Windmill International has seven decades on its shoulders. However, it's not showing its age and provides top quality entertainment for gentleman and open-minded ladies - if you can afford it.

The Venue
Step back to the 1930s when Mrs Henderson bought the small Windmill Theatre. The brilliant, audacious idea was to turn it into the first nude show in London, modelled on Moulin Rouge. Windmill International was a triumph, never closing during the Blitz - almost unheard of during those hard times. Their motto is 'We Never Closed'.

Windmill International has been revamped since those glorious days but has retained many of its original features. The small theatre is still there, the stage has not been moved nor has the tiered gallery. The club is divided between a lower floor and stage and an upper gallery.

On the ground floor, a long bar occupies the whole wall opposite the stage. A few steps lower, the former arena has been transformed into a main seating area and is furnished with comfortable armchairs and tables with side benches and a couple of small booths. No private area is allocated for lap dances, they all happen at the tables. The stage is an elaborate affair with shiny copper, a dramatic staircase, a few poles and mirrors. Red lighting complements the atmosphere. Upstairs, what once was the balcony is now another seating area where more chairs and tables occupy a split-level floor.

The Atmosphere
Windmill International is definitely an historical venue with a touch of old time class: you could almost imagine the place coming from a black and white movie. It’s quiet and low lit - perfect for discretion. The male staff members dress impeccably and patrons are required to comply with the rules by accepting the smart dress code. The clientele is made up of a crowd of (mostly) wealthy men. The majority are in their forties or older, but there is a group of occasional thirtysomething yuppies out to have a good time in groups. Tourists are often seen and the club is often busier during the week. A few couples can be found here almost every night and ladies are welcome.

The Food
Food for the eyes and food for the body is served here, but it's not exactly cheap. Dishes are priced at £17.50 and the selection is limited to a dozen options. There are oriental-inspired meat or fish dishes, crudites, fruit and cheese platters. The meals are top quality and the presentation complements the upscale feeling of the place.

The Drink
Champagne rules here and the house bottle is excellent; you can get a glass for £10 but they usually sell it in bottles. If you prefer more upmarket labels the rose or vintage Champagne, which includes bottles like Veuve Cliquot Grande Dame 1996 or Dom Perignon 1998 will see you leaving lighter of £100-£300.

French wine is also sold by the bottle and are pricey, starting at £80. Alternatively, you can choose between selected spirits, including many premium bottles. Forget about the beers: the selection is minimal and a bottle will cost at least £6.

The Last Word
If close-up action isn't what you're after, Windmill International won't break the bank; however, if you're after a much more up close and personal experience then you could be looking at quite a hefty bill at the end of the night. Perfect for a wealthy stag party, it's recommended to anyone with cash to spare who's looking to enjoy a sexy strip club with a story to tell.

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