The Hippodrome, London

The Hippodrome, London

London is full of fascinating experiences, and we’ve covered everything, from some of the more relaxing ones, such as the Thai Square Spa and charming dining experiences, in the form of Le Petite Chef. In this piece, we’re touching more on action, and specifically, at one of the city’s most impressive entertainment venues, The Hippodrome. Located on Lisle Street at the edge of Leicester Square, it is primarily known as one of the city’s top casinos. Inside, however, it’s so much more.

As with any self-respecting casino venue, the Hippodrome excels at fine dining and cocktail options. There are three primary on-site bars: the Havana Club Terrace is a Cuban-inspired third floor open-air bar that cultivates a sunny outdoor feeling even on gloomier afternoons. The Heliot Cocktail Bar is on the first floor and feels almost like an upscale hotel lobby bar, with sports on screens, plenty of open space, and an excellent drink menu. Lastly, the Heliot Lounge is a comfortable, quietly attractive and exclusive space where you can have a cocktail and socialise on a comfortable couch.

The establishment offers a 24-hour menu of prime dishes available at all times, the star of the show is Heliot Steak House. This is a 100-seat fine dining restaurant with an impeccable modern menu offering excellent views over some of the principal gaming areas in the casino below. A few years ago it was voted the best steak in London, and it has since been referred to as a ‘carnivore’s heaven‘.

As for the actual casino, it’s big, bright, and enjoyable. As one of the largest casinos in England, the Hippodrome is home to over 40 games (like roulette, blackjack, poker, and even dice), as well as a huge selection of slots and electronic, arcade-style games. It manages to blend the traditional with the classy in a way few casinos can pull off, and has gained enough popularity to inspire its own online gaming spinoff. A game selection based on The Hippodrome is available online and actually does a decent job of capturing the same vibe. But the real venue is about as good as they come.

The Hippodrome doesn’t stop at gaming where on-site entertainment is concerned. It also has in-house theatres that host all kinds of activity, from screenings of NFL games to comedy and burlesque shows and interactive talks with celebrity figures. You can’t always predict exactly what will be on at the casino, but there’s always something, and with some careful planning you can be sure to find a show you’ll enjoy. It’s a great way to begin or end an evening, especially if you’re also checking out one of the bars and/or the casino floor.

All in all, it’s one of the more enjoyable venues in London to spend an evening at. The casino itself is wonderful, and yet to think of The Hippodrome as just that, is to sell it short.

Hippodrome Casino

hippodromecasino.com

Cranbourn St, London WC2H 7JH

 020 7769 8888

Instagram: @hippodromecasino