British gentlemen’s club that inspired James Bond creator Ian Fleming opens its doors to women for the first time in 166 years

Gulf Today Report

James Bond may have been a hardcore male chauvinist, a term which for over 150 years marked the spirit of an all-male British club in London. Gentlemen's club Pratt's, which occupies rooms in a basement in St James's, Central London, inspired the iconic spy’s creator Ian Fleming. Now, there is a sea change in its attitude towards the glass ceiling: for the first time in 166 years, it will allow women to be members.

The club partly inspired the creation of the fictional 'Blades' – 007's club in Ian Fleming's James Bond novels.

The private member club has been owned by the Earl of Burlington's family since 1937 and women were not allowed to join – until now.

The Duke of Devonshire's only son and heir, who has just moved into the family estate Chatsworth in Derbyshire, announced that the rule would come into immediate effect, a report in a section of the British media says.

According the membership to women is a positive change and “will enhance and invigorate the club,” he said. The committee and its chairman, Lord Soames, welcomed the paradigm shift.

However, the excitement has not gone down well with some members. One member carped that it was a disgrace, as there was no consultation or ballot on the issue. He added that it would signal the end of the club.