Mayfair is justly famed as a luxury tourist destination, with many exclusive hotels, shops restaurants and cultural centres, making it the perfect location for those seeking an enjoyable break. There is a wonderful choice of places to visit here, but some are undeniably world famous.
The Royal Academy of Arts
One of London’s finest galleries, the Royal Academy of Arts (RA) is an ideal choice to see art and architecture at its best. With a rolling programme of exhibitions, together with many fascinating talks, lectures and workshops, the RA features an eclectic mix of art with something for everyone. The Summer Exhibition is its showpiece exhibition, consisting of entries from the general public, in a variety of genres, and this is considered by many to be an unmissable summer event. Other exhibitions vary in their focus, and include such diverse options as one devoted to early 20th century Mexican art, and paintings by Sir Hugh Casson.
La Gavroche
Known the world over, La Gavroche was the first restaurant in the UK to be awarded two Michelin stars, and has also won a host of other awards. Owner Michel Roux Jr. runs the restaurant, together with a well-established team who have worked there for many years. Serving classic French cuisine with a thoroughly modern approach, the menu is a mouth-watering collection of outstanding dishes. For example, you could start with Marinated Var Salmon with Lemon and Vodka Jelly, followed by Sauté Lobster with Lemongrass and Coconut Infused Lobster Jus, perhaps finishing with Set Coconut and White Chocolate Cream, Mango and Lime Salad.
Bond Street
It is hard to think of another single street that has so many iconic shops all within such easy reach of each other. Whatever you wish to buy, Bond Street has it all, whether it’s designer clothing, bespoke jewellery, fine art, or hand-made shoes. Fashion houses abound, including Alexander McQueen, Donna Karan New York and Dolce & Gabbana. For high-class jewellery, you need look no further than Cartier, Faberge, or De Beers. Fine art lovers can browse several galleries, either to view or purchase; The Halcyon Gallery, Richard Green, and The Fine Art Society are just three.
The Wigmore Hall
The intimate atmosphere of the Wigmore Hall has made it one of London’s premier concert halls, presenting over 400 concerts annually, with an emphasis on solo recitals and chamber music. Some of the world’s best artists perform here, including Maxim Vengerov, Andras Schiff, and Bryn Terfel. The Wigmore Hall is also renowned for showcasing new talent, and many up-and-coming artists make their mark here. The repertoire includes early music, well-known composers such as Bach, Beethoven and Mozart, and ultra-modern composers too. This diverse mix of concerts ensures that there is always something interesting taking place.
The Connaught Hotel
The Connaught Hotel is one of London’s most luxurious places to stay, ideal for exploring all the delights of the city. Offering a range of rooms and luxury London hotel suites, this hotel has accommodation to suit everyone. With interior decoration by Guy Oliver and David Collins, you have a choice of classic or contemporary décor, each featuring all the superb amenities and services you would expect, and with a full butler service for each room. The Helene Darroze Restaurant, with two Michelin stars, serves stunning French cuisine, and an American-style Saturday brunch, whilst brasserie dining and afternoon tea is offered by Espalette. The Aman Spa offers a wonderful choice of pampering spa treatments, as well as excellent fitness facilities.
Situated in the heart of London, Mayfair is the ultimate place to visit, because here you can see the very best attractions that London has to offer.
