Live like a local

7 reasons to explore London’s prestigious Mayfair

March 01, 2022

Mayfair has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most prestigious areas of London, and in the run up to Christmas, it looks more magical than ever. Think elegant architecture, creative shop windows and sparkling lights galore.

Image courtesy of Fraser Marr

1. Royal Academy of Arts

A must for all art lovers, the Royal Academy is a multifaceted artist-led institution located in Burlington House on Piccadilly. Gallery, museum, art school and charity, the Royal Academy aims to nurture both the practice and enjoyment of art through exhibitions, education and community collaboration.

Burlington House, Piccadilly, London, W1J 0BD

2. Mount Street

A historic shopping street in the heart of Mayfair, Mount Street is the beating heart of the British fashion retail industry. Begin your London shopping experience by browsing high-end British fashion at Jenny Packham and Christopher Kane, fine jewellery at Georg Jensen and Stephen Webster and, just around the corner on South Audley Street, handmade watches at Bremont.

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Shops front on Mount Street Mayfair including Stephen Webster and Richard Mille

Image courtesy of Mount Street Mayfair

3. Apsley House

Apsley House – once known grandly as Number One, London – stands on Hyde Park Corner and is the part-time residence of the 9^th Duke of Wellington. It houses an impressive collection of art and is open to the general public on weekends as a gallery and museum under the management of English Heritage.

149 Piccadilly, Hyde Park Corner, London, W1J 7NT

4. The Wolseley

Renowned for its breakfasts, The Wolseley is an excellent choice for those wishing to start their day on a luxurious note. Take in the decadent interiors – high ceilings, monochrome tiled floors and a black and gold colour scheme – as you dine amongst the great and the good of London.

160 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9EB

Image courtesy of Corbin & King

Image courtesy of Garry Knight

5. Bond Street

One of London’s most famous shopping streets, Bond Street, is a designer label utopia. The avenue is split into ‘new’ and ‘old’ sections; New Bond Street is home to leading European designer brands, while Old Bond Street is filled with the boutiques of Italian fashion houses. The area also sparkles with fine jewellers such as Boodles, Cartier and David Morris.

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6. Fortnum & Mason

Established in 1707, Fortnum & Mason is the grande dame of the London shopping scene. Offering impeccably sourced products, often with Royal Warrants of their own, the Food Hall is considered by many to be the main event here, selling everything from British cheeses and champagne to handmade chocolates, with the store’s famous hampers taking pride of place.

181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER

Image courtesy of Fortnum & Mason

A suit stand proudly on display in a window on Savile Row

7. Savile Row

Savile Row has been the menswear tailoring hub of London since the 18^th century. A style institution, it’s the best place to commission bespoke handcrafted suits. For a tailor with historical value and a regal nod of approval, visit Royal Warrant holder Gieves & Hawkes. For a more modern style, book a consultation at the trend-setting Hardy Amies.

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We have lots more suggestions for great days out in London including our inspirational #DCmoments London Guide.

Header image courtesy of Fortnum & Mason

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