Eight

Move over old-style gentleman's clubs, Eight is the future. Discreetly located close to Bank, the interior on two floors is hip, modern and witty with a futuristic metal staircase, nostalgic photography, supple leather, suede and animal skin upholstery, and a relaxed, modern atmosphere. The members' lounge has a long bar, comfortable seating, pool tables and snug rooms for meetings or card games. Below there is an ultra-glam cinema and larger rooms for parties, board meetings and closing dinners. Open from 8am until late, Eight is the new face of the City. No.1 Change Alley, Cornhill, London EC3, 020 7 621 0808 www.eightclub.co.uk

 
 
 
 

Polo Agency

While many sports have tied in with big business, polo remained dependent on wealthy Patrons, the players were just hired hands, and tournaments were just for glory not prize money. (Huh. Tell that to Tiger Woods.) But not any more. The new Polo Agency puts together talent and money in wide-reaching sponsorship packages and has top players like 7-goal Henry Brett (opposite) in the team. There are ambitious plans to ramp up media coverage and give the game the status it deserves. Contact John Honsiger or Anna Scott on 020 7823 3724 www.thepoloagency.co.uk

 
 
 
 

Rockingham

Only a handful of people will ever drive a Formula One car professionally but the new Rockingham racing circuit lets you live those dreams and test your skill and nerve. Imagine a 52,000 seater stadium; technical and demanding circuits; and the world's most challenging vehicles on hand to push you to the max. Factor in unrivalled conference facilities and ease of access from London and you can see why this is the hot new destination for corporate events, driving days and the Rockingham Masterclass. Mitchell Road, Corby, Northampptonshire, 0870 121 9995 www.rockingham.co.uk

 
 
 
 

More than a Store

At Selfridges, it's not enough to be an emporium for the best fashion and luxury goods - it has to be entertainment too. The latest in the wildly creative programme of events, happenings and installations in the brand-new launch of the Wonder Bar, with an eye-popping collection of the finest wines and spirits. It will focus on the Enomatic Wine system, a "juke box" with more than 50 varieties and vintages where you help yourself to a glass with prices ranging from £5 to £150. If you prefer conventional table service, there is a team of expert wine waiters on hand headed by Selfridges' new sommelier, Dawn Davies. (Remember Dawn? She was the head sommelier at Zuma, the Square, Gordon Ramsay's Boxwood Café and most recently at the Michelin-starred Ledbury in Notting Hill.) As you hone your palate with fine wines, you can enjoy platters of seafood, charcuterie and delicious cheeses. To add to your sense of wonder, there's a humidor with the largest cigar collection in the UK featuring 60 handmade cigar brands and 50 vintage cigars, while alongside the Wonder Bar is a 2,000 sq ft wine, champagne and spirits shop with a new personal shopping service. The entrance couldn't be easier - ground floor level on the corner of Oxford Street and Orchard Street. The Wonder Bar is the precursor of the Wonder Room which opens in August as the ultimate destination for jewellery, watches and luxury goods. 400 Oxford Street, London W1, 0800 123 400 www.selfridges.co.uk