When the sun finally decides to grace London with its presence, there’s a collective sigh of relief and an immediate urge to find the nearest patch of outdoor bliss. Now, imagine that patch of bliss is several storeys up, complete with a glistening pool and a view that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. We’re talking about London’s exclusive private members’ clubs, those havens of cool that offer a slice of the high life – quite literally! If you’ve ever dreamt of sipping a cocktail, poolside, while gazing out over the iconic city skyline, then this one’s for you.
Let’s dive into some of London’s best private clubs where the pools are as breathtaking as the panoramas.
The Hotspots for a High-Rise Dip
London’s private club scene is legendary, and for good reason. They offer an escape, a place to network, relax, and increasingly, to take a rather fabulous swim. Here are some of the top contenders where the rooftop pool is the star of the show:
The Curtain Club
Nestled in the heart of ever-trendy Shoreditch, The Curtain boasts a gorgeous, Moroccan-inspired rooftop pool and restaurant called LIDO. It’s a year-round affair thanks to its retractable glass roof, meaning you can bask in the summer sun or enjoy a steamy swim with city views even when the London weather is doing its, well, London thing. The vibe is cool, creative, and undeniably Shoreditch.
Ned’s Club
Housed in a stunning former Midland Bank headquarters, The Ned is all about grandeur and scale. Ned’s Club members get access to a spectacular rooftop space with a heated pool offering 360-degree views across London. Imagine floating in the pool, cocktail in hand, with St. Paul’s Cathedral practically within touching distance. It’s an experience that screams old-school glamour meets modern luxury. They also have an impressive indoor pool and spa if you fancy a change of scenery.
180 House
Part of the Soho House family, 180 House is located in a striking Brutalist building on the Strand. Its rooftop pool is a real showstopper, offering incredible south-facing views over the Thames, the London Eye, and Parliament. The design is chic and contemporary, reflecting the creative buzz of the club. It’s a place to see and be seen, all while enjoying a refreshing dip high above the city bustle.
White City House
Another gem from Soho House, White City House is set in the iconic former BBC Television Centre in West London. The rooftop pool here offers panoramic views stretching from Wembley to the Shard. With its retro-meets-modern Sixties-inspired interiors, it’s a super stylish spot to unwind. There’s also an indoor pool in the basement if you prefer.
More Than Just a Swim
These clubs offer more than just a place to perfect your backstroke and strut in your new men’s designer swim shorts. They are social hubs, workspaces, and wellness destinations all rolled into one. Think state-of-the-art gyms, luxurious spas, exclusive events, and, of course, fantastic food and drink options. Membership often grants access to a global network of clubs too, which is a rather nice perk.
The exclusivity means these rooftop pools are rarely overcrowded, offering a more serene and sophisticated experience than your average lido.
It’s about escaping the city while being right in the heart of it, enjoying unparalleled views and a sense of belonging to something a bit special.
So, if you’re looking to elevate your London experience, quite literally, then exploring membership at one of these exclusive clubs could be your ticket to poolside paradise.
