The secret club of British intellectuals

Founded in 1849, the East India Club's first members were employees of the East India Company and officers of the Royal Army and Navy. After nearly two decades, the club has maintained its reputation and legacy: a men's-only club with a rigorous membership process.

To become a full member of the East India Club, applicants must graduate from prestigious British universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, King's College London, etc., with outstanding academic achievements and be nominated by at least two current members. After the application review, applicants must undergo a face-to-face interview with the club's administrator. Therefore, members of the East India Club are mostly doctors, lawyers, scientists, academics, and people of noble rank.

Members are required to dress respectfully upon entering the club and are strictly prohibited from using mobile phones, largely because taking photos or revealing the identities of other members is not allowed. There is also a locker room in the basement where members can store their shirts and personal belongings before participating in club activities.

The East India Club is located at 16 St James's Square, London SW1, west of the square. Before officially becoming a club, the building was the home of several long-established British aristocratic families. It is a grand and spacious mansion, with the ground floor comprising a reception room, a main dining room on the left, and a lounge on the right. The second floor houses a library and tea room, and the third floor contains a suite of bedrooms, like a small hotel within the club. Previously, these bedrooms served members from outside the city who needed to stay overnight at the club before leaving the following morning. However, since most members now live in London, the hotel service is rarely used.

In addition to its headquarters and facilities at 16 St James's Square, the East India Club also offers sports departments such as cricket, rowing, sailing, rugby, and shooting.

Ha Le