RKW Limited, a subsidiary of Spearmint Rhino, has applied to Westminster City Council for the renewal of its sexual entertainment licence for Rhino at the Windmill, a historic Soho strip club. A separate application seeks to vary the licence to reflect recent changes to the venue's internal layout. The club, originally known as The Windmill, has been a fixture in London since the 1930s and gained fame for staying open during the Blitz and pioneering naked performances on stage.
Resident Objections
The application has drawn objections from local residents, who raised concerns about the management of the establishment and its proximity to Soho Parish Primary School, located just 150 yards away. One written objection stated: "It is well known that the premises has had a difficult recent history, including licence eviction, compliance issues, regulatory intervention, objections from locals and ongoing financial instability. This raises concerns about whether the site can be properly and reliably managed, as a venue of that nature."
Another objector wrote: "It troubles me to think a venue with licensing until 5am will once again be operating in such close proximity to a school. Since the previous establishment closed, the atmosphere on Great Windmill Street has improved significantly and it has once again felt like a safe and pleasant environment for residents and families."
Recent Controversies
The club has faced controversy in recent years. In 2018, its licence was revoked after allegations that dancers routinely breached "no touching" regulations. A new licence was granted in 2023, allowing operation until September 2025, when it closed amid a dispute with its landlord. Adult entertainment chain Spearmint Rhino then reopened the venue under its current name, Rhino at the Windmill, in April. The previous operator, Big Country, went into liquidation amid a legal dispute with Spearmint Rhino, which became the club's landlord in June last year.
Legal Representation
Legal counsel for the applicant, represented by PP Keystone Law Ltd, assured residents that security and management measures would ensure the site is well-run. They noted that compliance issues were related to the previous management. Counsel also highlighted that the school is long-standing in an area where up to 25 sexual entertainment venues are permitted, one of which is Rhino at the Windmill.
Decision Pending
If approved, Rhino at the Windmill would be allowed to continue sexual entertainment operations between 9am and 5am from Monday to Saturday. A decision will be made following a Westminster City Council licensing hearing on Thursday 2 July.
