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Exclusivity in Edinburgh: The 5 Finest Members Clubs You Need to Check Out!
Edinburgh is a city that seamlessly marries historic charm with modern elegance, and its exclusive members clubs are no exception. These establishments are filled with intriguing personalities, unique events, and luxurious perks that set them apart.
Having spent countless evenings mingling with fascinating individuals at various members clubs across the city, I’ve come to truly appreciate the unique allure each one offers.
Whether you’re seeking a home away from home, a prime spot for networking, or simply a place to indulge in life’s finer pleasures, these clubs offer something for everyone.
The New Club
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Website: https://www.newclub.co.uk/
Address: 86 Princes Street
Contact Information: 01312264881 or [email protected]
Operating Hours: Daily: 24 hours
Membership Costs:
- Town Member (that is working or living within 25 miles of the Club) is £1020
- Maximum entrance fee is £1270
*Both subscription and entrance fees vary according to age and, in the former’s case, place of residence.
Membership Benefits:
- Accommodation
- Dining (banquet and private dining)
- Meeting rooms
- And more
Founded in 1787, The New Club is Edinburgh’s oldest and most prestigious private social club.
Originally on St Andrew Square, The New Club relocated to its current home on Princes Street. The building was designed by Alan Reiach and protected as a Category A listed property.
Members of this historic institution enjoy a range of exclusive amenities, including exquisite dining and comfortable accommodations.
Beyond its architectural elegance, the club offers an impressive collection of paintings and decor, creating an ambiance that reflects the distinguished status of its members.
Pro Tip:
Please note that The New Club upholds a strict dress code and high standards of etiquette.
Gentlemen are generally required to wear a jacket and tie in most areas, while ladies are expected to dress in comparable formal attire.
Gleneagles Townhouse
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Website: https://gleneagles.com/
Address: 39 St Andrew Square
Contact Information: 01313223780
Operating Hours: Varies
Membership Costs:
- Under-33 Membership – £1600 plus £150 joining fee
- Gleneagles Member – £2160 (no joining fee)
- Townhouse Membership – £2400 plus £450 joining fee
*Paid annually or monthly, with monthly payment including a 5% surcharge.
Membership Benefits:
- Members events and clubs
- Exclusive members’ only co-working spaces
- Discounts on bedroom reservations
- Priority restaurant bookings and complimentary access to dining areas
- 40 complimentary classes per week on wellness, gym, and spa facilities
- And more
The Gleneagles Townhouse is the perfect members’ club if you’re seeking a home away from home. As a member, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to state-of-the-art wellness facilities, private lounges, and dedicated co-working spaces.
The club hosts a variety of unique events and exciting social clubs, making it an ideal spot for those who love to connect and explore new experiences.
Additionally, The Gleneagles Townhouse features The Spence, an all-day restaurant, and Lamplighters, a rooftop bar offering stunning views of Edinburgh’s historic cityscape.
Pro Tip:
For additional savings, be sure to explore the Offers section on their website, where you can find special promotions and limited-time discounts.
The Royal Scots Club
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Website: https://royalscotsclub.com/
Address: 29 – 31 Abercromby Place
Contact Information: 01315564270 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Members and Guests – Monday to Saturday: 8am-10pm
- Bar food at the Library and Lounge – Tuesday to Saturday: 12nn-2pm
- Abercromby Dining Room – Lunch: 12nn-2pm; Dinner: 6pm-8pm
Membership Costs:
- Town Membership
- Town Membership (living in Edinburgh) – £320 annually plus £140 joining fee
- Town Membership 65+ (living in Edinburgh and over 65 years of age) – £210 annually plus £140 joining fee
- Country Membership
- Country Member (living outside Edinburgh, but in the UK – £225 annually plus £140 joining fee
- Country Member Home Counties (London, Berkshire, Surrey, Kent, Herts, Essex, and Buckinghamshire) – £395 annually plus £140 joining fee
- Country Member 65+ (living outside Edinburgh, and over 65 years of age) – £185 annually plus £140 joining fee
- Overseas Membership (members living outside of the UK) – £205 annually plus £200 joining fee
- Spouse/Associate/Joint Membership (Spouse/Associate/Joint Member second person living at the same address as a full member) – £160 annually plus £200 joining fee
- Monthly Membership (available to members living in Scotland or the North of England (specially those in the counties of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne & Wear and Durham) over the age of 25) – £35 monthly plus UK: £65 joining fee
- Corporate Membership: Details available upon request
- Life Membership: 10x annual subscription
*Life Member must have been a member for at least one year.
Membership Benefits:
- Private members’ lounge
- Accommodation discounts
- Dining discounts
- Members’ library
- Working rooms
- Members’ room rate hires
- Discounts on local businesses
- And more
Founded over a century ago, The Royal Scots Club was established to honor those who perished in the Great War. Originally an all-ranks club, it now embraces an open membership policy, welcoming all, regardless of military service.
For those who enjoy socializing, membership offers exclusive access to a variety of monthly events, some of which are reserved solely for members.
A distinctive benefit of being a Royal Scots Club member is the connection to over 220 reciprocal clubs worldwide. With a simple letter of introduction, members can access these prestigious clubs both locally and globally.
Pro Tip:
When considering membership at The Royal Scots Club, start with a monthly membership to get firsthand experience of the club’s atmosphere, events, and community.
Networking with current members during this time can also help strengthen your application through personal recommendations.
The Potters’ Club
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Website: https://www.thepottersclub.co.uk/
Address: 29-31 Abercromby Place
Contact Information: [email protected]
Operating Hours: Varies
Membership Costs:
- Annual – £115
- Monthly Subs – £25 per month
- Spouse / Partner – additional £50 per person
- Corporate – £300 for 10 persons
Membership Benefits:
- Afternoon tea
- Members’ events
- Dining
- Members’ lounge
- Members’ restaurant and bar
Established over 70 years ago, the British Pottery Manufacturers Federation Club, more commonly known as The Potters’ Club, first opened its doors in 1951 to support the flourishing local pottery industry.
Today, the club welcomes members from all business backgrounds, with no need for a proposal from an existing member—you can apply directly.
The Potters’ Club is particularly renowned for its elegant dining experiences, where guests can savor gourmet meals in a sophisticated setting.
Pro Tip:
The Potters’ Club offers access to a global network of reciprocal clubs, spanning from North America to Asia, allowing you to enjoy exclusive amenities and experiences around the world.
Scottish Arts Club
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Website: https://scottishartsclub.com/
Address: 24 Rutland Square
Contact Information: 01312298157 or [email protected]
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 10:30am-8pm
- Thursday to Saturday: 10:30am-11pm
Membership Benefits:
- Resident (individual) – £55 monthly
- Joint Resident (for two people) – £86 monthly
- Non-Resident (more than 50k from the Club) – £36 monthly
- Joint Non-Resident – £54 monthly
- Overseas – £18 monthly
- Young Member (under 35) – £40 monthly
For art enthusiasts and creatives, the Scottish Arts Club is a must-visit. With a storied history spanning 150 years, this distinguished club offers a vibrant array of events, workshops, classes, and exhibitions centered on the arts.
The club’s programming celebrates both emerging artists and established professionals, featuring talks, performances, and book signings, among other activities.
Members can also participate in specialized groups such as oil painting, mindful crafts, poetry appreciation, and piping. For added enjoyment, the club hosts quizzes and game nights, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all.
Pro Tip:
If you’re hesitant about committing to a membership, we recommend contacting the staff at the Scottish Arts Club to arrange a visit.
This will give you a chance to experience the club first-hand and see if it aligns with your interests before making a decision.
