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Everything You Need to Know About The Washington Mayfair

Located in the heart of one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, The Washington Mayfair Hotel sits proudly at 5 Curzon Street in Mayfair — a stone’s throw from Green Park, Hyde Park, Oxford Street, Buckingham Palace and some of the city’s best shopping, dining and cultural attractions. If you are wondering where to stay in London then this blog will give you everything you need to know about the Washington Mayfair hotel and why we believe it is the best hotel in London.

A London Hotel with History

If you’re looking for a London hotel with history, then The Washington Mayfair Hotel may just be the hotel for you. The hotel has a rich history dating back to before the first World War. In the 18^th century the site housed individual boarding houses, which were so well loved that eventually this popularity led to the building of a larger capacity hotel. The Washington Mayfair hotel as we know it today opened its doors in 1913. Over the decades it has been carefully developed and modernised while retaining its classic charm and its art deco architectural influences.

Mayfair is the Place to Stay

The Washington Mayfair, as the name suggests, is nestled in Mayfair, one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, and its location is arguably its biggest selling point. Using the hotel as your London base you can easily walk to many world-famous landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Royal Parks like Hyde Park and fabulous shopping like the Bond Street boutiques. The whole of London is easy to access, with Green Park underground station nearby, which makes travelling across the city simple and hassle-free.

Sleep in Comfort

The hotel offers 178 guest rooms and suites, ranging from cosy classic rooms to larger suites with space for families or for an extra special stay. All our rooms are stylishly furnished with modern comforts such as air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars and safes. Perfect for vacationers or business travellers.

Relaxed Dining at Madison’s

On-site is Madison’s Restaurant and Bar, serving international cuisine throughout the day and the unmissable British treat of traditional afternoon tea. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast before a busy day of sightseeing or unwinding with a drink after a theatre show, the hotel’s dining options offer a relaxed yet classic London vibe.

Stay for Less

Now is a great time to book a stay. Our Winter Warmer offer is still available on stays up to 15^th March and our Spring Escape offer covers stays from the 15^th March – 31^st May. Save up to 20% on rates with these offers and get a free English breakfast included.

For the best discount, stay for 4 nights or more to make the most of our Stay Longer, Save More offer and save 25% on your stay. No matter the time of year or length of stay, make sure you get a discount on the best available rate. You can always save with our best rate guarantee. Simply book direct through our website and we’ll take care of the rest. Ensuring you get the best deal, even a priority free room upgrade where available!

We hope to see you at The Washington Mayfair Hotel very soon.

Walk the Sights of Mayfair

London is a city that’s easy to fall in love with, especially when you take the time to explore it on foot. Wandering through its streets reveals far more than famous landmarks — it’s the quiet squares, green parks, and lively neighbourhoods in between that truly bring the city to life.

Mayfair is perfectly placed for this kind of discovery. Staying at The Washington Mayfair Hotel means some of London’s most iconic sights are just a short walk away. Whether you’re heading towards historical sites like Buckingham Palace, world-class shopping on Bond Street, or the beautiful green spaces of the Royal Parks you can be sure that the area itself offers plenty of interesting areas to discover along the way with a unique calm, elegant atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere other than Mayfair.

In this guide, we’ve highlighted some of the best places to visit within walking distance of the Washington Mayfair hotel, making it easy to explore London at a relaxed pace and enjoy everything the city has to offer – one step at a time!

Royal Landmarks & Green Spaces

Approx. 0.5 miles | 10-minute walk

A short stroll from Mayfair brings you to some of London’s most recognisable royal sights. Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch, is a must-see, especially if you time your visit with the Changing of the Guard.

Just moments away, St James’s Park and Green Park offer beautifully maintained paths, tree-lined avenues, and tranquil views, perfect for a relaxed walk through the heart of the city.

Top tip – If you are happy to extend your walk a little further, continue for another 18 mins from Buckingham Palace to arrive at some more top London must-sees – Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Westminster Bridge. This area is rich in history and architecture, offering some of the most photographed views in the city, particularly along the River Thames.

Hyde Park

Approx. 0.4 miles | 10-minute walk

One of London’s most famous green spaces, Hyde Park provides a welcome escape from the city’s energy. Ideal for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment outdoors, the park features wide open lawns, tree-lined paths, and the picturesque Serpentine lake.

It’s the perfect place to unwind before or after a day of sightseeing.

Bond Street

Approx. 0.4 miles | 8-minute walk

For luxury shopping and world-renowned fashion houses, Bond Street is right on your doorstep. This iconic destination is synonymous with high-end retail, fine jewellery, and flagship designer stores.

Even if you’re not shopping, it’s an excellent area for people-watching, celebrity-spotting and soaking up Mayfair’s refined atmosphere!

Royal Academy of Arts

Approx. 0.4 miles | 10-minute walk

Art lovers will appreciate the close proximity of the Royal Academy of Arts. Known for its prestigious exhibitions and historic galleries, the RA showcases a diverse programme ranging from contemporary works to classical masterpieces.

It’s an essential cultural stop during your stay in Mayfair.

Covent Garden

Approx. 1.1 miles | 25-minute walk

A slightly longer walk rewards you with one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Covent Garden is known for its lively piazza, street performers, boutique shopping, and wide selection of restaurants and cafés.

Travellers love this destination for dining, entertainment, and soaking up London’s creative spirit.

Book Your 2026 London Trip

What are you waiting for? Get ready to put your comfy shoes on and explore the district of Mayfair all from the comfort and luxury of The Washington Mayfair hotel. Take a look at our elegant rooms and suites to get you started on booking your stay and start your London 2026 trip planning.

Shopping in London Mayfair

London is a shoppers dream, packed with a huge variety of stores, shopping centres and boutique streets. As the end of the year approaches, shopping for gifts is high on the priority list for many. There’s no better place to find something special than in London’s elegant Mayfair. With many stores extending their opening hours, there’s plenty of time to browse and indulge as we head towards winter in London. Whether you’re searching for the perfect present or treating yourself to a touch of luxury, Mayfair offers a shopping experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

Mayfair Shopping

Bond Street is one of London’s most iconic luxury shopping destinations. Home to prestigious names such as Chanel, Gucci, and Hermès, alongside world-class jewellers like Cartier and Tiffany & Co., Bond Street is synonymous with style and sophistication. Regularly frequented by celebrities and fashion enthusiasts, this elegant avenue is a must-visit for those seeking something truly exceptional.

A short stroll away, Mount Street offers an equally chic yet slightly quieter experience. With its beautiful blend of Victorian architecture and modern luxury boutiques such as Christian Louboutin and Jenny Packham, it’s a feast for both fashion lovers and architecture enthusiasts. Between purchases, stop at Pasticceria Marchesi, the famous Milanese patisserie where you can enjoy delicate pastries and rich Italian coffee — the perfect indulgence.

For a touch of history, explore Burlington Arcade, the UK’s oldest and most elegant shopping arcade. Established in 1819, this charming gallery is lined with boutiques offering fine jewellery, fragrances, and bespoke leather goods. Keep an eye out for the Beadles, the arcade’s traditional uniformed guardians, who add a delightful sense of heritage to your shopping experience.

Winter Shopping in London

From the 3^rd of November, get ready for the gloom of winter evenings to be broken with thousands of twinkling lights as the Christmas light switch-on events begin. Starting with Oxford Street and extending throughout London. Illuminating any London Christmas shopping experience.

The start of November also marks the arrival of many Christmas markets. Some of the biggest winter markets for 2025 include Leicester Square, Covent Garden and the Southbank. Just a short walk from the Washington Mayfair is Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland which is more than just a winter market. Winter Wonderland offers a whole host of London winter activities, like, ice skating, fairground rides, live shows and cosy alpine bars, opening from November 14^th.

Stay at the Washington Mayfair

There is much more to a winter shopping trip in London than just shopping. To make the most of your trip and even have time to throw in a little sight-seeing, book a stay in a central location. We recommend staying at The Washington Mayfair, ideally located near Bond Street and Hyde Park. Relax in home from home comfort, giving you a place to rest your feet at the end of a busy London shopping day and admire your new purchases. Book directly though our website to receive exclusive rewards and offers like our Autumn Break in The City offer which includes stays up to the 30^th November, perfect for a November shopping trip 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.

London Events You Won’t Want to Miss – May/June 2025

There’s plenty to get excited about in London over the next few months, and if you’ve been wondering what to do in London or how to spend your London vacation this May and June, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re a culture lover, foodie, or simply looking to soak up the London atmosphere, these months are packed with events you’ll want to mark in your diary.

What’s On in London this May

Chelsea Flower Show 2025

One of the world’s most prestigious flower shows returns to Chelsea for 2025. Expect exquisite garden designs, innovative floral displays, and a touch of glamour from Tuesday 20^th May – Saturday 24^th May — Chelsea Flower Show is a must-see for garden enthusiasts and lovers of all things beautiful.

Chelsea in Bloom

Running alongside the Chelsea Flower Show, Chelsea in Bloom is a fab London free festival which is one of London’s most Instagrammable experiences.

Join in as hundreds of shops and businesses take part to create their own floral masterpieces, this year on the theme of Flowers in Fashion. Expect to see the neighbourhood transformed into London’s most elegant floral runway!

Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

See some of London’s top theatre performances in the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park. The Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre opens its figurative doors from the 10^th May and will host multiple performances throughout the weeks. Kicking off the schedule is Tony Award winning musical comedy – Shucked. Followed by Roger and Hammerstein’s Dream Ballets, Noughts & Crosses and Brigadoon.

We can’t wait for the warmer evenings and picnic-worthy weather, how about you?

Looking ahead to London Events in June

Taste of London

Foodies, take note! Taste of London takes over Regent’s Park with five days of incredible bites from the city’s top chefs and restaurants. It’s a delicious celebration of London’s dynamic food scene.

West End Live!

This free, open-air theatre event in Trafalgar Square is your chance to see live performances from London’s top musicals—all in one place. It’s perfect for theatre lovers and a great family-friendly outing.

Wimbledon & Queen’s Club Championships

The tennis season kicks off with Queen’s in June, leading up to Wimbledon in early July. There’s plenty of chances to get tickets to Wimbledon if you stay local and get to the grounds early. Pimm’s, strawberries, and sunshine? Yes, please.

Stay at The Washington Mayfair

For a stylish, central base during your visit, stay at The Washington Mayfair. You’ll be right in the heart of the action, with London’s best events, restaurants, and shops just steps away. After a day of exploring, return to comfort, elegance, and exceptional service. Book your stay now to make the most of the May bank holidays in London or for a perfect London vacation.

Mayfair in Spring – Weekends and Weddings

Spring has arrived! Have you been enjoying the sunshine? We love this time of year— admiring the new blooms in the Royal Parks, dining al fresco at Mayfair’s charming cafés, and making the most of the longer evenings to explore the city. There’s something special about London in the spring, as the streets come alive with fresh energy, vibrant floral displays, and a renewed sense of excitement. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through Green Park, a visit to Berkeley Square gardens, or a sunset drink on a rooftop terrace, one thing is certain—London looks even more stunning under a clear blue sky.

There are so many opportunities in Spring to get away from the every day and enjoy some time to yourself or with your family. With 3 public holiday opportunities – Easter and the May bank holidays plus 3 weeks in total of school holiday time, spring makes the perfect opportunity for a London city break.

London Spring City Break at The Washington Mayfair

The Washington Mayfair makes a great choice in affordable accommodation in the amazing location of Mayfair. It’s close to attractions like Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace, Bond Street shopping and the West End.

Book your spring London holiday direct with us to get the best prices on your trip, complete with free breakfast and a discount on dining. Or if you are planning a romantic stay to celebrate a milestone anniversary or simply to enjoy some quality time together, let us take care of the extra details with our Date Night offer. Arrive at your room to chilled Prosecco, a beautiful bouquet of flowers and chocolate-dipped strawberries for the perfect date night in Mayfair.

Wedding Season in London

Spring is also one of the most popular seasons for weddings, and London weddings are no exception. The season lends itself perfectly to magical wedding days, offering milder weather, beautiful outdoor settings, and a naturally romantic atmosphere. Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by fresh blossoms and golden spring sunlight, with Mayfair’s timeless elegance providing the perfect backdrop for your celebration.

If you’ve recently got engaged or are just starting to plan your dream wedding, why not consider The Washington Mayfair as your venue? With its sophisticated charm, stylish event spaces, and exceptional service, our hotel offers everything you need to create an unforgettable London wedding day. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand reception, our experienced team is here to bring your vision to life, ensuring every detail is as perfect as you’ve imagined. Let us help you celebrate your love story with a Mayfair Spring wedding.

If you are looking for more inspiration, why not take a look at one of our recent blogs which highlighted 10 steps to planning the perfect London wedding. Or contact our friendly team to chat further, we’d love to guide you through planning your London wedding and making it fabulous.

We hope to see you this Spring at The Washington Mayfair hotel!

Start Your 2025 in the West End

The Best of London Theatre

Winter is well underway in London and the days can be quite chilly leaving you looking for a way to warm up. Why not cosy up in one of London’s iconic theatres? London is famous for its legendary theatre scene! Offering a dazzling variety of productions ranging from timeless classics to groundbreaking contemporary performances. 

If you are based at The Washington Mayfair, you will be spoilt for choice. At just a short distance from the West End, there are around 40 theatres! In this blog we are going to discuss some of the top London Theatres, what’s on and how to get tickets to make your London Theatre break really special.

Shaftesbury Avenue: The Heart of the West End

Shaftesbury Avenue is right in the heart of London’s West End district. Named after the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, this bustling location is home to a variety of renowned theatres, including:

Apollo Theatre

Gielgud Theatre

Lyric Theatre

Palace Theatre

Sondheim Theatre

Shaftesbury Theatre

Some of the top productions currently showing include Mrs. Doubtfire, John Cleese’s Fawlty Towers, Oliver!, Hadestown, Les Misérables, and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Whether you’re a fan of musicals, dramas, or family-friendly shows, Shaftesbury Avenue has something for everyone.

Oldest Theatre: The Theatre Royal Drury Lane

If you are looking for history combined with entertainment, The Theatre Royal Drury Lane holds the title of London’s oldest theatre, having opened its doors in 1812. However, the site itself has been home to theatre productions since 1663, making it the world’s oldest theatre site in continuous use. This iconic venue is known for hosting beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals and remains a must-visit destination for theatre lovers. Upcoming Performances include: Tempest, Much Ado about Nothing and Disney’s Hercules.

Largest and Smallest Theatre: London Coliseum and Arts Theatre

If you’re looking for grandeur, the London Coliseum is the largest theatre in the city, The English National Opera has several performances in the coming weeks: The Pirates of Penzance and Mary, Queen of Scots. Close by is the London Palladium, another iconic venue known for its opulent architecture and star-studded performances. On the other end of the spectrum, the Arts Theatre stands as one of London’s smallest, offering an intimate and unique viewing experience with just 350 seats. See Olivier Nominee The Choir of Man from March.

Beyond the West End

London’s theatre scene extends beyond the West End, offering even more opportunities to

The Old Vic: A historic theatre with a reputation for bold and exciting performances.

Royal Albert Hall: A stunning venue that hosts everything from classical concerts to opera.

Royal Ballet and Royal Opera House: Perfect for fans of ballet and opera.

How to Get Tickets

Securing tickets to London’s top theatres is easier than ever. You can purchase tickets online through official theatre websites or trusted ticketing sites London Theatre Direct. For last-minute deals, visit the TKTS booth in Leicester Square, which often offers discounted tickets to same-day performances. If you don’t have time to visit the booth in person you can still view deals online on the TKTS website.

Book Your London Break

From historic venues to cutting-edge productions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And with Mayfair’s central location, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the best of what London’s theatre world has to offer. Check out the Rooms & Suites at The Washington Mayfair to book your stay.

What’s On London 2025!

Here we are already at the end of 2024! If you were fortunate enough to visit London this year…What was your highlight? Perhaps you saw a moving performance in the West End, ate strawberries and cream at Wimbledon, sang your heart out at The Era’s Tour, visited one of London’s museums after dark or attended one of many other top London events this year. It’s good to reminisce but let’s not get too sad because a whole new year awaits! 2025 in London is set to be bigger and better than ever. Are you ready?

Many annual events are back for 2025, like BST Hyde Park, the London Marathon and Wimbledon… But here are some London events for your 2025 calendar you’ll love.

1. Guinness Microbrewery in Covent Garden

Beer lovers have reason to celebrate with the opening of a Guinness microbrewery in Covent Garden. In the pipeline for several years now, 2025 finally marks the opening of this special project. The microbrewery at Old Brewer’s Yard will be a cultural experience that will bring the freshest pint of Guinness to London.

2. Elvis Evolution Experience

Have you already experienced the hugely successful ABBA Voyage immersive experience? If so, you’ll know how much joy this cutting- edge holographic technology can bring… Get ready to be ‘all shook up’ by the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll himself in the latest edition to this series. Re-live the glory of Elvis Presley’s concerts in an immersive concert to top all immersive experiences. Elvis Evolution Experience, arriving from May 2025 at London ExCel.

3. Notting Hill Carnival

One of the world’s largest street festivals – the Notting Hill Carnival, returns in August 2025. A vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, the carnival features colourful parades, live music, and mouthwatering food stalls. It’s a highlight of London’s summer.

4. Wildlife Photographer of the Year

Available to view now at the Natural History Museum, the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition showcases breathtaking images of the natural world. From awe-inspiring landscapes to intimate animal portraits, this event is a feast for the eyes and a reminder of nature’s beauty.

5. Women’s Rugby World Cup

The Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off in 2025 from 22^nd August to the 27^th September, and London will host key matches including the final at Twickenham Stadium. Record ticket sales and requests so far really highlight the growing popularity and talent in women’s rugby.

We are also excited to welcome a whole range of artists touring London in 2025, including the long-awaited Oasis concerts. Coldplay set to break the record for most consecutive nights at Wembley usurping Taylor Swift, and female singers are represented well with performances scheduled from Olivia Rodrigo, Sabrina Carpenter and Lana Del Ray.

Book your 2025 London break today to ensure you don’t miss out on all the action. If you are looking for a hotel close to top London attractions and events with beautiful rooms and suites and exceptional service at affordable prices, then why not choose The Washington Mayfair? We often have seasonal offers and ways to save on Mayfair hotels, visit our offers page to find out more.

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