Inside the 12 Most Exclusive Private Members’ Clubs Globally

These exclusive clubs provide a rarefied world of indulgence and opportunity, whether seeking serenity in the countryside, access to fine dining, or a dynamic social scene. As an Insignia member, we can unlock the doors to these elite clubs, granting you access to a world of privilege reserved for only the most discerning individuals. At The Aman Club in New York, for example, members enjoy access to a lavish wellness centre, complete with treatments that range from traditional massages to cutting-edge health therapies. Other clubs like Soho House have their own signature spas, offering facials, massages, and even holistic therapies to help members maintain their well-being. It’s more than just pampering—it’s about maintaining a luxurious lifestyle of health and balance.
Amenities include a library, theater, opulent dining rooms, private meeting rooms and eleven suites for overnight guests, as well as a gym, spa beauty salon and health bar. Basically, it has everything you need to flourish mentally, emotionally, and physically. Positioned as an “international community of minds, mavericks, and leaders”, Core Club is one of the most sought-after private social clubs in NYC. New York’s arty types flock to Chapel Bar, a members-only club that has also served as the fashionable location for events such as Vogue’s Met Gala after-party.

The best private members’ clubs in New York

But applications are only considered sporadically, and only a select few will be invited to join the ranks. The storied history of Home House dates back to 1773, when Elizabeth, Countess of Home, took ownership of the estate on 20 Portman Square. Two years later, she commissioned renowned neoclassical architect Robert Adam to design the house and transform it into one of the most extravagant private homes in London. It wasn’t a mission he took lightly – the house was adorned with hand-painted ceilings, an imperial staircase and a glass dome, all of which remain preserved today. The club’s exclusive clientele has been built on a foundation of 500 founding members, assembled by Birley with the help of Hugh Warrender, an Old Etonian. Downstairs at 5 Hertford Street is the perennially cool nightclub Loulou’s – named after Birley’s cousin, the YSL muse Loulou de la Falaise.

Club VIDI

Starting off with one of the most iconic names in private members’ clubs, Annabel’s in London is in a league of its own. Founded in 1963, it’s been the go-to spot for the rich and famous, from rock stars to royalty. After a £65 million revamp, the club now boasts some of the most opulent interiors you’ll find anywhere in the world, with every corner designed to impress. Whether steeped in centuries of history or offering the latest in luxury experiences, private members’ clubs continue to be places where being a member truly means something special.
While private members’ clubs aren’t a new phenomenon in New York (the Union Club and the Metropolitan Club have been around since the 19th century), the past few years have certainly seen an increase in openings. From elegantly understated haunts frequented by New York’s real estate royalty to hipster hotspots favoured by the city’s creatives, there’s now a club for just about anyone (as long as you’re on the list). Whether you’re looking to rub shoulders with the city’s elite or simply want a place to sup your wine away from prying eyes, these are the private members’ clubs to know in New York.

• It reopened in 2022 with a slick new club that gives members a backstage pass to the gorgeous 19th-century building.
• The fitness suite offers personal training and spa treatments, while the highest Grand Ballroom and restaurant cater to refined tastes with Michelin-starred chefs like Alfred Portale.
• We aim to facilitate potential introductions as well as opportunities to get more involved with positive impact initiatives and supporting outside organisations.
• As curators of the finest bespoke luxury experiences in London and the world, we make sure to explore and review the best in contemporary luxury so that our readers don’t have to scour the internet.
• Applying for membership is fairly straightforward – you’re welcome to contact the club for details.
• Consider the costs involved, including initiation fees and annual dues, to determine if the club fits your budget.
• With bespoke cocktails, fine wines, and a decadent menu curated by acclaimed chef Athinagoras Kostakos, members are treated to an exclusive culinary journey.

A CLUB FOR SOCIALISING

• Now, Soho House has taken the world by storm, but don’t let its international presence fool you into thinking it’s any less exclusive.
• After a £65 million revamp, the club now boasts some of the most opulent interiors you’ll find anywhere in the world, with every corner designed to impress.
• These lounges are social hubs, where networking with fellow influential individuals happens as naturally as ordering a drink.
• Elevate your journey with us – where mentorships flourish, and growth knows no bounds.
• You’ll find artists, writers, filmmakers, and designers all under one roof, mixing work and play.
• Renowned for its elegant interiors and impeccable service, the club provides a serene and luxurious sanctuary for its discerning members.

After all, the chance to casually meet and mingle with CEOs, artists, and influencers isn’t something you find just anywhere. These events foster a sense of community and also create an environment where members can connect with like-minded individuals who share their interests and passions. The cultural and social scene within these elite establishments is carefully curated to ensure that members have access to high-calibre entertainment and networking opportunities, making the experience truly exceptional. It’s designed to be a social hub for creative minds and business leaders, featuring a rooftop bar, a wellness centre, and luxury suites. Members can also participate in exclusive talks, art exhibitions, and social events that foster innovation and connection. It involves a $100,000 initiation fee and an annual fee of $15,000 to maintain membership privileges.

Exclusive communities

Renowned for its elegant interiors and impeccable service, the club provides a serene and luxurious sanctuary for its discerning members. The ambiance is one of understated opulence, featuring sumptuous lounges, an exquisite bar, and a delightful garden terrace. The club’s commitment to maintaining its heritage, while providing modern luxury, makes it a coveted Private Club destination for those seeking an exclusive London experience. The opulent setting of The Twenty Two beckons an eclectic crowd of well-dressed patrons to its magnificent Edwardian mansion. The Colony Club is still a women-only club (though men are welcome to visit the clubhouse as guests), but otherwise, its membership process is not public information.

It’s the ultimate winter escape for those who want to combine outdoor adventure with five-star luxury. Each of our 23 luxurious bedrooms and suites has a unique story to tell, with original features that include hand-painted silk wallpaper and shimmering gold ceilings. Rosewood Hotel is already the glittering jewel of the Kowloon harbourfront, but it still has another trick up its sleeve. When she’s not getting her way with words, you’ll find her exploring a new city (at quite a walking pace)—locating the nearest sushi restaurant or devouring a book on the beach. Located at Pier 76, a scenic waterfront location on the Hudson River, Classic Car Club Manhattan is one of the most exclusive automotive clubs in New York.

BEST IN LONDON

Mark’s Club prides itself on offering a curated culinary experience, with a focus on fine dining and an exquisite selection of wines. Its prestigious location and refined atmosphere make it a favored rendezvous for the elite, blending tradition with a contemporary flair. The club is known for its exclusive membership, attracting a clientele that values tradition and discretion. Within its walls, members can enjoy refined dining, an array of social events, and impeccably designed spaces perfect for both relaxation and business meetings. Home House is a great place to experience posh parties, wine-tasting events, art exhibitions, and live performances in Marylebone.
Whether you’re lounging by the rooftop pool or hosting a client in the Coworking House Studio, Soho House merges work, life, and play seamlessly. If you find yourself in Tokyo and want a taste of exclusivity, the Roppongi Hills Club is where you’ll want to be. Perched high above the city on the 51st floor of the Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, this private members’ club offers breathtaking views of Tokyo’s skyline. Private members’ clubs have long been the epitome of exclusivity, offering a sanctuary for the elite to gather, network, and unwind. But how did they begin, and how have they evolved to remain relevant in today’s fast-paced world?