The C&TH Guide to Mayfair
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The C&TH Guide to Mayfair

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Mayfair, as many Londoners acknowledge, is one of the snazziest areas in London, and in fact, the world. Sitting inside the City of Westminster, the high-end district includes some of London’s most popular tourist hotspots including Piccadilly, Oxford Street, Regent’s Street and Park Lane and boasts a wealth of world-class shops, restaurants, perfectly quaffed parks and equally quaffed people. 

Mayfair’s roots of vast wealth can be traced back to the 18th century, when most of the housing was built for the upper classes, and the area still retains this affluent status to this day. But there are no gates keeping people out – it’s only a tube ride away. Intrigued to step into a world of wealth and affluence? Read our Mayfair highlights and explore one of the most iconic and aesthetically pleasing areas of London.

The C&TH Guide to Mayfair

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Peter Harrington

Peter Harrington Rare Books

Peruse Peter Harrington Rare Books, the UK’s largest rare bookseller, which holds over 7,000 rare books spread over two floors.

Quaglinos

Quaglino’s

Decadant, lively, and with a 1920s theme, Quaglino’s is the place to be. Dine whilst live music sweeps the room and good vibes ensue. Order oysters and caviar, steaks and fresh fish.

The royal arcade

The Royal Arcade

The Royal Arcade runs between Old Bond Street and Albemarle Street at the heart of Mayfair’s most extravagant shopping district. Built in 1879, it’s London’s oldest shopping arcade, and makes for great window-shopping (and real shopping of course). You’ll come across the likes of Ormonde Jayne, Paul Smith, Charbonnel et Walker and The Watch Club.

The Dorchester Spa

After all that eating, drinking and shopping, one must make time for relaxing when in Mayfair, and where better than The Dorchester, one of the district’s most iconic luxury hotels? Find our treatment recommendations here.

Handel & Hendrix in London

Handel & Hendrix in London

Music fans should visit this museum in Mayfair celebrating two of the most influential musicians, Jimi Hendrix and Handel. Walk through Italian opera legend Handel’s house exploring his art collection. Then, head to Jimi Hendrix’s flat where he lived from 1968 to 1969 – an inspiring insight into the late artist’s creative tastes.

Photo: Peter Dazeley

Sexy Fish Bar

Sexy Fish

Does what it says on the tin – Sexy Fish is a buzzing and romantic restaurant boasting delectably fresh Asian food and the world’s largest Japanese whiskey collection. Perched on the edge of Berkeley Square, the restaurant is open until late and is all about the glamour, with art-adorned walls featuring the likes of Damien Hirst, Frank Gehry and Michael Roberts.

Royal Academy of Arts

Royal Academy of Arts

A prestigious art institution, The Royal Academy of Arts is the best place in Mayfair to view world-class exhibitions from a number of talented artists. Many are free to attend, so pop in for your culture fix after a day of relaxing and dining. On now: Gauguin and the ImpressionistsLéon Spilliaert and The Making of an Artist: The Great Tradition

Theo Randall at The Intercontinental

Theo Randall at the InterContinental

You needn’t be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the foodie delights of Theo Randall’s restaurant here. Hailed as one of the best Italian restaurants in London, the menu changes each day, uses locally-sourced fresh ingredients, and is deeply inspired by the chef’s regular trips to Italy. Plus, they’ve got an impressive vegan offering as well as a tasting and ‘prosecco picnic’ menu.

William & Son Upstairs

William & Son

From home accessories and elegant crystal additions to jewellery and clothing, William & Son is a refined department store sitting on Bruton Street. Head there for quality craftsmanship and to shop the needs of the UK’s Country & Town double-lifers.

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