The Hippodrome Casino
The Hippodrome Casino is home to PokerStars LIVE, a partnership that ensures exemplary standards when it comes to hosting cash games and tournaments. Dubbed London’s Leading Poker Room, the Hippodrome’s state-of-the-art card room is located on the entire third floor while major tournaments take place in Lola’s Underground Casino. The Hippodrome’s central location makes it ideal as a place to meet up with friends and the casino’s restaurants – especially the Heliot Steak House and the new contemporary Chinese restaurant Chop Chop by Four Seasons – are very highly rated.
Regular poker festivals at the Hippodrome Casino include Our Series, Super Series and MEGA series events. The Hippodrome’s annual Win Your Way to Vegas promotion has also seen dozens of players win a once-in-a-lifetime poker trip to Sin City; the Hippodrome launched its Vegas 2024 promotion at the beginning of December and at least one Vegas package will be won every month. When it comes to cash games, buy-ins start from £50 for NLH and £100 for PLO. The Hippodrome Rewards scheme offers discounts on all food and drink. The Hippodrome is open from noon to 6am weekdays and 24/7 over the weekends. You can follow updates from the Hippodrome Casino on Twitter.
Top Hotel Picks for the Hippodrome Casino
Staying right bang in the middle of London is never going to be cheap but there are some lovely options near the Hippodrome that won’t break the bank – and it’s certainly a treat to be staying in the heart of London’s West End.
The 4* Hotel Indigo is on the same side of Leicester Square as the Hippodrome and boasts a fabulous rooftop bar affording spectacular views of the city. The art deco-styled property mirrors the 1920s glamour of its theatrical surroundings and has a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi.
The Londoner Hotel is definitely not cheap but it’s very glamorous and having an onsite spa with pool and gym is a real treat. There are six concept restaurants and bars including a rooftop lounge. The Residence guest-only club provides complimentary antipasti, soft drinks, tea and coffee all day.
At the more budget end, there are two Thistle Hotels to choose from – Thistle London Picadilly (pictured) is four minutes’ walk from the Hippodrome and Thistle Trafalgar Square is just six minutes away. The Thistle Piccadilly has an all-day dining room, 24-hour pizza delivery service and a fully-equipped gym. The Thistle Trafalgar Square has an on-site restaurant and bar, plus 24-hour room service.
Zedwell Piccadilly puts sleep first and foremost so if shut-eye is the only thing you want from your room, it’s a great option. The minimalist soundproofed design is emphatically clutter-free – with no distractions such as TV and electronics. Their four-bed rooms (including two bunk beds) are ideal for players sharing.