2024 is almost here, and as we bid farewell to 2023, are you ready to leave the holiday blues behind and embark on a new adventure in London? January may be a quieter time in the capital, but the city is buzzing with exciting events and opportunities that you won’t want to miss.
Indulge in the renowned London January sales, offering the perfect chance to snag some fantastic deals. The bustling retail scene in the heart of the capital awaits! With the Washington Mayfair Hotel strategically located amid the shopping hotspots, your London shopping experience is bound to be smoother and more relaxed. There’s no better feeling after a day of bargain hunting to know you have a comfortable home-from-home base, eliminating the hassle of a long commute or parking issues. You can pop back to the room to drop off your bags at your leisure, recharge with afternoon tea at Madison’s Restaurant, and then dive back into the shopping frenzy.
During your trip, make sure to keep an eye out for enticing discounts at theatres, restaurants, and bars throughout January. January is typically a quieter time to visit London, so there tends to be less crowds and benefits up for grabs at some of the top London attractions… Making January one of the best months to plan a last-minute London break!
There are a huge range of January performances available in the West End, musicals and shows from classics like Les Misérables, Mamma Mia and Phantom of the Opera to new entries to the musical scene, like Bronco Billy. Plus, the Royal Albert Hall is hosting Cirque du Soleil for another year which will be its 30th anniversary! Alegria: In a New Light is performing from 11 January – 3 March.
There is also still time to embrace the winter magic with transformed pop-up bars and rooftop terraces, plus outdoor ice rinks continuing through January at a variety of locations across the city. Twinkling lights still light up the streets and there are several events planned for New Year’s Day itself like the New Year’s Day Parade, a selection of fun runs and a 10k race planned at the Serpentine New Year’s Day Races. New Year’s Day is the last day to enjoy Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland if you haven’t yet had chance to visit or would love to re-visit.
We are excited to welcome you in 2024 to the Washington Mayfair Hotel, where your London adventure begins! Thank you for all the support and bookings throughout 2023 we hope you enjoyed your stay and you will continue to choose the best hotel in London Mayfair – The Washington Mayfair Hotel.
Woolly hats, crisp frosty mornings, steaming cups of coffee… What do you love about winter? Winter is well under way here in London and at the Washington Mayfair Hotel we are excited to welcome guests to the hotel for 2023. January has got a bit of a reputation for being a quieter month to visit London which is why we would argue that it’s one of the best. With less queues at some of London’s top attractions and a little less of a crush on the tube! If you are happy to wrap up and brave the cooler weather, then the start of the year could be the best time to visit the capital.
Every season offers something beautiful to see in the Royal Parks and winter is no exception. It may surprise you to know that London is actually home to over 5000 acres of quality green space… Not quite the concrete jungle some may imagine! There are many highlights of the parks that can only be discovered in winter like the frost-covered landscape with the grass crunching underfoot, the frozen transformation of the Sperpentine or even catching a glimpse of the first delicate green shoots emerging from their hibernation. So, take a detour from the busy metropolis and spend some time to enjoy what’s on offer, with self-guided tours available and winter warmer talks scheduled throughout the next few months. Whether you are visiting London for pleasure or business the Royal Parks can be enjoyed as a little break from London Life, plus it’s great for boosting physical and mental wellbeing!
Let’s face it though, we don’t always want to be outside when it’s cold… Sometimes you just want to be appreciating the warm surroundings of a cosy café, or restaurant as you tuck into a culinary delight. London offers a huge selection of eateries to choose from for a variety of budgets. Some of which have transformed their roof terraces offering fireplaces, faux fur, creative cocktails and stunning views of London, so you can enjoy the outside but also keep warm – perfect!
The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the best hotel to plan your next London trip. You will find everything you need to enjoy your stay to the full whether you are travelling for business or for leisure with a large selection of rooms and suites available to add a little luxury to your stay. We would love to welcome you this Winter to The Washington Mayfair so take a look and book your London Adventure today.
Start your 2023 the right way and immerse yourself in culture, history and jaw-dropping performances in London’s iconic West End.
Just a short journey from The Washington Mayfair hotel, lies arguably the most magical area of London, where you can be transported to another world of drama and suspense. Hosting a huge selection of West End theatres showing London’s top musicals and productions – you will be spoilt for choice!
Many would agree that there is something extra special seeing real-life performances acted out in front of you, watching the raw emotion of the actors and sharing this moment with the people around you. In this blog we look at six top West End performances to see at the start of 2023.
The Phantom of the Opera
Playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre, this haunting story of love and jealousy has been a favourite performance of many west-end goers. Based on a 1910 novel by Gaston Leroux, Phantom tells the story of a young soprano who becomes the subject of a musical genius’ obsession. Containing the iconic tracks, Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and Masquerade.
Mamma Mia
Sing along to the widely popular tunes of Abba in this stunning performance playing at the Novello Theatre. Follow the story of a young woman planning her wedding day as she searches for her father to give her away. Laugh and cry along on this journey of discovery
Hamilton
Playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre, immerse yourself in American history as you see Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the USA, brought to life in a delightfully modern way. Take the twists and turns of his interesting life accompanied by catchy tunes and a talented cast.
Back to the Future The Musical
Winner of Best New Musical 2022, Back to the Future The Musical brings the Hollywood blockbuster to life in a unique performance that you won’t want to miss. Playing at the Adelphi Theatre, join Marty Mcfly and Doc Brown as they change the course of history!
Matilda
Take a trip down memory lane and jump into Roald Dahl’s beloved novel Matilda. The Royal Shakespeare Company bring the story of this extraordinary little girl to life, with a beautiful soundtrack written by Tim Minchin. Playing at the Cambridge Theatre.
The Mousetrap
Holding the title of longest-running play in the world, The Mousetrap continues to entertain audiences in the West End. Join a group of seven strangers as they are snowed in together at a house in the country. Will you guess ‘whodunnit’ in this Agatha Christie Murder Mystery, playing at St.Martin’s Theatre?
These are only a few of the shows on offer in London’s West End, you can see the whole catalogue here at Official London Theatre. Why not book a London hotel stay and show so you can really make the most of your London trip. The Washington Mayfair is perfectly located to enjoy all the delights of the West End. We have a whole range of rooms and suites to suit all our guests needs, plus special offers when you book direct!
2022 has arrived! As we are all embracing January and saying goodbye to 2021 in favour of a more normal year than the last, let’s put away the holiday blues and book something exciting for the new year. It may be a quieter time of the year to visit London but there is plenty going on in the city that you won’t want to miss.
The start of the year is the best time to find a bargain and the iconic London January sales are in full swing. There is no better destination to pick to indulge in a bit of retail therapy than the capital. The Washington Mayfair Hotel is right in the middle of London’s retail scene with so many shopping destinations to choose from you’ll be spoilt for choice. We are here to make your day just that little bit easier by providing a home from home base so you can dispense with the long commute or parking issues and focus on enjoying your day to the full. The flexibility to drop off your bags when you feel the need cannot be underestimated! Treat yourself with afternoon tea in the Madison’s Restaurant to recharge your batteries, ready to hit the stores for round two. The shops aren’t the only place you might manage to grab a deal this winter, many theatres, restaurants and bars offer discounts throughout January, so keep your eyes peeled!
Some events happening throughout January that you won’t want to miss out on include the 25th anniversary of Cirque Du Soleil coming to the Royal Albert Hall (booking between 12 Jan – 27 Feb). This time the show centres on a journey to Mexico, prepare to be wowed by the talented acrobatics and visual treats. See Hamlet a Shakespeare classic of corruption brought to life at the Globe Theatre (21 Jan- 9 Apr). Don’t miss Cabaret at the Playhouse Theatre, hosting Hollywood stars Eddie Redmayne and Jessie Buckley as they astound with their electrifying performances.
Many pop-up bars and rooftop terraces throughout the city have been transformed for winter – offering fireplaces, faux fur, creative cocktails and stunning views of London. Make sure to leave some time to cosy up in Aviary London’s private igloos, visit ‘Alice in Winterland’s’ enchanting rooftop experience at Queen of Hoxton, snuggle together at Winter Bubbles, Radio Rooftop or explore some of the other transformations.
Upgrade your holiday in London to a luxury experience in the elite district of Mayfair… You won’t regret it. Be sure to check out our offers and book direct for the best prices and extra perks. We look forward to welcoming you in 2022!
Are you visiting London in January? It is going to be great! Though the festive season is coming to a close and the days are still as dark and chilly as ever, there’s tons of fun stuff happening in London throughout the New Year to enjoy especially using The Washington Mayfair Hotel as a base. London’s attractions are quieter than usual this month and we have several winter hotel offers, so it’s a great time to enjoy a stroll around a museum and avoid queues at popular attractions. And, don’t forget, many of London’s attractions are free!
Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade, Burns Night and Chinese New Year. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1st January 2020
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30 mins from the attraction.
WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.
CIRQUE DU SOLEILAT THE ROYAL ALBERT HALL – from 12 January to 1 March 2020
Cirque du Soleil return to London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2020, bringing their dazzling luminous spectacle, LUZIA to Europe for the first time. LUZIA takes you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul. With a surrealistic series of grand visual surprises and breathtaking acrobatic performances, LUZIA cleverly brings to the stage multiple places, faces and sounds of Mexico taken from both tradition and modernity.
BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25th January 2020
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel.
CHINESE NEW YEAR PARADE – 26th January 2020
The Chinese New Year London events are the largest outside Asia and attract hundreds of thousands of people each year. Enjoy a colourful Chinese New Year parade, lion dances in Chinatown and delicious Chinese street food, as well as free entertainment and stage performances in Trafalgar Square.
TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – until 3 May 2020
TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the y Saatchi Gallerincludes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.
January 2019 is going to be great. Though the festive season is coming to a close and the days are still as dark and chilly as ever, there’s tons of fun stuff happening in London throughout the New Year to enjoy. The January sales are on, so you can shop at some of London’s top shopping destinations for less. Top January events include the New Year’s Day Parade and activities for Burns Night. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1st January 2019
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm, via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30 mins from the attraction. Visit the official website for further information
WINTER WONDERLAND – until 6th January 2019
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2018 include the Magical Ice Kingdom’s Secret Forest, the immersive cinematic adventure with The Snowman™ Experience, presented by Backyard Cinema and the Ice Sculpting workshops where you can create your own ice sculpture. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.
NBA LONDON GAME 2019 AT THE O2 – 17th January 2019
Following eight successful sell-out fixtures, the NBA heads back to London’s iconic arena, which provides the perfect stage for this action-packed sport and an electric atmosphere for basketball fans. The Wizards, who boast the likes of Bradley Beal and John Wall in their ranks, are making their debut in London. While the Knicks return to the capital for a third time, bolstered by stars Kristaps Porzingis and Tim Hardaway Jr. The NBA London game never fails to attract a galaxy of stars courtside for this unmissable chance to see the pinnacle of basketball on our shores. Previous NBA London VIP guests at The O2 have included Premier League stars Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba, Alexis Sanchez, Dele Alli and Eden Hazard, alongside Paul McCartney, Gordon Ramsey and Ozwald Boateng. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25th January 2019
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.
HOGWARTS IN THE SNOW AT WARNER BROS. STUDIO TOUR LONDON – THE MAKING OF HARRY POTTER – until 27th January 2019
The Harry Potter studio tours get a festive makeover once more this winter, with Christmas trees and a seasonal feast in the Great Hall, decorations in Gryffindor common room and snow drifts in Diagon Alley. Get up close to props, costumes and models used in the Harry Potter films. Take a look around the studio’s famous movie sets decorated as they were for the festive scenes. And find out how different types of artificial snow and ice were created and used in the films. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Can you hear those sleigh bells jingling? Of course you can. It’s December in London and it is the most magical month to visit the city. London’s shopping streets sparkle with Christmas lights in December, and shops are full of gift hunters finishing off their Christmas shopping. A focal point of the holiday season in London is Trafalgar Square, which resounds with carol singing around the capital’s biggest Christmas tree, and lights up with a giant Menorah for Chanukah.
Here at The Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2018.
TOP CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Winter Wonderland – until 6th January 2019
Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2018 include the Magical Ice Kingdom’s Secret Forest, the immersive cinematic adventure with The Snowman™ Experience, presented by Backyard Cinema and the Ice Sculpting workshops where you can create your own ice sculpture. Visit the official website and book your favourite attractions.
Winter Christmas Market at Southbank Centre – until 6th January 2019
Celebrate the winter season at Southbank Centre with festive shows, a Christmas market, seasonal food and drink, and family activities under the glittering lights. The majority of the Southbank Centre’s outdoor attractions are usually open from 10am-10pm daily. The Southbank Centre is normally entirely closed on Christmas Day, with outdoor attractions staying closed on New Year’s Eve. Visit the official website for more information.
Leicester Square Christmas Market – until 6th January 2019
See one of London’s most famous squares transformed for the festive during Christmas in Leicester Square. Browse more than 25 stalls for handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and more at the traditional Christmas market, plus treat yourself to some warming winter fare. Families with young children can also enjoy exploring Santa’s grotto and meet the man himself in the square’s enchanting festive atmosphere. Visit the official website for further information.
Christmas by the River at London Bridge City – 3rd January 2019
With stunning views of Tower Bridge, The Tower of London and the iconic City skyline, Christmas by the River is the perfect setting for the market which boasts 68 stalls selling gifts, food and drink. Christmas by the River will be the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a true Christmas market. Visit the official website for further information.
TOP CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND PANTOMIMES IN LONDON
The Royal Ballet’s The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House – from 3rd December to 15th January 2019
Loosely based on the story by E.T.A. Hoffmann, the ballet begins in the 19th-century German home of the Stahlbaums, where they are hosting a lively Christmas party. The period setting is captured in opulent detail by Julia Trevelyan Oman’s designs, which include authentic Christmas tree decorations that are magically brought to life. Wright’s choreography ingeniously incorporates surviving fragments of the ballet’s original material, including the sublime pas de deux for the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Prince. But in emphasizing the relationship between Clara and the Nutcracker, the production also gains a touching subtext of first love. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Snow White at the London Palladium – from 8th December to 13th January 2019
Produced by the team behind Olivier award-winning Dick Whittington, this classic tale of good and evil is retold with the help of a stellar cast, including Dawn French, Julian Clary, Paul Zerdin and Nigel Havers. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Mariah Carey’s all I want for Christmas is you Tour at the O2 – 11th December 2018
Join record-breaking performer Mariah Carey for a musical celebration of Christmas. The superstar singer entertains audiences with a collection of festive favourites, including All I Want for Christmas is You. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Circus 1903 at the Royal Festival Hall – from 19th December to 5th January 2019
Fresh from the Paris Theatre in Las Vegas, Circus 1903 visits Southbank Centre for its European premiere. The show includes sensational life-sized elephants stunningly created by puppeteers from War Horse, putting elephants back in the ring as never before. The circus boasts a huge cast of jaw-dropping and dangerous acts from all corners of the globe. Featuring acrobats, contortionists, jugglers, trapeze and high-wire performers and more, this show captivates and transports audiences of all ages to the golden age of circus. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular at SSE Arena Wembley – from 27th to 30th December 2018
After a worldwide tour seen by over 7 million people in 206 cities, the stunning theatrical event Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular is back!Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus rex. Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes. It’s a dazzling £10,000,000 arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality set to captivate young and old alike. Marvel at the story of their 200 million year domination of life on earth. Watch them walk. Hear the roar. Be there as they fight for survival and supremacy. From the ripple of their skin to the glint in their eye, you will know the dinosaurs really have returned. Book your tickets here: website.
The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 6th January 2019
The Snowman, tells the story of a boy and his magical snowman’s wintery wonderland adventure. As a friendship is kindled, the two embark on a starry-skied journey to the North Pole, where they meet dancing penguins, Ice Princess, Father Christmas and escape the clutches of Jack Frost. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2018
Hear Big Ben’s famous “bongs” ring out at midnight on New Year’s Eve in London, followed by the UK’s largest annual fireworks display over the Coca-Cola London Eye, presented by the Mayor of London. If you want to join in the celebrations on the night, you must have a ticket to attend. Visit the official website for further information or to book your tickets.
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM ICE RINK – until 6th January 2019
Skate in a magical winter haven in the heart of the city at the Natural History Museum’s open-air ice rink. The spectacular rink is surrounded by thousands of fairy lights and features a glittering 30ft (9m) Christmas tree. Book your skate session online to guarantee your place or buy your tickets from the box office when you arrive. Remember, you may have to wait for your turn on the ice if you haven’t booked your session in advance, especially during peak times. Visit the museum’s Café Bar for winter warmers, and watch the skaters glide on the ice from the cafe’s balcony. Non-skaters are welcome. Visit the official website for more information.
January is the perfect time to forget about the stress of Christmas and plan your trip to London. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
NEW YEAR’S DAY PARADE – 1st January 2018
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987. Catch the festivities along the parade route, which runs from Green Park Tube station at 12pm, to Parliament Square at around 3.30pm,via Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square and Whitehall.
The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30mins from the attraction.
LUMIERE LONDON – 18th – 21st January 2018
Bigger, brighter and bolder, the Lumiere light festival returns for a spectacular second edition. More than 40 UK and international artists reimagine London’s iconic architecture and streets, transforming the city into a dazzling nocturnal art exhibition. Free to visit and taking place north and south of the river Thames, the UK’s largest light festival extends its reach across the capital. Everyone is invited! Visit the event’s website to download a map showing you the locations and dates of the exhibits.
BURNS NIGHT IN LONDON – 25th January 2018
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. While Burns Night is commonly celebrated in Scotland it has become more of an annual celebration outside of Scotland. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter. Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition. Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.
ABBA: SUPER TROUPERS AT SOUTHBANK CENTRE – until 29th April 2017
For the first time, objects from ABBA the Museum and private archives will be brought together in the UK, charting the success of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad, from their individual careers to that Eurovision Song Contest win and their subsequent international stardom. ABBA: Super Troupers is a guided exhibition which goes beyond the surface of the group to transport you on a journey through previously unseen archive material including ABBA’s original costumes, handwritten notes and sketches, personal photographs, music and instruments. It will also feature album artwork, photography and film by notable collaborators such as film director Lasse Hallström. Visit the official website for further information.
CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE
Changing the Guard, also known as Guard Mounting, takes place outside Buckingham Palace from 10.45am and lasts around 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at11am. The Buckingham Palace Old Guard forms up in the palace’s forecourt from 10.30am and is joined by the St James’s PalaceOld Guard at around 10.45am. The New Guard then arrives from Wellington Barracks and takes over the responsibilities of the Old Guard in a formal ceremony accompanied by music. The ceremony is free to watch and currently takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, weather permitting.
Summer is not over! September is still warm enough to enjoy some outdoor events in London. In this month the city welcome an exciting line-up of architecture, fashion and music festivals.
Here at The Washington Mayfair we will be bringing you the top things to do in London during September, allowing you to make the most of your visit.
BBC PROMS – until 9th September 2017
The BBC Proms is an eight-week summer season of daily orchestral classical music concerts and other events held annually, predominantly in the Royal Albert Hall. From classical favourites to contemporary world premieres and family concerts, the BBC Proms offer a stage for leading musicians, singers, orchestras and soloists from across the world with a broad programme of music. The famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park. The 123rd edition of the classical music event presents more than 90 concerts including 30 premieres. Visit the official website for more information.
OPEN HOUSE LONDON – 16th and 17th September 2017
Open House London is the event that give you the extraordinary opportunity to explore for free more than 800 churches, museums, public buildings, private houses, schools and offices that are not usually open to the public. Join also tours, guided walks and activities. Admission is free to all Open House events, but many venues and tours require advance booking or entry into a public ballot. For more information visit the official website.
THE LUNA CINEMA – until 21st September 2017
Enjoy an outdoor screening of your favourite movies in some of London’s most iconic locations this summer. The beauty of this touring outdoor cinema is walking into a palace, Royal Park or other equally magical location with a picnic just as everyone else is leaving. Luna’s most popular venues include Kew Gardens, Kenwood House on Hampstead Heath and Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. This year, for the first time, they will be also be screening in the gardens outside Westminster Abbey. Visit the official website for more information.
LONDON FASHION WEEK FESTIVAL – from 21st to 24th September 2017
Experience a day out as a fashion insider with the London Fashion Week Festival at The Store, 180 The Strand. Taking place just after London Fashion Week (15 to 19 September), one of the “big four” fashion trade shows in the world, and in the same venue, this public festival formerly known as London Fashion Weekend lets everyone in on the fabulous world of fashion. Spot the latest fashion trends for the AW17 season with catwalk shows featuring pieces from renowned designers and up-and-coming talents. Shop more than 150 designer brands at special show discounts. Hear fashion editors, stylists and other industry experts share their stories and advice on making it into the world of fashion. Plus, enjoy a spot of pampering with beauty treatments, hairstyling and more activities. Visit the official website and book your tickets.
AMY WINEHOUSE – until 24th September 2017
See a different side to the music icon with an exhibition dedicated to the singer’s family and personal life in her hometown of Camden. Take a look through Amy’s record collection, distinctive fashion pieces, photographs and more, and see the influence her family roots and hometown had on her musical career. As well as Amy’s personal items, find a specially commissioned installation by close family friend, street artist Pegasus. Originally staged at the museum in 2013 and returning following an international tour, Amy Winehouse: Family Portrait was co-curated with Winehouse’s brother Alex and sister-in-law Riva. Visit the official website and book your tickets.
BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – until 1st October 2017
Every summer London’s most famous house opens for tours with an accompanying exhibition. Visit the official London residence of the Queen, as Buckingham Palace opens its doors to the public. During a visit to Buckingham Palace, visitors can see the nineteen magnificent State Rooms which provide the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining. All rooms are furnished with many of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection. This year’s exhibition, Royal Gifts, will tell the story of the Queen’s reign through a wide-ranging display of official gifts presented to Her Majesty during the past 65 years. With gifts representing every continent, including those from world leaders such as former US President Ronald Reagan, former South African President Nelson Mandela and President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, the exhibition will present a spectacular display of craftsmanship from across the globe. Visit the official website for more information.
January is the perfect time to forget about the stress of Christmas and plan your trip to London. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.
New Year’s Parade
London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987.
The London New Year’s Parade will travel between The Ritz London and Big Ben. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30mins from the attraction.
Elvis is back?
This Winter “The King” has arrived at the O2 arena, London. From now until the 10th January take the opportunity to visit the King and experience his life. Look back on the chronicle of his life and how he became the ‘King’ of rock ‘n’ roll.
The exhibition will also showcase over 300 artefacts direct from the Presley family’s treasured Graceland Archives, some of which have never been exhibited outside of Graceland in Memphis. This will be the largest exhibition of Elvis Presley ever displayed in Europe so be sure you don’t miss out on this amazing experience and book tickets soon.
Lumiere London
From the 14th to the 17th January, two areas of London will be illuminated with magnificent lights and illuminated buildings. Lumiere London 2016 is spread across the West End and King’s Cross and offers a unique opportunity to experience London in a unique and beautiful light.
This is a completely free event and shouldn’t be missed. Visit the event’s website to download a map showing you the locations and dates of the exhibits.
A Night to Remember
On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. While Burns Night is commonly celebrated in Scotland it has become more of an annual celebration outside of Scotland. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter.
Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition.
Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.
There is nothing quite like a delicious afternoon to round out your London experience. Don’t miss out on our fantastic Mayfair afternoon tea offer. Upgrade for free to the champagne afternoon tea. Find out how here.
