Buck’s Club: The Birthplace of the Buck’s Fizz

Buck’s Club is one of London’s most influential private members’ clubs. Founded by a group of young cavalry officers in the aftermath of the First World War, it became the birthplace of the Buck’s Fizz, inspired P. G. Wodehouse’s Drones Club and helped redefine what a gentlemen’s club could be in the twentieth century.

In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of founder Herbert Buckmaster, the club’s wartime origins, its famous American Bar, the legendary barman McGarry and the colourful characters who have passed through its doors over the last century.

If you enjoyed this episode, follow Clubs of London on Instagram at @clubsoflondon. If you have stories, memories, or insights relating to London’s clubs, I'd love to hear from you at [email protected].

Sources

• Anthony Lejeune, The Gentlemen’s Clubs of London

• Andrew Jones & Laura Hodgson, A London Club

• Lew Toulmin, "Buck’s Club"

• Old Shirburnian Society — Herbert Buckmaster biography