Jonathan Thomas 
Crockfords, Britain’s oldest casino, which has been an iconic fixture in the heart of Mayfair, London since 1828, has officially closed its doors, marking the end of an illustrious 195-year history. Founded by a humble fishmonger, William Crockford, the casino became one of the most prestigious entertainment establishments globally, earning its place as the oldest casino in the UK.
Rich history
The story of Crockfords is nothing short of remarkable. William Crockford’s journey from a working-class background to becoming one of England’s wealthiest self-made individuals was mirrored by the casino’s enduring legacy. Over nearly two centuries, it catered to patrons with an unrivaled blend of sophistication and entertainment. However, due to dwindling patronage and the growth of the iGaming sector, the casino’s rich history comes to a close, resulting in around 100 employees facing redundancy.
End of an era in W1
Paul Willcock, President of Genting Casinos UK, expressed his sentiment, calling the closure of Crockfords’ £80 million ($96.6 million) venue the “end of an era.” He cited several factors that have put high-end London casinos at a competitive disadvantage on the global stage, rendering Crockfords’ future in Mayfair unsustainable.
30-Day consultation and an uncertain future
The casino is now set to undergo a 30-day consultation process regarding its future, initiated by its management last month. This development follows a trend in recent years where other high-end casinos in London, such as The Ritz and The Clermont, have also been forced to shut down due to a decline in high-rolling clientele.
Changing preferences of players
John O’Reilly, CEO of Grosvenor, pointed out that Middle Eastern high rollers, traditionally a source of VIP revenues for London’s casinos, are increasingly opting to visit Paris or Milan. This shift is attributed, in part, to the UK government’s decision to abolish the tourist tax (VAT) in 2021 when Britain exited the EU. The removal of the 20 percent tax refund for tourists on purchases made in the UK led high rollers to explore other destinations, impacting the casino’s clientele and, ultimately, its fate.
Journey through the history of time
Crockfords Casino thrived in the heart of London’s clubland and embodied a remarkable casino heritage. Surprisingly, this historic establishment, once graced by the aristocracy, thrived so far in the 21st century under Malaysian ownership. Crockfords moved to Curzon Street, just a stone’s throw from its original location, and it continues to attract a discerning clientele. However, the aristocratic element has faded, reflecting the changing importance that aristocracy in the UK has waned in relevance, mirroring the diminishing standing it holds for the British population, much like the declining interest in the monarchy.
Yet, in its early days, some key operational differences set Crockfords apart from other casinos. As a start, William Crockford was known to employ cunning tactics. Despite humble beginnings as the son of a fishmonger, Crockford’s exceptional gambling skills propelled him to wealth. His ability to outsmart the odds, such as card counting and sports event research, was unmatched. This self-taught mathematical genius eventually led him to purchase the opulent St James premises.
Crockford was no stranger to deception; from hiring staff to stage large but false wins to spreading rumors of daily losses, his methods were clandestine. Skilled dealers practiced sleight of hand, and his legal team ensured that the majority of outcomes favored the house.
Crockford meticulously targeted the British aristocracy, extending private invitations to those deemed ripe for exploitation. Astonishingly, despite his ethically dubious tactics, society appeared unperturbed, as his era was marked by flamboyance and excess. Crockfords’ favored game was Hazard, a dice game antecedent to Craps. It was in this game that two Lords and Edward Hughes Ball lost a staggering £100,000 in a 24-hour session, equivalent to roughly £11 million today, ensuring the casino’s lasting appeal.
Winding down
After a temporary closure in 1845, it reopened a century later on Curzon Street. It focused on bridge and expanded other game offerings. The casino, under Genting’s ownership, joined the ranks of nearby casinos like Palm Beach, Maxims, and The Colony Club. However, Crockfords remains the most renowned and coveted of them all.
During the last 40 years, Crockfords offered a diverse range of table games, including American Roulette, Blackjack, and Baccarat. For an exclusive experience, high-stakes rooms like the London Room and the Penthouse Suite provided privacy and access to rooftop smoking areas. Its restaurant started to cater to diverse culinary tastes, offering Middle Eastern, Indian, Modern European, and Chinese Dim Sum. Additionally, Baccarat Squeeze, a unique and immersive experience, added to the allure of the establishment.
Crockfords, with its rich heritage, stood as a legendary icon of Mayfair, a London attraction that alluded the charm of the British aristocracy. As it closes its doors, it marks the end of a significant era in the world of British casinos.
Conclusion
The closure of Crockfords Casino is a poignant reminder of the changing dynamics in the world of gambling and entertainment. As high-end casinos face new challenges and changing player preferences, the once-thriving establishment has become a casualty of these shifting tides. Crockfords’ rich history and legacy will be remembered, but it also serves as a testament to the need for adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did Crockfords Casino close its doors?
Crockfords Casino closed due to dwindling patronage, changes in player preferences, and increased competition in the high-end casino industry.
2. What is the history of Crockfords Casino?
Crockfords Casino was founded in 1828 by William Crockford and became the oldest casino in the UK, known for its rich history and sophisticated entertainment.
3. What role did William Crockford play in the casino’s history?
William Crockford, a former fishmonger, used cunning tactics and exceptional gambling skills to turn Crockfords into a wealthy establishment.
4. What was Crockfords’ favored game?
Crockfords’ favored game was Hazard, a dice game antecedent to Craps, where some patrons famously lost large sums of money.
5. What is the future of high-end London casinos?
The future of high-end London casinos is uncertain, with changing player preferences and increased competition impacting their sustainability.
