Is There a Dress Code for Casinos in London?

London’s casino scene blends glamour, heritage and a touch of modern luxury. From the exclusive elegance of The Ritz Club and The Clermont to the buzzing energy of Grosvenor Casinos and The Hippodrome, every venue has its own style and atmosphere.

Many first-time visitors wonder what to wear. Is a suit and tie still expected, or are smart jeans acceptable? Below, we explore casino dress codes in London and answer your most common questions about what to wear for an evening at the tables.

The London Casino Scene: Where Style Still Matters

Casinos have long been associated with sophistication and presentation. They are not just places to gamble but also social settings designed to impress. Whether you are heading to a private members’ club or a more relaxed venue, looking polished is part of the experience.

Formalwear is no longer compulsory, but most London casinos expect guests to maintain a smart, well-groomed appearance. A good rule of thumb is simple: if you would wear it to a nice restaurant or upscale bar, it is probably suitable for the casino floor.

Do People Dress Up to Go to Casinos?

In general, yes, people do make an effort when visiting London casinos, especially during evenings and weekends.

At prestigious venues such as The Ritz Club, The Clermont Club or Aspers Stratford High Roller Room, guests often arrive in tailored suits, cocktail dresses or eveningwear. These outfits reflect the exclusivity and elegance of the surroundings.

Meanwhile, venues such as Grosvenor and The Hippodrome tend to attract a more relaxed crowd. Smart-casual attire is the norm, with blazers, crisp shirts and polished shoes creating an effortless yet refined look. Dressing up may not be mandatory, but it certainly enhances the sense of occasion and helps you feel part of the experience.

Do You Have to Dress Nicely at Casinos?

Although tuxedos and gowns are not required, a neat, presentable look is expected in almost every London casino. These are premium entertainment venues where atmosphere matters, and casual or scruffy clothing can feel out of place.

Here is a quick guide to what works well:

✅ Smart-casual attire such as shirts, blouses, dresses, chinos or dark jeans
✅ Smart shoes or minimalist trainers kept clean and in good condition
✅ Simple accessories like a watch or subtle jewellery

And what to avoid:

❌ Sportswear or tracksuits
❌ Football shirts, hoodies or baseball caps
❌ Flip-flops or sliders
❌ Torn or distressed jeans

The goal is to create a stylish, comfortable look that complements the venue. Most casinos are flexible, but they do reserve the right to refuse entry if your outfit is too casual.

Can I Wear Jeans in a Grosvenor Casino?

Yes, you can. Grosvenor Casinos allow jeans as long as they are clean, smart and free from rips. The official dress code is smart-casual, meaning there is no need for a tie or jacket.

Pairing jeans with a shirt or smart top and polished shoes works perfectly. If you are visiting one of the central London branches, such as The Victoria or The Park Tower, consider dark jeans and a blazer for a slightly more elevated look. These venues often attract a well-dressed crowd, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.

London Casino Dress Codes at a Glance

To make it easier, here is how some of the city’s best-known casinos approach their dress codes:

As you can see, smart-casual is the consistent expectation across the board. The emphasis is on being tidy, stylish and comfortable rather than formal.

Style Tips: What to Wear to a Casino in London

Getting the balance right between comfort and sophistication makes all the difference. A little preparation ensures you look appropriate without feeling overdressed.

For Men

• Opt for a tailored shirt or polo with chinos or dark jeans.
• Add a blazer or light jacket for structure.
• Choose leather shoes or designer trainers that are clean and understated.
• Avoid sportswear, large logos or anything too casual.

For Women

• A chic dress, jumpsuit or smart co-ord works beautifully.
• Pair with heels, ankle boots or sleek flats depending on the venue.
• Accessorise with statement earrings or a clutch for polish.
• Choose comfortable fabrics so you can move easily throughout the evening.

If your plans include a members’ club or a high-end Mayfair venue, step up your look with cocktail attire or tailored eveningwear. You will blend in effortlessly with the stylish crowd.

Why Dress Codes Still Exist

Some might wonder why casinos continue to uphold dress codes in an increasingly casual world. The answer is simple: atmosphere. A smartly dressed crowd contributes to the sense of glamour that defines the casino experience. When everyone looks their best, the evening feels more exciting and refined.

Respect also plays a role. Casinos are premium establishments that take pride in presentation. Guests who arrive well-dressed show respect for both the venue and their fellow players. It is part of the unspoken etiquette that makes the environment enjoyable for everyone.

Looking the part can even influence confidence. Walking into a gaming room in an outfit that feels sharp can elevate your posture, mindset and overall presence — an advantage that might be worth more than a lucky hand.

Final Thoughts

So, is there a dress code for casinos in London? Yes, but it is flexible. Most follow a smart-casual policy, meaning guests should appear neat, stylish and confident without needing full formalwear.

At relaxed venues such as Grosvenor, jeans are perfectly acceptable if they are clean and well-fitted. For high-end clubs like The Ritz or The Clermont, formalwear remains the standard. Whichever you choose, dressing with a little intention ensures you feel comfortable, confident and ready for an evening of entertainment.

London’s casino culture is about far more than cards or chips. It is about atmosphere, sophistication and style. With the right outfit, you will not only fit in but also elevate your entire experience — because in this city, looking sharp will always be your best bet.