10 most exclusive private members’ clubs in the world: from Casa Cipriani where Taylor Swift was papped, and Kim Kardashian’s beloved Zero Bond, to Meghan and Harry’s hotspot San Vicente Bungalows

Aug 31 , 2023

The world’s most exclusive members’ clubs are notoriously difficult to get into. Photos: San Vicente Bungalows, Yellowstone Club, Annabel’s/Facebook

It’s no surprise that private members’ clubs, notorious for their strict policies, long waiting lists and no-photo rules, are the ideal option for celebrities and A-listers to enjoy some privacy

NYC’s Zero Bond has welcomed guests like Gigi Hadid and Blake Lively while Conor McGregor posted a pic at The Bird Streets Club, and it’s rumoured that the late Queen Elizabeth once visited Annabel’s

Private members’ clubs around the world often boast a clientele of celebrities and ultra-wealthy individuals. So it’s hardly surprising to know that they are notorious for having super-strict rules, from no photos allowed to stringent dress codes. But what happens if someone breaks a rule?

Well, when photos of Taylor Swift and Matty Healy hanging out at New York’s Casa Cipriani were leaked in May, the club reportedly revoked at least three memberships as a result as it has a strict no-photo policy, per British media.

Members might pay a US$4,000-a-year annual fee, but they are still expected to respect the club’s rules. And considering how many celebrities (Drew Barrymore and John Legend, to name a few) hold a spot there, guests of course assume the same level of respect. Despite Casa Cipriani’s move to rectify the situation though, it seemed that it was all too much for the “Anti-Hero” singer, who reportedly cancelled her membership following the photo leak, per Fortune.

This all prompts us to ask: which are the most exclusive private members’ clubs in the world right now?

1. Zero Bond (New York)

Zero Bond is a stylish private members club in New York City. Photo: @zerobondnyc/Instagram

Spanning 20,000 sq ft over two floors, Zero Bond has been in the headlines lately after long-time friends Swift and Ed Sheeran reunited there last week, per British media. The Victorian gothic-style club in Manhattan boasts an Assouline library, a screening room, US$10 million worth of art, an omakase room, a bar and more, per media reports. Other A-listers who frequent this club include Kim Kardashian, Gigi Hadid and Blake Lively.

2. Casa Cipriani (New York)

Casa Cipriani in New York. is located in Lower Manhattan with views of the Brooklyn Bridge. Photo: Casa Cipriani

This private members’ club may have been in the news for the Swift incident, but it remains popular as ever, reportedly boasting a 4,000-person waiting list, according to Fortune.