LONDON MAYFAIR

Mayfair is a place of two extremes. You have the extravagance of luxury shopping, smart restaurants and bars. With the spacious parks, greenery, lakes and wildlife on the other side. It really is a place where you can wander day and night, to make your own discoveries and also visit the well know landmarks. Close by are the temptations of Harrods, Buckingham Palace, The Royal Academy of Arts, numerous designer boutiques and of course the Theatres. 

Taster Tours

Step out of the hotel, cross Park Lane and into Hyde Park, walk to the left to the Queen Mother Gate. Then turn right onto the path, parallel to the roadway, to wander through that vast green space, the gardens full of sweet smelling roses and in summer, the newly planted flower beds. You soon come upon the big lake on your left, full of swimming ducks, swans and coots and of course humans frantically churning their pedlos! ...look out for those breeding swans, they may just get personal. Plenty of opportunities to sit and stare at the sky, admire the magnificence of those age old trees and watch your fellow humans at play. At the top of the lake and across the road, the Serpentine Magazine Gallery beckons. Renowned for the striking design of Zaha Hadid’s restaurant and the thought provoking displays of contemporary art.

Walk over the Bridge to The Serpentine Gallery, in Kensington Gardens,  with a shop full of interesting books and yes, more but different contemporary art. The summer months will offer the Pavilion, the much coveted winner of an annual architectural competition ..... built outside, temporary, intriguing and large scale. You now have a choice, turn back, cross the road and return on the other side of the lake. Alternatively, keep walking in a straight line through Kensington Gardens for 10/ 15 mins until you come across Kensington Palace and an array of large and elegant Embassies. Walk, bus or cab back.

Turn left out of the hotel and left again on to Piccadilly , a furthur 5 min walk will take you to a hive of activity . Green Park on the right , Fortnum and Masons... time is forgotten looking at the array of goodies in there. Oh and there are two great bookshops, full of treasures, if that’s your thing. Just behind is Jermyn Street lined with bespoke shops and worth your gaze. To the left of Piccadilly is Bond Street, a worthy visit of its own. The historic and beautiful Burlington Arcade, a haven of jewellers and luxury goods, great for lingering. Followed by the Royal Academy, worthy of a serious visit, if Art is a passion of yours.

Time to Linger

So much to choose when based in this central area of London.  If retail is of interest, Harrods and Fenwicks in Knightsbridge are within easy walking distance from the hotel. Alternatively, Selfridges and Oxford Street are also an easy walk in the other direction. Marylebone High Street and Lane, are just behind with its myriad of bespoke treasures to stimulate your interest Walk down Curzon Street if you are looking for a great cinematic experience. A little furthur and you will discover the small squares and village like atmosphere of  Shepherds Market. Choose South Audley Street and it will lead you to the tree lined oasis of Grosvenor Square. Points of interest on the way are Grosvenor Chapel, Purdey & Sons Gunmakers, plus the unmissable elegant showroom of Thomas Goode, with its sparkling display of Table and Glassware. Need refreshment....just take your pick!