This is a club, which means that the bar may be only open to members.

Founded by Whig MP Edward Ellice in 1836, four years after the great Reform Act, to promote the social intercourse of the Refermers of the United Kingdom. Architect Sir Charles Barry designed the palatial clubhouse which was opened in 1841. The design was inspired by the Palazzo Farnese in Rome and the end result is regarded as Barry's masterpiece. Inside, the huge Saloon covered courtyard area was designed to accommodate the entire parliamentary Liberal Party. Celebrity chef Alexis Soyer was consulted on the kitchens and the latest technology included an early form of central heating.

Past members have included Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George, and authors Thackeray and Henry James. The club was the setting for Phileas Fogg's famous bet in Jules Verne's Round the World in 80 Days. Nowadays the club is purely social and draws its membership widely. It was the first of the traditional gentleman's clubs to allow women members in 1981.

There is a magnificent library, a billiards room, card room, fine dining and overnight accommodation.