Top 5 things to do in Mayfair
Planning a luxurious getaway in the capital can be the ultimate way to relax and soak up some culture at the same time. If you're planning to do exactly that, why not consider staying in Mayfair, where you'll find a rich array of attractions and fabulous hotels?
Indeed, there are some truly excellent hotels in Mayfair - something that makes this area particularly well suited to luxurious breaks. From well-known chain establishments to lesser-known, independent gems, you should be able to find something that suits you here.
In fact, Mayfair is home to several of London's boutique hotels, which could particularly appeal to you if you are eager to stay somewhere a little bit different.
Meanwhile, establishments such as the Sheraton Park Lane also offer excellent service and all the amenities you could desire.
So, what exactly are the top things to do in Mayfair? An excellent way to start your break is by simply taking a walk around its grand houses, many of which date back to the 17th century.
Until this time, the area consisted mainly of fields and played host to the May fair, from which it got its name. However, in the mid-17th century, three large mansions were built here, and further, smaller developments soon followed. Over the next 100 years, this wave of construction continued and formed the base of Mayfair as we know it today. The May fair, however, was displaced as a result.
Walking around these grand houses, you can see evidence of the various periods of redevelopment reflected through the architectural styles. You should be able to spot Victorian and Edwardian designs, as well as neo-Georgian, with the latter being favoured after the first world war.
Once you have taken some time to absorb the area's history, you might like to peruse the shops. After all, it is well-known for its high-end stores - particularly when it comes to Savile Row, which is said to house some of England's finest tailors.
Meanwhile, Mayfair is also home to establishments such as Fortnum & Mason - a grand store selling everything from gourmet foods and cookware to men's and women's clothing, as well as incorporating a restaurant.
After exploring the shops, you might like to visit the Royal Academy of Arts - one of the area's most prestigious attractions. This incredible, independent gallery is run by artists and has a permanent collection of works by both current and past members. Plus, one of Britain's best fine art libraries is also located here.
In addition to these, it offers regular exhibitions spanning everything from photography to 18th-century painting, so it's well worth seeing what temporary displays are up while you are there.
Another top Mayfair attraction is exploring Park Lane. Chiefly consisting of luxurious hotels and impressive high-end car showrooms, this a street where the area's wealth is really displayed - and you'll find many tourists take a walk down here to peer in at the fabulous window displays, where you can see the latest sports cars and more.
The last of our top five Mayfair attractions is Hyde Park - a stunning 350-acre green space that sits just across the road from Park Lane. A real oasis of calm, it is the ideal place for a gentle afternoon stroll, a picnic, or just a quiet coffee in one of its cafes.
