The most visited casinos for tourists
The United Kingdom, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is not just about royal palaces and picturesque landscapes. It’s also a paradise for those seeking the thrill of the game. From the bustling streets of London to the dynamic scenes of Birmingham, the UK houses some of the most magnificent casinos in the world. Each establishment not only offers a unique gaming experience but also serves as a window into the country’s diverse entertainment culture. Here, we journey through the top five casinos that are a must-visit for any enthusiast or curious traveler.
Empire Casino, London
Located in the heart of London’s Leicester Square, Empire Casino is a prominent gaming destination that spans 55,000 square feet. This casino, owned by the renowned Caesars Entertainment, is housed in a historical Victorian theater, dating back to 1884, which was later converted into a cinema and ultimately into a casino in 2007 after major refurbishments. Open 24/7, Empire Casino caters to a diverse crowd, offering over 100 slot machines, electronic roulette, and video poker games. The gaming experience is spread over two floors, ensuring ample space for players. The casino is particularly noted for its poker room, which provides an exquisite experience for poker enthusiasts. The room features tables dedicated to popular games like No Limit Texas Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha, with tournaments frequently held. The buy-ins for these tournaments range from £58 to £108, attracting both casual players and high rollers.
Genting International Casino, Birmingham
Genting International Casino in Resorts World Birmingham is not just the largest entertainment complex in the UK but also an embodiment of modern casino luxury. Opened in 2015, this seven-storey building covers just under 60,000 square feet of casino floor space. Apart from 100 slot machines, the casino boasts 30 tables for classic games like roulette, blackjack, and baccarat, along with electronic tables. It’s known for its progressive slots where jackpots swell until won. The casino also offers a unique side bet in Blackjack Aces, where players can win substantial sums. The complex extends beyond gaming, featuring shops, restaurants, a spa, a cinema, and a four-star hotel. The Cineworld cinema with 11 screens and a sports bar with live HD coverage of top events adds to the casino’s appeal, making it a comprehensive entertainment destination.
Grosvenor Casino, London
Grosvenor Casino The Victoria, known as The Vic, is a chic gambling establishment located on Edgware Road in London. This casino offers a sophisticated ambiance with two floors of gaming and an exclusive open-air gaming terrace, The Loft, offering splendid views of London. The Vic provides a more intimate gaming experience, with 40 slot machines and a variety of table games including 16 American roulette tables, 12 electronic roulette terminals, 10 blackjack tables, and several tables for three-card poker, craps, and punto banco. The Vic’s poker room is famous for hosting regular competitions with great prizes, offering up to 35 tables for an ultimate poker experience. The casino’s unique layout and stylish setting offer a more personal and private gaming experience, distinct from larger casinos.
Aspers Casino, Stratford
Aspers Casino in London, the second-largest in the city, was a pioneer, being the first to receive a “large” casino license. Opened in 2011, it occupies a massive 65,000 square feet of space and remains open 24/7, except on Christmas day. The casino features over 150 slot machines, 60 gaming tables, and an impressive poker room capable of seating up to 400 players. It offers a wide range of games including roulette, blackjack, punto banco, three-card poker, and casino war. Aspers is notable for its poker tournaments, including unique ones like Road to Vegas and Straight Flush Jackpot, where a royal flush can win a significant portion of a large jackpot. Additionally, the Hold’em Cash Dash is a monthly event for top rake cash game players, competing for a £27,000 cash pool.
Hippodrome Casino, London
The Hippodrome Casino, located in London’s West End, is the largest in the UK, with a staggering 93,000 square feet of gaming space. The building, which opened in 1900, has a rich history, having been a Victorian music hall, a theater, and a nightclub before its transformation into a casino in 2009. The renovation, costing £40 million, preserved its historical grandeur while infusing modern gaming luxury. The Hippodrome features over 30 tables, 97 electric roulette terminals, and more than 100 slots. The casino’s design, with velvet carpets, classic columns, gold ornaments, and contemporary chandeliers, offers a luxurious gaming atmosphere. Beyond gaming, it provides entertainment options like shows at the Hippodrome and dining at the Heliot Steak House. The rooftop terrace, with outdoor gaming and views of West London, adds to the casino’s allure.
Online platforms may offer convenience, but they cannot match the unique experience of visiting top physical casinos across the UK. These establishments stand out not only for their gaming opportunities but also for the comprehensive entertainment experience they provide. Each one has a distinct character, from the historical charm of landmark casinos to the cutting-edge sophistication of newer ones, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
Landmark establishments like The Empire Casino bring historical elegance to the table, while venues such as the Genting International Casino offer a glimpse into the future of luxury gambling. The Hippodrome, with its luxurious ambiance, bridges the old and the new, offering something for every visitor. Whether one is there to play seriously or just to soak in the atmosphere, these casinos promise an immersive experience that combines the excitement of gaming with the height of luxury and a sense of history.
As the gambling landscape evolves, these iconic casinos maintain their status as beacons of the gambling world’s enduring charm. They stand as testaments to the timeless appeal of the gambling experience, blending the thrill of the game with luxurious surroundings and rich history to offer more than just a place to wager. They represent the pinnacle of gambling culture, where every visit is about much more than the games themselves.
