Royal Parks | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

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.

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.

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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Tag: Royal Parks