An intimate and friendly casino” is how one travel site describes Horizons Casino in London’s Leicester Square. It goes on to rave about the “exceptional
gaming experience, and amazing food and drinks.” But you might just have to take their word for it nowadays.

Horizons Casino has recently undergone a complete renovation, elevating its facilities and services while maintaining its welcoming spirit. Horizons is open to all guests and it is expanding its something extra. Director of Gaming Ryan Livingstone described the gala reopening and the repositioning of Horizons to Casino Life International Correspondent Lyudmyla Kyrychenko. Their conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

How would you describe the atmosphere at the VIP reopening party?

The atmosphere was electric. It had a real celebratory feel. From the moment our first guests arrived, there was an overwhelming excitement from the team at Horizons. Our redesign was focused on creating a space which seamlessly flowed between our gaming, dinning and social areas. Immediately, when our guests arrived, they were immersed in the entertainment. It was incredibly rewarding to see so many people having so much fun and engaging with the venue in the exact way we envisioned it.

What was the highlight of the evening for you and the Horizons team?

The undeniable highlight was seeing the venue come to life with our guests, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting this transformation for months. To witness our most loyal clients walking into a space that now truly matches the premium service we deliver daily was a proud moment. Watching guests explore each element of the venue, from the elegant gaming floor and vibrant cocktail bar to the private dining room and terrace, reacting with such genuine excitement affirmed that all the planning, late nights, and attention to detail were absolutely worth it.

Did the guest list reflect the level of exclusivity you were aiming for?

Absolutely. From the initial stakeholders’ preview event to the main VIP reopening, the guest list was intentionally curated to reflect the exclusivity we associate with the Horizons brand. The turnout exceeded our expectations in terms of both quality and engagement. These weren’t just attendees, they were ambassadors of our venue and longtime advocates of what Horizons stands for. Having such an enthusiastic and influential guest list set exactly the right tone as we step into this exciting new chapter.

Were there any surprise moments, performances or guest appearances that stood out?

We always aim to go beyond expectations and this event was no different. The lion-dance performances, staged at both the stakeholders’ preview and the main event, were absolutely breathtaking. At one point Leicester Square itself seemed to pause as the lions took over our new, 67-cover, alfresco terrace. It was a moment of pure theatre that created a lasting memory. Another standout performance was the fire-breathing saxophonist. He not only wowed the crowd but also became one of the most talked-about features of the night. These unique elements helped turn a reopening into an unforgettable experience.

What kind of feedback did you receive from your VIP guests during the night?

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Many of our guests had been following the build closely, often asking for updates and sneak peeks. But we deliberately kept key design elements under wraps, which made the big reveal even more impactful. Guests were genuinely impressed by the transformation. They appreciated the refined layout of the gaming floor, the elevated style of the restaurant and cocktail bar, and the intimacy offered by the private dining room and terrace. Their experience reflects what they expect from us at Horizons.

Did the new offerings – both in gaming and hospitality – resonate with your high-tier clientele?

Without question. Our most discerning clients responded extremely well to the new offerings. Whether it was the upgraded table-game experience, the bespoke-drinks menu at the bar or the Anatolian-inspired food from our new restaurant partner Skewd, the feedback was that the entire venue feels both luxurious and comfortable, premium but personal. These enhancements were all made with our top-tier clientele in mind and their enthusiastic reception confirmed we got it right.

How important is the VIP experience in the Horizons brand strategy moving forward?

It’s absolutely central. The Horizons brand has always been defined by exclusivity, discretion and premium service. Our investment in this redevelopment wasn’t just aesthetic, it was strategic. We’ve redesigned our spaces to support more meaningful, high-touch interactions and to create new opportunities for bespoke experiences. From tailored gaming experiences to private dining and curated events, the VIP experience is not just a feature. It’s our foundation. Moving forward, our strategy will continue to center on deepening loyalty through elevated service and exceptional hospitality.

Were any new memberships or high-stakes bookings made on the night or immediately after?

Yes, several. There was immediate interest in utilizing the Salon Privé during the evening and, following the launch, we’ve already received multiple enquiries for exclusive use of the private dining room for both corporate and personal events. These early bookings reinforce our belief that the venue now provides the right spaces for high-value engagement. It’s especially encouraging to see that the new offerings are not only generating excitement but also converting that enthusiasm into action.

What does the successful launch night mean for the future of Horizons Casino in Leicester Square?

It marks the beginning of a bold new era for Horizons. This relaunch isn’t just a cosmetic update. It represents a fundamental evolution in how we operate and engage with our clientele. We’ve not only expanded our footprint physically but have redefined our brand promise. This is about more than growth. It’s about relevance. In a competitive market like Leicester Square, staying ahead means constantly reimagining what ‘premium’ looks and feels like. The success of the launch has laid a strong foundation and the response we’ve seen gives us tremendous momentum heading into the second half of the year.

How do you plan to keep the momentum going with events, experiences and player engagement?

We intend to build on the success of our launch with a strong lineup of events, tailored promotions and memorable experiences across gaming and hospitality. Our new spaces provide the perfect setting for intimate VIP gatherings, ensuring Horizons remains vibrant and engaging for our clientele.

Can we expect any new partnerships, promotions or high-profile events in the coming months?

Definitely and we will be sure to let you know first!

 

 

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