membership to gentlemen-only, although women are welcome in most parts of the building. This policy has of course proved increasingly controversial in recent years and it was reported at the end of 2023 that the policy was under review.