London

Haven't seen one around and there are a few threads about general poker in London. Don't know if there are many 2+2ers here?

Just a quick bump London poker is still growing, the Vic now regularly spreading 5/10 to 25/50 NL daily, and even 50/100. Not sure on the line up, but seems to be gathering traction. (Might just be during the holiday period but will monitor it and update in a few weeks. Also shout out again to the Vic for their daily high hand promo, now I do hate any rake drop, but this is proving popular, especially their NYE promo per hour, really got the numbers up. Gives all punters a fair shot, while paying the extra drop per hand. Gukpt London coming up this week, a bit early than usual. Roll on 2024...let's see what it brings. Sent from my Pixel 6a using Tapatalk

Games getting dry these days. High reg to fish ratio Sent from my SM-A525F using Tapatalk

Hey guys, just moved here from America and am now a resident. How exactly would you rate the poker scene here compared to the likes of Vegas, other good places in America (TX, FL, East Coast, LA, etc), and the rest of Europe? Hows the weekend action? Is this the best place to play poker in Europe? Do people make livings as live poker players here? Just trying to gauge a level of expectation before I dip my toes in. I am within walking distance (Albeit a 35 minute walk) from The Vic, but also love the UK and would like to travel around and see if there are other good cities to play poker around here as well. Thanks for any info!

The poker here is smaller and tougher than in the US. 1/2 in London is probably comparable to 2/5 in Vegas, 2/5 UK comparable to 5/10 maybe 10/25 in the US at times. There are lots of good players in those games who play bigger elsewhere in the world. The UK isn't anywhere near as wealthy as the US so the disposable income needed for rec players to gamble as freely/highly as in the US just isn't there. You will find very weak, nitty pros in the 1/2 games I'm sure and then 2/5 will absolutely have multiple pros in the game. You pay no tax on gambling winnings in the UK which is obviously very helpful for would be pros. Outside of London you will find cities that have cash games but it'll probably be 1/1 and a very small game. I wouldn't travel anywhere in the UK to play poker but if you find yourself in other major UK cities (Birmingham/Liverpool/Manchester etc) you'll likely have a poker game you can play, it just won't be particularly great.

by iFoldedKKPreOnce m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58457862#post58457862)

Hey guys, just moved here from America and am now a resident.How exactly would you rate the poker scene here compared to the likes of Vegas, other good places in America (TX, FL, East Coast, LA, etc), and the rest of Europe? Hows the weekend action? Is this the best place to play poker in Europe?Do people make livings as live poker players here?Just trying to gauge a level of e... See full post

All your questions are answered in this book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/London-Poker-Gu... (https://www.amazon.co.uk/London-Poker-Guide-Where-Cardrooms/dp/B0C633GJJ8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B7I1NYUINELB&keywords=london+poker+guide&qid=1707813783&sprefix=london+poker+guide%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1)

OK, it looks like The Mint on Cromwell Street (opposite Natural History Museum) is making a comeback / revival and calling itself Forty Five Kensington PKR. I personally didn't play there when it was The Mint but have heard that the games were "legendary". I've seen that it's doing tournaments and cash games (after 8pm) and was wondering whether it's worth a visit. Does anyone have info on the number of players it gets or any general impressions? Cheers in advance.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58463933#post58463933)

OK, it looks like The Mint on Cromwell Street (opposite Natural History Museum) is making a comeback / revival and calling itself Forty Five Kensington PKR. I personally didn't play there when it was The Mint but have heard that the games were "legendary".I've seen that it's doing tournaments and cash games (after 8pm) and was wondering whether it's worth a visit. Does anyone ... See full post

It's odd to me that Genting decided to launch poker here in a relatively unknown place and arguably an odd location - I never went to the Mint, so I guess I could be completely wrong, where nobody will just fall in off the street (which is what you sort of need) - when they also own Palm Beach and could have the best poker in London in the nicest location (which it was 10 years ago), if they weren't so clueless. I'll report back once I've been but they say games from 1/2-25/50 (i'll belive that when I see it). I think anytihng otuside of W1 isn't going to work for a mid-high stakes poker environment and why would you bother 1/2 in this location, but I could be biased.

Anyone know the current status of the cash races / freerolls that Aspers, Empire & the Vic used to offer? Was a reg in London several years ago and considering doing a month or two over the summer there but its incredibly hard to find out any info on their websites about them. I believe they all made the change to hours instead of points just around the time I left London. The Vic used to have a 6-7 week qualification period though if I remember correctly. Does anyone know approximately how many hours would qualify you for each one? I'm assuming Aspers is still run on a Saturday and Empire is run on a Sunday, so possible to play both in the same month? Cheers for any info

Empire one is still going...1st Sunday of each month (download bravo to see live games and wait lists, they don't have twitter updates anymore) Varies in terms of hours from month to month but to be 100% lock you need 100 hours+ (they update the board daily, and it's top 50 or 60 players) They also limit it to 8 or 10 hours earn't per visit. No idea what Aspers is doing, I believe Hippo is still doing one but not sure the likely hours. Sent from my Pixel 6a using Tapatalk

by Good Money m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58470790#post58470790)

Anyone know the current status of the cash races / freerolls that Aspers, Empire & the Vic used to offer? Was a reg in London several years ago and considering doing a month or two over the summer there but its incredibly hard to find out any info on their websites about them. I believe they all made the change to hours instead of points just around the time I left London. The ... See full post

The Vic hasn't had a loyalty for a few years or more and doesn't plan to introduce one, their daily high hand promo and BBJ seem quite popular and well liked. Sent from my Pixel 6a using Tapatalk

Going to Florida this month, and plan to play a bit of poker whilst there. Can i buy chips with bank card in the big casinos? I have a starling account which i hear is fee free anywhere in the world, but just want to double check in here. I wont need a huge amount, 5-10k max. Id just rather not have to sort USD before going over, or get boned by exchange rates / fees every time i buy something / play poker. Basically does anyone have experience with using Starling abroad and can confirm / deny if ill be ok relying on it for everything whilst over there?

by Megloooo m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58480866#post58480866)

Going to Florida this month, and plan to play a bit of poker whilst there. Can i buy chips with bank card in the big casinos? I have a starling account which i hear is fee free anywhere in the world, but just want to double check in here. I wont need a huge amount, 5-10k max. Id just rather not have to sort USD before going over, or get boned by exchange rates / fees every time... See full post

Not sure about America but have used it in multiple countries in Asia with no problem and good exchange rates. I think the issue is (at least for me) the base maximum withdrawal amount per day from a cash point was around £300, so you might have to sort that out beforehand if it's possible. Maybe withdrawing directly from a casino is different, idk.

by Megloooo m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58480866#post58480866)

Going to Florida this month, and plan to play a bit of poker whilst there. Can i buy chips with bank card in the big casinos? I have a starling account which i hear is fee free anywhere in the world, but just want to double check in here. I wont need a huge amount, 5-10k max. Id just rather not have to sort USD before going over, or get boned by exchange rates / fees every time... See full post

I def wouldnt do this. You'll incur wild atm withdrawal or 'cash advance' fees everytime you buy chips. Also a few times ive been to LA to play, I didnt take enough cash with me and resorted to what you're suggesting when I busted the cash I took and needed to reup, I ended up capped at a very small withdrawal limit of like $1K per 24 hours as per my bank withdrawal limit, no good when you're tilted and standing at an ATM at 11pm in a casino in the middle of nowhere. My suggestion is to find someone to buy 5-10k off in London and take the cash with you. There's also plenty of online sites you can reporder the cash at ok exchange rates, a few days before you need it.

Looks like Hippodrome are trying to run 1/3 now with a £150 - £600 buy-in but some 2/5 players are complaining it takes traffic away from their game. Interesting change from the £1000 cap they got going at Vic which might attract new players. Apparently they got 2 or 3 games running on Friday / Saturday. Anyone played it? Comments?

I popped in during the daytime randomly on Saturday and heard this, very new and good to see some sensible changes. The 2/5 players don't rule the room, let them trial it and see what happens. Would like to have seen 200 min buy in but doesn't matter too much. Vic has added another £1k to their daily high hand promo which is proving popular, and empire is also very busy most days, seems London poker is thriving! Sent from my Pixel 6a using Tapatalk

Feeling a bit bored so here's my update on the low-stakes London poker scene as of April 2024... Hippo - Pros

1. Good table selection opportunities.
2. Relatively deep-stacks compared to others.
3. Lots of young (mainly Asian) fish with disposable income from the Bank of Mum & Dad.
4. Good food (especially if you like steak and burgers).
5. Central location. Hippo - Cons
6. Very constricted seating arrangements in many areas.
7. Waiting list can be long (especially weekend evenings).
8. Rake is calculated by rounding UP to nearest ten rather than down.
9. No shuffle-machines. Roughly about 5 hands LESS per hour.
10. Very few MTTs. Empire - Pros
11. Good table selection opportunities.
12. Very relaxed, almost pub-like, casual atmosphere.
13. Rake is calculated by rounding DOWN to nearest ten.
14. Shuffle machines. Roughly 5 hands MORE per hour.
15. Daily MTTs in afternoon Empire - Cons
16. Cash-race makes it the most reg-infested of venues.
17. Extra £1 taken out of every £20+ pot (due to said cash-race).
18. Many short-stack players.
19. Dungeon-like / basement setting can put people off.
20. Lighting a little too bright. The Vic - Pros
21. Very spacious (slightly cramped around the 1/2 tables).
22. Shuffle-machines. More hands per hour.
23. Usually decent 1/3 games in evenings.
24. Lots of high-hand promotions (including daily paying out top 3 hands).
25. Daily MTTs in evening. The Vic - Cons
26. Often, very long waiting times.
27. No points system whatsoever. Unlike all the others.
28. 1/2 tables are usually infested with nit-regs.
29. Rake calculated by rounding up PLUS £s taken out of every pot for promotions.
30. Very poor food selection.
31. Dead atmosphere (plus usually a long wait) in afternoons. Aspers - Pros
32. Spacious.
33. Shuffle-machines.
34. Very wide selection of MTTs throughout the day and evening.
35. You can match the deepest stack. Aspers - Pros
36. Grim atmosphere.
37. Located far from west-end and a fairly long walk from station.
38. Less experienced dealers.
39. Poor food. Conclusion On a personal level, Aspers is too far out of the way but the real deal-breaker is that for most of the week, no tube runs after midnight to get you back to central London. Even when it does, that's still quite a long and dull central line journey. The Vic is also becoming increasingly unappealing with its long waiting times and "blood-out-of-a-stone" 1/2 games dominated by pension-age nit-regs just waiting to snag a high-hand! With it being like a morgue in the afternoon, this really means that the odd 1/3 game in the evening is the only decent option. However, what happens when these three or maybe four 1/3 games are no good? Well this leads to the conclusion that... With The Hippo and Empire being virtually next to each other, table selection becomes vastly superior to that offered by the other two. Add the fact that it's slap bang next to Chinatown (to attract the Asian gamblers) and the tourists and casual players will be attracted to the bright lights of the west-end, as a low-stakes cash-game poker player, a trip to Leicester Square in the West-End is the no brainer.

Cheers for the update; I only play from time to time so this is really helpful, have you played at Forty Five Casino in Kensington?

by DSA Stephen m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58537263#post58537263)

Cheers for the update; I only play from time to time so this is really helpful, have you played at Forty Five Casino in Kensington?

Short answer: No. Long answer: I believe it's 2/5 and have heard it's taking a while to move forward. They also do MTTs but no idea how many runners these get.

by DSA Stephen m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58537263#post58537263)

Cheers for the update; I only play from time to time so this is really helpful, have you played at Forty Five Casino in Kensington?

Just had a look and they're listed on Poker discover. I was going to type all the info out but just have a look on the link!! https://pokerdiscover.com/clubs/united-k... (https://pokerdiscover.com/clubs/united-kingdom/london/forty-five-kensington-pkr) It looks like the structures are kind of ridiculous. The Friday evening is 8K chips (& 2K early bird) with a twenty minute clock. Pretty sure when it was the Mint it was a 20 minute clock but with 20K (or maybe even 25K) chips and a 5K early bird. This had a reasonable amount of play for £100 tourny, the new structure doesn't. Saying that, I live so close, I might pop down one Friday. If I do, I'll check back here.

wow all 4 of those sound kind of bad! Is there no regular 5/T game in london anymore? (seems like Palm Beach closed?) Where does 2/5 most regularly run?

by Keruli m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58571589#post58571589)

wow all 4 of those sound kind of bad! Is there no regular 5/T game in london anymore? (seems like Palm Beach closed?) Where does 2/5 most regularly run?

I haven't played at the Vic for a long time but it appears that currently it's the best place for 5/10 and above and has 2/5 running a lot of the time. The Hippo has 2/5 running most of the time and 5/10 quite often. Your unlikely to see anything other than 1/2 at Aspers or the Empire.

by Keruli m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58571589#post58571589)

wow all 4 of those sound kind of bad! Is there no regular 5/T game in london anymore? (seems like Palm Beach closed?) Where does 2/5 most regularly run?

Yes, Palm Beach poker room has been closed for some time. Best place for mid-stakes (2/5 and 5/10) would, indeed, be The Vic. However, the place is getting a multi-million pound refurb in June/July, although I believe they will keep part of it open for cash games.

by Keruli m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58571589#post58571589)

wow all 4 of those sound kind of bad! Is there no regular 5/T game in london anymore? (seems like Palm Beach closed?) Where does 2/5 most regularly run?

Driven by the GUKPT being on but there is 2/5 and 10/25 NLHE and 25/50 PLO running right now on a Monday night at the Vic.

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58575928#post58575928)

Driven by the GUKPT being on but there is 2/5 and 10/25 NLHE and 25/50 PLO running right now on a Monday night at the Vic.

There has been for quite some time a weird combo of 25/50 or even 50/100 etc PLO (4 card, not the 10/25/50 etc 6 card) for quite some time running around 1 guy I think (who’s richer than the whole room put together many times over, he’s worth high 9 figures lol), so don’t think its gukpt related. Granted I haven’t been down in a while but I know the large plo 4 card games have been running sporadically for some months. 2/5, 5/10 and 10/25 nl runs all the time if there’s multiple tables of 2/5+ then that’s festival related I think.

Pretty sure answer is no but just confirming: There is no low/medium stakes mix that runs in London at all, right? Aware nothing regularly but also nothing once a month randomly?

If you can stretch to the Ryanair definition of London there is a regular DC cash game at Grosvenor Luton. Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun. £1/£2. Paddle has Omaha hi and Hilo 4,5 or 6 card, Courcheval hi and hilo 4,5 or 6 card, Superstud, Stud Hi, Irish, Super lowball, lowball. All played pot limit. Popular game, table usually fills very early.

Here's an interesting video about the state of live poker from a London perspective: Is Live Poker Still PROFITABLE In 2024? https://youtu.be/07X2P16FWHw

Popped into the Hippo last night - was packed to the rafters. Quoted an hour wait and 20 people in front of me for 1/2 at around 9pm. No shortage of punters it seems!

Hi guys, where can I find 6 card or 4/5/6 card plo outside Empire and Vic?

by BruceLee1989 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58660037#post58660037)

Hi guys, where can I find 6 card or 4/5/6 card plo outside Empire and Vic?

Aspers usually have a table running.

by massivetime m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58658957#post58658957)

Popped into the Hippo last night - was packed to the rafters. Quoted an hour wait and 20 people in front of me for 1/2 at around 9pm. No shortage of punters it seems!

No shortage of punters but maybe a shortage of staff explains it well enough

If any of you autists are interested in playing a friendly low stakes fixed limit 4/8 HORSE+Triple Draw then DM me. We organised a game way back in 2016 with a few 'regulars' from this thread and a couple of other degenerates, was great fun. This one will most likely be hosted at the Horseshoe, its comfy and I know some of the management. Rake TBD but probably the same as hiring a private table from them. Might even be able to negotiate just straight rake from them which should be cheaper given small size. For those not familiar but interested, antes for stud games 50p, blinds for TD and flop games 2/4 - but 4/8 stakes - so 8 quid bets on turn & river. 5 bet cap per street, the same as Vegas limit rules. A decent size loss in this game would be around 50-60 bets, so £400-480. I'd prefer a red chip game, perhaps 10/20 limit to have some decent size in the action, and happy to play up to 15/30 or 20/40, but I think no chance anything higher than a £1 chip game will run, so looking for some heads to start something with for funzies stakes in a casino environment. I live in SW London so the schlep up to Luton for DC / Mix just isn't for me. Also anyone interested in mid-stakes (5/5) 6PLO home games, DM me.

Anyone know what sort of difference the shuffle machine makes in terms of hands per hour? Am I right in thinking it’s maybe 5-10 more hands per hour so if you’re getting 25hph at Hippo without shuffle machine you’d get 30-35hph at the Vic? Or am I off? Cheers

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58752269#post58752269)

Anyone know what sort of difference the shuffle machine makes in terms of hands per hour? Am I right in thinking it’s maybe 5-10 more hands per hour so if you’re getting 25hph at Hippo without shuffle machine you’d get 30-35hph at the Vic? Or am I off? Cheers

It depends both on the game and why type of machine. The SM2 is much faster than the original SM. If every hand has enough action (or slow enough decisions) then machine impact is greater. Machine maint also matters. If the machine (or the cards are so bad) screws up, the time the dealer waste on the machine while having to also hand shuffle will actually slow down the HPH. But I suspect that with good dealers 10 hph is on the high side.

by Fore m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58752445#post58752445)

It depends both on the game and why type of machine. The SM2 is much faster than the original SM.

There is the Deckmate 1 (used by Vic) and Deckmate 2 (used by Empire). Dunno what Aspers uses but the difference to hands-per-hour is negligible. Of course, every table has slow and fast players who make decisions with varying degrees of speed but with a machine and a half-decent dealer you should expect to get around 35-40 hands-per-hour. With the hand-shuffle routine you can get expect to get between 25-30 with a slow dealer (I've timed it) and 30-35 with a fast dealer.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58752719#post58752719)

There is the Deckmate 1 (used by Vic) and Deckmate 2 (used by Empire). Dunno what Aspers uses but the difference to hands-per-hour is negligible. Of course, every table has slow and fast players who make decisions with varying degrees of speed but with a machine and a half-decent dealer you should expect to get around 35-40 hands-per-hour. With the hand-shuffle routine you can... See full post

30 hph with the London definition of a slow dealer is a bit of a stretch in a full handed game imho. 60-70% of casino poker dealers in this town are some of the worst I have ever seen anywhere in the world. For most of them it takes 20 seconds after showdown to even collect the cards and put them in the shuffler. Some even give them a chemmy shuffle before they put them in which is even more infuriating. An incentivised dealer hand shuffling would have a new hand out 13-15 seconds after pushing the last pot. Keeping tips helps!

Its a while since I been on here, anyone want a quick update... Been playing mostly at the Vic and Empire, and just a couple visits to Empire. New!!! Empire has an extra table in the room, and 2 more upstairs in the main casino. Gives them more tables at peak times, not kean on 10 tables in main room, but it's been busy when I went. they mostly spread 1/2 nl and the daily 1/2 plo 4/5/6 is mostly short stack regs, and not until the evenings when a juicy game can get going. The Vic Currently going thru it's refurb, first floor shut and all gaming, table games and poker on the 2nd floor. This has created a real buzz in the room/floor and it's packed at peak times. This has generated loads of new casual players wandering off the table games and into the poker tables. BUT, have also seen many punters from the tables doing off their money in the pit games, not sure if previous pit game players but it's surprising to see how many punt it big on BJ and the wheel. It's hot! The ac issue hasn't been fixed and on a busy night it's boardline unbearable. Food options are new, but mostly rubbish and have a 12.5% service fee automatically added The national BBJ has reached its lowest hand to qualify, (lose with quad dueces) and is growing weekly, making it busier than ever! Huge variety of games, 1/2 - 5/10 NL. Big selection of games, with 3 or more 1/3 games going with plenty of action. Omaha! The 1/2 has gone back to 100-500 buy in, and is full of the old regs nitting it up, it truly is a terrible game, no action, best avoided. Plo6 DOUBLE BOARD BOMB POTS - For the past 4/5 weeks plo6 double board bomb pots was all the rage. £1k min, no cap, £25 ante 6 handed. A rather slow game, lots of chops, and saw all whales do off their money to anyone with half a brain in this kind of format slowly but surely. For the last week it hasn't run, no confirmation why but the 2/5/10 plo6 has taken its place back on top of the plo action. Tournaments The GUKPT grand final and other big events have been moved, with the GF now being hosted at Luton end of the year. Their daily tournaments are now afternoon start times, and seem to be getting strong numbers considering the change, and there has been plenty of dealers almost all the time except at peak Friday and Saturday times. Aspers Not been myself, but seen the BPS events get a strong following and turn out, seems there is plenty of players with £200-300 to blast away in a live donkament. Might give this a look next month, as appears plenty of value albeit in a scummy location/venue Hippodrome Only one visit in a few months, same old faces, nothing much changed but have heard of plenty of times big queues for a seat. Still a lovely venue but very tight for space, and great food and drinks service. Have played the biggest volume of poker ever this year. With most of it in London, any questions just ask. Looks like live poker isn't slowing down, the games and action have been amazing, and show now signs of stopping. Now, time for a cheeky break, off to Malta tomorrow for a week.....BATTLE OF MALTA POKER FESTIVAL!!!!! Added a few pics of chip porn. Inc a £6k winner at PLO6 double board the first time I played Some massive plo6 pots at empire. Inc the heads up battle vs Mr K in the summer, which over 2 nights see me have a £25k+ swing in the right direction at 1/2 plo6 (ok it was 1/2/5/10/20 most of the time) and a 100/200 heads up match that lasted until one of us got kicked out for playing too long! Plus a big pot 6 way all in with top set vs 3 straights and some other spanners, and go twice for the big side pot, win both, for full scooopaaaa!!! Also a visit to Coventry to goliath, for the full 9 days, decent profitable trip. And a late/early morning session in the most action 1/2 game at the hippo, where a known female punter had a 5k+ stack and sent old Frank the Tank home early with a rivered gutshot in a £6k+ pot. Happy punting!

() () () () () () () () () () ( from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

Great write up thanks, nice chip porn.

Do Eltham Terrace Club still have poker tournaments? It seems any mention of poker at this venue has vanished from the internet.

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58769173#post58769173)

Its a while since I been on here, anyone want a quick update...

Pretty funny to have such a huge chip stack while you can see people shipping in their last £50 on the other side of the table! I also hate how similar the £100 and £1k looks. Seems like an accident waiting to happen. Nice writeup though!

Where can I find a poker tournament in London on a friday night? The vic has cashgames only. Empire tournament is at 12 (noon). Not planning on going to Aspers

by AAlimper m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58805923#post58805923)

Where can I find a poker tournament in London on a friday night? The vic has cashgames only. Empire tournament is at 12 (noon). Not planning on going to Aspers

Not many options, you will need to look at some private members clubs, but Friday is always busy for cash games, so not many options for Tournaments

Went to the vic for first time in yonks on Saturday and it is like playing outside in the vegas desert, temperature wise. Games were just as dry as the desert too. Sad state of affairs.

Interesting developments at The Vic. They are now doing a cash-race but with a difference: every raked pot you win gets you a point towards the cash-race! Done on a monthly basis. Only the Top 18 players get automatic entry with the next 19 to 50 being allowed to buy-in for £150+£20 on the day which is the Sunday after the qualifying period (and which clashes with The Empire). First place is a £15000 WSOP Package for 2025 with the remaining 2 to 9 players receiving cash prizes among £7K plus the buy-ins. With the emphasis being on pots (points) won, rather than days or hours clocked up, it seems that loose play is being rewarded rather than tight play. Not good news for those better patient players. Rake is the same as they now only pay 1st and 2nd for a high-hand. 3rd place is no more and I guess the money they would put aside for that goes towards the prize-pool for the cash-race. Personally - not a fan, as you can spend a lot of time playing but receive no reward for your efforts.

As a player in the US I’m curious, when you list PLO 4/5/6, does this mean a round of 4 card PLO followed by round of 5 then 6 card? Is this always played short handed?

by Hell2Heaven m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58827359#post58827359)

As a player in the US I’m curious, when you list PLO 4/5/6, does this mean a round of 4 card PLO followed by round of 5 then 6 card? Is this always played short handed?

Its means button chooses 4/5/6 cards Its played 7 handed But almost all games are 6 cards Common to see plays sit out if anyone dare chooses 4 cards. London. And most of the UK is a 6 card kinda place! Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58827455#post58827455)

Its means button chooses 4/5/6 cards Its played 7 handed But almost all games are 6 cards Common to see plays sit out if anyone dare chooses 4 cards. London. And most of the UK is a 6 card kinda place! Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

Understood, so this happens in the states in the private and underground games. Plays big, but only the true degens want that consistently. Game runners would be hard pressed to keep a game like that alive at say 5/10 blinds unless you have 7 people that are life rolled for that size. The variance and money lost would crush small poker ecosystems here. How is it sustainable in UK?

Some places offer 1/2 blinds, but of course straddles make the game big The game is very common, with bomb pots played at dealer changes in some venues. The main London casino offers 2/5/10 blinds 6 card only and has 2/3 tables daily Its really is the game of choice at the moment, only the top pros want 4 cards, but have no option. Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

Has the Vic done away with its blue £25 chips and orange £100 chips, or is this only whilst the casino is getting a refurb? Those chips look lovely, whilst the black £25 and pink £100s as shown above look terrible imo.

by Chloe O'Brian m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58829776#post58829776)

Has the Vic done away with its blue £25 chips and orange £100 chips, or is this only whilst the casino is getting a refurb? Those chips look lovely, whilst the black £25 and pink £100s as shown above look terrible imo.

The Vic are using their casino chips for both casino and poker games They are the only grosvenor to have different chips, I believe all other Gs and Grosvenors use the same chip set. (If you scroll up you'll see pics from Coventry showing the difference) Its seems there £25s are the same, and only the £1s £5s and £100s and £1ks that are completely different Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58829778#post58829778)

The Vic are using their casino chips for both casino and poker games They are the only grosvenor to have different chips, I believe all other Gs and Grosvenors use the same chip set. (If you scroll up you'll see pics from Coventry showing the difference) Its seems there £25s are the same, and only the £1s £5s and £100s and £1ks that are completely different

Agreed, pink £100 and black £25 is standard outside London. I'm not sure the provincial ones have any chips higher than £100, it's always been plaques on the rare occasion I've seen a game big enough to need them.

25/50 PLO4 is the main game of choice this week at the Vic, while a certain few players are in town, this or bigger is expected to be the game of choice, with only 1 6 card game running occasionally. Also, the Vic has a new promotion, started this month, a £15k package for first, you need to win pots to earn pots, and then play a tournament and winner gets package, with 2nd-9th getting a piece of the £7k prize pool

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58830704#post58830704)

Agreed, pink £100 and black £25 is standard outside London. I'm not sure the provincial ones have any chips higher than £100, it's always been plaques on the rare occasion I've seen a game big enough to need them.

The Vic always had pink £100 plastic chips, and they had black and orange £25 metal chips when I was in there, both for the casino. Looks like they've just got plastic £25s instead now - and perhaps they've done away with the metallicy poker £25 chips [blue] and £100 chips [orange] - shame as they really looked better than these plastic ones and had the actual casino branding on.

What's happened to The Hippo dealers recently? They're all practically falling asleep! In fact some formerly good-natured dealers are becoming as grumpy AF! One dealer (who shall remain nameless) was yawning and stretching constantly the other day, seemed to make an effort to deal as slowly as possible, paid zero acknowledgment to players who tipped... and then started whistling a tune to himself! On top of this there is another dealer (who shall remain nameless) who shouts "Hi-Yaaa!" at every opportunity, makes lame comments, has a terrible sense of humour and seems to think he's the life and soul of the party - all of which just tilts the hell out of me. And not to mention a certain dealer (bless her), who clearly wants to do the right thing but who way too often bangs on about tiny rules and regulations that just succeeds in annoying the beeJesus out of the players. Not really a complaint but there ya go. Just a rant that I wanted to vent...but with the continuation of no shuffle-machines, a hands-per-hour count that seems to get worse by the day, and too many overly-tired dealers with dodgy attitudes - I think the place needs to sort itself out!

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58850224#post58850224)

What's happened to The Hippo dealers recently? They're all practically falling asleep! In fact some formerly good-natured dealers are becoming as grumpy AF! One dealer (who shall remain nameless) was yawning and stretching constantly the other day, seemed to make an effort to deal as slowly as possible, paid zero acknowledgment to players who tipped... and then started whistlin... See full post

I’ve been avoiding hippo because of the lack of shuffle machines as it’s too slow anyway regardless of sleepy dealers. It’s a shame because the the food is great and the Vic is all round terrible (hot, terrible food, terrible games) it’s just faster and I’m very local.

I do like the Hippodrome as a casino, probably the nicest one in London for me, but the poker room is a bit crammed, and as much as the dealers are good, the noticeable difference in hands per hour without shufflers is a deal breaker. But, when I do find myself popping in, as long as it's not crazy busy, its a lovely room, great staff, good food options, and they do still host some festivals, and they get a whole host of new players playing.

Had been planning to play a session at the Vic (first time in many years) next month, but maybe not after reading recent posts. I’ve been avoiding hippo because of the lack of shuffle machines as it’s too slow anyway regardless of sleepy dealers. It’s a shame because the the food is great and the Vic is all round terrible (hot, terrible food, terrible games) it’s just faster and I’m very local.

I can handle the terrible food & games but can't handle sitting in a hot room for hours, I can't handle no shuffle machines either so that rules out hippo. Any other options? Cheers

Pro Tip: Anyone wishing to play 1/2 at The Hippo on a Friday night: arrive by 5pm! Got there at around 5:45pm last night and waited 2 hours for a table. Players arriving later had waited 3 hours!! Just sayin'.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58853498#post58853498)

Pro Tip: Anyone wishing to play 1/2 at The Hippo on a Friday night: arrive by 5pm! Got there at around 5:45pm last night and waited 2 hours for a table. Players arriving later had waited 3 hours!! Just sayin'.

Hippo 1/2 lists have always been really bad on Friday nights but I think the 1/3 table's haven't helped matters as that's 2 would be 1/2 tables being used for 1/3. I also know for sure which the 2 dealers you are referring to and completely agree with your complaints. The vast majority of dealers are very good at the Hippodrome but there are a couple now who seem to have slipped through the cracks somewhat.

Hey not sure if anyone will answer but does anyone have a decent sample of beating 1/2? I am primarily an online player around 4bb @ 100/200, I currently have 75 hours logged at the empire, 850 @ 5.8BB/Hour, I know the games are way softer but I just wonder what win rate is achievable in these high rake environment with a lot of bad regs grinding promos? If you don't want to post but happy to talk feel free to message me GLGL

You should be crushing empire 1/2 the games are some of the softest in the country, with so many tourists and walkins just dumping chips You just want to avoid any of the nitty regs. Not sure in terms of BB per hour etc but I tell anyone I know to go play empire if they want an easy game. And 5% cap at £10 is so cheap, be lucky! Try playing private games charging 5% at 50-100 for £5/£10! Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58902728#post58902728)

You should be crushing empire... the 5% cap at £10 is so cheap, be lucky!

Wow, I didn't realize that there were any legitimate casinos in Euroland with rake this low.

by Always Fondling m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58902747#post58902747)

Wow, I didn't realize that there were any legitimate casinos in Euroland with rake this low.

UK rake in general is quite reasonable. Hippo is also 5% capped at £11. At 10/25 above you pay for time, no rake.

Can anyone recommend a good poker room in London to watch the Cheltenham Festival? Basically, somewhere I could be playing a cash game while also able to easily watch the racing and ideally hear the commentary too. Does anywhere do that?

The only poker room, of the big four, that might be able to do this is The Empire but it's a bit of a long shot. They've got about 7 or 8 TVs dotted around quite a small poker room and players will often ask if they can have cricket, tennis, rugby etc on one of the screens. Of course this is possible only if any of the regs don't object. Having the commentary on is another matter and while they'll often have this on for football (especially if Arsenal are playing) and occasionally other sports I have rarely seen/heard it on for horse racing (cos, you know, everyone else in the poker room has to hear it as well). So yeh, there's no harm in asking but I put your chances at 1%-10%. Other alternative, of course, is watch it on yer device.

by cclough m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58914248#post58914248)

Can anyone recommend a good poker room in London to watch the Cheltenham Festival? Basically, somewhere I could be playing a cash game while also able to easily watch the racing and ideally hear the commentary too. Does anywhere do that?

Vic has screens up visble from most tables, unsure about sound, I'm sure you can ask floor to put on Chelts.

Thanks, both!

All need some advice not related to London but perhaps because you’re in the UK you can advise me. I came to Miami to play cash games and stupidly decided to play a silly turbo in this wpt showdown. I cashed it last night and the cage refused to pay me out due to not having an ITIN number. I don’t play live mtts much and def not in the us, I’ve never had any issues cashing out at the cage in cash games for any amount (often 5figs+). They want to withhold 30% for taxes unless I provide them an ITIN. Feels so scammy and the process is annoying to get an ITIN to get the money back. We aren’t talking a lot of money here but principal I don’t want to be taxed. I left without cashing the ticket late last night as I recall reading something somewhere to not allow them to do this and with a clear head will go back today. This is under 5k which I thought was the threshold for this rubbish. Any help I am back to argue with them again today.

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58947753#post58947753)

All need some advice not related to London but perhaps because you’re in the UK you can advise me. I came to Miami to play cash games and stupidly decided to play a silly turbo in this wpt showdown. I cashed it last night and the cage refused to pay me out due to not having an ITIN number. I don’t play live mtts much and def not in the us, I’ve never had any i... See full post

You already posted this screed on Reddit. As you were already told, US law mandates that any prizes over $600 must be reported to the government, necessitating one to produce a Social Security card or a tax ID#. I don't know how an allegedly, long-time winning player (as you bragged on Reddit) who managed to travel here from the UK is too stupid to know how to use Google. You should definitely go back and argue with them some more. I'm sure that only good things will happen for you.

Yeah, as a foreigner playing tournaments in the USA just seems silly. Just play cash.

by Always Fondling m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58948025#post58948025)

You already posted this screed on Reddit. As you were already told, US law mandates that any prizes over $600 must be reported to the government, necessitating one to produce a Social Security card or a tax ID#.I don't know how an allegedly, long-time winning player (as you bragged on Reddit) who managed to travel here from the UK is too stupid to know how to use Google.You sh... See full post

You sound like a bitter losing bitch. Gfy.

Aspers Stratford and Milton Keynes closed today with immediate effect. Stratford claim they will reopen shortly, MK says until further notice. They sold Newcastle to Bally's and Northampton to a random last year so I'm guessing they've had more problems with their banking covenants and the Q1 rent being due may have been the final straw.

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58949390#post58949390)

Aspers Stratford and Milton Keynes closed today with immediate effect. Stratford claim they will reopen shortly, MK says until further notice. They sold Newcastle to Bally's and Northampton to a random last year so I'm guessing they've had more problems with their banking covenants and the Q1 rent being due may have been the final straw.

Yup Aspers as a business is struggling and has lots of debt, and is on the market (might’ve sold already so perhaps if it’s closed then maybe that’s why). Meanwhile Hippodrome and Vic print money - from different things (Hippo make a lot of their profits from F&B).

A Genting dealer told me tonight that they have bought Stratford. Sounds plausible.

Is the grim reputation Aspers London has also a thing at the other Aspers venues?

Confirmed.

https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07246090/filing-history find-and-update

()

by Chrysostom m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58951891#post58951891)

Is the grim reputation Aspers London has also a thing at the other Aspers venues?

The Northampton one was fine, standard tiny regional casino. Not been in Newcastle or MK.

Milton Keynes and the other Aspers group companies have been put into administration.

()

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58951940#post58951940)

Confirmed. https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/07246090/filing-history find-and-update

... See full post

Nice find. I knew it was up for sale but someone had to buy it with all the debt I believe.

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58952955#post58952955)

Nice find. I knew it was up for sale but someone had to buy it with all the debt I believe.

You have to be extra incompetent to bankrupt a casino. In other news, I visited the Victoria for the first time in a long time last night and my god, the air conditioners they have installed are awful. I've woken up with some akin to Vegas throat from breathing in all the manky air. Really unpleasant. Apparently the refurb on the top floor finishes in a week or two, can't come soon enough!

by norwich m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58966060#post58966060)

You have to be extra incompetent to bankrupt a casino.In other news, I visited the Victoria for the first time in a long time last night and my god, the air conditioners they have installed are awful. I've woken up with some akin to Vegas throat from breathing in all the manky air. Really unpleasant. Apparently the refurb on the top floor finishes in a week or two, can't come s... See full post

The Vic poker room is a sad and gloomy experience at present because they're still working on the first half of the upstairs refurbishment and haven't even started on the second half yet. It will no way be finished "in a week or two." It is currently half of a dimly lit room frequented by mainly die-hard regs paying extortionate rake to hit high-hands, bad-beat jackpots and cash-race entry.

by norwich m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58966060#post58966060)

You have to be extra incompetent to bankrupt a casino.In other news, I visited the Victoria for the first time in a long time last night and my god, the air conditioners they have installed are awful. I've woken up with some akin to Vegas throat from breathing in all the manky air. Really unpleasant. Apparently the refurb on the top floor finishes in a week or two, can't come s... See full post

On the surface it seems that way but atcually alot of it is out of their control as operators. Granted they make the atmosphere - but many caisnos in the UK (higher end) are going bust. AML, KYC restrcitions have created a big problem, basically no whales can come and dust off a few mill like they used to - think Russian Oligarchs, Chinese, Arabs, unknown Columbians, etc they all need to be background checked before they can gamble, so they dont come anymore - thats why places like Crockfords closed. The middle/low end of the market like Aspers also have KYC/AML, as an exmaple of how pathetic it is, just yesterday I went there to play the Party £500, I never go there ever so my membership has expired, and in order to get a few k out at the cashier I needed to sign all sorts of docs and give them everything about me. It's also a depressing **** hole with no atmosphere. The Vic whilst being a really depressing and boring place to play with terrible games, makes a lot of money on the other hand. Hippo crushes and just prints, but mainly from F&B - they all have the silly kyc/aml stuff too. The only Vegas type experience thats fun to go to as a punter/rec (not for poker) is Hippodrome, we have nothing else and its pretty boring. The casinos are handcuffed by stupid laws (that limit the amount of machines for one). Recently I took a trip to Seminole Hard Rock in Miami, that is alot crapper than any major Vegas casino - but it at least feels exciting to be there, you get that Vegas buzz. I dont get that feeling anywhere in London (apart from Hippo and its also that wears off quickly once you go often). Perhaps it's just the UK in general, the clientele, the food, the staff etc. Obv you shouldnt play slots, but if you look at what you can win walking past as a voyeur, it's absoultey pathetic £7K 'Grand' jackpots, whole thing is really lacklustre and unexciting. /rant 😀

I notice The Vic is getting a lot of heat in this thread of late. It has always been my favourite (but I am biased because I can drive there within 45 mins and it's free parking) - never short of a game, professional dealers/floor staff etc. I have never been sold on Hippo nor Aspers RIP - so does that cement Empire the best spot in London for live cash now?

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58951942#post58951942)

The Northampton one was fine, standard tiny regional casino. Not been in Newcastle or MK.

Newcastle the problem they have is the venue they are in all the bars etc are closing and it used to be an in venue and am sure got walkins. Last few times I have been the whole place has been dead and few people gambling. Suspect high rents as well. The floor the casino is on has retro game arcades nowadays. I havent played poker there in a long time but they seemed to have moved the poker upstairs away from the main floor as well so may have had an impact on the poker games but will be checking out in the next few weeks now its become Bally's.

by massivetime m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58966464#post58966464)

I notice The Vic is getting a lot of heat in this thread of late. It has always been my favourite (but I am biased because I can drive there within 45 mins and it's free parking) - never short of a game, professional dealers/floor staff etc. I have never been sold on Hippo nor Aspers RIP - so does that cement Empire the best spot in London for live cash now?

10 minutes from me and yeah car park very good perk. Staff all nice/fine. Food is diabolical (I used to enjoy the Arabic menu way back) and the place just lacks atmosphere. I need to feel abit of excitment when I walk into a casino, unfortunately this a little like walking into a the same atmosphere as a bingo hall. The terrace they made is quite nice I guess. What do I know though, the place makes millions in ebitda, but I don't really enjoy playing there, I go occasionally as it's really near for me but the games are also pretty crap generally. Perhaps the games I want don't exist in London anyway, I play more in USA/EU and it's action central for the most part. I dont see many whales donking off at the vic, plus PLO 456 has ruined any NL games all the fish play that, theyll sit at 2/5 then when plo456 runs they move. I have been going on anf off for like 20 years, when the poker room was on the middle floor (?) the atmosphere was way better but it was a different time.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58966074#post58966074)

The Vic poker room is a sad and gloomy experience at present because they're still working on the first half of the upstairs refurbishment and haven't even started on the second half yet. It will no way be finished "in a week or two." It is currently half of a dimly lit room frequented by mainly die-hard regs paying extortionate rake to hit high-hands, bad-beat jackpots and cas... See full post

you really do love to complain about the rake Honestly, I think London and the UK have the CHEAPEST rake going, and considering the cost of living and doing business in London, we are lucky it's stayed the same for so long. Everywhere else I have played in Europe is 5% at 20+ or 10% at 5-8 in America or a lumpy time charge for bigger games. Im sure an increase is coming soon, 5% at 15 might be soon if we want poker in London, which I think is still cheap and more than fair, games are plenty beatable, unless your some wanabe pro grinding 1/2 and making bowl hourly and sweating every 50p and £1 (get better and play bigger so rake isn't as impactful on your profits) The Vic, hopefully a few month's away from finishing their refurb, and hope that sort's the AC situation out. The main gaming floor look's really nice, very big and open feel and a nice overall look. So if the top floor and poker room look anywhere as good, we are in for a treat. Just hope they sort the food quality out, and make use of this new venue.

Hey guys, QQ, do they do double board bomb pots at Hippo NLH 1/2? I tried the Aspers after a long while last week and that was a thing. I despise the Aspers so not planning to go back much but I'd like to play a ton of live poker this summer while my apartment resembles a green-house. Thanks!

They don't do bomb pots at the hippo

by DonkDonkDonkDonk m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58980882#post58980882)

They don't do bomb pots at the hippo

Thank you. That's a shame, they are fun and get loads of money at the table if people are willing to re-load. On a separate note, I ended up playing a bit there yesterday. Terrible session, but that's whatever :-) what I noticed, it seems hardly anyone was tipping at all. Was that an outlier table or tipping has gone down heavily in London?

by astrobel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58981512#post58981512)

it seems hardly anyone was tipping at all. Was that an outlier table or tipping has gone down heavily in London?

Tipping is definitely less prevalent than back in the day and often depends on the tipping habits of the regs because those new to the poker room will follow what is the norm. For example, if a guy new to the poker room sees no one else tipping, then he usually won't tip either. Unfortunately, a lot of Hippo regs do not understand that dealers are on minimum wage and rely on tips to keep themselves in the job. In short, if everyone did what non-tippers do - and refuse to tip - you'll get no dealers, or at least a serious shortage (which is actually what is happening at The Hippo), cos who wants to work for minimum wage right? And I know this sounds preachy, I'm kinda triggered right now, but those regs who NEVER tip are absolute scum because they rely solely on the good nature of those who do tip, to keep their precious games going. And these are just the type of person who are the first to complain if there is a lack of dealers. Rant over

Yeah it surprises me like in the US don’t dealers make like $100k plus and people say usa work regulations don’t benefit the worker Whereas in the UK they are on a tiny low wage, I’d give it a go if they offered something decent

whats with Hippo 1/2? I went a few times last summer it was pretty much 8/10/12 tables on Thursday night, Friday late afternoon/night and same on Saturday and quite busy too on Sundays. thats between 70/100 players playing + waiting lists. now I look t their twitter updates and like 4-5 tables of 1/2 at best. I see some at higher stakes but I recall it had 10+ players packed with 20 players on the waiting list last time I went and that was about a year ago. you could hardly walk out from the tables in the back of the room it was so packed.

I played the BPS days 1C and 1D; some crazy play going on :-) - day 1C I got to the last level of the day, level 15, busted at that point. It was quite late by then - over 3 am - they could do with shorter breaks on the evening events, that's quite late as is. Other than that it seems decent value with all the crazy play going on. Good luck to anyone playing the final day today!

by reasonit m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=58986824#post58986824)

whats with Hippo 1/2?

heaps of players, not enough staff or space high stakes area is lovely though

by norwich m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59007673#post59007673)

heaps of players, not enough staff or space high stakes area is lovely though

Any more info on this high stakes area? Not been for a while, have they made some changes? Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59007674#post59007674)

Any more info on this high stakes area? Not been for a while, have they made some changes? Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

No. Same as always. 2/5+ players get to play at tables in the "main area" where they can actually move around like human beings should in a hospitality setting. The rest get shoved to the "economy class" where you're crammed in like sardines and treated like ****. The Vic crushes in this regard and will/has become the bespoke poker room where you can actually play in a relaxed manner.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59008974#post59008974)

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59007674#post59007674)

Any more info on this high stakes area? Not been for a while, have they made some changes?Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

No. Same as always. 2/5+ players get to play at tables in the "main area" where they can actually move around like human beings should in a hospitality setting. The rest get shoved to the "economy class" where you're crammed in like sardines and treated ... See full post

Agreed re: the Vic. I was in there this week for the first time since January and the poker room looks and feels so much better. I don't know if it is 100% finished or not yet (I know the whole renovation is still ongoing) but what an upgrade.

I'm playing day 2 of Beer Poker Tour main event today, wish me luck :-) - 30BB stack - Wondering what changes may come for Aspers Stratford now that's in Genting hands?

I’m thinking of heading out for the ME and some other mtts, as a cash game player I was surprised (my own fault) that when I was recently in Miami when I cashed a 1k side event I had money withheld at the cage as I didn’t have an ITIN. I’ll never see that money again unless I cash for huge somewhere as it would cost more to get an ITIN than worth while, and I’ve been advised not to do so unless I cash for something significant that makes the 1-2k fee to get an agent to get me one. I’ve also heard it takes months. I am not sure if that’s unique to Miami FL or Vegas - I’ve only ever played cash, apart from some mtts over a decade ago in Vegas. It sort of makes or breaks my ideas for a trip - primarily WSOP but also Wynn & Aria for the week I’m thinking of coming, if any UK players can report requiring an ITIN after cashing at any of those venues (min cash or significant) would appreciate your input. Cash games you don’t need but anything that’s a ‘prize’ you do at least in FL (MTT cash, slot win etc), not actually heard of this in Vegas, and of course if you cash for huge and need to get an agent to get an ITIN and file taxes to recoup it’s worthwhile, it’s just such a ball ache and make min cashing pointless.

by astrobel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59014093#post59014093)

I'm playing day 2 of Beer Poker Tour main event today, wish me luck :-) - 30BB stack - Wondering what changes may come for Aspers Stratford now that's in Genting hands?

I suppose some ruling changes as I have seen the floor handing out hand penalty for acting out of turn for first offence. Seen once there is an orbit penalty and once 2 hand penalty for the first offence which appears to be a benign mistake. Pretty sure they would only hand out warning before.

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59020166#post59020166)

I’m thinking of heading out for the ME and some other mtts, as a cash game player I was surprised (my own fault) that when I was recently in Miami when I cashed a 1k side event I had money withheld at the cage as I didn’t have an ITIN. I’ll never see that money again unless I cash for huge somewhere as it would cost more to get an ITIN than worth while, and I’ve been advised no... See full post

The rules are universal across US for federal taxes. In fact if you win enough (below) on a cruise ship in international waters (if you sailed from US at least) US citizens will have taxes withheld. The withholding rules are the same in FL as Las Vegas. What fee. You can apply directly to IRS for ITIN. You might need to pay some basic fees to have some documents notarized. If you are using a CAA, sure they can charge you whatever they want. But doing directly with IRS or via a TAC is free. Also some tax preparations companies will assist filing for the ITIN. Many of these will do so for free if you use them to file taxes for you. My wife has done so for some clients in the past. The time to get an ITIN is typically between 2 months and maybe as much as 4 months, so yes it can take awhile. If you have a qualifying win in a legal US casino, including any in Las Vegas, you will have taxes withheld and will need an ITIN to get some/all of the funds back. If you have an ITIN and are from London, you can get 0% withheld. If you don't have ITIN but file to get one and later file 1040-NR, you SHOULD be able to get 100% of withheld amount back. (What happens in London, I have no knowledge.) The amounts won to require withholding include: $1,200 or more from slot machines or bingo. $1,500 or more from keno. $5,000 (net) or more from a poker tournament. $600 or more from other types of gambling (like sports betting or horse racing) if the payout is at least 300 times the wager. I will note that assuming your win in FL was "only" $5000 AND 30% was withheld, that is $1500. Even if it cost you $1000 to use a CAA and get an ITIN, you come out $500 ahead. If it costs you $2000 for the agent, you only need one more future win to likely be BE. So whoever is telling you you need a "huge cash" seems to be very wrong.

by Fore m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59020603#post59020603)

The rules are universal across US for federal taxes. In fact if you win enough (below) on a cruise ship in international waters (if you sailed from US at least) US citizens will have taxes withheld.The withholding rules are the same in FL as Las Vegas.What fee. You can apply directly to IRS for ITIN. You might need to pay some basic fees to have some documents notarized. If you... See full post

Thanks for the indepth response. Sadly lot of what you’ve written is not fully accurate or at least doesn’t apply in real time with these casinos, for example my cash in FL was under 5k and they still withheld 30% of the ‘profit’ after the BI. They refused to acknowledge the 5k limit and I later found out from a local CAA there that they were indeed correct. It could be due to their Tribal ownership (Seminole Hard Rock) So I was owed like $700, getting a CAA to do it would cost double that, but they advised me they would only obtain the ITIN if I also filed the tax return which bumped it up, that’s across the board with 4-5 different CAA agents I tried. But you can only file taxes when you have the score so irs abit chicken and egg? I’m interested to know of people who cashed for small or large amounts without an ITIN in Vegas (in the places I’ve mentioned) so I can hear about the different real time stories. I’ve heard some casinos will apply for the ITIN for you when you cash. There seems to be a lot of misinformation and differing experiences which is rather annoying. I also recall seeing on his Instagram stories Espen having a huge chunk of his WSOP ME win withheld for months due to this and the fact he’s a British citizen. Maybe that’s not 100% accurate.

ChatGPT tends to tell you what you want to hear but essentially it looks like it’s chicken and egg. I do have a prior small cash that I could obtain the ITIN/file taxes with but nobody will get me the ITIN without filing the taxes so I guess I have to wait until Jan 2026 and anything I cash for gets bolted onto that tax return/ITIN: You’ve summarized the ITIN situation correctly — especially for UK-based poker players heading to the WSOP — but let me clarify and structure it precisely for you based on current IRS policy and your goal (to avoid 30% withholding on poker winnings in the US): ⸻ ✅ Your Situation • You are a UK citizen, no SSN, no ITIN currently. • You’re planning to play the WSOP in Las Vegas, where any tournament cash above $5,000 will have 30% withheld by the IRS (even though the UK and US have a tax treaty). • You cannot claim the tax treaty benefit upfront unless you already have an ITIN. • You want to avoid or recover that 30%. ⸻ �� Catch-22 Explained (and the Real Order of Operations) Unfortunately, yes — you cannot get an ITIN in advance just in case you cash. The IRS does not allow ITIN applications without a valid reason (like a tax filing requirement). And cashing in a tournament creates that reason. So, here’s the realistic sequence: ⸻ �� 1. You Cash at the WSOP • You win a large amount (over $5,000). • 30% is withheld by the IRS if you don’t already have an ITIN. • You’re given Form 1042-S by the WSOP (this shows the withholding). ⸻ ��*�� 2. You Engage a CAA (Certifying Acceptance Agent) • After the cash and 1042-S, you hire a CAA (a licensed tax pro who handles foreign ITIN applications). • The CAA helps you apply for an ITIN with your tax return (Form 1040NR) and your 1042-S as proof. • The ITIN application is sent with your first tax return. �� Note: You’ll also need certified ID documents (usually a certified copy of your passport from the UK Passport Office or via the CAA). ⸻ �� 3. You File a US Tax Return • The CAA files your 1040NR showing the 30% withholding and claiming a refund under the US-UK tax treaty (Article 17 – Gambling). • The IRS processes the return and ITIN (this takes 4–6 months, sometimes more). ⸻ �� 4. You Get the Refund + Permanent ITIN • You receive a cheque for the withheld tax (or a US bank transfer if arranged). • Your ITIN is issued and valid for life (unless unused for 3 consecutive years, in which case it expires but can be renewed). • Now, in future years, you can submit your ITIN in advance with a W-8BEN to poker operators (WSOP, WPT, etc.) to avoid the 30% withholding upfront. ⸻ �� Can You Avoid Withholding Without an ITIN? No. The WSOP and other US operators are legally required to withhold 30% if you don’t have a valid ITIN and haven’t submitted a W-8BEN before payment. ⸻ �� Can You Preempt This (Get ITIN in Advance)? Only if you’ve already had prior US tax obligations or another legitimate reason to file (e.g., royalty income, real estate). Otherwise, IRS won’t issue it “just in case” of a future poker win. Some players try to get one in advance by declaring past minor US poker earnings and filing late returns, but it’s a grey area and risky if there’s no real taxable activity. ⸻

Coming to London in the fall for work and looking to learn more about the scene. I play mostly 4/5/6 card PLO. 1/2 or 2/5, maybe bigger if it looks good. Anyone got any intel? Which venue is my best bet? I have no interest in 1/2 NL. I am degen.

The Vic is your no.1 venue! With 4 or 5 plo6 games going daily from 1/2/5 to 5/10/25, plus 1/2 up to 25/50 holdem regularly. The only venue with consistent big games typically from lunchtime until the early hours. Download the Grosvenor app or follow them on twitter or Facebook to see their daily/hourly updates on games

( from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59048814#post59048814)

The Vic is your no.1 venue! With 4 or 5 plo6 games going daily from 1/2/5 to 5/10/25, plus 1/2 up to 25/50 holdem regularly. The only venue with consistent big games typically from lunchtime until the early hours.Download the Grosvenor app or follow them on twitter or Facebook to see their daily/hourly updates on gamesSent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk... See full post

Excellent reply, thank you so much.

Hi, Anyone know of casinos that run PLO4 OR 5 card in or around London. The Vic only seems to run PLO6 and I don't know anything about the other poker rooms in London. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks

Empire is on bravo, looks like the a running a PLO 456 1/2 game atm but I think everyone pretty much chooses 6 card, think it’s just the fashion now to play PLO 6 because of the demand. Used to see a 4 card PLO games going but not really any more I don’t think as everyone seems to want 6 card.

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59021000#post59021000)

I’m interested to know of people who cashed for small or large amounts without an ITIN in Vegas (in the places I’ve mentioned) so I can hear about the different real time stories.

Cashed at the Venetian 2023 without a ITIN they withheld about $3k. Managed to apply for the ITIN myself the next tax year for a grand cost of zero. Just took a few hours research and filling in the forms correctly. You do need to send off your passport which isn't ideal but am lucky enough to be a dual citizen so didn't affect any travel plans. Got everything back and a cheque with the balance in about 7 weeks.

by U shove i call m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59058585#post59058585)

Cashed at the Venetian 2023 without a ITIN they withheld about $3k. Managed to apply for the ITIN myself the next tax year for a grand cost of zero. Just took a few hours research and filling in the forms correctly. You do need to send off your passport which isn't ideal but am lucky enough to be a dual citizen so didn't affect any travel plans. Got everything back and a cheque... See full post

Interesting, issue is my with held amount is significantly lower so I would also have to apply myself to make it even worthwhile - the issue is my passport and after reseaching it isnt easy to get a temp passport and I cant be without it. But thanks for that because perhaps I dont need an agent - although I thought you needed one for the tax filing as only a certified agent could do this in the US?

by dappadan777 m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59060101#post59060101)

Interesting, issue is my with held amount is significantly lower so I would also have to apply myself to make it even worthwhile - the issue is my passport and after reseaching it isnt easy to get a temp passport and I cant be without it. But thanks for that because perhaps I dont need an agent - although I thought you needed one for the tax filing as only a certified agent cou... See full post

Only a certified agent can copy your passport and verify its a true likeness. Nothing to stop you doing all the rest if you send your own passport. Nightmare i realise if only have one. Find a grandparent born in Ireland and get yourself a second. If you fill all the forms in yourself and get the agent just to copy and certify your passport it could be substantially cheaper than them doing everything themselves.

Last weekend BPS200 at Genting Stratford was pretty good. £32K on top. I made it to the top 40 out of 905 being card dead and short the whole way ... either way, all the money is at that coveted final table, hopefully I'll make it there at some point in the near future. One thing I found a bit tilting. Just before the start of day 2 (it was a two day event) they advertised on X some single table crazy pinapple single hand comp to get directly onto day 2 ... so basically you could play a single hand against 7 other players and luck it up with 200,000 in chips with BB at 6,000 onto day 2!!!!!! Isn't that out of line from Genting??? It's certainly great for them to make £35 rake per player in 1 hand!

I've been living in Greenwich for 9 months and I've only just found out about the Eltham Terrace Club, fml. Will head down there next week and report back!

Just went there for the first time last night and left feeling extremely impressed. Very good dealers, would've been at home in a casino. Bunch of friendly regulars. Two dealers noticed me shuffling around on my own and took time to give me a friendly welcome. Big TVs in view of all the tables, drink prices respectable and so on. Helps that I took an ICM chop as chipleader with 4 of us left too! There were 2 cash tables on too, think they were £1/£2/£5 and playing deep. Highly recommended if you live local and fancy a good game of cards in a more friendly local setting.

Does anyone know what the monthly Wednesday tournament at bayswater is on the poker live app it has this; BCLRR 1-20 free, 21-30 £150 + £14, 31-40 £250 + £14, Anyone else £350 + £14 But no idea what this means?

by DSA Stephen m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59075690#post59075690)

Does anyone know what the monthly Wednesday tournament at bayswater is on the poker live app it has this; BCLRR 1-20 free, 21-30 £150 + £14, 31-40 £250 + £14, Anyone else £350 + £14 But no idea what this means?

Bayswater Cash League something something. It's their cash league playoff tournie. The top 20 in the league get in for free, those that finished in 21st to 30th can choose to play it for £164, 31st to 40th can play for £264 etc. The August comp had 24 runners so only 4 chose to pay to play and the prize pool was £6654. Typical locals comp outcome, they did a near-even chop 5 handed.

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59075786#post59075786)

Bayswater Cash League something something. It's their cash league playoff tournie. The top 20 in the league get in for free, those that finished in 21st to 30th can choose to play it for £164, 31st to 40th can play for £264 etc.The August comp had 24 runners so only 4 chose to pay to play and the prize pool was £6654.Typical locals comp outcome, they did a near-even chop 5 hand... See full post

Cheers; didn't even know they ran cash there seems weird when the Vic is just round the corner

hi all, where's the best spots to play in London these days for 2/5 deep+, 5/10+ hold em? Not been back in ages

by Ymmot m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59084114#post59084114)

hi all, where's the best spots to play in London these days for 2/5 deep+, 5/10+ hold em? Not been back in ages

Viv and Hippo are the only places which spread this games regulary. Hippo update on X often about tables running and Vic are on the Grosvenor Poker app which you can use to view whats running and join waiting lists(join at home and arrive within 1 hour to save time).

25/50 holdem has been running every day recently at The Hippo according to their Twitter feed.

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59090980#post59090980)

25/50 holdem has been running every day recently at The Hippo according to their Twitter feed.

Was even some 50/100 on Saturday, why they not getting that on the live stream instead of 5/10

Has anyone ever played a one-off game in a pub for more than the usual buy-in allowed? We run a poker league that plays in a nationally run tournament and want to play a Xmas Party game for us at just £25 buy-in that includes the food. This buy in will also include a charity donation of 25% of the pot for a member who is going through a tough time medically. Does anyone know where we would stand with this, we don’t want to get into trouble for just a one-off game to celebrate Xmas as a group and raise a hit of money for the chap’s chosen charity. Appreciate any help/advice you can give?

IANAL. As long as you only let a maximum of 4 people enter you'll be legal...

https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/guidance/guidance-to-licensing-authorities/appendix-h-poker-games-and-prizes Gambling Commission Guidance to licensing authorities - Appendix H: Poker games and prizes (https://www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk/guidance/guidance-to-licensing-authorities/appendix-h-poker-games-and-prizes)

"The prize limit is £250 per game in a club and £100 per game in a pub." The chances of getting caught for a one-off game in a regular venue must be vanishingly small.

Have been off the scene for a while, used to play empire, hippo, vic, Bayswater horseshoe 1/2 and occasional tournaments at vic + empire. Curious about what the tournament scene is like these days, if anyone has any info? Prob looking at buyins of £50-£250

Aspers (now genting) has the best value £200-300 2 day tournament, big runners, half decent structure and plenty of value. The vic hosts the odd £200-300 event also. Cash games, for me is all about empire or vic, if you want £ for £ win rate empire wins hands down for softest games in London. Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59168024#post59168024)

Aspers (now genting) has the best value £200-300 2 day tournament, big runners, half decent structure and plenty of value. The vic hosts the odd £200-300 event also. Cash games, for me is all about empire or vic, if you want £ for £ win rate empire wins hands down for softest games in London. Sent from my SM-S928B using Tapatalk

Thanks, might jump back into the 1/2 scene at the empire if games are still good

Originally from UK but live abroad now, coming back this week for a while. Looks like on the Vic Poker Live App you sign up for a specific table waiting list rather than just a game/stake, is that right? Is that how it works when you sign up at casino too?

by TheGramuel m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59204396#post59204396)

Originally from UK but live abroad now, coming back this week for a while. Looks like on the Vic Poker Live App you sign up for a specific table waiting list rather than just a game/stake, is that right? Is that how it works when you sign up at casino too?

You can sign up via the app or in club You choose your stakes and game type, you go on the list You get messages via the app and over the speaker system when your called when a seat is available, you can then choose to transfer table at the same stakes once seated Highly recommend the app, log in and join lists up to 1 hour before you arrive. And then scan your card at the terminals by the poker room desk, and you will be activited and pushed right up the list when busy. Note its 1 hour max before you are removed.

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59204398#post59204398)

You can sign up via the app or in clubYou choose your stakes and game type, you go on the listYou get messages via the app and over the speaker system when your called when a seat is available, you can then choose to transfer table at the same stakes once seatedHighly recommend the app, log in and join lists up to 1 hour before you arrive. And then scan your card at the termina... See full post

Ty ty, I don't have a card yet so assume I need to go there first to get one, but that's fine I'll be getting there at random times and as I'm going to be on holiday happy to degen in the pits with my brother while I wait lol

Word on the street is that The Trocedero in Picadilly Circus is going to build a casino and will include a poker room. Also, word on the street is that The Empire is finally raising its rake in line with The Hippodrome. i.e. They will round the pot to the nearest ten and rake accordingly, rather than always rounding down like they do now. Up to £11 max. Eg, A pot of £16 will be raked £1 (no longer 50p) and a pot of £37 will be raked £2 (no longer £1.50). £218 will be raked £11. From April 9th. Sad but true.

by MagicMushie m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59265141#post59265141)

Word on the street is that The Trocedero in Picadilly Circus is going to build a casino and will include a poker room. Also, word on the street is that The Empire is finally raising its rake in line with The Hippodrome. i.e. They will round the pot to the nearest ten and rake accordingly, rather than always rounding down like they do now. Up to £11 max. Eg, A pot of £16 will be... See full post

there was a new casino expected in the west end, a Hard Rock, using the previous Ritz Casino licence, but haven't heard anything for a while about it. The Trocedero is currently a Zedwell low budget hotel and is always busy, be surprised if it gets changed for a casino, as the council are not issuing any new casino licences and no casino's have closed down recently also the rake change at empire, totally fine, a minor cost to the players. London has to be one of the cheapest places in Europe to play poker, and with the action constant tourist walk ins, I think myself lucky to only pay £10-12 a hand in London for such value. Most of europe is 5% capped at 25-30.

It's Genting who are opening on three floors of the Trocadero, they're moving their licence from Crockfords which closed in 2023.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy4rzzen48eo BBC News Piccadilly Circus: Casino approved for London's Trocadero building (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy4rzzen48eo)

Whether they'll bother with a poker room is another question. EDIT: I've had a look through the application document, they're not planning to have any poker. See pages 56-67 https://westminster.moderngov.co.uk/docu... (https://westminster.moderngov.co.uk/documents/s68701/Trocadero%20report%20Website.pdf)

by MagicMushie m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59265141#post59265141)

Word on the street is that The Trocedero in Picadilly Circus is going to build a casino and will include a poker room. Also, word on the street is that The Empire is finally raising its rake in line with The Hippodrome. i.e. They will round the pot to the nearest ten and rake accordingly, rather than always rounding down like they do now. Up to £11 max. Eg, A pot of £16 will be... See full post

2 posts in 18.5 years is an impressive lurk rate

Used to play in London - started out at The Fox (R.I.P.) if anyone remembers that, then Hippo / Empire. Relocated overseas about 10 years ago. Will be back in London for a few weeks and should have some time to get some games in. What's the scene like these days? Hippo / Empire still the main places for decent action? Mainly played 1/3 or 2/5.

I used to love an evening in the Fox, worked just round the corner in Wardour St. There was a full table of PLO cash running and everyone wanted to change it to PLO6, we asked the floor and the response was "No, we don't want to encourage gambling". Which was an interesting take. Hippo post regular cash game updates https://x.com/PSLive_Hippo , looks like 2/5 runs pretty often. Empire seems to have stopped with the X updates however they are listed on the Bravo app, 5 tables of 1/2 running at 6pm local on a Tuesday. For the Vic the Grosvenor PokerLive app shows the current state of play. At 6pm on Tuesday they have 1 x 1/2, 3 x 1/3 and 1 x 2/5 plus two tables of PLO6. I was at the Vic last Monday for the first time in years and was slightly surprised to see how deep some tables were, there was a 1/3 with most of the table sitting with 4k+ each.

by poker-sniper m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59290511#post59290511)

Used to play in London - started out at The Fox (R.I.P.) if anyone remembers that, then Hippo / Empire. Relocated overseas about 10 years ago. Will be back in London for a few weeks and should have some time to get some games in. What's the scene like these days? Hippo / Empire still the main places for decent action? Mainly played 1/3 or 2/5.

Yes, Hippo and Empire are still the main places for decent action - mainly cos that's where the tourists go. The Vic is still an option but it's reg-heavy, rake is high (£2.50 from a £10 pot) and it's out of the way. Hippo is best, especially for 1/3 and 2/5 Pros

1. The Empire rarely gets games above 1/2. Hippo has plenty above 1/2.
2. The Empire also has a cash-race which attracts regs. Hippo has no cash-race.
3. Hippo does NOT take an extra £1 out of every pot over £20.
4. Plenty of fun / casual players with disposable income.
5. Very good food. Especially if you like steaks and burgers. Cons
6. No shuffle machines. Hands per hour a lot less than Empire.
7. Dealers who talk WAY too much and slow down the action even more.
8. Long waiting lists... but improving recently.
9. Slightly cramped poker room.
10. Less friendly atmosphere than The Empire.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59299864#post59299864)

Yes, Hippo and Empire are still the main places for decent action - mainly cos that's where the tourists go. The Vic is still an option but it's reg-heavy, rake is high (£2.50 from a £10 pot) and it's out of the way. Hippo is best, especially for 1/3 and 2/5Pros1. The Empire rarely gets games above 1/2. Hippo has plenty above 1/2.2. The Empire also has a cash-race which attract... See full post

if you want 1/3+ the Vic is the best, has lots of 1/3 games, from midday until the early hours, plenty to choose from, and it plays deep, and much bigger than 1/2. agree with most of the cons for Hippo above, still think the rake is minimal difference and for a strong crusher/winner it shouldn't be a decision maker, hands per hour, hourly, and value of the table are far better at empire vs hippo, just make sure to have dinner before hand, as food options are dreadful vs hippo.

Poker player sues London’s Hippodrome casino for £100k after ban ‘for cashing out too fast’

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/mortaza-sahibzada-hippodrome-casino-ban-b2977165.html The Independent Poker player sues Hippodrome casino for £100k after ban ‘for cashing out too fast’ (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/mortaza-sahibzada-hippodrome-casino-ban-b2977165.html)

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59304997#post59304997)

Poker player sues London’s Hippodrome casino for £100k after ban ‘for cashing out too fast’

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/mortaza-sahibzada-hippodrome-casino-ban-b2977165.html The Independent Poker player sues Hippodrome casino for £100k after ban ‘for cashing out too fast’ (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/mortaza-sahibzada-hippodrome-casino-ban-b2977165.html)

The lawyer was the one with ££ signs in the eyes when he convinced the guy he actually had a case. Moral: Don't trust lawyers.

by fazzers m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59302499#post59302499)

if you want 1/3+ the Vic is the best, has lots of 1/3 games, from midday until the early hours, plenty to choose from, and it plays deep, and much bigger than 1/2.agree with most of the cons for Hippo above, still think the rake is minimal difference and for a strong crusher/winner it shouldn't be a decision maker, hands per hour, hourly, and value of the table are far better a... See full post

The 1/3 at The Vic always sounds enticing, especially with a £1K max. Unfortunately, almost every time I go - it's a sea of familiar faces and the usual regs.

Vic trying something new next week, £30,000 gtd Omaha tournament Day 1A is 6 card Day 1B is 5 card Day 1C is 4 card Day 2 is 456 level of each.

Hippodrome raises rake once again. Not satisfied with rounding up from £16, £26, £36 etc to the nearest ten before taking 5%, the suits at The Hippo have decided to squeeze yet more cash out of the players by rounding up from £21, £31 and £41 etc to the nearest ten. Never fails to amaze me how casinos continue to find ways to get that those extra £££s from the players, as if house edge is never enough. This is just pure greed imo.

by Doctor Futtock m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59350677#post59350677)

Hippodrome raises rake once again. Not satisfied with rounding up from £16, £26, £36 etc to the nearest ten before taking 5%, the suits at The Hippo have decided to squeeze yet more cash out of the players by rounding up from £21, £31 and £41 etc to the nearest ten. Never fails to amaze me how casinos continue to find ways to get that those extra £££s from the players,... See full post

Sorry, are you saying they take 5% up to £20 per hand? Is there a no flop no drop? Either way this is nuts. Also: came to this thread to ask how often they spread mixed games, at what limit and what the normal rotation is. Is see it referenced in the website but that can mean many different things than it actually having a running limit mix

by BradH m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59359554#post59359554)

Sorry, are you saying they take 5% up to £20 per hand? Is there a no flop no drop? Either way this is nuts. Also: came to this thread to ask how often they spread mixed games, at what limit and what the normal rotation is. Is see it referenced in the website but that can mean many different things than it actually having a running limit mix

No flop, no drop is correct. The rake is 5% capped at GBP 10. The new thing is that a pots of 21 and 24 are rounded up to 30 for calculating rake, they used to be rounded down. You are out of luck with limit mixed games in the UK. The only public ones I'm aware of that are running now are pot limit games in Luton and Nottingham, they are button chooses from Superstud, PLO (4,5 or 6), PLO8 (4,5 or 6), Courcheval (4,5,6), Courcheval HiLo (4,5,6), Lowball, Super Lowball, PLO DB, PLO TB, Irish (DC) and Padooki. Many moons ago, the Vic spread a 75/150 mixed game, Luke Schwartz often played.

Does anyone know if the Vic are taking the piss with waiting lists & opening new tables as of late, or am I just unlucky? I went on Thursday and the £1/£2 waiting list was at 35 odd names. Waited 45 minutes and moved a little bit through the list but didn't hear any new tables being opened. I checked their app the last few days and it seems this is common with 20 odd on the waiting list each time I had a quick look? I've just returned to the Vic playing live, but no point making the journey if this is going to be commonplace!

I wonder if they have temporarily shipped some dealers to Goliath? It's been having 25+ cash tables running each night with a £15 rake cap, the waiting lists were hitting 80+ at the weekend.

by Longines m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59367551#post59367551)

I wonder if they have temporarily shipped some dealers to Goliath? It's been having 25+ cash tables running each night with a £15 rake cap, the waiting lists were hitting 80+ at the weekend.

Thanks, hopefully it's that and not them cutting costs and wanting to funnel more people into the casino.

What's the deal with the £1/£3 at the Vic? I know the max buyin is quite big relative to the stakes and historically has always been this way. I sat there yesterday mid-afternoon and everyone was straddling and it seemed like an absolute regfest. Is it just a hangout for higher stakes players to have a bit of a warmup ahead of bigger tables opening later in the night? Think I'll stay to £1/£2 next time!

by Chloe O'Brian m (https://www.twoplustwo.com/post?postId=59400093#post59400093)

What's the deal with the £1/£3 at the Vic?... I sat there yesterday mid-afternoon...and it seemed like an absolute regfest.

Yeh midweek / mid-afternoon at The Vic (or any other poker room for that matter), is NOT the best time to play. Play in the evenings - that's it.