0
0
Gambling is a popular pastime in London. You can find casinos, betting shops and betting offices all over the city. In fact, it’s one of the biggest gambling centres in Europe
In fact with 24 casinos in London alone, you’ll find more places to try your luck than in Paris, Monaco or most other major European cities. So yes, gambling is legal. But it does help to understand some of the laws around gambling in London and the UK too.
If you’re looking for a casino in London or want to know more about gambling laws in the UK then read on…
Gambling Laws in London and the UK
Gambling is legal in the United Kingdom, and regulated by the Gambling Commission. The Gambling Commission is an independent regulator of gambling in the UK. It was formed by the Gambling Act 2005, which brought together all of the gambling laws into a single act.
You must be 18 years old to gamble in any casino or online casino. No, you cannot take your kids into the casino or a betting shop even if it’s just you playing.
You can only gamble at a licensed casino or an online gambling website that has an official UK license from the Gambling Commission.
In the UK you will also spot betting shops dotted along most high streets. Names such as BetFred and Ladbrokes are well known among British people, but they are not the most glamorous locations.
So if you’re looking for the more glamorous side of gambling in the UK, look at some of the most popular casinos in London.
The best casinos in London
The capital of England is a great place to visit with more attractions than some entire countries.
And for fans of gambling, there is even more to see, with several great casinos across the city. If you’re planning on spending some time in London, be sure to check out these casinos:
- The Hippodrome, Leicester Square: One of the most popular casinos due to it’s location in the heart of the city.
- Crockfords Club, Curzon Street, Mayfair: A small and intimate gentlemans casino in Mayfair.
- Grosvenor Casinos, various: There are several Grosvenor Casinos located across London. You’ll find one prestigious option at 101 Knightsbridge in the Park Tower. With views across Hyde Park this is one of the more stunning casinos in town. You’ll also find a Grosvenor Casino at 1 Baker Street, just off Oxford Street, and the Rialto at Coventry Street in Soho
- Empire Casino, Leicester Square: Another centrally located casino, popular with tourists and locals and a spectactular casino in it’s own right. Worth a visit just to take a look around
Conclusion
Gambling in London can be a fun experience, and with some excellent casinos you’re sure to have a thrilling night. For casual gamblers, drop into the Hippodrome or Empire in Leicester Square.
For the more serious gamers, take a look at one of the Grosvenor branches around the city.
Find out which is the easiest gambling game to play in our guide.
