The Penn Club was established in 1920 with surplus funds left over from the
Friends Ambulance Unit, active during
World War I. The club maintained a considerable collection of books and resources on
Quaker traditions and customs. On 31 January 2021 it was announced that after 101 years the Club would leave their Bloomsbury premises at the end of March in response to financial difficulties arising from the
coronavirus pandemic. Following this the Club was invited to become a distinct entity under the auspices of The Royal Foundation of St Katharine, Limehouse, where it continues to thrive. Members of the Penn club continue to enjoy a range of social activities and have the benefit of the larger premises with access to private gardens and a chapel in the historic retreat centre. The tradition of a common table continues so that members can still enjoy conversation over breakfast if they desire. == Famous residents ==