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Are You Ready for 2026 in London?

As the year winds down, it’s a natural time to look back on the moments that made 2025 memorable and to start thinking about what the next chapter might hold. We’ve had an exciting year at The Washington Mayfair, and we’ve loved seeing the variety of guests arrive as London continues to be a city people return to time and time again. We are looking forward to the new year, London 2026 is already shaping up to be another exciting year to visit!

Looking ahead, London events for 2026 will once again fill the calendar with returning favourites and new additions. From major sporting events and seasonal exhibitions to theatre openings and cultural festivals, there is always something happening across the city. The early months of the year are especially appealing, with a calmer atmosphere and fewer crowds, making it a great time to explore.

January in particular, is one of the best times of year to enjoy London shopping. The famous January sales bring generous discounts across department stores and boutiques, from Oxford Street to the luxury brands of Bond Street. It’s an ideal opportunity to browse, shop, and enjoy the city without the crowds that often fill the streets later in the year.

The start of a new year often encourages a slower pace and a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures. One experience that never goes out of style is afternoon tea in London. Our restaurant Madisons celebrates British classics, serving traditional afternoon tea in a relaxed and welcoming setting. It’s the perfect way to take a break after a morning of sightseeing or shopping around Bond Street, Piccadilly, and nearby neighbourhoods.

The quieter pace of January also makes it a great time to experience the West End. Many of the city’s most popular shows continue their runs into the new year, and with fewer visitors in town, it is often easier to find better availability and more affordable theatre tickets. Whether you’re interested in long-running musicals or acclaimed plays, January offers a more relaxed way to enjoy London’s theatre scene.

If you’re starting to plan a London trip in 2026, now is a great time to think ahead. Many travellers choose to book a London holiday early to secure the best locations and make the most of their stay. Choosing a centrally located hotel makes it easy to experience the city at your own pace.

The Washington Mayfair is an ideal place to stay when planning a London vacation. Mayfair is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and central location, it offers a great balance of classic style and easy access to the city’s best sights. From here, many of London’s most famous attractions, shops, and restaurants are just a short walk away, making it a favourite choice among London luxury hotels.

Be sure to keep an eye on our blog for the latest news, upcoming events, and ideas for your stay. We look forward to welcoming you to Mayfair and helping you enjoy a relaxed and memorable start to 2026 in London.

Winter in London 2024/2025 – A Season to Remember

We’re already seeing signs of winter arriving early in London! It doesn’t have to be all depressing though, we can beat those winter blues and make winter 2024/25 a season to remember. The days may be colder, but the city is coming alive with activities and events planned across the next few months. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for a quieter London break with less queues or to visit over the holiday period and enjoy the hustle and bustle of people in the capital. Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Washington Hotel offers a sophisticated retreat with prime access to some of the capital’s most enchanting winter activities.

Winter in London is a time of magical moments, unique to this time is the addition of pop-up outdoor ice rinks. Some of these most popular rinks are back in 2024 for another year:

Somerset House Ice Rink: A stunning neoclassical backdrop makes this a must-visit.
Canary Wharf Ice Rink: Glide beneath a canopy of twinkling lights in the heart of London’s financial district.
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink: Skate in a historic setting steeped in Tudor charm.

With the largest of these being the Hyde Park ice rink located inside its annual Winter Wonderland. Open from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025 this massive attraction offers skating to live music from the band stand plus a whole host of other activities such as food markets, fairground rides and games. It’s basically a huge winter playground.

Mayfair is brimming with cultural and leisure opportunities for the colder months. Film enthusiasts can enjoy a cosy evening at the Curzon Mayfair Cinema, known for its history, art deco interior and a carefully curated selection of films, from the latest releases to indie gems.

The Royal Academy of Arts is just around the corner from The Washington Mayfair and features thought-provoking exhibitions, while the West End’s theatres light up with world-class performances. From live music to classic ballet performances like The Nutcracker, London’s cultural scene is vibrant and varied this season with something for everyone.

Now the nights are getting darker earlier you can explore the local Museums After Dark. Renowned institutions like the Natural History, Science and the Victoria & Albert Museum host after-hours tours, talks, and workshops, offering a new perspective on their fascinating collections and a more intimate museum experience.

Looking to take in all the London’s sights? Take an open-top bus tour to see the city’s landmarks, sparkling under the winter sky. From Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge, you’ll witness a panorama of London’s iconic sights in all their glory.

Warm Up at The Washington Hotel

After a day of exploring, return to the warmth and luxury of The Washington Hotel. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, offering the perfect respite from the chilly London streets. Enhance your stay with a cheaper deal, book directly through our website to get a 10% discount on our best available rate, free English breakfast, plus cancel up to 3pm 24hrs prior to arrival without charge.

Plan your winter escape today and let The Washington Hotel be your home away from home in Mayfair.

Cure Your End-of-Summer Blues with an Autumn City Break in London

As the summer holidays come to a close, many of us start to feel those inevitable holiday blues. But why let that feeling linger when you can plan a city break to look forward to? London, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning autumn scenery, is the perfect destination to fill the gap between summer and winter holidays.

Why an Autumn Break in London?

Autumn is one of the most magical times to visit London. As the leaves begin to change colour, the city’s parks and streets are transformed into a beautiful patchwork of golds, reds, and oranges. The cooler weather also brings opportunities to cosy up in some of the city’s best pubs, restaurants, and cafes, offering the perfect blend of outdoor beauty and indoor comfort. Plus, with the summer crowds thinning out, you’ll find quieter days across the capital, making it easier to explore the city’s top attractions.

Where to Stay?

Choosing the right area to stay in can make all the difference, and we think there’s no better place to base your London adventure than Mayfair. Known for its luxury and elegance, Mayfair offers an ideal blend of prime location and sophistication.

We feel The Washington Hotel in Mayfair is a standout option in accommodation, offering affordable luxury with a welcoming, homely atmosphere. The spacious rooms and suites are designed to ensure you get the most out of your London trip, providing a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. Plus, with special offers like “Stay Longer, Save More,” you can extend your stay and see all the London attractions for less.

Mayfair’s prime location means you’re just a short walk away from some of London’s most iconic sites. The Royal Parks, including Hyde Park and Green Park, are perfect for an autumn stroll. Imagine wandering through thousands of trees as their leaves shift to brilliant shades of orange and yellow, all while enjoying the crisp autumn air. If you book your break early September you might still have the chance to catch one of the Regent’s Parks free performances, running until 17 September.

Indulge in London’s Retail Scene

If retail therapy is on your agenda, Mayfair won’t disappoint. Oxford Street and Regent Street are nearby, offering a mix of high-street favourites and luxury brands. For a more upscale shopping experience, Bond Street is the place to go, with its collection of designer boutiques and flagship stores.

Autumns Cultural Offerings

If you prefer to experience a bit of culture this Autumn in London. Frieze London and Frieze Masters are returning this October for your chance to explore new artists and the latest in modern art. The 2 exhibitions will once again be connected by a stunning free art sculpture in Regent’s Park.

Autumn also brings exciting new exhibitions to London’s top galleries. The Tate Modern, the National Gallery, and the Saatchi Gallery all showcase a rotating selection of contemporary and classical art that will inspire and intrigue you. Plus, a visit to these galleries offers a cosy indoor activity on cooler days. Perfect!

The West End is the perfect place to catch a show, whether you’re into classic plays, cutting-edge drama, or musical extravaganzas. Matinee performances offer a great way to round off an afternoon of sightseeing, while evening shows provide the perfect end to a day in the city.

Start Planning Your Autumn Break Today

With its stunning autumn scenery, world-class cultural offerings, and cosy spots to relax, London is the perfect destination for an autumn break to cure those summer blues.

So why wait? Start planning your autumn London break today and give yourself something to look forward to this season.

Now Is The Time To Visit Mayfair This Summer 2021

As we start to return to normal, one thing we have noticed is that although the shops and attractions are open in Central London, without the influx of foreign visitors, London is quiet. We love the peace that we find in the London Parks, but now we find this in nearby Piccadilly Circus. Spending the afternoon with friends, picnicking in the park or enjoying the boutiques of Bond Street are all so much more enjoyable when the weather is pleasant!

While so many are still working from home, we have found that rush hour on the tube is now the same as any other time of day. Yes, we still wear masks and observe social distancing, but we can sit and read on our commute. Although we might need to book an appointment to visit on of the many museums in London, be it the The Natural History Museum, the V&A or The British Museum, we know that it’ll not be crowded and we’ll be able to see the exhibits properly. London is quiet, quieter than it has probably been for many years. Now is the time to book your hotel in London Mayfair.

The Washington Mayfair Hotel is perfectly located to enjoy Mayfair in London. With 178 spacious bedrooms and suites, meeting and event facilities and Madisons Bar & Restaurant, we are your luxury hotel on London. Whether you are looking for a luxury afternoon tea in Mayfair, a luxury hotel in central London for a long weekend, or are planning to enjoy London for your staycation this year, The Washington Mayfair Hotel is your London hotel.

For the best price at the best hotel in London, simply click the ‘Special Offers’ link in the menu. We look forward to seeing you.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN FEBRUARY 2020

Goodbye January…..Welcome February!

February might be a little cold and dark but there’s loads of exciting events taking place throughout the month which you can enjoy while staying at the Washington Mayfair with our special winter hotel offers. February brings romantic vibes, iconic fashion and stacks of pancakes to London with city-wide celebrations. Also, February in London is the month of Kew Garden’s Orchid Festival, London Fashion Week Festival, the London Classic Car Show and Craft Beer Rising. Here at the Washington Mayfair Hotel, we have picked some of the greatest events to get you out when you stay with us this February!

KEW GARDEN’S ORCHID FESTIVAL – From 8th February to 8th March 2020

Escape the dreary winter with Kew’s annual festival of orchids. Through a spectacular ensemble of orchid-laden displays along a curated route, Kew Gardens are celebrating the plant life of Indonesia this year. The Prince of Wales Conservatory will be filled with the sights, smells and sounds of Indonesia. Highlights will include a dramatic central pond display filled with bright orange orangutans, life-sized animals and an erupting volcano all made up of hundreds of stunning orchid blossoms. There’ll also be an impressive carnivorous pitcher plant archway.

NEW LONDON SHOW: PRETTY WOMAN THE MUSICAL – from 13th February 2020 to 2nd January 2021

Celebrate the 30-year anniversary of one of the most treasured romantic films of all time with Pretty Woman: The Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre. Follow successful businessman Edward and prostitute Vivian, as they fall in love against the odds. Danny Mac plays the role of Edward and Aimie Atkinson takes to the stage as Vivian. With original music and lyrics by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, this new West End show will lift your spirits.

VALENTINE’S DAY – 14th and 15th February 2020

Spoil your Valentine with dinner at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Indulge in our exclusive four-course Valentine’s dinner in Madison’s Restaurant. Enjoy the delicious dinner with a glass of champagne for £45 per person. See Menu

For more information, please call +44 (0) 20 7499 7000 or send an email Madison@washington-mayfair.co.uk

DATE NIGHT IN MAYFAIR ON VALENTINE’S DAY

Indulge your passion and make time for your loved one with ‘Date Night’ romance hotel package at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Treat someone special to an intimate escape that features all the right touches. The package starts from £245 per night and includes:

Overnight night accommodation
Rose petals turn down
Half bottle of chilled Champagne & chocolate dipped strawberries in your room
Three course dinner with a glass of wine each
Full English buffet breakfast the next morning
Late check out to 16.00hrs

BOOK NOW

LONDON CLASSIC CAR SHOW – 20 – 23 February 2020

The London Classic Car Show is the must-attend event for any discerning classic car owner, collector, expert or enthusiast. Over 700 classic cars and some of the most legendary ‘getaway cars’ from automotive history go on display at the London Classic Car Show which comes to the prestigious Olympia London in Kensington. Every year, there’s also a special guest appearance by a racing legend, alongside special displays of their cars, trophies and memorabilia.

PICASSO AND PAPER AT THE ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS – until 13 April 2020

For Picasso, paper was both a tool to explore his ideas and a material with limitless possibilities. He experimented with everything from newsprint and napkins to decorative wallpaper. He spent decades investigating printmaking techniques, sourcing rare and antique paper from as far as Japan – and all without losing his compulsion to draw on every last scrap. You will see Picasso’s creative process first-hand in remarkable documentary footage of the artist at work, studies for Guernica, and sketchbooks where the seeds of revolutionary masterpieces first took shape, including Les Demoiselles d’Avignon. Immerse yourself in Picasso’s world of paper and discover how – with this everyday material we know so well – he found the means to explore the furthest reaches of his creativity.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JANUARY 2020

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 – 1^st 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 SOLEIL AT 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 – 25^th 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.

Don’t miss our special packages:

Winter Warmer – click and learn more

Date Night in Mayfair – click and learn more

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN DECEMBER 2019

With lots of festive things to do, December is the most magical month to visit London. Here at the Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2019.

Get into the festive spirit during your December visit by experiencing some of London’s favourite seasonal activities: shop for handmade gifts and festive food at a charming Christmas market; go ice skating on one of the stunning outdoor ice rinks that pop up across the capital; enjoy carols and concerts accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies; and watch a Christmas pantomime, ballet or family show.

OPERATION SMILE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT – 4th December 2019

Operation Smile UK has announced that the London Community Gospel Choir, the Fulham Children’s Choir and celebrity readers will be joining them at their annual Carols by Candlelight on Wednesday 4th December 2019 at 7pm at the Grosvenor Chapel, Mayfair. The event will see a number of readings and musical entertainment, followed by refreshment in the chapel. Tickets for the Carol Service are £20 for an adult (Under 16 go FREE) All tickets include seasonal refreshments. Book your tickets here. The Washington Mayfair Hotel is only few minute’s walk from the Grosvenor Chapel.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020

CHRISTMAS AT ZSL LONDON ZOO – until 24 December 2019

Immerse yourself in the magic of ZSL London Zoo at Christmas as you step inside an igloo at the heart of the zoo to meet the man himself in Santa’s Grotto. It’s then time to journey around the zoo to discover more about its inhabitants. Get up close and personal with donkeys, camels and penguins, as they feast on their very own Christmas treats ahead of the big day. Also, relax and enjoy some time in front of the big screen at the Free Festive Film Screenings. Cosy up with tasty snacks and a hot drink and enjoy your favourite Christmas films. Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance with a valid zoo ticket or membership.

TOP ICE-SKATING RINKS IN LONDON

Covent Garden Ice Rink (until 26th December 2019)
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Tower of London Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Natural History Museum Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Somerset House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Queen’s House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)

CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME, BALLET AND FAMILY SHOW

English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum – 11 Dec-5 Jan.

More than 100 dancers and musicians tell the story of a young girl’s Christmas adventure that begins in snowy Edwardian London.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium – 7 Dec-12 Jan. 2020

This top Christmas panto in London includes Paul O’Grady, Matt Baker and Julian Clary, as Dame Betty Barnum and Goldilocks strive to save the beloved family circus.

Nativity! The Musical at the Eventim Apollo – 11-29 Dec. 2019

Based on the Christmas film series, this family-friendly stage adaptation features many of its catchy tunes, including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment.

The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 5 Jan. 2020

Raymond Briggs’ Christmas story is filled with dance, storytelling and songs from the film, as the two friends embark on a magical adventure to the North Pole.

Mary Poppins at the Prince Edward Theatre – until 3 May 2020

Join Mary, Bert and the Banks family for a magical adventure this Christmas, and sing along to classic tunes including Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and a Spoonful of Sugar.

White Christmas musical at Dominion Theater – until 4 Jan. 2020

Catch a true classic with the stage production of the famous Bing Crosby film, White Christmas.

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2019

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.

Don’t miss our special packages:

Winter Wonderland – click and learn more

Winter Warmer – click and learn more

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN OCTOBER 2019

London becomes a little colder in October as autumn splashes the city’s parks and gardens with a riot of autumnal colours, changing the vivid greens to warm coppers, golds and russet reds. But there’s plenty to see and do in London. Pop ups continue to offer food, booze and fun and there are tons of great autumn events to enjoy both indoors and out.

October in London is also the time of the London Film Festival, London Literary Festival, London Cocktail Week, Frieze London, and the city’s Diwali celebrations. While for sports fanatics the month holds the Six Day London and NFL London Games.

So why not come down and visit us at the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Our location is in the heart of London city and so offers a great location to stay when visiting this great city.

In this article we will be exploring some events and experiences that will be happening during the month of October in London. Happy October!

FRIEZE ART FAIRS IN REGENT’S PARK – From 3 to 6 October 2019

Explore two of the most influential events on the art scene in one place with the world-renowned Frieze London and Frieze Masters art fairs. Every year, Frieze hosts two incredible art fairs side by side in the Royal Park: Frieze London which showcases the best of contemporary art, and Frieze Masters which specialises in art from the past. Highlights of the sculpture trail include works by Carlos Amorales, Cecilia Bengolea, Shezad Dawood and Yasmin Jahan Nupur. You can also join a guided tour of the open-air display, or download the free Frieze Sculpture Audio Tour app, with descriptions of all the artworks on show.

LONDON OKTOBERFEST

3 – 6 October and 10 -12 October 2019 – Millwall Park, Canary Wharf

24 – 26 October 2019 – Olympia, West Kensington

London Oktoberfest is a cult event that you can’t miss. Millwall Park and Olympia are transformed into a gigantic Oktoberfest. The authentic German beer and food are part of the London Oktoberfest. The event attracts around 50,000 guests each year, with live music, long communal tables, staff dressed in dirndl and lederhosen and, of course, plenty of German beer and bratwurst. Admission is free on Thursdays and Sundays (and there’s a special family lunch on Sundays too), otherwise tickets start from £10 for general entry.

COCKTAIL WEEK – 4 – 13 October 2019

London Cocktail Week is an enormous celebration of our capital’s fantastic cocktail scene and the biggest event of it’s kind in the world. A £10 digital pass entitles you to £6 cocktails in many of the capital’s best bars all week across an elongated 10-day week (to celebrate the fact that it’s LCW’s 10th anniversary). It’ll also get you into the immersive ‘Cocktail Village’, which this year sits inside the Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane.

Madison’s Bar at the Washington Mayfair Hotel in celebration of Cocktail Week is offering 2 for 1 on all the cocktails from the cocktail list. Join us!

LEONARDO DA VINCI: A LIFE IN DRAWING AT THE QUEEN’S GALLERY, BUCKINGHAM PALACE – until 13 October 2019

Marking the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci, the exhibition brings together more than 200 of the Renaissance master’s greatest drawings in the Royal Collection, forming the largest exhibition of Leonardo’s work in over 65 years. Drawing served as Leonardo’s laboratory, allowing him to work out his ideas on paper and search for the universal laws that he believed underpinned all of creation. The drawings by Leonardo in the Royal Collection have been together as a group since the artist’s death in 1519. Acquired during the reign of Charles II, they provide an unparalleled insight into the workings of Leonardo’s mind and reflect the full range of his interests, including painting, sculpture, architecture, anatomy, engineering, cartography, geology and botany.

CHOCOLATE WEEK – 14 – 20 October 2019

It’s the week you’ve all been waiting for: loosen those belt buckles, switch off your mobile phone and grab your best friends, because this week is all about enjoying the sweet life. Here there are few interesting facts about chocolate you might not know.

The first chocolate bar was invented by Joseph Fry in 1847.
The scientific name for the tree that chocolate comes from, Theobroma cacao, means “food of the gods’’, literally translates as ‘god drink’.
The Aztecs used chocolate as currency during the height of their civilisation.
There is a rare fourth kind of chocolate in addition to the classic milk, dark, and white varieties: blond chocolate.

Do you love chocolate? Below there is the list of the best chocolate shops near The Washington Mayfair Hotel.

Pierre Marcolini. Pierre Marcolini is one of the few chocolatiers to roast his cocoa beans himself. Address: 37 Marylebone High St, Marylebone, W1U 4QE
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates. Paul is the only chocolatier in London working in a truly artisan way. Address: 143 Wardour St, Soho, London W1F 8WA

Don’t forget to celebrate Chocolate Week with our special Mayfair Afternoon Tea served with a Chocolate dipped strawberries and hot baileys liqueur coffee at only £29.50 per person.

HALLOWEEN – 25 – 31 October 2019

London is steeped in history, and therefore home to countless ghost stories and gruesome, grisly tales: myths and urban legends as well as terrible, true facts. From haunted venues and bone-chilling attractions, to special Halloween tours and gripping family events, plan your Halloween in London with our roundup of gory ideas and horrifying activities.

Discover the dark secrets and gory history of London with The Ghost Bus Tours or a Tales of Plague guided walk.
Retrace the infamous murderer’s footsteps with Jack the Ripper Ghost Walks.
Go on an unnerving ghost hunt in London with Haunted Happenings or Fright Nights London.
Book tickets to The Woman in Black: one of the West End’s longest-running plays, this show will have you on the edge of your seat.
Catch a West End musical featuring monsters, witches and mysterious characters this Halloween, such as The Phantom of the Opera and Wicked.
Run for your life through the Covenant spaceship in Madame Tussaud’s Alien: Escape experience.
Discover the unnerving history of 19th-century surgery at the Old Operating Theatre Museum.
Get up close to some of the world’s most feared animals in London this Halloween, with Snorkelling with Sharks at SEA LIFE London aquarium and In with the Spiders at ZSL London Zoo.
Step into the menacing world of the Dark Arts as the Harry Potter sets get a Halloween makeover at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN AUGUST 2019

August in London is teeming with fantastic events, cultural happenings and things to do. Enjoy the capital’s many outdoor and open-air activities to make the most of the warm summer days. Don’t forget to hit up Europe’s biggest street party Notting Hill Carnival or bag a seat at the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. Furthermore London hosts family-friendly attractions to keep children entertained during the school summer holidays. Travelling solo? Don’t worry! It’s plenty of things to do and even more to see in London. Main football season starts in August. Soak up the atmosphere at one of the capital’s football clubs.
We have carefully chosen the events to make sure you have a wonderful time in London while staying at The Washington Mayfair Hotel.

PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON FREECYCLE – 3 August 2019

Get together with family and friends to cycle on traffic-free central London roads for free, with Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle. The route features many of the capital’s world-famous landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral. London’s greatest sights create an inspiring backdrop for a memorable day of cycling. The event, which attracted tens of thousands of cyclists in 2018, returns again as part of the wider Prudential RideLondon festival of cycling.

FILM4 SUMMER SCREEN AT SOMERSET HOUSE – from 8 to 21 August 2019

Watch modern and classic movies under the stars at gorgeous Somerset House this summer. Last year, the open-air film festival presented a mixed programme of UK premieres, old favourites and Cannes award-winning films in full surround sound, as well as DJ sets inspired by the films and special guest introductions. Films start at 9pm, but doors open at 6.30pm. Arriving early you can enjoy a picnic listening the DJ playing music inspired by the film.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL – 24-25-26 August 2019

Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s biggest street festival, is a vivid spectacle representing London’s multicultural past and present. Elaborate floats and colourful costumed performers wind their way through the streets to the sound of steel bands and calypso music. Watch the carnival parade, join in the fun and visit the tempting food stalls at one of London’s biggest and best annual events. The Carnival celebrations take over the areas of Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park.

BBC PROMS – until 14 September 2019

We have promised you that you would not get bored whenever you visit London. In couple of days after Wimbledon and British Summer Time Festival, The Royal Albert Hall and other venues are opening the doors to BBC Proms informal concerts of classical favourites, family concerts and contemporary world premieres. Proms founder Sir Henry Wood’s mission was to ‘bring the best classical music to the widest possible audience’. This year marks his 150^th birth anniversary. Mozart’s, Rachmaninov’s, Beethoven’s, Straus’s, Brahms’s, Tchaikovsky’s, Mendelssohn’s masterpieces will be played by leading musicians and orchestras from across the world. A late-night Prom will bring together some of the best sci-fi film music. CBeebies: A Musical Trip to the Moon demonstrates for young generation the power of dreaming big. The eight weeks of concerts culminate in the famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park, full of chanting and quirky traditions.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – until 29 September 2019

Buckingham Palace is opening its doors to the public in the end of July every year. The iconic building is the official residence of the Queen. Delve into the States rooms to admire a grand place with the gilded ceilings and glittering chandeliers, the finest English and French furniture and breathtaking wall art. By the way, you will have a chance to see famous paintings of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Poussin, Canaletto and Claude. Every year, Buckingham Palace’s summer opening features special exhibitions. The year 2019 marks 200 years since Queen Victoria’s birth so a special exhibition will tell the story of how the young queen transformed Buckingham Palace from a private house into a working royal residence. It is also the 50th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death so another special exhibition in the palace brings together more than 200 of the Renaissance master’s greatest drawings in the Royal Collection, forming the largest exhibition of Leonardo’s work in over 65 years.

Have a great time and feel Royal at Buckingham Palace.

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL IN SOUTH BANK – until 29th September 2019

Enjoy a fun-packed festival of live entertainment and al-fresco eating and drinking at Underbelly Festival in South Bank. Stretching throughout the summer, the festival stages affordable circus, theatre, cabaret, comedy, music and children’s shows on the south bank of the Thames.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JULY 2019

Have you ever been to London in July? Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the capital in the one of the hottest months. Well, it was really hot last year. July is the perfect time to explore London’s outdoor attractions and open-air events, including some of the capital’s biggest music, sports and flower festivals. July events include Wimbledon, Pride in London, BBC Proms, BST Hyde Park, RideLondon and the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

Here’s our list to some of the best events and things do during your stay with us this July.

WIMBLEDON LAWN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS – 1 to 14 July 2019

Experience two weeks of first-class tennis, served with strawberries and cream at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. The first famous tennis tournament took place in Wimbledon in 19^th century. Since then The Championships, widely known as Wimbledon, have been hosted by the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. It’s the most watched event and it attracts thousands of people to watch live games at tennis courts and on big screens all over London.

Big screens to watch live games are within 10-15 minutes by taxi or minicab from our hotel.

BRITISH SUMMER TIME HYDE PARK – 5 – 14 July 2019

World-famous artists and rising stars take to the stage in the iconic Royal Park for 2 weekends of live music. Celine Dion is opening the Festival at the beautiful Hyde Park. Barbara Streisand with her famous song Memory, Stevie Wonder with his Song Party: A Celebration of Life and Love & Music, Lianne La Havas and Corinne Bailey Rae are the latest names to be added to the Stevie Wonder Song Party, with Lionel Richie as a special guest , Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Florence and Machine, The National and finally, Robbie Williams is closing The British Summer Time Festival. The Open House festival takes over during the week between the concerts with 4 days of live bands, street food, open-air cinema screenings and free summer activities.

TRAFFIC-FREE REGENT STREET – SUMMER STREETS – 14 July 2019

Enjoy the rare spectacle of a traffic-free street in zone one every Sunday in July, as Regent Street’s classy curve is pedestrianised from Oxford Circus all the way to Piccadilly Circus for a street party.A range of activities, entertainment, food and drink will be offered in place instead of the usual traffic. The event will enable Londoners and visitors alike to relax, unwind and enjoy this central London festival along one of the city’s most iconic streets. Summer Streets will see retailers, restaurants and businesses come together to offer the public memorable summer days out.

BBC PROMS – 19 July to 14 September 2019

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – from 22 July to 29 September 2019