The upscale and affluent neighbourhood is known for its displays of luxury. Within its streets are elegant Georgian townhouses, high-end hotels, stylish restaurants, bespoke tailors on Savile Row and the depths of the very expensive Bond Street.
Meanwhile, consumers head to the ever-popular Burlington Arcade and Shepherd Market. Here they usually find a glorious cluster of independent boutiques and traditional pubs. However, those that like cool and modern art galleries usually walk towards the ones that line Cork Street where they may be able to find a piece to take home with them.
What does this say about Mayfair itself? That it caters to the high-end business and leisure traveller. Those that aim for a first-class experience always come here to bathe in the rich glow that emanates from the buildings and streets. Luxury restaurants fill the appetite and deplete the wallet, and boutique stores are always here to offer something special that adds to the high-end flavour.
It’s close proximity to Oxford Street, Regents Street, Leicester Square, Green Park and Hyde Park make it an unbeatable location for guests that want some of the best London attractions in short walking distance from their stylish serviced apartment. They can wake up and head out to the tailors on Saville Row to get that personal suit, do some more shopping on Oxford Street, eat lunch at one of the many expensive restaurants, spend the afternoon watching a play in the West End and then walk around Hyde Park in the evening before turning back into their serviced apartment.
History of Mayfair
It’s not surprising to find out that Mayfair has always been an area of absolute luxury. In fact, the whole area was originally part of the manor of Eia and remained largely rural until the early 18th century when developments started to happen that would make Mayfair what it is today.
For starters, it became well known for the annual "May Fair" that took place from the years 1686 to 1764 in Shepherd Market. Like any gathering that happened over a period of years, the fair itself grew unpopular. So much so that the Grosvenor family (who would become the heirs of the opulent Duke of Westminster baronage) acquired the land through marriage and developed it under the watchful eye of Thomas Barlow. These constructions and work would include parts that are still there today like Hanover Square, Berkeley Square and Grosvenor Square.
By the end of the classy 18th century, most of what is now Mayfair was built with upper-class housing. While some areas of London would lose their high status over years of decline, Mayfair has always been an area of prestige. As the British aristocracy lost its influence at the start of the 20th century, the area became more commercial as many of the opulent houses were converted into offices for business headquarters and various embassies around the world.
While Mayfair does retain a substantial vast amount of high-end properties, luxury shops and restaurants, and high-end hotels throughout Piccadilly and Park Lane, it has still managed to conform to the values of the modern world without losing its lush appeal. In fact, its status of exuberance and style has been commemorated on the London Monopoly board as being the most expensive square for property on the game.
Business Life in Mayfair
While it’s certainly not a business hub in the same way that Canary Wharf is, Mayfair still packs a punch. High-end offices are the residences of private equity firms, law firms, accountants, charity institutions and more. But if anything, it’s the likes of the tailors and suitors that make it appealing to the business traveller. The corporate hot shots can be found here getting measured for the perfect suit that encapsulates their status. A Saville Row suit is a gateway card to the big meetings and being taken seriously in the biggest office. If a client walks into a meeting with a suit like that, then they mean business.
The residents of this area alone contribute 2.5 billion to the UK economy, which includes 2,000 millionaires. Again, while it may not be a financial stronghold, its retail and residents are what make the business life in Mayfair possible and make it a top spot for an office rental or an apartment that exudes the warmth and luxurious glow.
Our serviced apartments add their own mix to the business travel experience. Their fully equipped and lavishly furnished interiors are the ideal home to enter after a long day in the office. They guarantee all guests the utilities they require to live like a local and to work remotely if needs be. Their high-end attributes are what makes them so likeable, and having a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi and the possibility of concierge services and gym access more than complete the experience. With comfort and convenience taken care of, business travel has never been easier in Mayfair.
Where to Stay in Mayfair
The Mayfair area is infamous for its high-end feel, and the apartments in the area more than complement that reputation. With the streets lined with luxury buildings and lavish designs, choosing somewhere to stay in one of London’s most wealthy and extravagant neighbourhoods is often quite difficult. But considering the size of the neighbourhood, the choice can be reduced substantially.
There are many options to think about; be it leisure or corporate apartments to studios, 1 bedroom, and 2 bedroom apartments - making sure that any group can be well catered for. The old streets offer plenty of comforts and can keep guests close to the likes of Bond Street, Green Park, Oxford Circus, and Hyde Park. Those that don’t want to be near such things can go deeper into the area and have a more residential feel as opposed to a busy atmosphere.
Overall, our extensive portfolio will more than accommodate for travellers looking to stay in Mayfair for the short and long term.
Facts about Mayfair
After all the bags are packed, guests will be heading to the airport (or however they’re getting there). But rather than sleeping on the way there, they should spend the time wisely and read up on where they’re going.
Below are 10 facts that guests should know about Mayfair before they arrive:
- In the 1670s, Mayfair was nothing more than a patch of boggy open field, a complete contrast to the expensive properties that are there now
- The name Mayfair comes quite simply from the “May Fair” that took place every year from 1686 to 1764
- Both Mama Cass, of The Mamas & The Papas fame, and drummer of the rock group The Who, Keith Moon, died in the same room in Flat 12, 9 Curzon Street Mayfair
- Sotheby’s auction house in Mayfair is home to the oldest manmade object in the world - an Egyptian sculpture of the lion-goddess Sekhmet from 1600BC
- The head office of chocolate giant Cadbury’s was formerly based at 25 Berkeley Square
- There are no London Underground stations within Mayfair
- Jimi Hendrix has a Blue Plaque at 23 Brook Street, Mayfair and Handel has one next door
- Famous faces that have resided in Mayfair include Lord Horatio Nelson, Benjamin Disraeli, Winston Churchill, Anthony Eden and Harry Gordon Selfridge
- The only senior school in Mayfair is Eaton Square Upper School
Things to Do in Mayfair
As high-end as Mayfair is, there are still plenty of attractions and activities here that can keep everyone occupied. Whether it’s the upscale tailors or art galleries, spending free time wisely doesn’t mean going that far.
What are the most popular things to do in Mayfair?
Some of the most popular things to do in Mayfair are:
- Handel and Hendrix in London
- Savile Row
- The Royal Institution
- Grosvenor Square
- Berkeley Square
- Hedonism Wines
- Halcyon Gallery
- Burlington House
- Sadie Coles HQ
- Marlborough
- The Palm Beach Casino
What is the best way to spend a day in Mayfair?
Here’s how you should spend a day in Mayfair:
- Head to one of the quaint cafes for a spot of breakfast
- Check out the Halcyon Gallery
- Explore Grosvenor Square
- Buy that all-important Savile Row suit
- Get a bit of lunch at one of the local pubs
- Go to Marlborough and Sadie Coles HQ
- Spend the early evening at the Palm Beach Casino
- Grab a bite to eat at the casino or somewhere nearby
- Spend the evening in front of your flat-screen TV
Places to Visit in Mayfair
Mayfair’s attractions have much to offer. While most of them are as high-end as the neighbourhood itself, they are cultural treats in their own right and can provide hours of entertainment.
- Handel and Hendrix in London - See two homes (next door to each other) that were occupied by the two legends of music
- Savile Row - One of London’s top tailoring streets, finding the perfect match will be as easy as paying the huge cheque
- The Royal Institution - Founded by Britain’s best scientists, this is where the history of discovery can be witnessed
- Grosvenor Square - This green square is another place to relax when the day gets too long
- Berkeley Square - Similar to the above, it's a green spot to chill in or walk around for a bit of fresh air
- Halcyon Gallery - This contemporary art gallery brings some of the most renown artists under one roof
- Burlington House - This Grade II listed building is a rare sight and is home to numerous societies
- Sadie Coles HQ - Another contemporary gallery, this is definitely one to visit when there’s time
- Marlborough - A gallery of the fine arts, this is for those that really have an affiliation for the arts
- The Palm Beach Casino - Blackjack, poker and all the rest can be played here by those that want to try their luck
Places to Eat in Mayfair
London, being London, has a world’s view on everything - including cuisines. So when any guest stays here, they can try a slice of any continent. The same can be said for the Mayfair area that has enough diversity to suit any taste palette.
What are the best restaurants in Mayfair?
The 10 best restaurants in Mayfair are:
- 34
- Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill
- Bombay Bustle
- Burger & Lobster
- Cecconi’s
- China Tang
- Chisou
- Corrigan’s Mayfair
- Galvin at The Athenaeum
- Le Gavroche
What are Mayfair’s cheaper dining options?
Those looking for cheaper places to eat in Mayfair should go to:
- Mews Pizza Co.
- The Windmill
- Sabor
- Rasa W1
- Deliciously Ella
- The Mayfair Chippy
- Ergon Deli
- The Punchbowl
- Tibits
- Comptoir Cafe and Wine
Shopping in Mayfair
As to be expected from Mayfair, the shopping attractions are as boutique and as lavish as the accommodation. But this is hardly a bad thing, especially if buying luxury items is the norm. From streets to arcades full of the deals and memorable items that guests love, shopping is quite an experience in Mayfair.
Guests should shop at the following places:
- Burlington Arcade
- West One
- Burlington Arcade
- Oxford Street
Transportation in Mayfair
Getting around London is easy. With the likes of the London Underground, London Overground, DLR and TfL Rail services, exploring the city and its surroundings couldn’t be more convenient.
With Mayfair, there aren’t any Underground stations in the neighbourhood, but the following are nearby:
- Bond Street
- Green Park
- Piccadilly Circus
- Oxford Circus
- Hyde Park Corner
- Marble Arch
Travelling around London though isn’t free. An oyster card is the best bet; all visitors need to do is touch in and out at the start and end of their journey. But to get the most out of London, it’s best to at least get a Zone 1-2 card even though Mayfair is in Zone 1:
- Single journey ticket (zone 1-2) - £4.90
- Oyster/Contactless payment card (zone 1-2) - £2.40
Plus, with TheSqua.re’s Mayfair serviced apartments, guests are assured and delivered a central location that gives them easy access to the London Underground.
Weather in Mayfair
The weather in Mayfair is much like the rest of London, which is also like the rest of the UK; in short, it can be difficult to predict. The city of London is known for its cold winters (where temperatures fall below freezing), but also for its hot summers where temperatures can reach average highs of 24 degrees (or 35 degrees, like in 2019). But it’s fair to say that British summers are notoriously unpredictable, so wet-weather clothing is essential at any time of the year. The month of September is often a good time to visit as well, as the temperature is usually still warm, whilst being a little cooler than August in the evenings, making for a more comfortable stay.
So, overall, whether a guest is in Mayfair for business or leisure, the weather will hold many surprises for them.
