Have a very VIP Olympics
THE OLYMPICS have finally arrived and London’s VIP landscape is ready and set to go. There are a number of venues across the capital being transformed to cater to deep-pocketed high-rollers who have a penchant for partying. The first of such pop-ups is The Retreat in the City which is being created this week at the Brewery near Moorgate. A massive Mecca to hospitality, featuring six areas with distinct personalities, including a purpose-built 500 seat cinema, an all-day restaurant, a Backstage area for primping, a Country Club with interactive sports and amusement, a manicured park and a 400-capacity nightclub (also home to Innerplace’s huge Summer members’ party on Friday 10th August). The all-inclusive membership is a must and can be purchased for the day, evening or whole event.
The Fringe Members Club is a similar venture situated in a four-storey converted Victorian warehouse 100 metres from the Olympic Park itself. Three tiers of day memberships give access to restaurants, lounges, eight different bars, British food markets, big screens, live performances and a terrace with panoramic views of the Stadium. Attendees can even travel by “Water Chariot” on the River Lea.
Right next door, Forman’s Fish Island has channelled the Riviera and will be hosting the Maddox Beach Club, helmed by the famed West End destination. Alongside summery beats, delicious beverages and phenomenal food, guests will be treated to pampering from the Ibiza Angels and beach volleyball matches. Legendary Soho club Chinawhite is staging The Last Lap: official afterparties throughout the games, where athletes and VIPs can meet, mingle and celebrate (or commiserate). Pete Tong and Paul Oakenfold will be guest DJ’s. Seventeen day gold-leaf passes are available and so is a special Golden Cocktail a special celebration at Dining at 135. Guests have the opportunity to book a capsule in the London Eye for eight people and enjoy a luxury three-course meal with champagne and fine wine, at 135 metres above the ground.
Tim Badham is the founder of Innerplace, London’s leading entertainment concierge service. www.innerplace.co.uk