14 Most Exclusive Members-Only Travel Clubs in the World

7. The Hurlingham Club - Sporting Excellence and Social Prestige

The Hurlingham Club, established in 1869 in London's Fulham district, represents one of the world's most exclusive sporting and social clubs, combining recreational excellence with international prestige. Originally founded as a polo club, Hurlingham has evolved into a comprehensive sporting and social institution that maintains some of the highest membership standards in the world. The club's 42-acre grounds along the Thames River provide an oasis of tranquility in central London, featuring pristine sporting facilities, elegant dining rooms, and beautifully maintained gardens. Membership is limited and highly coveted, with a waiting list that can extend for decades and requires sponsorship from existing members who can vouch for candidates' character and social standing. The club's reciprocal arrangements with similar institutions worldwide provide members with access to exclusive sporting and social facilities in major cities across the globe. These relationships often include access to private golf courses, tennis clubs, yacht clubs, and social organizations that maintain similar standards of excellence and exclusivity. Members can participate in international sporting competitions, cultural exchanges, and social events that bring together like-minded individuals from around the world. The club's facilities include championship-standard courts for tennis, squash, and real tennis, as well as croquet lawns, a golf course, and extensive fitness facilities. The dining options range from casual café service to formal restaurant experiences, all maintaining the highest culinary standards. The club also hosts numerous cultural and educational events, including lectures, art exhibitions, and musical performances that appeal to members' diverse interests and sophisticated tastes.