By the early 20th century, these clubs were not just local hubs but influential in political representation, with many club members holding positions in local and national government - at one point club members accounted for nearly a third of all MPs in parliament. This legacy underscores the role of social clubs in training citizens for democratic... See more

However, the landscape for social clubs has changed significantly in recent decades. Many have faced closure due to financial struggles, demographic shifts, and declining participation in community governance. Despite this, some clubs have re-emerged with modernised offerings, such as LGBTQ+ community spaces or cultural programmes that appeal to... See more