Things to do in Mayfair

Mayfair, the upscale and exclusive district of Georgian houses, is home to various attractions that add an extra splash of grandeur and importance to the diverse character of London. Given its high-end appeal, it’s fair to say that the attractions settle well into its posh disposition. Some of the top attractions can be found below:

• Savile Row 

One of London’s top tailoring streets, finding the perfect suit will be as easy as paying the huge cheque. The street itself is always a good stroll and window shopping is always fun. But if buying a suit in the same street as Winston Churchill, Prince Charles, Lord Nelson and Ian Fleming sounds good, then step in and get measured up. Two of the best tailors down the street include Gieves & Hawkes, and Henry Poole & Co.

• The Royal Institution 

Founded by Britain’s best scientists, this is where the history of discovery can be witnessed and explored. With guest lectures (including the infamous Christmas lectures) and the Faraday Museum, there’s a lot of wonders to be explored. While it may not be the Science Museum, it is still an essential experience.

• Grosvenor Square 

The centrepiece of the Duke of Westminster’s Mayfair property, this green square is another place to relax when the day gets too long. It is also surrounded by a few embassies and was once the home of the US Embassy back in the day. 

• Berkeley Square 

Similar to the above, it's a green spot to chill in or walk around for a bit of fresh air. While it may not have the extravagance nor relevance of the former green square, it does still fulfil its purpose. But it also has a fair amount of history with the now-demolished Landsdowne House being the former residence of multiple UK Prime Ministers in the 18th and 19th centuries.

• The Palm Beach Casino 

Blackjack, poker and all the rest can be played here by those that want to try their luck and win a “fortune”. But there’s more than just the nature of “luck” here, there’s the bar and restaurants as well where the finest drinks and scrumptious foods can be indulged in to raise a bad night. Remember, to play responsibly.

Museums in Mayfair

We all love a good museum or gallery to throw away the time and to broaden our horizons. Whether it’s the dawning of humanity, historical battles or a Van Gogh painting, we all want to be enthralled by knowing or seeing something unique. Mayfair’s high-end appeal doesn't put a drab on such attractions, as the district is home to a few points of interest and galleries that are worth the visit.

• Handel and Hendrix in London 

See two homes (next door to each other) that were occupied by the two music legends. They may have lived centuries apart but observing their mutual love of music and how London played a pivotal role in both careers is fun for Handel and Hendrix enthusiasts. Plus, concerts can be enjoyed here as well.

Tickets cost £10 for adults and £5 for children.

• Halcyon Gallery 

This contemporary art gallery brings some of the most renown artists under one roof, like Picasso, Lorenzo Quinn, Andy Warhol, Robert Lenkiewicz and even personal works by Bob Dylan! A range of exhibitions happens throughout the year so multiple visits are often essential.

Some of the exhibitions might cost.

• Sadie Coles HQ 

Another contemporary gallery, this is definitely one to visit when there’s time during the London adventure. Some of the artists on display include Michele Abeles, Carl Andre, Uri Aran, John Currin, Sam Durant, Urs Fischer, Lawrence Lek, Hilary Lloyd, Rudolf Stingel, Ryan Sullivan, Paloma Varga Weisz and Andrea Zittel. Experience the works of rising talents that will take the world by storm.

Tickets to exhibitions may cost. Please check before heading out.

• Marlborough 

A gallery of the fine arts, this is for those that really have an affiliation for the arts and love to see a few of the wonders that are being crafted by the rising talents. Founded in the 1940s, this gallery still showcases various exhibitions that will impress all art lovers, old and new. Not to be missed.

Be aware that some exhibitions may cost.

• Burlington House 

This Grade II listed building is a rare sight and is home to numerous societies like the Geological Society of London, Linnean Society of London, Royal Astronomical Society, Society of Antiquaries of London, Royal Society of Chemistry and the Royal Academy (which it is most famous for). While it used to be home to the Earls of Burlington, it now showcases a few art exhibitions every now and again.

Certain societies will have restricted access and the exhibitions may cost. But it is the ideal spot for a decent selfie.

Food and Drink in Mayfair

If posh restaurants are top of the menu, then Mayfair doesn’t disappoint. With its upscale reputation, the district obviously has its fair share of fine dining options. But for those that want a more relaxed atmosphere, there are other options to consider that still serve great food but without the tuxedo demand.

• 34

Home to delicate meals of strong cocktails, this restaurant will fill the gut of any traveller. With its polished oak parquet, soft lighting and colourful contemporary art collection, the restaurant have an Upper East Side-style that is enchanting. Enjoy the likes of lobster macaroni, Moroccan spiced lamb shoulder, yellowfin tuna steak and Dover sole. 

Address: 34 Grosvenor Square, S Audley St, Mayfair, London, W1K 2HD

• Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill

Take a dip in the ocean’s cuisine when you wine and dine at this sublime restaurant. While oysters are their speciality, the fish and chips are incredible, as are the poached haddock, lobster, grilled seabass and the Irish Hereford sirloin. They also do oyster masterclasses if you want to bring the delicate cuisine home with you.

Address:11-15 Swallow St, Mayfair, London, W1B 4DG

• Bombay Bustle

Harvest the spicy and scrumptious tastes of India when you choose this restaurant for your evening meal. Set your tongue aflame from red hot curries or soothe the senses with a delicately made korma. Traditional specialities can also be enjoyed fro those that want a little more refined.

Address: 29 Maddox St, Mayfair, London, W1S 2PA

• Burger & Lobster

The clue is in the name. For mouth-watering burgers and lobsters, you can’t get any better than this American-style diner. While there are many of these around London, the one in Mayfair is the original B&L. Indulge in the most succulent and tasteful of meats in an upscale location.

Address: 29 Clarges St, Mayfair, London, W1J 7EF

• Cecconi’s

Grab a slice of Italy in one of London’s posh locations at any time in the day - breakfast, lunch and dinner are served seven days a week. From spaghetti lobster, veal cannelloni, crab ravioli to plant-based options, everyone can find something to feast on. Be sure to come with friends and family to share the taste.

Address: 5A Burlington Gardens, Mayfair, London, W1S 3EP

• China Tang

Situated within The Dorchester, this Art Decco and stylish restaurant is reputed to serve the best Cantonese cuisine outside of China. And given its location, that reputation is not surprising. While the interior serves the pre-war Shanghai extravagance, the food simply serves to fill the heart and soul. Be sure to try the juicy Peking duck - arguably their centrepiece.

Address: 53 Park Ln, Mayfair, London, W1K 1QA

• Chisou

The Land of Rising Sun is here in London to fill you to the brim. From the sushi to the noodle soups to the izakaya, every succulent and soulful aspect of Japan can be savoured to the core. The location alone is enough to guarantee that this is one of the top Japanese restaurants in London.

Address: 22-23 Woodstock St, Mayfair, London, W1C 2AR

• Corrigan’s Mayfair

Arguably one of the poshest restaurants in the area, this is the home to acclaimed celebrity Irish chef, Richard Corrigan, and his delightful palette. Enjoy the scrumptious nature of pressed duck liver, caramelised veal sweetbread, Dorset crab bisque, seasonal oysters and so much more. The surroundings alone will add an extra rich layer to the night out.

Address: 28 Upper Grosvenor St, Mayfair, London, W1K 7EH

• Galvin at The Athenaeum

You can find gem this at one of London’s posh hotels, The Athenaeum, where business and leisure travellers go for a meal that goes above and beyond. Within the Michelin starred restaurant, Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed along with salmon, crab, duck and shrimp dishes. It’s best to book a table beforehand.

Address: 116 Piccadilly, Mayfair, London, W1J 7BJ

• Le Gavroche

Often referred to as “a fine-dining dream”, Le Gavroche is headed by Michel Rioux Jr., one of the most renown chefs in the world, with a taste for excellence. And indeed, that is what can be devoured here - the very best. France doesn’t seem so far away when you indulge in the dishes and styles that make French dining the very best.

Address: 43 Upper Brook St, Mayfair, London, W1K 7QR

Shopping in Mayfair

Luxury shopping is always a treat, and never more so than in the prestigious district of Mayfair, home of Savile Row, Bond Street and excessive opulence. With a variety of Victorian arcades full of boutique items and shopping streets that are as infamous as Big Ben, Mayfair really does provide the spending spree experience that shoppers want.

• Burlington Arcade 

This Victorian arcade is home to a variety of luxury brands for the rich and famous. These include the likes of True Grace, Michael Rose, Carat London, Strathberry, House of Cashmere, Chanel, Ciro, Sterling Diamond, Vintage Watch Company, La Perla and Armour Winston. Be sure to have a bit of money saved as the goods here are not cheap.

• West One

Connected to Bond Street Underground Station, this shopping centre houses a few familiar brands is is the perfect stop before getting on the tube. With the likes of Holland & Barnett, JD Sports, Scribbler, Boots, and eateries like Joe & the Juice, Pret, Wasabi and Notes, this is a fine addition to the district.

• Oxford Street

One of the most famous shopping streets in the city, this is where all the big brands can be found. These include Adidas, All Saints, Burton, Disney Store, Debenhams, Dune, Cap, House of Fraser, JD Sports, Kingdom of Sweets, M&S, Next, Nike, Oasis, Swarovski, The Perfume Shop and Watches of Switzerland.