Mayfair is one of central London’s most distinctive neighbourhoods, known for its elegant streets, historic squares and world-famous shopping. Together with neighbouring St James’s, it forms a fascinating pocket of London between Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Soho and Buckingham Palace.
Our Visit London authors have used their expert knowledge of the neighbourhood to curate this guide to the very best things to do in Mayfair and St James’s in London.
From the boutiques and galleries of Bond Street to Savile Row tailoring, the historic shops of Jermyn Street and Piccadilly, acclaimed restaurants and peaceful squares, there are plenty of things to do in Mayfair and St James’s beyond their luxury reputations. Come for art and culture, shopping and food, or simply spend a few hours wandering some of London’s most characterful streets.
Whether you're visiting this historic area for the first time or looking for some new recommendations, make sure to check out our insider tips and FAQs to make the most of your time in the area.
The best things to do in Mayfair and St James’s at a glance
- 🛍️ Best for luxury shopping and iconic stores: Bond Street, Savile Row, Jermyn Street and Piccadilly
- 🎨 Best for art and culture: Royal Academy of Arts, Handel Hendrix House, and small-scale art galleries
- 🌳 Best for green spaces: The Green Park, St James’s Park and Grosvenor Square
- 🍴 Best for food and neighbourhood dining: Michelin-starred restaurants, Heddon Street and St James’s Market
- 🏛️ Best for history and heritage: Royal walking tour, Apsley House, Spencer House and historic streets
- ✨ Best for atmosphere: Shepherd Market, Burlington Arcade, Jermyn Street and an unhurried wander through Mayfair and St James’s
How we chose the best things to do in Mayfair and St James’s
Our Mayfair and St James’s recommendations are selected using a mix of local expertise, visitor popularity and on-the-ground research from the Visit London team.
Our Visit London authors are London locals and experts who have years of experience exploring the city's many unique neighbourhoods. We look for experiences and keep up to date with new openings that genuinely reflect both the historic and ever-changing character of Mayfair and St James's — from iconic shopping streets and centuries-old landmarks to renowned galleries, much-loved restaurants and tranquil green spaces.
In this guide, you'll find everything you need, along with our top tips and recommendations, all curated from our expertise and experience.
Explore Mayfair and St James, London
Top attractions and things to do in Mayfair and St James's
1. Explore Buckingham Palace – Best for royal sightseeing
Follow in the footsteps of the Royal Family with a tour of Buckingham Palace, the official residence of King Charles III. Each summer, from July until September, the palace opens its doors to visitors, allowing you to step inside 19 State Rooms on a self-guided tour. Inside, discover some of the Royal Collection’s greatest treasures, visit the Throne Room and take a stroll in the gardens.
Our top tip is to make the most of the multimedia guide to find out more about the items on display – keep an eye out for exquisite paintings by the likes of Rembrandt, Rubens and Van Dyck. We also suggest combining your visit to Buckingham Palace with other experiences, such as a tour to Windsor Castle, a visit to Stonehenge, a royal walking tour or a London hop-on hop-off bus tour
Best for: Royal enthusiasts
Good to know: We also love visiting the neighbouring Royal Mews, which houses even more items from the Royal Collection. The Gold State Coach and other carriages always leave us in awe, and you may even meet some of the royal horses in the stables.
2. Learn about the Iron Duke at Apsley House – Best for military memorabilia
Venture into Apsley House, the London home of the first Duke of Wellington, the most decorated commander in British history, who led troops in their defeat of Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. The victory ended Napoleon’s invasion of Britain, ultimately leading to his downfall and ushering in a time of peace and prosperity in Europe.
We’re amazed by what lies within this grand house... Don’t miss the exquisite porcelain in The Museum Room and the many impressive paintings in the Waterloo Gallery – including works from the likes of Velázquez, Rubens and Goya – many of which were given to the man nicknamed the “Iron Duke” as gifts.
Our favourite item is the gleaming Wellington Shield showing scenes from the Duke’s life. But we also love quirkier objects, such as Wellington's false teeth, an inkwell made from the hoof of his horse Copenhagen, and, of course, leather boots that he had designed which became known as Wellington boots! Make sure to pick up the audio guide, which gives plenty of insight into the house and its contents.
Best for: Military aficionados
Good to know: Don’t miss out on a visit to Wellington Arch, which was built to commemorate victories in the Napoleonic wars – it sits directly opposite Apsley House. Although small, the exhibition charting its history on the first floor is fascinating and its worth the extra steps to enjoy the 360-degree views over Hyde Park Corner from the balconies (there is a lift for those with accessibility needs).
3. Spot royal hangouts on the Royal Walking Tour – Best for palaces and pageantry
Get the lowdown on lesser-known stories and historic moments involving the Royal Family, as you explore St James’s on this guided Royal Walking Tour. Stop outside grand residences such as the Tudor St James’s Palace and elegant Clarence House, which was King Charles III’s former official residence before becoming king.
You’ll also see the Changing the Guard ceremony as it passes in front of Buckingham Palace, spot historic shops awarded Royal Warrants in St James’s and wander through St James’s Park – make sure to keep an eye out for the famous pelicans, which were a gift to King Charles II in 1664.
Best for: First-time visitors and those keen on royal history
Good to know: You can upgrade your ticket to include a visit to Westminster Abbey, the site of royal coronations and funerals, including William and Kate’s wedding and Queen Elizabeth II’s state funeral.
4. Step into the homes of two icons at Handel Hendrix House – Best for musical history
What links an 18th-century classical composer and a 20th-century rockstar? Well, they both lived on Brook Street in Mayfair, in neighbouring houses, albeit in different centuries. Handel Hendrix House combines both houses, telling the stories of two very different musicians and their lives in Mayfair.
Start in Handel’s residence from 1723 until 1759 and learn how he composed many of his most famous pieces from within its walls… especially The Messiah, which is the focus of an interactive display on the first floor. We also recommend taking time to listen to the audio installations that explain how he created coronation anthems to match Westminster Abbey’s unique acoustics and scores for his famous operas.
Then, cross the attic to Jimi Hendrix’s former flat, which he shared with Kathy Etchingham from 1968 to 1969. Step into his bedroom, meticulously recreated from memories of those who knew him, and even try on clothes to look like the virtuoso guitarist. We also enjoy seeing personal items such as original bills and requests for outstanding debts, which give an insight into his laid-back lifestyle.
Best for: Music fans
Good to know: Don’t miss regular Baroque and Roll events, where you can enjoy live music at the house during weekends.
5. Embark on a culinary adventure with Gourmaze London – Best for adventurous foodies
Fancy a meal with a difference? Combine dining out, sightseeing and puzzles in Gourmaze’s thrilling treasure hunt experience through Mayfair. Complete riddles and use clues sent to you on WhatsApp via GPS… you’ll be guided to some of the area’s secret corners, where you can unlock foodie treats such as pizza, cocktails and dessert.
Perfect for groups of friends and families of up to six people, Gourmaze’s Time Travellers Space Bytes experience is a fun way to explore Mayfair and fill up on delicious food at the same time – you can even pause the timer to take more time to enjoy each stop.
We suggest making sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed and bring a power bank to charge your phone, so you don’t miss any clues!
Best for: Families and groups
Good to know: The tour operates in all weather conditions, so wear appropriate clothes and shoes for the weather. You'll spend most of the time walking outside between food stops.
6. Find forgotten stations on a Hidden London Tube Tour: Dover Street – Best for Underground adventures
Part of a series of Hidden London tours across the city, this subterranean tour of Dover Street uncovers one of London’s lost stations, hidden within what we know today as Green Park station.
Navigate ventilation tunnels that are usually closed to the public and passageways that have been off-limits for decades, see vintage signs from the 1930s and learn about the history of the station from your expert guide, including the station’s role in wartime operations.
We suggest asking plenty of questions on these tours run by the London Transport Museum – the guides on the Hidden London tours really know their stuff, and we love to get under the skin of London’s transport history.
Best for: Transport enthusiasts
Good to know: Visitors must wear flat, sturdy shoes – those wearing open-toed shoes, sandals or high-heels will be denied entry. There is no step-free access and visitors should have a good level of fitness.
7. Delve into the history of Spencer House – Best for Princess Diana fans
Explore the London home of Princess Diana’s ancestors, the Spencers, with a guided tour of Spencer House. Led by knowledgeable Blue Badge Guides, this tour of one of the most impressive St James’s attractions leads you through this historic house tucked away in a quiet back street.
We’re amazed by the ornate gold leaf in The Palm Room and the intricate neoclassical details of The Painted Room, effectively a temple of love. The quirky William Pitt the Younger statue and the lantern hanging in the stairwell, which was once in the Doge’s Palace in Venice, are some of the most eye-catching items on display.
The guides give plenty of details about the house’s history, its furniture, furnishings and craftsmanship, and we find it fascinating to learn how restoration efforts brought the house back to its full glory in 1987. Although Diana never lived in the house, she officially reopened it in 1991 following the restoration.
Best for: History lovers
Good to know: Tours from April to October also include access to the garden, which give views of the original front of the house overlooking The Green Park.
Art, theatre and culture
8. Don't miss The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre – Best for a must-see musical
Take the chance to see one of London’s most iconic musicals in St James’s: Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-loved The Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre. Running since 1986, this gothic romance is based on Gaston Leroux’s novel and follows a mysterious masked figure who becomes obsessed with an opera singer.
We recommend booking tickets for this show in advance for the best seats and to make sure you don’t miss out on this must-see show. Look out for stunning visuals, unforgettable songs and incredible staging. If you're visiting with kids, make use of the matinee performances as part of a fun day out in central London.
Best for: Families and couples
Good to know: For a more intimate theatre experience, head around the corner to Jermyn Street Theatre (16B Jermyn Street). This small-scale venue is a great place for premieres from award-winning directors, as well as plays featuring famous actors and emerging talent.
9. Get your culture fix at ICA London – Best for arts events
Culture vultures will love ICA London – from film screenings and exhibitions to gigs, talks and events, this cultural centre has been at the forefront of culture in the city since 1946.
See newly commissioned works across disciplines that provide an alternative to mainstream culture, all held within its galleries, cinemas, theatre and studio spaces.
Best for: Friends, groups and the culturally curious
Good to know: The exhibition space stays open until 8pm, making it a good option for early-evening art immersion when many other galleries are closed.
10. See blockbuster exhibitions at Royal Academy of Arts – Best for mainstream art
One of London’s best art galleries, the Royal Academy of Arts is known for championing artists. Its Royal Academicians – elected artists and architects who have helped to run the academy since it opened in 1768 – have included the likes of founding members Joshua Reynolds and Angelica Kaufmann, as well as JMW Turner, David Hockney and Tracey Emin.
See some of London’s best exhibitions, as well as free-to-enter permanent collections. One of our highlights is the annual Summer Exhibition, which is open for all artists to submit their work – we love the eclectic mix of work spanning various mediums and the fact that anyone, even amateurs, can enter.
Best for: Art-loving couples
Good to know: For more art finds, visit Mall Galleries, which hosts regular exhibitions – one of our must-sees is the annual Discerning Eye showcase, a collection of small-scale works from established and emerging artists selected by celebrity judges.
11. Examine medical breakthroughs at the Faraday Museum – Best for science
Study scientific discoveries and inventions that changed medicine, and delve into the brains behind them, at the Faraday Museum. This free museum inside Mayfair’s Royal Institution is packed full of fascinating objects, including a tube that showed why the sky is blue and a miners’ safety lamp. It’s also fascinating to see Michael Faraday’s magnetic library, set up exactly how it was in the 1860s.
The Royal Institution aims to engage the public in science, so we suggest looking out for lectures and live demonstrations, where you can learn more about its history and ongoing scientific research – many of these events are also family-friendly.
Best for: Science-focused kids and curious adults
Good to know: Look out for dedicated family fun days (generally on the first Saturday of each month) that include plenty of themed activities.
12. Peruse smaller art galleries – Best for discovering new artists
Art lovers have a whole spectrum of art galleries in St James’s and Mayfair to explore, from fine art dealers to auction houses and independent galleries showcasing contemporary works. It’s a great way to discover emerging artists or even add to your own collection.
Check out the latest displays at Christie’s (8 King Street) auction house (you may even be tempted to place a bid) or see the latest contemporary exhibitions at White Cube, a striking building hidden away in tranquil Mason’s Yard.
Many small-scale art galleries in Mayfair are clustered around Coin Street, Dover Street and New Bond Street. Among our favourites is John Martin Gallery (38 Albemarle Street), which hosts a regular line-up of exhibitions from its roster of artists. Or stumble upon some of the many independent galleries in St James’s, such as Messum’s (12 Bury Street) and Hazlitt Holland-Hibbert (38 Bury Street).
Best for: Art lovers keen to discover something new
Good to know: Unlike large-scale galleries, many smaller galleries and art dealers close over the weekend, so check each venue’s opening time before visiting – some operate by appointment only.
Shopping in Mayfair and St James’s
13. Splash out on designer brands in Bond Street - Best for luxury shopping
The centre of luxury designer fashion in London, Bond Street is a must-visit on any trip to Mayfair, whether you’re keen to revamp your wardrobe or just enjoy some window shopping.
New Bond Street hosts the likes of Bulgari, Chanel, Hermès, Ralph Lauren… you name it, it’s here.
Adjoining Old Bond Street is home to international and heritage brands in characterful buildings. You’ll find the Prada, Tod’s and Dolce & Gabbana among the brands here. Don’t miss a visit to Cartier in the run-up to Christmas, with its eye-catching festive decorations.
Best for: Designer brand shoppers
Good to know: We suggest visiting in the morning, as soon as the shops open – you’ll often have boutiques to yourself and enjoy a more personalised experience.
14. Find heritage brands along Jermyn Street – Best for traditional styling
One of our favourite shopping streets in London, Jermyn Street just screams heritage, craftsmanship and style. It’s here you’ll find many heritage brands, many of which have been given Royal Warrants for supplying the Royal Family.
Among the most famous shops in Jermyn Street are John Lobb shoes, Floris fragrances, Paxton & Whitfield cheese, and Harvie and Hudson menswear. But newer labels such as Emma Willis (one of our go-to places for ties) and a few international brands add a contemporary touch to the street.
Best for: Shoppers who love traditional British fashion
Good to know: For music lovers, St James’s Church Piccadilly (197 Piccadilly) has an entrance on Jermyn Street and often hosts free lunchtime live music concerts and recitals.
15. Get suited and booted in Savile Row – Best for bespoke tailoring
Visit the traditional home of luxury men’s tailoring at Savile Row in Mayfair. If you’re keen to sharpen your style, you have plenty of tailors to choose from here. Henry Poole & Co. is the oldest – they are famed for coming up with the tuxedo – while Anderson & Sheppard have created garments for King Charles III and Fred Astaire among others… both houses create more traditional cuts. Richard James and women’s fashion specialist Banshee of Savile Row offer more contemporary alternatives.
As well as tailoring, Savile Row is famous for The Beatles’ impromptu performance on the rooftop of number three – it was to be their last public performance. Find more Beatles locations on a Beatles walking tour of Soho and Mayfair.
Best for: Lovers of traditional British fashion
Good to know: Many tailors here offer bespoke services only and require you to book a consultation in advance, so check with your preferred tailor before visiting.
16. Walk through historic arcades – Best for unique finds
Elegant, covered arcades have been a key part of high-end shopping in Mayfair and St James’s for more than two centuries. Our favourite is Burlington Arcade – built in 1819, it connects Burlington Gardens and Piccadilly and is one of the UK’s longest covered shopping arcades, full of luxury and heritage retailers.
Look out for the statue of Regency dandy Beau Brummell outside Piccadilly Arcade – which runs between Piccadilly and Jermyn Street. Inside, find quality British and international brands, as well as contemporary art retailers.
Although smaller than its near neighbours, The Royal Arcade off Old Bond Street also has a host of high-end shops: we particularly love the indulgent chocolate truffles from Charbonnel et Walker.
Best for: Those wanting an historic shopping experience
Good to know: The Beadles of Burlington Arcade keep visitors in check – famously clamping down on anyone whistling… why? It was a code pickpockets used in the Regency era to communicate with each other.
17. Browse specialist shops on Piccadilly – Best for shopping experiences
Piccadilly’s history stretches way back to the Middle Ages as the main route out of London to the west. It soon grew as a centre of commerce with lace ruffs and collars, known as piccadills, being made on the site. Today, it’s a bustling street connecting Piccadilly Circus to Hyde Park Corner featuring shops, restaurants and hotels.
Our highlight is Fortnum & Mason, the famous department store that opened in 1707. It’s especially known for its food hall, which is crammed full of traditional delights, but it also houses homeware, fragrances and accessories. Our top tip is to buy condiments such as the puckering Piccadilly Piccalilli and traditional chutneys, as well as tins of biscuits which make perfect gifts for those back home (stem ginger and lemon curd flavours are among our favourites).
Just along the road, Hatchards is the oldest bookshop in London, having been in operation since 1797. Oscar Wilde, Lord Byron and Queen Charlotte have been a few of the regulars through its doors. Nowadays, it continues to sell the latest bestsellers and is a great place to catch talks and book launches.
Best for: First-time visitors and book lovers
Don’t miss: Enjoy a shopping pit stop at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon – the charming venue was opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 2012 to mark her jubilee and offers seasonal variations on a traditional afternoon tea.
Best places to eat and drink in Mayfair and St James's
18. Book into long-standing favourites – Best for classic London dining
While new restaurants in Mayfair and St James’s often come and go, some age-old favourites stand the test of time, loved by locals and visitors alike. Jermyn Street has a number of these timeless eateries… Franco’s (61 Jermyn Street) is a favourite of locals and workers thanks to its terrace (that we love for people-watching) and comforting Italian fare. Nearby Wilton’s is a place to impress with classic British seafood and game dishes.
One of our favourite brunch spots, The Wolseley, has a European “Grand Café” feel, set in a room with high ceilings that effortlessly balances formal and relaxed. Our go-to dishes are kedgeree and eggs Benedict, but other tempting options include haggis with duck egg, kippers, and bubble and squeak.
Mayfair’s The Guinea is ideal for a classic British pub meal. We enjoy the more informal pub area for a pint and a pie, but its Grill Room restaurant tucked away at the back is an even more memorable experience with silver service and quality steaks.
Best for: Foodies keen on an authentic London experience
Good to know: Music fans will love the original Hard Rock Café on Old Park Lane. Serving up American classics, this temple to rock has music memorabilia lining its walls – music enthusiasts should also book the 20-minute tour of The Vault, its very own music museum.
19. Be wowed by lavish restaurants – Best for memorable meals
Mayfair equals opulence and its restaurant scene doesn’t fail to disappoint with showstopping dining rooms full of fun, glitz and glamour.
Come Sundays, a must-do is Bocconcino’s (9 Berkeley Street) Il Grande Buffet lunch. Set to live music, this all-you-can-eat display has platters overflowing with fresh shellfish, salads and desserts – you can also tuck in to roast beef with all the trimmings or indulge in truffle pasta made to order. Meanwhile, opera-lovers will enjoy Bacchanalia’s (1 Mount Street) opera lunch, where Greek dishes combine with live arias performed by opera singers.
Mingle with the moneyed at Sexy Fish, whose lavish sea-themed displays and sashimi platters impress, or visit neighbouring Amazónico (10 Berkeley Square) with its jungle-like décor – try its Weekend Asado menu featuring Latin American fish dishes and grilled meats.
For a more understated, but no less impressive, night out, opt for Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay – its robata grill knocks out delicious Asian small plates. While Hawksmoor Air Street is one of our favourites for a Sunday roast or prime steak in classy Art Deco surrounds.
Best for: Couples seeking a memorable meal
Good to know: If you’re struggling to choose from the many Mayfair and St James’s restaurants, head to dining hotspots where numerous restaurants are clustered: Heddon Street, St James’s Market and Shepherd Market have an eclectic mix. Sabor in Heddon Street, Fallow in St James’s Market, and Kitty Fisher's in Shepherd Market are our top picks.
20. Slurp on authentic dishes at Sen Sen noodle bar – Best for budget bites
Given the often above-average prices, dining out in Mayfair can make your wallet skinnier, but there are still some budget finds to fill your belly if you look hard enough. Among them, Sen Sen noodle bar, tucked away beneath Patara, serves authentic Thai boat noodles – small bowls of noodles in broth that were once sold from boats on the rivers around Bangkok.
On our last visit, we chose the small-sized bowl of flavour-packed boat noodles with braised beef, a side of crispy prawn wontons and a refreshing longan juice, all of which came in at just over £14 including service – that’s less than a starter at most surrounding restaurants and was more than enough for a filling lunch.
Best for: Diners on a budget
Good to know: For other affordable eats, check out Mercato Mayfair – this indoor street food market is set in the magnificent surrounds of an old church. Pick from wide-ranging cuisine, wait for it to be prepared and find a table – we prefer the balcony on the first floor, or the roof terrace on warmer days.
21. Treat yourself at Michelin-starred restaurants – Best for special occasions
Mayfair and St James’s host a large proportion of London’s Michelin-starred restaurants, so there are plenty of places to treat yourself on a special occasion.
A meal at The Ritz’s elegant restaurant is one of our favourite London dining experiences. Choose from à la carte or seasonal tasting menus – for an extra romantic twist, we suggest booking its Live at The Ritz dinners featuring an orchestra and dancers. Other multi-starred spots include Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester and his protégé Hélène Darroze at The Connaught... both offer exquisite modern French cuisine – don’t miss their signature baba desserts!
Another of our favourites, Gymkhana, brings Mumbai to Mayfair with regional Indian dishes, sharing plates and tandoori-grilled meats – we’ve always loved the venison biryani and its famous tandoori masala lamb chops.
Best for: Serious foodies
Good to know: While most Michelin-starred restaurants are generally relaxed, some have a specific dress code – check in advance with the restaurant when booking.
22. Sip on sensational cocktails – Best for classy nights out
If you love a cocktail, you’re in luck… Mayfair and St James’s cocktail bars are among the best in the city, none more so than Dukes Bar within Dukes London hotel. Among the best bars in St James’s, this classic spot was a regular haunt of James Bond author Ian Fleming… it’s thought he even used the bar’s martini as inspiration for Bond’s favourite Vesper cocktail. Be prepared to wait for a table at busy times, but it’s worth it for the Martini experience, which is prepared on a trolley and served in ice-cold glasses.
More relaxed cocktails can be found in one of the more secluded St James’s bars… Swans Bar in atmospheric bookshop Maison Assouline – tucked away on the ground floor, the creative cocktails here are inspired by the shop’s beautifully designed travel books.
For a unique experience, try the potions and elixirs at Mr Fogg’s Apothecary (34 Brook Street), which is based on fictional character Phileas Fogg’s travels. Or be wowed by the mixologists at The Glade at Sketch (9 Conduit Street) – a woodland-themed bar tucked away behind a curtain.
Best for: Cocktails with friends
Good to know: Many of the area’s grand hotels have fabulous cocktail bars within their walls. Among the most popular are Claridge’s Bar and The Connaught Bar – but we particularly love The American Bar at The Stafford for its relaxed feel.
23. Grab a pint in a pub - Best for an authentic British experience
As with any historic London area, you’ll find plenty of traditional pubs tucked away in side streets throughout St James’s and Mayfair.
In St James’s, The Red Lion (23 Crown Passage) is claimed to be the second oldest licensed pub in the West End and oozes historic charm – not to be confused with the other Red Lion, just around the corner on Duke of York Street. Nearby, The Golden Lion (25 King Street), with its ornate glass frontage, was once frequented by Napoleon II and Oscar Wilde.
In Mayfair, The Coach & Horses (5 Hill Street), dating from 1744, is the oldest surviving pub in the area and is perfect for a quintessential British pub experience. While The Audley (41-43 Mount Street), a Victorian pub with wood panelling, is our top tip for a pre-dinner drink before visiting one of Mount Street’s high-end restaurants.
Best for: First-time visitors looking for an authentic pub experience
Good to know: For wine lovers, atmospheric Davy’s Wine Bar (Crown Passage) is set within wine cellars in the heart of St James’s. Cosy Shepherd Market Wine House (21-23 Shepherd Market) and stylishly rustic Farm Shop Wine Bar (64 South Audley Street) serve wines in relaxed surrounds in Mayfair.
Parks, squares and green spaces
24. Take time out in The Green Park – Best for relaxation
Been on your feet all day? Take some time to relax in The Green Park, the smallest of London’s eight Royal Parks, but one of its most charming. Created in 1660 by King Charles II – purely so he didn’t have to walk off royal land when strolling between Hyde Park and St James’s Park – the park is a great place to unwind.
We recommend hiring a deckchair (available from March to October) to take in this green space in central London. In fact, there are no flower beds here – in a fit of jealousy, King Charles II’s wife Queen Catherine ordered the kind to remove all flowers from the park, and the idea has stuck ever since.
A place of reflection, there are also various memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives in the two World Wars – the most poignant for us is the Bomber Command at the north side of the park showing service personnel in their uniforms.
Best for: Couples and friends wanting a lazy afternoon
Good to know: Picnicking is allowed in the park, so we suggest buying some tasty treats from nearby Fortnum & Mason – don’t miss its Scotch eggs, which the shop claims to have invented.
25. Stroll through historic St James’s Park – Best for wildlife spotting
St James’s Park is arguably the most picturesque of London’s Royal Parks, with views across its lake to Buckingham Palace and the London Eye, lakeside walks, wildflower meadows and formal gardens.
We love spotting the wildlife, especially the famous pelicans that have been resident here since 1664, a gift to King Charles II from the Russian ambassador. We suggest timing your visit for feeding time (around 2.30pm) at Duck Island Cottage to see the birds gorge themselves on fish!
Best for: Families
Good to know: Keep an eye out for royal events, state celebrations and annual processions along The Mall, which borders the park. Nearby Horse Guards Parade hosts Trooping the Colour – the King’s annual birthday parade – each June.
26. Seek out tranquil squares – Best for a shopping pit stop
Between shopping sprees or arty adventures, enjoy a few peaceful moments in Mayfair and St James’s squares, which are oozing with character and history.
One of our favourites is St James’s Square. A quiet place to relax between shopping along Jermyn Street, this small square is flanked by private members’ clubs, Georgian townhouses and pretty streets. We suggest first grabbing a coffee and cake from Redemption Roasters (35 Jermyn Street), who help to train and rehabilitate prisoner leavers.
In Mayfair, Grosvenor Square was relandscaped in 2025 and features more than 150,000 new plants and 44 new trees – don’t miss the pretty displays in spring and summer. Nearby Mount Street Gardens is a more secluded spot with plenty of benches to enjoy a few quiet moments. Don’t miss Berkeley Square – we’ve not heard a nightingale sing there yet (as the famous song goes), but it’s an ideal place for people-watching.
Best for: Families and couples
Good to know: Grosvenor Square, until recently, was home to the Embassy of the United States of America – look out for statues of former presidents such as Dwight D. Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan and Franklin D. Roosevelt within the square.
Where to stay in Mayfair and St James’s
27. Claridge’s – Best for an iconic London feel
Fusing timeless elegance and Art Deco style, historic Claridge’s is one of London’s most iconic hotels. With design and service at its heart, expect the ultimate in luxury and attention to detail that has attracted royalty, film stars and music icons since 1812.
Best for: Couples celebrating special occasions
Good to know: Don’t miss Claridge’s Spa in the basement, which features saunas, steam rooms and a swimming pool. We suggest chatting to the wellness concierge for tailored treatments and using the pool early in the morning before it gets busier.
28. London Hilton on Park Lane – Best for views
Enjoy enviable views over Hyde Park from London Hilton on Park Lane. The brand’s first UK hotel pulls out all the stops with luxurious rooms and suites featuring high thread-count bedding and premium toiletries. Its interconnecting rooms also make it a good option for families.
Best for: Couples and families
Good to know: Deluxe rooms are located on higher floors with better views, while suites offer access to the Executive Lounge.
29. The Dilly – Best for affordable luxury
Just footsteps from iconic Piccadilly Circus, stylish The Dilly is the perfect base from which to explore London’s West End. Among its various room types, its standard rooms are a great option for affordable luxury, while family rooms and executive suites ensure it can cater for all needs. We particularly love its Terrace, a light-filled space where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.
Best for: Those who want to be in the heart of London’s West End
Good to know: If you’re feeling active, the hotel has its own squash courts (equipment available to hire), swimming pool and golf simulator.
30. The Mayfair Townhouse – Best for Georgian grandeur
Set within seven listed buildings, The Mayfair Townhouse is a great place to take in those Bridgeton-style vibes. It feels far more like a townhouse residence than a hotel, so it’s ideal for those seeking a more intimate experience. Don’t miss drinks or all-day dining in the classy Dandy Bar.
Best for: Those seeking a boutique-style stay
Good to know: This charming hotel is a good option for families, with connecting rooms available.
31. Sofitel London St James – Best for family stays
An ideal choice for a family stay in St James’s, this hotel on Pall Mall has interconnecting rooms, family packages and even a dedicated kids’ afternoon tea. Foodies will also love Sofitel London St James's on-site restaurant Wild Honey, one of the area’s best restaurants led by chef Anthony Demetre. Run by French brand Sofitel, you can expect plenty of Parisian panache alongside neoclassical exteriors and contemporary British style.
Best for: Families and foodies
Good to know: The hotel has its own spa offering a range of treatments.
Discover even more of central London with our guides to neighbouring areas such as Westminster, the home of British politics, or London's West End, which is famed for its iconic theatres and shopping streets. Or plan a day or night out in Soho, a lively hub of culture, dining and entertainment.
Mayfair FAQs
Where is Mayfair in London?
The Mayfair area of London sits between Park Lane to the west, Piccadilly to the south, Regent Street to the east and Oxford Street to the north. This central London neighbourhood is full of historic streets and squares that give it a charming atmosphere.How do I get to Mayfair?
Mayfair is easily accessible by Tube, with Marble Arch, Bond Street, Oxford Circus, Piccadilly Circus and Hyde Park Corner Underground stations directly on its boundaries. Numerous bus routes also serve the area’s key streets, including Piccadilly, Regent Street, Oxford Street and Park Lane.What is Mayfair famous for?
Mayfair is famous for its luxury and designer shopping, high-end restaurants and historic hotels. It’s an historic area of London that features pretty streets and elegant squares, such as Grosvenor Square and Berkeley Square. It takes its name from the May Fair, which was held from 1686 to 1764 in what is now Shepherd Market.What are the most famous streets in Mayfair?
Mayfair’s most famous street is Bond Street, which stretches from the north to south of the neighbourhood, and is home to designer brands and art galleries. Savile Row is known worldwide as a centre of bespoke tailoring. Shopping hotspots Piccadilly, Regent Street and Oxford Street form its outer boundaries.Is Mayfair worth visiting?
There are plenty of things to do in Mayfair, London, that make it an ideal place to stay or to visit during your trip. No trip to London is complete without a stroll along iconic Bond Street, but there’s much more to the area than shopping, with some of the city’s most celebrated restaurants, quaint streets and gorgeous squares to explore.St James's FAQs
Where is St James’s in London?
St James’s is a neighbourhood in central London, sandwiched between The Mall and St James’s Park to the south, The Green Park to the west, Piccadilly to the north and Haymarket to the east. It’s near key attractions such as Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus and Trafalgar Square.How do I get to St James’s?
St James’s is easy to get to using the Tube, with Green Park and Piccadilly Circus Underground stations directly on its boundaries. Charing Cross, St James’s Park and Westminster Underground stations are also a short distance from St James’s, while Charing Cross mainline rail services provide longer-distance access. Bus routes serve St James’s northern edge, on Piccadilly, and eastern boundary, along Regent Street/St James and Haymarket.