Bounded by Piccadilly, Park Ln, Oxford St and Regent St and just minutes from Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, Mayfair is some of the most exclusive real estate in the world. This part of London plays an outsized role in the culture and history of Britain and that rich heritage is reflected in countless things to do and see. In this guide, the team at Luxury Serviced Apartments select 7 of our favourite things to do if you should find yourself in Mayfair anytime soon.
7 Things to do in Mayfair
Few neighbourhoods anywhere in the world have the pedigree of Mayfair. In fact, there is so much to do and see here that it’s understandable if the average visitor gets a bit overwhelmed. To simplify things for you we’ve come up with our list of 7 things you shouldn’t miss when you visit Mayfair.
1: The Royal Academy of Arts
It wasn’t that long ago that fine art was serious business and few things reflect that better than the Royal Academy of Arts. Founded in 1768 and occupying the formidable Burlington House on Piccadilly, the Royal Academy (RA) is a privately funded institution dedicated to the furthering of fine art in all its forms. The museum of the RA also happens to house an incredible collection of art from the medieval to the modern. Basic admission is free but featured exhibits charge an entry fee.
2: Mercato Mayfair
You haven’t experienced a food hall until you’ve experienced Mercato Mayfair. Housed in the restored and repurposed St Mark’s Church on North Audley Street, Mercato is unlike any food hall you’ve ever experienced in terms of the setting and the vast array of specialist culinary delights on offer. Cuisines from every corner of the globe are represented both on the main floor and the mezzanine level, and once you have your delicacies in-hand you can pop up to the roof deck for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.
3: Spend time shopping on Bond Street
Bond Street (along with the nearby Savile Row) has long been the destination of choice for the well-to-do in search of the perfect bespoke suit. However, if you’re not in the market for a £5,000 suit take heart because there are lots of other shopping pleasures to explore here including shoe stores, art galleries, watch shops and so much more.
4: Prepare to be dazzled at Bacchanalia
With a name like Bacchanalia you know you’re about to experience indulgence on another level. With its recreations of Greco-Roman statuary soaring overhead and waitrons outfitted in throwback costumes you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another time and place. Check out the Roman Sunday Brunch with a selection of pita, spreads, crudos, and small plates from Italy and the Greek Islands or the Feasting Menu, with its mouth-watering selection of seafood specialties.
5: Explore Mayfair’s Parks
On the western border of Mayfair is the marvellous Hyde Park. But what if you’ve made the most of your morning and are looking for a place to sit and recharge your batteries before diving back into Mayfair in the afternoon and you don’t want to venture far? In that case, park yourself among the trees and statuary of Berkeley Square, Grosvenor Square or the charming Soho Square Gardens.
6: Visit the Handel & Hendrix Museum
Handel and Hendrix, two groundbreaking musicians separated by the centuries, are brought together in this thoughtful and innovative museum that celebrates the lives and influences of both men. Both men lived at the address, although only Hendrix occupied the current building, which was constructed long after Handels’ passing in 1759. Inside you’ll find Hendrix’s London flat has been faithfully preserved, while other floors contain genuine relics from Handel’s London home, all thoughtfully displayed. It’s one of the more unique and eye-opening museums you’ll find anywhere.
7: Take in the splendour of St James’ Palace
St James’ Palace is the oldest extant royal residence in London. Construction began in 1531, nearly 500 years ago and the palace went into service in 1539. Kings, Queens and their families called the palace home right up through Queen Victoria. In fact, it was the official residence of the monarchy until Queen Victoria relocated to Buckingham Palace in 1837.
