Summer In London | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

September – The Month to Visit London

None of us want to think about the end of Summer but as August comes to a close, we can feel Autumn starting to creep in. Leaves are beginning to litter the ground in the Royal Parks, and the mornings feel just that little bit crisper. Despite the arrival of some signs of Autumn, it’s not the time to grab your cosy jumpers and hot chocolates just yet… There is still time for the warmer days to continue in London throughout September and plenty of opportunity to enjoy the remainder of Summer throughout the next few weeks. In this article we are going to talk about how to make the most of September in London.

September is a great time to visit London as the streets get a little quieter after the summer holiday rush. As the kids get back to school, the queues at some of the top attractions like the museums begin to ease. You might even not have to squeeze on to an underground train! September temperatures average between 13°C to 20°C, which means it’s still pleasant enough to dine al fresco at lunch, take a pedalo out on Serpentine Lake in Hyde Park, or browse London’s top attractions coat-free. If you’re feeling really brave, the Serpentine Lido, one of London’s top open water swimming locations, is still open if you fancy a refreshing dip and something a little bit out of the ordinary.

September weather is perfect for enjoying The Royal Parks as we discussed in our article last month ‘How to Enjoy London’s Royal Parks’ or if the evenings do turn a little chilly why not make the most of the indoors and choose a West End show, for more information on The West End take a look at our article from the beginning of the year – ‘Start Your 2025 in The West End’. September also hosts some annual events of its own like the London Design Festival (13-20 September) and the Totally Thames Festival running throughout the whole month along London’s iconic river The Thames. These cultural festivals lead nicely into October into London’s most contemporary art fair ‘Frieze London’ based in Regent’s Park.

At The Washington Mayfair Hotel we have the perfect base for you to explore London in September or whatever the month. Situated in the district of Mayfair, which is a central location, close to Buckingham Palace, The West End, Green Park, St.James Park and Hyde Park, not to mention attractions such as the Royal Academy of Arts and various museums. Our hotel is a favourite of business and leisure travellers, seeking a home from home experience with all their needs catered for. Make the most of September 2025 in London, take a look at our rooms and suites and book your holiday in London.

How to Enjoy London’s Royal Parks

Using the Washington Mayfair as Your Base

Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, The Washington Mayfair Hotel offers the perfect base for discovering London’s delightful Royal Parks. The Royal Parks are an essential part of London offering much needed green space to complement the city landscape. Did you know? London’s Royal Parks offer 5,000 acres of beautiful green woodland, parkland, gardens and historical buildings.

So, whether you’re seeking tranquil green spaces, art and architecture, or family-friendly adventures, these iconic parks are just a short walk or scenic cycle from your hotel door. Here’s how to enjoy the Royal Parks during your stay at The Washington Mayfair.

Start with Green Park – Right on Your Doorstep

Simply walk down Half Moon Street or Clarges Street to access The Green Park which is your closest park to The Washington Mayfair Hotel. It’s ideal for a morning jog, an afternoon picnic, or simply a quiet stroll beneath the shade of mature trees. Unlike its more ornamental neighbours, Green Park celebrates simplicity and was created by King Charles II so he could walk from Hyde Park to St. James’s Park without leaving royal soil. Start your day the right way by grabbing a takeaway coffee from a nearby café and enjoying the serenity of Green Park.

A Royal Walk Through St James’s Park

Follow in King Charles II footsteps as you travel through Green Park to arrive next at St James’s Park. Famous for its resident pelicans, flower-filled gardens, and stunning views of Buckingham Palace, this park offers endless photo opportunities. Make sure to walk across the Blue Bridge for a panoramic shot of the London Eye, Horse Guards Parade, and the Palace all in one frame. It’s a romantic setting, ideal for couples visiting the city.

Explore Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens

As you leave, walk back along The Mall for a final gaze at Buckingham Palace before heading down Constitution Hill on your way to Hyde Park. If you love history you may want to stop at Aspley House on the way for a tour around the home of the first Duke of Wellington.

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most vibrant green spaces. Here you’ll find a whole host of things to do! Like renting a pedal boat on the Serpentine, visiting the Serpentine Galleries, or discovering the history of Speakers Corner. As you continue your tour of the Royal Parks continue west through Hyde Park and you’ll enter Kensington Gardens, home to Kensington Palace, the Italian Gardens, and the charming Peter Pan statue.

Tip: For another great way to see the Royal Parks from Mayfair and maybe explore further afield, rent a Santander cycle just outside the hotel on Curzon Street and enjoy a scenic ride through the above route with the option to extend to Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill.

After a busy day exploring the parks, retreat to the elegant comfort of The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Unwind with a cocktail at the hotel bar and enjoy dinner in the relaxed setting of Madison’s Restaurant. With its central location and classic Art Deco charm, the hotel is both a stylish base and a peaceful haven after a day outdoors.

From morning strolls to cultural discoveries, the Royal Parks are an essential part of the London experience – and The Washington Mayfair Hotel puts you in the perfect position to enjoy them all.

Write Your London Story

Picture this: it’s a perfect summer day, and London is humming with possibility. The city’s skyline is sparkling and reflecting the warm sunshine, the usual hustle and bustle on the streets is in full swing, people are chatting and laughing as they dine al fresco. You step out of The Washington Mayfair—your own Art Deco hideaway in the heart of the city—and the adventure begins.

Forget the guidebooks for a moment. This summer, London isn’t just a destination… It’s an experience waiting to be written by you. Will you be one of the cheerers at Wimbledon, or let the rhythms of Notting Hill Carnival sweep you into a whirlwind of colour? Maybe you’ll find yourself under the stars at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, or caught up in the magic of a late-night stroll through Hyde Park.

From the BBC Proms’ soaring symphonies to the buzz of BST Hyde Park, the city’s calendar is bursting with stories to tell. And the best part? Every adventure starts just outside your door at The Washington Mayfair.

Your Mayfair Retreat

The Washington Mayfair isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s your backstage pass to the city, your retreat after a day of urban exploration. Step inside and you’re wrapped in the glamour of a bygone era, with a twist of modern comfort. Sink into a plush bed, soak away the day in a sleek bathroom, or plan tomorrow’s escapades over a coffee in your room.

Our Mayfair rooms are as unique as your London story—choose the space that suits your mood, from intimate singles to sprawling suites with views over the Mayfair rooftops. And because we believe luxury shouldn’t cost the earth, you’ll enjoy all the little extras (WiFi, down & feather duvets, bath robes, even a cheeky room upgrade if you’re lucky) without the extortionate price tag.

Explore Mayfair

Start your morning with a lazy breakfast at Madisons, where the coffee is strong and the pastries are fresh. Or skip straight to the streets of London — where you will find Mayfair’s restaurants and hidden gems are just a stroll away. After a day of exploring, cosy up in our relaxing bar. Fancy a midnight snack? London never sleeps, and neither do your options.

Make This Summer Unforgettable

The best London memories are the ones you don’t plan! Maybe you’ll stumble upon a jazz band in a sunlit square or find your new favourite book in a tucked-away shop. Maybe you’ll simply spend an afternoon people-watching in Green Park, letting the city’s stories unfold around you.

So, pack your curiosity (and your sunglasses), and let The Washington Mayfair be your launchpad for a London summer vacation like no other. Whether you’re here for the festivals, the food, or just the thrill of the city, you’ll find your perfect London story waiting—right in the heart of Mayfair.

Ready to write your next chapter? Book direct for the best rates and plenty of surprises along the way. London’s calling. Will you answer?

How to Get Tickets for Wimbledon 2025

Jaw dropping tennis, crisp whites, delicious strawberries and cream… Are you ready? Wimbledon 2025 is just around the corner! As summer returns to London, so do The Wimbledon Tennis Championships. Taking place in 2025 from 30 June to 13 July. So whether you’re a lifelong tennis enthusiast or simply love the energy of a quintessential London summer event, Wimbledon offers an unforgettable experience that combines sport, tradition, and style in perfect balance.

No Ticket, No Problem

If you weren’t fortunate enough to secure tickets in the ballot there is no need to fret. You can still be part of all the action. Wimbledon is one of the few British sporting events where you can actually get tickets on the day. In fact, the whole system has become an iconic part of The Championships with some even preferring to be a part of ‘The Queue’!

How to Get On-the-Day Tickets for Wimbledon

Every day a limited number of court tickets and a large number of grounds passes are released for purchase. Our tip is to make sure you join the queue as early as possible to secure the best tickets possible. Bringing activities such as a good book, cards or a picnic, plus the chance to chat with fellow tennis fans can turn queuing into an essential part of the experience.

Grounds passes are very reasonably priced and although not gaining you entry to the top three courts, allows you to access most areas (including court no.3, 12 and 18) and still view top matches. Plus, the chance to purchase re-sale tickets for the best matches as the day progresses.

Where to Stay for Wimbledon

Whether you managed to snag tickets in the Wimbledon Ballot or if you are planning to join the queue, you will no doubt be searching for hotels near Wimbledon. Book a stay at The Washington Mayfair for affordable luxury in the prestigious district of Mayfair, a central London location just a short journey from the Wimbledon courts. Book your Wimbledon Hotel stay and visit out site to view our rooms and suites.

Experience the Best of London This School Holiday

There is no better time than now to start planning a family getaway to London for the school holidays! Guarantee your kids a trip filled with history, culture and fun activities that they will love. The Washington Mayfair makes a great base for a family trip to London because of its location to popular family attractions that will allow you to really make the most of your break. Here’s our guide to some of the best things to do in London with kids this summer 2024.

Family Fun in London

Why not start your trip close to The Washington Mayfair with a visit to the iconic London Zoo in Regent’s Park. Home to a huge variety of species, the zoo offers immersive exhibits such as the Land of the Lions and Penguin Beach, plus over the summer holidays, families can discover the science behind scat and explore how droppings help us understand animal diets, habitats, and health. An educational adventure whilst at the same time getting up close and personal with all the animals.

Whilst in Regent’s Park why not explore some of the other Royal Parks in the vicinity like Hyde Park and Green Park. These parks offer acres of green space amongst busy city life, perfect to add some outdoor fun to your trip and for little ones to explore. Enjoy acrobatics at the playgrounds, pedal boats on the Serpentine River and picnic amongst the flowers. There are often outdoor events to enjoy in the parks too, like open-air concerts, bandstand events and theatre performances. St.James Park also leads to Buckingham Palace which is a great place for families to enjoy the unique spectacle of the Changing of the Guard. A ceremony that never fails to capture the attention of all watchers.

London’s Amazing Museums

The London museums offer a perfect chance to learn and play for all ages and it’s unique in that so many of the city’s top museums are all located in the district of Kensington just a few minutes journey from The Washington Mayfair. A must-visit is The British Museum, journey through time with its vast collection of artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Plus, the kids can participate in free activities and gallery trails designed to make history come alive. Some of the other museum highlights include the new gardens at The Natural History Museum opening this month, space-themed sleepovers at the Science Museum and the Secret Seekers treasure hunt at the V&A. Visit the official museum sites to find out what else is happening this summer.

Stay with Us

Families love that the Washington Mayfair is a convenient base for top London attractions and the ability to combine rooms and suites to meet their needs. Our hotel combines history with modern elegance which will appeal to the whole family and will ensure a restful stay.

Dine at the hotel’s Madison restaurant, where you can enjoy a delicious meal from the best ingredients. Or even book a classic British experience of Afternoon Tea. London is a city that’s full of adventure for all ages, so don’t wait, start planning your summer holiday today!

London Outdoor Events In July

As we see the (hopefully!) better weather continue through to July, we also see a lot more outdoor events scheduled in London. With an average of 23C during July, this really is the month to start heading outdoors and enjoying all that London has to offer.

We’re well in the swing of the UEFA Championships now, with the Quarter Finals scheduled for 5^th and 6^th July, Semi Finals 9^th & 10^th and the big finals on Sunday 14^th July. Along with screenings of the matches at Madisons Bar, don’t miss out on our UEFA Meal Offer, only available until 14th July.

Outdoor theatres and pop up outdoor cinemas are also a fantastic way to combine being outside with a unique watching experience. Make it an afternoon to remember with a picnic lunch! Don’t forget sun screen, a hat and of course a blanket for when it gets chilly in the evening!

The Royal Parks are wonderful this time of year, whether you are planning a picnic, or an afternoon reading in one of the famous deck chairs, London’s green spaces are a good opportunity to immerse yourself in peacefulness amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hyde Park is also home to the BST Festival, a series of incredible shows and headlining acts over multiple weekends, starting on Friday 28^th June and running to Sunday 14^th July. This year the 2024 line up includes:

Paolo Nutini (Sunday 30^th June),
Andrea Bocelli (Friday 5^th July),
Robbie Williams (Saturday 6^th July),
Shania Twain (Sunday 7^th July)
and Kylie (Saturday 13^th July)

as well as Stevie Nicks, The Corrs and Morgan Wallen to make up a fantastic few weeks of live music in the capital!

The Washington Mayfair Hotel is ideally situated near all the action this July! Our rooms and suites offer a variety of luxury accommodation designed with your comfort and relaxation in mind.

Don’t forget to check our Special Offers page for our latest deals, as well as our UEFA Meal Offer, our “Spring Escape / Summer Sizzler” gives you 15% off your stay, free full English breakfast and a complimentary room upgrade (depending on availability). We hope you enjoy your summer in London and always, book direct for the best price!

London Events near Mayfair Summer 2024 Edition

Let’s start the countdown to summer with some exciting London events to look forward to in and around Mayfair! There’s something for everyone to enjoy across the city of London and we’re pleased to highlight some of the best events in our latest blog:

Chelsea Flower Show – This beautiful show returns for another year, running since the first show in 1913, it is truly a stunning celebration of nature and botanical delights. Showcasing exquisite floral displays, garden designs and unique horticultural offerings you can guaranteed to be enchanted and inspired. Running all week from the 21^st – 25^th of May 2024, make sure to get your tickets to be a part of the action.

London Gallery Weekend – Embark on a journey of artistic discovery during London Gallery Weekend 31^st of May – 2^nd June. This city-wide event invites art enthusiasts to explore a multitude of galleries, museums, and cultural institutions, showcasing an array of exhibitions and installations. You can curate your own route across London or stay local to Mayfair with a whole range of locations taking part in this free event making it super easy to immerse yourself in London’s art scene.

London Zoo – Did you know you could get up close and personal with giraffes, lions and zebras all without leaving the capital? At London Zoo situated next to Regent’s Park near Mayfair, you can experience a world of wildlife. It’s a great time to visit because in Spring 2024 there were 3 new additions to The Land of the Lions as baby Asiatic lions were welcomed to the family. The zoo makes the perfect summer holiday activity for children and adults alike!

Hampton Court Palace Food Festival – Book tickets to see a range of musical greats up close and personal, from Tom Jones to Cheryl Crow, with performances from modern greats too like Sam Ryder. All within the stunning backdrop of Hampton Court Palace. Taking place from the 11 – 21 June.

Taste of London 2024 – Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other at Taste of London festival. This gastronomic extravaganza brings together the city’s top chefs, restaurants, and food artisans for a weekend of indulgence. From gourmet tastings to live cooking demonstrations, immerse yourself in a feast for the senses and discover the diverse flavours that define London’s vibrant culinary scene. Taking place 12 – 16 June, you won’t want to miss it!

Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition – Now older that 250 years old, the Summer Exhibition is the world’s oldest open submission exhibition. Showcasing from the 18^th June – 18^th August, immerse yourself in a variety of art like no other.

Wimbledon – Nothing says summer like a glass of Pimm’s paired with a delightful bowl of Strawberries and Cream at the most prestigious tennis competition in the world. Plus, there’s still a chance to get your tickets, you can find out more in our Wimbledon blog.

We hope this has given you plenty of ideas of what to do in London over the next couple of months. There are also screenings of UEFA matches throughout the city, as well as the upcoming Bank Holiday to enjoy! At The Washington Mayfair we are conveniently based near attractions such as London Zoo, the Royal Parks, The Royal Academy of Arts and Chelsea Flower Show. Plus, it’s easy to take the tube to events a little further afield. Our rooms and suites offer a variety of luxury accommodation designed with warm tones to add to your comfort and relaxation. Book your spring/summer stay with us today and take advantage of our London hotel offer “Spring Escape / Summer Sizzler” for 15% off your stay, free full English breakfast and a complimentary room upgrade (depending on availability). We hope you enjoy your summer in London!

Washington Mayfair Hotel executive suite

Will you be at Wimbledon 2024?

As the countdown to Wimbledon begins, tennis enthusiasts around the world eagerly anticipate two weeks of thrilling matches, strawberries and cream, and British tradition at its finest. Taking place in 2024 from 1^st-14^th of July. This event has captured the hearts of people the worldwide and made history with countless epic battles from the rivalry between Bjorn Borg and John McEnroe to the dominance of Martina Navratilova and Pete Sampras. Take a look at some fun facts and statistics about the world’s most prestigious tennis tournament:

The Marathon Match: In 2010, Court 18 witnessed tennis history unfold as John Isner and Nicolas Mahut battled it out in the longest match ever recorded. Lasting over three days and spanning 11 hours, this epic showdown saw a staggering 123 balls used, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.
A Floral Wonderland: Wimbledon’s lush green lawns are not the only natural attraction; over 50,000 plants are meticulously supplied each year to adorn the tournament grounds, adding a vibrant burst of colour to the iconic venue.
Towel Talk: Wimbledon-goers are not shy when it comes to souvenirs, with over 54,000 towels sold in 2023 alone. Whether it’s to wave in support or simply as a memento of the event, these towels are a hot commodity among fans.
Serving up Speed: When it comes to serving prowess, Wimbledon has seen some record-breaking moments. Taylor Dent holds the title for the fastest serve in the Gentlemen’s category, clocking in at a blistering 148mph in 2010, while Venus Williams dominates the Ladies’ category with a serve of 129mph in 2008.
Digital Delight: In the age of technology, Wimbledon continues to make waves online. The BBC’s coverage of the tournament shattered digital records once again, with a staggering 54.3 million streams on BBC iPlayer.

Will you be one of the half a million people making their way to London for the Wimbledon Championships 2024? Make your stay memorable and book your Wimbledon Hotel at The Washington Mayfair . Our rooms and suites are ideal for an enjoyable experience from the beginning to the end.

If you don’t have tickets for Wimbledon yet, then fear not, there are plenty of opportunities to get a Wimbledon Grounds Pass or one of the centre court ticket, no.1 and no.2 court tickets available via the daily queue. Book your Wimbledon hotel stay in advance of the day you wish to visit so you can be there in the queue as early as possible to ensure entry at the beginning of play. It’s perfect for those looking for cheap Wimbledon tickets and a great way to not miss out on any of the action. So, what are you waiting for? Get planning your Wimbledon 2024 trip now!

Photo by Poppy

What to Do in London this Summer 2023 – Part 2

In our last blog we highlighted some of the exciting events going on across the capital of London this summer. The weather may not have been the best for July but don’t worry, summer is not over just yet! Hopefully the sun will shine a little more in August in time for plenty more fun-filled London events.

If you are looking for a place to stay for a quick break away or for more of a longer stay to enjoy the holidays with the whole family then The Washington Mayfair Hotel is the perfect pick for you. There is no better base than the district of Mayfair to add a bit of luxury to any vacation.

Take a look at some of London’s August highlights:

Just a short trip from Mayfair, The National Gallery is hosting a variety of Drop in Creative Sessions in Trafalgar Square. Summer on the Square takes place from 1-28 Aug. You can experiment with a variety of materials at this free festival of events. Plus, it’s easy to tie in with a visit the National Gallery, you can book your free entry online or you can queue on the day to enter.

The August warm weather is perfect for a trip to London’s greatest green spaces of the Royal Parks. There are a host of concerts, plays, walking tours and other summer activities available which you can view here.

Notting Hill Carnival is back! Taking place over the bank holiday weekend (27 Aug & 28 Aug) this iconic London street party lights up the streets of West London as people celebrate this festival of Caribbean culture. There promises to be exceptional music, delicious food and drink and lots and lots of dancing! It is free to attend so even if you are visiting London for another event you should definitely pop by, throw some shapes and eat some jerk chicken!

If you are looking for other events across the bank holiday weekend. There are plenty to choose from:

‘The Cool Down’ ice cream festival returns to Covent Garden with over 40 different varieties of ice cream, sundaes, sorbets, frozen drinks, gelato and more. The conclusion of the event is across the bank holiday weekend but it is taking place from 10th August.

If you fancy something a little more savoury then the Hampton Court Good Food Festival is also taking place from 26th-28th August 2023. You can enjoy a range of artisan food, drinks masterpieces, games, shopping and more… All in the unique surroundings of Henry VIII’s palace!

Finally, A long summer’s weekend of open-air picnic concerts is being hosted by Battersea Park in Concert. The perfect environment to relax at one of London’s most elegant summer events celebrating the best in Classical, West End Musicals, Soul & Jazz. Featuring performances from the elite Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. You can even order your luxury picnic in advance!

There are plenty of other events happening across London this summer and nearby our hotel. So make sure you do your research after you book your stay to ensure you don’t miss something special. We look forward to welcoming you if you choose to stay at our Deluxe London Hotel in Mayfair!

What to Do and Where to Stay in London this Summer 2023

London is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world, and it has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, shopping, or nightlife, London has it all. And this summer, there are even more reasons to visit this amazing city. Over the next few blog posts, we will highlight some of the best events happening this summer in London and the best London hotel to enjoy all the action.

Here are just a few of the highlights of what’s happening in London this summer:

Wimbledon: The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, and they’re held every summer in London. If you’re a fan of tennis, this is a must-see event. Tickets are always in high demand and many have already been allocated via the ballot but there is still opportunity to get your hands on some tickets as a number of tickets will also go on sale per day at the event. Wimbledon recommends getting there early to have the greatest success of getting in, so you may want to consider booking your Wimbledon hotel stay the night before so that you can be there early to ensure success! The event is scheduled from 3-16 July 2023.
Queens: A well-loved pre-cursor to the main event of Wimbledon is the Queens Club championship, also known this year in 2023 as the cinch Championship. Tickets to this event are also available now n and this event will take place between 19th and 25th of June 2023.
BST Hyde Park: Is there anything more delightful than some al fresco music? The BST Hyde Park music festival is a multi-weekend event that features some of the biggest names in music. This year’s lineup includes Billy Joel, The Royal Philharmonic, Alfie Boe, Lana Del Rey and P!nk. 23rd June – 9th July 2023.
Taste of London: The Taste of London festival is a food lover’s paradise. It features over 50 of London’s top restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment. This is the perfect event to sample some of the best food the city has to offer. 14-18 June 2023.
Buckingham Palace State Rooms Open to the Public: Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Every summer, the state rooms are open to the public for a limited time. This is a great opportunity to get a glimpse into royal life and see some of the palace’s most impressive interiors. July 14 – Sep 24 2023.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in London this summer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

If you’re looking for a place to stay, The Washington Mayfair is the perfect choice. This luxury home-from-home hotel is located in the heart of the prestigious district of Mayfair and is perfectly located to enjoy everything London has to offer this Summer. The hotel offers a variety of beautiful rooms and suites, as well as an in-house restaurant. The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring London.

We hope you’ll join us in London this summer 2023.

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Category: summer in london