An enclave in W1 embodying elegance, sophistication, and affluence. Situated between Oxford Street, Park Lane, Piccadilly, and Regents Street, Mayfair has the highest concentration of world-famous restaurants and five-star hotels as well as global retailers in London. With its multitude of beautiful historic buildings, it is popular amongst affluent locals and expats as well as tourists. The streets of Mayfair are immaculate with the most beautiful landscaped squares and gardens.
There are four tube stations at Mayfair:
As a vital and integrated part of London, there is so much one can do and see in Mayfair.
Shopping
Synonymous with tradition, affluence, and refinement, Mayfair is known for luxury. It contains all the finer things in life such as many antique dealers, art galleries, boutiques, and tailors. A trip to Mayfair would not be complete without a spot of shopping. With absolutely everything which is high-end and lavish, from the awe-inspiring designer stores of Bond Street to the bespoke tailors of Savile Row, the luxury perfumers, and the jewellery stores. But It doesn’t end here, within the internal streets of Mayfair you will stumble across South Molton Street, a pedestrianized haven with a string of exclusive boutiques. From there if you can head south towards Piccadilly you will find the absolutely beautiful Burlington Arcade and Royal Arcade, an extraordinary historic work of art. Even more beautiful in the festive seasons as it dons festive decor. Featuring the most exclusive boutiques such as Hancocks, a family-run jeweller, granted a royal warrant by Queen Victoria, and the much coveted and desired Manolo Blahnik, Roja Parfum and many more.
Dining
Mayfair can proudly say it is home to the highest number of Michelin-star restaurants, more than any other London district. If you find yourself wandering on Mount Street. you are likely to pass by Scott’s and will find some nicely dressed gentlemen seated. Scott’s is known for its sleek champagne and oyster bar and its Amalfi Lemon homemade ice cream.
Mayfair is dotted with plenty of French brasseries and Oyster Bars and The Ritz offers a magnificent afternoon tea.
For a Michelin three-starred experience head to The Araki for a Japanese sushi experience. A very intimate and private experience, there are only 9 seats available and 2 seatings a night between Tuesday to Sunday, each of which being at the chef’s table.
For a classic and contemporary Indian Michelin experience head to Gymkhana and to the world-famous Hakkasan for contemporary Cantonese.
Playtime
Did you know that in the 17th century Mayfair was the go-to playground for wealthy aristocrats? Following this, it soon became the home of foreign embassies and luxury hotels. Its destiny was set out for its future as the home of multiple private members’ clubs, which opened in the late 19th century such as Annabel’s and The Arts Club.
Mayfair is home to countless cocktail bars and traditional pubs as well as high-end nightclubs which are known for the celebrity patrons such as Mahiki. One of Mayfair’s oldest and best pubs is The Punchbowl, which at one stage it was owned by English film director Guy Ritchie.
Culture and Beauty
Mayfair can be enjoyed by visitors of all budgets. Surrounded by greenery, it is bound by two of London’s most enchanting parks, Hyde Park and Green Park. Mayfair is adorned by beautiful public squares such as Grosvenor Square and Berkeley Square as well as historic Georgian mansions, and architecture, a stroll through Mayfair is a must. History and tradition are very important in Mayfair, if you want to soak up the culture you can visit the Royal Academy of Arts Museum or one of the many art galleries which are free of charge. And of course, a stroll through Hyde Park is suggested, to admire the beautiful birdlife and nature on the Serpentine Lake.