UK lifestyle clubs broadly fall into two types. A members club requires you to register, and sometimes to be approved, before you can attend, often with a membership fee and a more curated crowd. An open door club lets you attend more freely, usually by buying a ticket or paying on the door, without the registration step. Members clubs tend to emphasise discretion and a screened crowd, while open door clubs offer easier, more spontaneous access.
Knowing which type a venue is helps you plan, and helps you choose the environment that suits you.
How members clubs work
At a members club, there is a step before you can simply turn up. You may need to register in advance, complete a profile, sometimes be photo approved, and often pay a membership fee. This process exists to curate the crowd and maintain a level of quality, discretion and trust. The trade off is a little more effort and planning upfront in exchange for a more screened, often more refined environment.
Members clubs appeal to people who value discretion and a known, vetted crowd. The more selective venues in cities like London operate this way, and the membership step is part of what gives them their character.
How open door clubs work
An open door club is more accessible. You typically buy a ticket in advance or pay on the door, and attend without a lengthy registration process. This suits spontaneity and is often the easier route for newcomers wanting to try the scene without committing to membership anywhere. Open door does not mean anything goes on entry, as venues still enforce dress codes, capacity and house rules, but the barrier to attending is lower.
Which suits you
Neither type is better, they simply suit different preferences. If discretion, a vetted crowd and a more curated experience matter most to you, a members club is worth the extra step. If you want easy, flexible access and the freedom to try different venues without commitment, open door clubs are ideal. Many people use both, choosing depending on the night and their mood.
A practical point for newcomers: open door venues are often the simplest place to start, while you might join a members club once you know the scene suits you and have found a venue you like.
To see which venues are members or open door, check the listings in our directory and the details on our events page. If you are a single man, our guide on whether single men can go to swingers clubs is also worth reading, as entry policies often differ.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a members club and an open door club?
A members club requires you to register, and sometimes be approved, before attending, often with a fee and a curated crowd. An open door club lets you attend more freely, usually by ticket or on the door, without that registration step.
Why do some clubs require membership?
To curate the crowd and maintain discretion, quality and trust. The membership step screens attendees and is part of what gives members clubs their character.
Which is better for beginners?
Open door venues are often the simplest place to start, as they allow you to try the scene without committing to membership. Many people join a members club later once they know it suits them.
Does open door mean there are no rules?
No. Open door venues still enforce dress codes, capacity limits and house rules. It simply means the barrier to attending is lower, without a lengthy registration process.