Living
in Mayfair

Historical Background

Mayfair's historical roots trace back to its origins as a rural village encompassed by farmlands and muddy fields. The landscape transformed between the mid-17th and mid-18th centuries, primarily spearheaded by various landlords, with the Grosvenor family playing a pivotal role. Sir Richard Grosvenor inherited land in this locality and established the sophisticated Grosvenor Square, marking a significant step in shaping modern-day neighbourhood.

The term Mayfair finds its etymology in the permission granted by King James II for a two-week fair to take place on the site during May, starting in 1686. 

The county continues to exude a sense of its original village ambience through its cobbled streets and independent shops. It has evolved into an elegant residential precinct. 

Location

Mayfair constitutes a section of Central London, situated within the City of Westminster borough. Nestled within the West End, it is neatly delineated by Hyde Park to the west, Oxford Street to the north, Piccadilly and Green Park to the south, and Regent Street to the east. 

Among its distinguished attributes are some of the most renowned residential locations in London and the world, including esteemed addresses like Park Lane, Curzon Street, Berkeley Square, Hanover Square, and Grosvenor Square.

Furthermore, the territory boasts an array of the capital's illustrious and exclusive shopping avenues, notably Bond Street, Regent Street, and Mount Street. These places are graced by notable retailers such as Burberry, Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and many other esteemed brands.

Lifestyle

In contrast to a significant portion of Central London, Mayfair experiences robust financial backing from its residents. Consequently, its reliance on transient trade and tourism is comparatively less pronounced.

Every corner of the district brims with trendy boutiques, upscale bars, and fine dining developments. Moreover, the majority of capital's premier culinary venues are situated here, boasting nearly a third of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants.

The locale abounds in celebrity-frequented venues and offers an abundance of refined art galleries and museums. Notably, these attractions are easily accessible to all who wish to explore them.

Things To Do In Mayfair:

• Stroll along the charming cobbled streets, taking in the exquisite Georgian houses that grace the area.
• Immerse yourself in artistic brilliance at the Royal Academy of Arts, where you can discover established masters and emerging talents.
• Embark on a shopping spree along Bond Street, explore the bespoke offerings of Savile Row, or lose yourself in the allure of renowned destinations like Harrods and Liberty London, all while discovering the unique charm of Mayfair's independent boutiques.
• Indulge your taste buds at the diverse restaurants of Berkeley Square, or elevate your dining experience at one of Michelin-starred gems like Sketch or Nobu.
• Pay a visit to Buckingham Palace to catch a glimpse of the royal heritage.

Essential Destinations to Explore

Transformed into a pinnacle of distinction within the capital, Mayfair presents a realm of upscale bars, dining establishments, hotels, verdant garden squares, and an abundance of cultural and tourist landmarks.

Traditional Pubs

For those with a penchant for history, a must-visit is The Coach and Horses (on Bruton Street), one of the oldest pubs here, with a legacy dating back to the 1770s.

Standing as a testament to Mayfair's rich heritage, The Punchbowl boasts a venerable history as one of the district's earliest establishments. Its Grade II listed attributes have withstood time and multiple renovations, offering a glimpse into the past.

Following a day of shopping along nearby Regent Street, the Windmill pub presents itself as a charming option for relaxation and a couple of beverages. Beer enthusiasts will delight in The Windmill's array of six distinct cask ales on tap, along with an extensive selection of seasonal local guest ales.

Culinary Delights

Setting the standard high, we begin with one of the region's finest dining destinations, La Gavroche. Boasting two Michelin Stars and commensurate prices, this formation stands in a league of its own. With a prestigious clientele and a substantial waitlist, booking in advance is essential for securing a table at La Gavroche.

You may also discover the lavish elegance of Park Chinois, an exquisite establishment in Mayfair. This dimly lit haven offers an upscale ambience and serves elevated Chinese cuisine.

For those seeking refined Indian flavours in an elegant milieu, Bombay Bustle is a must-visit. Nestled discreetly on Maddox Street, this restaurant has swiftly become a favoured choice for indulging in both new and traditional sumptuous dishes, showcasing an elevated calibre of Indian cuisine.

Cultural Spots

• Buckingham Palace
• Ganosian Gallery 
• Hamiltons Gallery 
• Royal Academy of Arts
• Handel & Hendrix Museum

Embracing Nature

Londoners readily count access to green spaces among the privileges bestowed by this city, and in this regard, W1 excels. With its strategic location, it seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural beauty.

A mere step away, Hyde Park presents 142 hectares of serenity, providing a retreat from the urban hustle. Similarly, Green Park beckons, while Regent's Park is conveniently nearby.

Berkeley Square and Grosvenor Square extend an invitation to bask in the tranquillity of well-tended lawns, affording a serene vantage point to observe the rhythm of daily life.

Property Settings

Exploring life in Mayfair would be incomplete without delving into the captivating housing possibilities of this remarkable region.

As of 2021, the average property price here stood at £2,546,000. The prevailing residential landscape predominantly showcases contemporary flat conversions. Starting around £350,000, 1-bedroom apartments offer an entry point, while 3-bedroom developments span a spectrum from £1 million to £6 million.

Throughout the upscale district, one can find captivating examples of Georgian townhouses, each a testament to meticulous restoration over the past two centuries. The price spectrum for these exceptional residences is extensive. 

While homeownership and buying new properties prevails among Mayfair residents, the option of renting remains open for those who seek it.

Transport Connectivity

The neighbourhood boasts exceptional connectivity to the broader world, ensuring effortless access to every upscale attraction in the vicinity.

The Elizabeth Line of Crossrail promises extensive connectivity to the east and west of the city, with a junction adjacent to the Bond Street tube station.

Navigating Mayfair by car can incur costs, contingent on the vehicle type. Factors like the Congestion Charge and the Ultra Low Emissions Zone are considerations. Public parking without a permit is limited to Pay and Display areas. For convenience, a 24-hour NCP car park is available at 21 Grosvenor Hill.

Cycling in the locality has significantly improved, with bollard-lined streets enhancing safety for cyclists throughout the district.

Educational Opportunities

In this regard, the locale hosts a range of prestigious schools accommodating various age groups. The educational landscape encompasses both private and public institutions. Albemarle Independent College, St. George’s Hanover Square Primary School, and Eaton Square Senior School are just a glimpse of the esteemed establishments that merit recognition.