Annabel’s—London’s iconic and legendary private members’ club founded by Mark Birley back in 1963—celebrated its 60th Diamond Anniversary on June 8 with revelers including Palm Beachers Sir Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster. Also attending were Ricky Martin, Nicola Coughlan, Damson Idris, Ellie Bamber, Hayley Atwell, Liam Payne, Yasmin Finney, Gene Gallagher and Richard Caring, who took over The Birley Clubs—including Annabel’s, Mark’s Club, Harry’s Bar, The Bath & Racquets Club, and George—in the aughts.
46 Berkeley Square
Princess Diana arriving at Annabel’s in 1981 (Photo by Richard Young courtesy of Annabel’s).
George Hamilton and Elizabeth Taylor arriving at Annabel’s (Photo by Richard Young courtesy of Annabel’s).
Annabel’s has been a favorite of the rich, famous, and regal since it first opened in the ’60s. What happens behind the club’s doors is kept rather mum, as photography is not allowed—a journalist from The Sun was once taken down by an Annabel’s security guard for snapping a photo of Joan Collins—but the building on Berkeley Square has seen plenty of action over the years. Princess Diana and Sarah Ferguson crashed Prince Andrew‘s Stag Night at the club while dressed as police officers; Beatle George Harrison was not permitted entry due to violating the dress code; Matthew Freud and Hugh Grant once got into a cake fight there; Elton John‘s AIDS Foundation held its 2022 benefit at Annabel’s; and Rihanna attended the club’s Halloween party. Annabel’s has also seen several memorable performers over the years, including Ray Charles and Lady Gaga.
Caring has plans to open a new members’ club stateside in New York City’s Steinway Tower, which will include an outpost of Sexy Fish, the London hot spot for sushi and celeb sightings.
