Mayfair | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

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!

Mayfair’s Hidden Gems and Exclusive Experiences

March in Mayfair is a time of quiet luxury, fresh inspiration, and exclusive experiences waiting to be uncovered. As spring breathes new life into London, it’s the perfect moment to explore this elegant district’s hidden treasures. Join us as we talk about some of Mayfair’s best hidden gems.

Secret Gardens and Outdoor Escapes

London isn’t all high-rise buildings and concrete… You may not realise but London is over 40% green space, which is a grand total of around 3000 parks! You may have visited some of the Royal Parks on your travels, but what about some of the lesser-known areas?

At The Washington Mayfair, we love Mount Street Gardens, a charming, quieter retreat where you can enjoy a tranquil moment in amongst the hustle and bustle of London, this time of year is perfect to admire the early spring flowers. Or for some history combined with fresh air, Berkeley Square Gardens is the perfect spot for a stroll. Berkley Square Gardens is a traditional London square surrounded by London Plane trees planted in 1789, which are among some of Mayfair’s most oldest trees!

For a chance to explore hidden gems, unique rooftop gardens, and historic walled enclosures, don’t miss the London Open Gardens event. Taking place on June 7th and 8th, 2025, this annual event opens the gates to normally inaccessible green spaces across the city. Book now and enjoy 20% off your ticket with their early bird offer!

Unusual Cultural Highlights

Mayfair loves a gallery and while major galleries draw the crowds, opt for a visit to The Gagosian or Halcyon Gallery. These two hidden gems showcase contemporary art in ever-changing exhibitions. The Halcyon Gallery famously hosted an Andy Warhol exhibition in 2024 and is currently hosting a Bob Dylan retrospective exhibit.

Hidden Dining and Elegant Bars

Mayfair’s upscale reputation comes with a dining scene to match, and it doesn’t disappoint. While the area is packed with high-end restaurants and fine dining spots, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. Our first hidden gem is tucked away off London’s Berkley Square, The Cocochine is an intimate eatery which celebrates art and craftsmanship with some of the very best seasonal produce from Sri-Lankan born chef Larry Jayasekara.

For our second gem, if you enjoy a hearty British Classic then you’ll love The Mayfair Chippy. Here you’ll find fish and chips done right with dining on par with any fine dining experience. Awarded a 1AA Rosette, Michelin Guide Accreditation we love this quintessentially British restaurant.

Luxury & Comfort at The Washington Mayfair

At the heart of Mayfair, lies The Washington Mayfair Hotel, which we believe is the best London hidden gem. So many of our guests love our location and our comfortable rooms inspired by iconic 1920s décor. Our home-from-home hotel is the perfect base to unwind after a day of exploring or for relaxing on the perfect London break.

Book through our website to get 10% off our best flexible rate, plus other perks which will help you explore Mayfair’s hidden gems for less.

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.

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.

How to Plan your Perfect London Wedding

Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever take. From choosing the right venue to creating an unforgettable experience for your guests, every detail matters when it comes to your big day. Whether you envision a lavish celebration or a more intimate gathering, finding a location that reflects your style and personality is key.

In this guide we will discuss some key tips for how you can host your perfect wedding in London.

1. Prime Location

Location plays a huge role in making your wedding day smooth and enjoyable. You want to be somewhere which can easily be accessed by all your guests and sets the right tone and backdrop for your day. Mayfair is one of London’s most sought-after wedding venue destinations. This area is packed with history, beautiful scenery and oozing with luxury. It is surrounded by some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from Hyde Park to Buckingham Palace. Your guests will enjoy exploring the charm of this historic neighbourhood, while it makes the perfect base for your big day.

2. Elegant Venue

The venue should reflect your style and wedding vision. Our hotel, The Washington Mayfair offers timeless elegance with a refined atmosphere. Its luxurious interiors and classic design are ideal for a sophisticated wedding reception. We believe we can be your ideal London luxury wedding venue.

3. Stylish Accommodation

Keeping your guests close by will simplify logistics and keep the celebrations flowing. The Washington Hotel boasts an array of stylish, comfortable rooms and suites, allowing your friends and family to celebrate with ease. For newlyweds, our newly refurbished premium suites provide an intimate, romantic setting to begin your married life.

4. Wedding Planner

A wedding planner can alleviate a lot of the stresses involved with arranging your dream wedding day. They can assist with organising and coordinating the essentials like flowers and the photography, all while keeping the day flowing smoothly.

5. Delicious Dining

Your wedding day should be filled with delicious food that your guests will remember. We recommend making this a key point of the day. The Washington Mayfair can cater events from 2 – 350 people and if any of the set options do not suit, we will happily create your very own bespoke menus.

6. Versatile Event Spaces

From intimate ceremonies to lively receptions, your wedding should be held in spaces that feel just right for the occasion. The Washington Hotel offers a range of event spaces, each with its own character and charm. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a larger celebration, our versatile rooms can be styled to reflect your vision.

7. Elegant and Photogenic Setting

Your wedding photos will be cherished for years to come, so it’s important to choose a venue that offers stunning backdrops. Mayfair’s charming streets, lush parks, and classic London charm provide countless opportunities for picture-perfect moments.

8. Arrive in Style

Make a memorable entrance on your big day. Mayfair is an area known for its luxury, and there are endless options for transportation that match the occasion. Whether you prefer to arrive in a classic car or a chic modern vehicle, you can ensure your journey to the venue is as stylish as the event itself.

9. Post-Wedding Brunch

Keep the celebration going with a relaxed post-wedding brunch. Hosting a brunch the morning after your wedding is a wonderful way to spend more time with loved ones before everyone goes their separate ways. Our hotel’s dining areas offer the perfect setting for a leisurely meal that lets everyone reflect on the wonderful moments of the day before.

10. Bespoke Touches

A wedding is all about creating a day that’s uniquely yours. Choose a theme that reflects your style and personality, incorporating a colour palette that sets the mood—whether it’s soft pastels, bold hues, or elegant neutrals. Your décor can bring this theme to life, with carefully selected flowers, lighting, and table settings. Personal touches, like customised signage or favours, add charm. To make the day truly unforgettable, consider including fun activities such as live music, a photo booth, or unique entertainment that keeps guests engaged and creates lasting memories. Chat to the Washington Mayfair about your wedding wishes and we can work to bring your vision to life.

The Best Way to Spend a Long Weekend in Mayfair, London

Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious and glamorous areas, is the perfect place to spend a long weekend. Situated in the heart of the city, Mayfair offers an elegant mix of history, luxury, and modern sophistication.

When planning a long weekend getaway, Mayfair’s central location allows easy access to London’s most iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and the bustling West End. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or someone seeking relaxation in high-end surroundings, Mayfair caters to all interests.

And where better to stay than The Washington Mayfair Hotel, a historic hotel that offers both comfort and style, while being just minutes from London’s most exciting attractions! Staying here gives you the chance to enjoy modern luxury in a classic setting, with easy access to everything Mayfair has to offer.

Let’s explore the perfect itinerary for a long weekend in Mayfair, from Friday to Monday.

Friday: Arrival!

Once you arrive in London, head straight to the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Check-in, freshen up, and drop off your bags ready to explore the local area. We recommend you take a stroll around the nearby Green Park or Hyde Park for some fresh air to completely unwind after your journey and get into holiday mode, whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery of London’s parks in autumn.

For your first evening, take it easy. The hotel offers an excellent dining experience at Madison’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner. The restaurant’s menu includes an eclectic blend of dishes from around the world, with special dishes available daily. The relaxing atmosphere and attentive service will set the tone for a wonderful weekend ahead.

Saturday: Exploring Mayfair and Soho

After a restful night, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel (free if you book through our website!) before stepping out to explore Mayfair. Start your day by strolling along the historic streets of Mayfair and let yourself explore all the architectural points of interest and stories behind the buildings. Head on over to the area of Savile Row, famous for its bespoke tailors, and Bond Street, which is home to some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, from Chanel to Louis Vuitton. Also in the area is Burlington Arcade, opened in 1819 this is one of Britain’s earliest shopping arcades. This is a must-visit for those who love fashion, shopping and want to explore this exclusive area of Mayfair.

For lunch, book a table at Sketch, an iconic Mayfair restaurant known for its unparalleled dining experience. Sketch is not just a place to eat, it’s a collection of uniquely designed spaces, each with its own specific ambiance and menu. There’s something for everyone.

After lunch, venture into Soho, which is a short walk away. Soho is known for its vibrant atmosphere, boutique shops, and eclectic culture. Spend the afternoon exploring popping into independent shops and galleries. You can also visit Liberty London, an iconic department store with beautiful Tudor-style architecture.

For dinner, you are spoilt for choice across the many restaurants and eateries that line Soho, try Chinatown for Asian delights or head through to the West End and Covent Garden. You could even book to see a theatre performance whilst near the West End before heading back to the hotel. Find out here what’s on in the West End for Autumn 2024 and book your West End tickets.

Sunday: Art, History and Hyde Park

Sunday is the perfect day to soak in some culture. After breakfast, head to the Royal Academy of Arts, which often has outstanding exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists. Then, walk over to the Wallace Collection, housed in a stunning historic townhouse. This hidden gem features an incredible collection of world-sourced art, antiques, and armour.

For lunch visit Mercato Mayfair a fun space to eat in a restored historical building, where you will find a wide variety of kitchens from around the world, all using locally sourced, fresh ingredients.

In the afternoon, take a trip over to Hyde Park for a relaxing stroll or even rent a rowboat at The Serpentine (available until November). Hyde Park offers a lovely escape from the city’s hustle.

For dinner, you could opt for something different by trying a Michelin-starred experience at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, or a more casual evening in Cicchetti for Italian small plates.

Monday: Brunch and Departure

Before heading home, take a final stroll through Mount Street to admire its beautiful Georgian architecture and boutique stores. Visit Fortnum & Mason, a historic department store known for its gourmet food and tea selection—perfect for picking up gifts before your departure. Then head on over to Buckingham Palace for a royal farewell, time your visit right to catch the changing of the guard ceremony, which will complete your weekend!

With its blend of luxury, culture, and central location, Mayfair is the ultimate destination for a long weekend escape. We have just discussed a few options of how to spend a city break in Mayfair, London but there is plenty more to see and do, both in the location of Mayfair and further afield throughout London. Staying for 4 nights or more at The Washington Mayfair will get you 20% off your entire break with our Stay Longer Save More offer. Making it more than worthwhile to extend your break. View this offer and book your autumn 2024 London holiday today.

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