The Groucho Club, a legendary private members’ club in London’s Soho known for its vibrant history, is making a surprising move to the heart of the West Yorkshire countryside. The club’s first outpost will be located at Bretton Hall in Wakefield, within the Yorkshire Sculpture Park grounds, and will feature a club and hotel with around 60 rooms.
Ewan Venters, the CEO of Artfarm and Hauser & Wirth, expressed that the decision to expand to Yorkshire made more sense than pursuing international expansion. Venters emphasized the cultural diversity and vibrancy of Yorkshire, highlighting the region’s appeal to a wide range of creative individuals.
The Groucho Club, founded in 1985, has a rich history of welcoming diverse members from various creative industries, including musicians, artists, and writers. The new Yorkshire location aims to maintain the essence of the original Soho establishment while offering a range of cultural events, performances, and lectures.
The expansion to Yorkshire reflects a growing trend of luxury brands moving beyond traditional urban centers to explore new cultural hubs. Venters emphasized the importance of supporting cultural and economic growth in all parts of the UK, highlighting the potential impact of the Groucho Club’s presence in West Yorkshire.
With plans to open in 2026, the Groucho Club’s Yorkshire outpost is expected to attract members from Leeds, Manchester, and beyond. Venters envisions a diverse membership base drawn from the creative communities in the region, reflecting the inclusive and dynamic spirit of the club.
While there are still ambitions for international expansion, the focus for now is on establishing a successful presence in West Yorkshire. The Groucho Club’s move to the countryside marks an exciting new chapter for the iconic institution, bringing its unique blend of creativity and culture to a new audience in the north of England.