Party with Prince Harry: Royal Clubbing in London
London is a city of excesses; a place where you’ll find the world’s best fashion, food – and nights out. Whilst we can’t deny the appeal of a serene boating holiday, or the allure of a secluded villa somewhere warm, sometimes you need a night out during your holiday that’ll leave you tired – but utterly transformed.
If you’re after an evening you won’t forget in a hurry, your best bet is to choose a club that will treat you like royalty – and that’s been frequented by those of the same name. It won’t be cheap, but it will be fabulous – so if you want to party with Prince Harry, these are the institutions that you should definitely check out…
1. Mahiki
Let’s start with Mahiki. A favourite of Prince Harry and ex-flame Chelsy Davy, it’s also been visited by pop sensations Katy Perry, Diana Vickers and Pixie Lott. Don’t expect to be able to afford a round – the average cocktail in Mahiki costs €14, and an average bottle of wine will set you back over €28.
However, the atmosphere inside Mahiki is wonderfully including, and the Hawaiian-themed decor will ensure that you quickly get into the party spirit. It’s also great for hen parties, so if you’re planning a pre-nuptial bash, this is the place to go. The club can be found just off Piccadilly, at the top of Dover Street, and the nearest Tube is Piccadilly Circus.
1 Dover Street, Mayfair, London W1S 4LD
2. Chinawhite
If you should find yourself near Tottenham Court Road station all dressed up with nowhere to go, your best bet is the much-loved celebrity haunt, Chinawhite. Another favourite with young royals looking to let their hair down, famous clientele include Prince Harry (him again!), and Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice.
London’s ‘most prolific luxury nightclub’ offers elegant Chinese-inspired decor; flattering lighting and comfortable seating reign supreme. Much like Mahiki, drinks don’t come cheap – a glass of champagne will set you back €19 – but you can buy cigarettes here, which saves a run to the nearest off-licence. Just don’t expect to pay under €11.
4 Winsley Street, Soho, London W1W 8HF
3. Boujis
South Kensington-based Boujis has given itself the title of ‘the exclusive private members club in London’ –and with good reason. There is a strict no-photography rule in place, and booked tables come with a minimum spend – so make sure your credit card’s up to scratch.
Prince William, Prince Harry (naturally) and Kate Middleton have all enjoyed an evening out here, so rest assured you’re partying in the crème de la crème of London society. Boujis is known for its excellent music – Basement Jaxx, Will.I.Am and Razorlight have all played sets here, and the club prides itself on working with the best musical pioneers the industry has to offer.
43 Thurloe Street, South Kensington London SW7 2LQ
4. Public
If you’re set on staying in West London on a night out, the Kings Road-based Public is geared towards those ‘who are bored of the usual bland identical faceless bars’. A favourite with young Royals, it’s been frequented by Prince Harry, Princess Beatrice and Pippa Middleton to name a few.
With metallic decor shimmering from top to bottom and a drinks menu that just begs to be worked through, Public aims to make its clientele take a fresh look at clubbing in West London. The drinks here are a bit cheaper – they start at just €9 – and a beer costs €6. The nearest tube is Fulham Broadway.
533 Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW10 0TZ
5. Raffles
Finally, let’s take a look at Chelsea favourite Raffles – celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, it shows no sign of stopping. However, entry here is only guaranteed by membership – and you’ll need that to be proposed for you by a current member.
Don’t be surprised if, upon entry, you find yourself rubbing shoulders with a series of A-listers – Paris Hilton and Prince William have both partied here. The club’s exclusivity means that you can properly relax in its lush surroundings, and it’s open until 4.30am Tuesday – Saturday, so it’s perfect for all those late nights when you don’t want to go home.
287 Kings Road, Chelsea, London SW3 5EW