Groucho Club Shuts Down Following ‘Serious Criminal Offence’ Claims

The Groucho Club, a renowned private members’ establishment in London, has ceased operations after allegations surfaced regarding a “recent serious criminal offence” occurring on its property. Westminster City Council confirmed the suspension of the Soho venue’s licence, acting upon a request from the Metropolitan Police. It is understood that the private members’ club collaborated with the council’s licensing sub-committee, recognized the gravity of the accusations, and accepted the outcome. A comprehensive hearing concerning the licence is scheduled to take place within 28 days from the date the police submitted their review application. Established in 1985, The Groucho Club was conceived as a less formal option compared to conventional gentlemen’s clubs and has maintained a long-standing connection with A-list celebrities. According to a council spokesperson, the decision to suspend the licence “follows reports that a serious crime may have taken place at the premises in circumstances linked to a breach in the premises licencing conditions.” The spokesperson added, “The allegations are subject to an ongoing police investigation and we cannot comment further at this stage.” The Metropolitan Police stated that its investigation into “a recent serious criminal offence” remains active, thus restricting the amount of detail it could release. The Met also indicated that additional information would be made public “when possible.” The public disclosure of the ongoing police investigation reportedly occurred because the force was required to submit an application for the club’s licence suspension, with the associated hearing conducted privately. The Groucho Club has been contacted for a statement.