Crown London Casino Games

So you're planning a visit to the Empire Casino in Leicester Square and want to know if the game selection is worth your time? Here's the honest truth: it's one of the few spots in central London where you can play until 6 AM, but the game variety depends heavily on whether you're chasing table action or sticking to slots. Let's cut through the fluff and talk about what's actually on the floor.

Table Games at Empire Casino Leicester Square

The heart of any serious casino is its table games, and Crown London (operating as Empire Casino) delivers a solid if not groundbreaking selection. You'll find about 40 tables spread across the main floor and the quieter Dragon Lounge. The stakes? They run the gamut from casual £5 minimums on slower nights to £100+ tables when the place gets packed on weekends.

Blackjack is the main draw. They run classic versions with favorable rules - dealer stands on 17, insurance pays 2:1, and you can double down on any two cards. The atmosphere gets intense around the busy tables, especially when a hot streak hits. Don't expect huge deviations like Spanish 21 or Blackjack Switch here; this is straightforward gaming for players who know basic strategy.

Roulette wheels spin continuously, with both American (double zero) and European (single zero) versions available. The European wheels offer better odds, obviously - house edge of 2.7% versus 5.26%. Smart players hunt for these tables. Minimum bets on electronic roulette terminals start lower, around £1, which is perfect if you want to stretch your bankroll while learning the game.

Three Card Poker and Punto Banco (baccarat) round out the offerings. The baccarat tables get particularly busy in the evenings, attracting a mix of serious high-rollers and curious tourists. If you've never played, the dealers here are patient with newcomers - just ask for a quick rundown before placing your first bet.

Electronic Gaming and Slot Machines

Not in the mood for table pressure? The electronic gaming area houses over 100 machines, though calling them "slots" undersells what's available. You'll find electronic roulette, virtual blackjack terminals, and video poker alongside traditional reel games. The slot denominations range from penny plays up to £1 per spin, with jackpots that can hit five figures on linked progressive machines.

One thing to note: UK casino slots operate differently than what you might be used to in Vegas or Atlantic City. The return-to-player (RTP) percentages are clearly displayed on each machine - typically between 92% and 96%. No guessing games. The machines accept notes and ticket-in/ticket-out, so you're not feeding coins like it's 1999.

The electronic terminals are popular with solo players who want action without the social dynamics of a live table. You set your own pace, and the minimum bets are significantly lower. It's a solid option for warming up before hitting the live games or winding down after a long night.

Poker Room and Tournament Action

Empire Casino runs one of the more active poker rooms in central London. Cash games run daily, with Texas Hold'em dominating the scene. blinds typically start at £1/£2, though you'll occasionally see £2/£5 games running on busy nights. The player pool is mixed - regulars who know what they're doing, tourists looking for a story, and everything in between.

Weekly tournaments pull in decent crowds. Buy-ins usually hover around £50-£100, making them accessible without requiring a massive bankroll. First-place prizes vary based on entries but can reach into the thousands for the bigger weekend events. If tournament play is your thing, check the schedule online before heading over - some nights are cash-game only.

The poker room has its own dedicated space, separate from the main casino floor. It's quieter, which helps with concentration if you're trying to calculate pot odds while some tourist is celebrating a roulette win three tables over. Dealers are professional, and the floor staff runs games efficiently. No endless waiting for seat assignments.

Membership, Dress Code, and Practical Details

Here's where things get practical. Crown London operates as a members-only venue, but before you panic - membership is free and you can sign up on the spot. Just bring valid photo ID (passport, driver's license, or national ID card). The process takes about five minutes. UK gambling laws require this, so there's no way around it.

Dress code is "smart casual," which the casino defines as no sportswear, no ripped clothing, no hats, and no overly casual footwear. Translation: jeans are fine if they're clean and not distressed. A nice shirt and proper shoes won't raise eyebrows. You don't need a suit, but showing up in gym clothes will get you turned away at the door.

Location is a major selling point. Leicester Square means you're in the heart of London's West End, surrounded by theaters, restaurants, and bars. The casino has its own bar and restaurant, The Icon Bar, which serves decent food at prices that won't shock you given the location. It's open late, making it a convenient spot to refuel between gaming sessions.

Comparing Crown London to Other UK Casinos

How does it stack up against other major UK casinos? Let's look at the numbers:

Empire holds its own, particularly for late-night gaming in central London. The Hippodrome nearby offers slightly more machines and genuine 24-hour operation, but Empire's more intimate atmosphere appeals to players who find the Hippodrome chaotic. Les Ambassadeurs is in a different league - think high-end Mayfair exclusivity with minimum bets that exclude most casual players. Aspers out at Westfield Stratford is massive but requires leaving central London.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

Visiting for the first time? A few things that regulars know: The casino gets packed after midnight, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. If you want a seat at a lower-stakes table, arrive earlier in the evening. Weekday afternoons are quietest - you might have tables nearly to yourself, which is ideal for learning games without pressure.

Parking in central London is a nightmare. Don't drive. Take the Tube to Leicester Square station; the casino is literally a two-minute walk. If you're staying at a hotel in the West End, you can probably walk. Black cabs are readily available outside if you're heading back late.

Set a budget before you walk through the doors. It sounds obvious, but the atmosphere - lights, sounds, free drinks for active players - can loosen resolve. The casino offers self-exclusion programs if you feel your gambling is becoming problematic. Responsible gambling tools are available at the cashier or through any staff member.

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