90 YEARS OF THE LANSDOWNE CLUB | CELEBRATING WITH A SPECIAL EVENTS SERIES
Tuesday 10th June 2025
Club Exterior | Image credit: The Landsowne
In the heart of Mayfair, tucked behind Berkeley Square, lies a quietly iconic institution that has been a pillar of London society for nearly a century. The Lansdowne Club, housed in a magnificent Grade II* listed building, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year - an extraordinary milestone that honours its past while embracing the future.
Founded in 1935, The Lansdowne Club made history as one of London’s first private members’ clubs to welcome men and women as equals - a revolutionary ethos for the time and one that continues to define the Club’s inclusive spirit. Its home, Lansdowne House, boasts an architectural lineage shaped by the legendary Robert Adam, built originally for the 3rd Earl of Bute and later acquired by William Petty Fitzmaurice, 1st Marquess of Lansdowne and British Prime Minister (1782–1783).
Lansdowne Library | Image credit: The Lansdowne Club
This is no ordinary address. The Treaty of Paris, which ended the American War of Independence, was drafted in what is now the Club’s Round Room Bar. In 1904, the Entente Cordiale was signed here, and the famed chemist Joseph Priestleywas under the patronage of Lord Shelburne when he discovered oxygen—an event that quietly changed the course of science, with roots right here in Mayfair.
The house later became home to Gordon Selfridge, the trailblazing founder of Selfridges, whose lavish 1920s parties added glamour to the Club’s legacy. Today, the Club’s two resident cats, Harry and Rose, are charming tributes to Selfridge and his wife Rosalie.
The Lansdowne Club | Image credit: Justin De Souza
A Private Club Like No Other
Members of The Lansdowne Club enjoy access to London’s only private club salles d’armes, a 25-yard Art Deco swimming pool, and a cocktail bar with a grand piano salvaged from the RMS Queen Mary. But beyond its exquisite facilities, the Club offers something even rarer: a true sense of community in the heart of the capital.
Under the stewardship of David Herbert, CEO and Club Secretary, The Lansdowne Club continues to strike a balance between timeless tradition and contemporary relevance. “The Lansdowne Club has always stood for excellence, inclusivity, and the enduring spirit of London,” says Herbert. “Our 90th anniversary is a promise to continue evolving while preserving the elegance and charm that have defined us since 1935.”
The Pool | Image credit: The Lansdowne
To mark its 90th anniversary, the Club is hosting an elegant programme of events throughout 2025. Highlights include:
The Lansdowne Literary Festival, featuring conversations with leading cultural figures such as Mark Hedges, Editor of Country Life.
A fascinating Historic Archive Exhibition, displaying rare documents, photographs and artefacts from the Club’s past.
A lavish 1930s White Tie Ball, with a period-inspired four-course dinner.
A special luncheon honouring long-standing members (those with 50+ years of membership), complete with shared stories and the awarding of a bespoke 90th anniversary medal.
A talk and dinner event exploring the rich history of Lansdowne House, hosted by The Lansdowne Arts Group.
A private behind-the-scenes tour at Sir John Soane’s Museum, home to Robert Adam’s original architectural drawings of Lansdowne House.
A Place to Stay at The Lansdowne | image credit: The Lansdowne
This anniversary is not just a celebration of what has been, but also a vision for what’s to come. As part of its legacy renewal, the Club has unveiled plans for a refined refurbishment, fusing classical architecture with modern enhancements to ensure The Lansdowne Club remains one of London’s most relevant and refined private clubs for generations to come.
For a personal introduction to the membership team, please click here.
The Lansdowne Club, 9 Fitzmaurice Place, Mayfair, London W1J 5JD
