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There are plenty of different types of holidaymakers out there. Some enjoy relaxing by a beach, sipping a cocktail, and properly unwinding. Others enjoy going on a proper adventure, trying out an extreme sport, or living life on the edge for the week.
The type of holidaymaker that this kind of holiday would appeal to is a different type. This type enjoys getting immersed in the culture of a place, exploring streets that are steeped in history, and getting to know a new place better than some of the experts.
So, if you’ve got an interest in poker that goes beyond just the odd game, then you’ll be fascinated to find out about the legendary poker halls of England. There are plenty of brilliant stories that are held within the walls of these rooms, and we’re going to uncover some of them.
Where it All Began
Poker was not a British invention, but interestingly nor was it an American one. Whilst most people think of poker as having originated in the Wild West, invented by a bunch of bored cowboys sitting around in a saloon, the actual origins of poker are likely to have been much further away, and far, far longer ago.
As Nas was a Persian game that dates back to at least the 17th century, but likely earlier. It featured a deck of cards, much like poker ones, and was a trick-taking game. As people migrated across Europe, this game found its way to France, where it became known as Poque. It doesn’t take much imagination to see how this name became anglicized into poker.
But How Did it Get to Britain?
There are various tales that explain the way that poker made it to Britain, but perhaps the most well-substantiated is that General Schenck brought it with him. He was a man who loved to play cards and many enjoyed the game of poker that he had taught them. Letters were found between the General and his friend Mr Young, describing in detail the rules of poker, which his pupils copied down and printed into booklets for him. This was in 1872 and though there are accounts of Poque and Pocher being played in Britain before this, General Schenck’s letter was the first record of poker, spelt in its modern way.
The Opening of Britain’s First Casino
Whilst many of us enjoy the convenience of being able to play online casino for real money from the comfort of our own homes, or sign in to a gaming app and enjoy a few rounds of blackjack, baccarat, or poker on our morning commute, that just wasn’t possible for even the wealthiest people in the 19th century. It was only in 1823 that the first official casino opened in the UK. Crockford’s Gentleman’s Club opened on Curzon Street, in the wealthy borough of Mayfair, in London.
This club offered a place for the well-to-do to relax and chat amongst their friends, but Crockford’s always prided itself on offering a place to gamble. Blackjack, poker, baccarat, and more would have been on offer in this lavish establishment. Better still, if you want to experience a real piece of history then you can still visit today. Although the Gentleman’s Club closed down for good in 1970, the building was re-opened as a casino that everybody could visit shortly thereafter. Crockford’s Casino is still regarded as one of the most stunning casinos in the Capital and offers TCP Stud Poker in its gaming rooms.
The Grosvenor Victoria
If the tale of Crockfords has got you excited for an English road trip around famous poker rooms, then your next stop should certainly be The Vic. The Grosvenor Victoria has, without a doubt, the most famous poker room in London, making it a must visit on any trip. It’s probably best for experienced players and high rollers, as the people in here aren’t here to mess around.
It’s the largest poker room in the city and in order to play, you must be a member. The room is so enormous that it takes up an entire floor, so head upstairs if you want to play. Throughout the quieter hours of the day, you will find some low-stakes games to enjoy, so it’s worth venturing in at a quiet time if you’re a poker novice.
The Empire
It doesn’t get much more glamorous than playing poker in a former ballroom and that’s exactly what the Empire offers. Situated in London’s bustling Leicester Square, The Empire has had many different iterations, including a ballroom and a cinema.
Nowadays, it’s a stunning casino with one of the most well-thought-of casinos in the UK. Unlike the Vic, you don’t need to register to play poker, you can walk in and start, including at their tournaments. One of the most thoughtful touches at The Empire is the seating. Poker t