London Area Guide – Mayfair (What Netflix’s ‘Buying London’ Didn’t Show You)
Following our Belgravia property tours, we turn to another iconic London neighborhood featured in the Netflix series Buying London—the opulent Mayfair. Known for its elegance and high-end appeal, Mayfair is more than just a luxurious area; it’s a district brimming with history, unique dining experiences, and grand architecture. Let’s explore what makes Mayfair a coveted location and what the Netflix series left out.
Mayfair’s Heritage and Aristocratic Roots
Mayfair has long been a dream destination for those seeking a prime central London location, exclusive dining, and stunning architecture. The area derives its name from the “May Fair,” an annual event held from 1686 until 1764, which, after gaining a reputation for rowdy entertainment, was ultimately closed by local elites. Over time, Mayfair transformed from a fairground to a prestigious neighborhood, with the Grosvenor family playing a crucial role in its development. Sir Richard Grosvenor began shaping Mayfair into the upscale district we see today, and the Grosvenor Estate still holds significant property in the area.
By the Georgian and Victorian eras, Mayfair had flourished into an elite residential district with stately townhouses and grand squares like Grosvenor, Berkeley, and Hanover Squares. After World War II, many of these grand homes were converted into luxury hotels and offices, and today, there is a trend toward restoring them to exclusive residences.
The neighborhood has attracted a roster of notable residents, including music mogul Simon Cowell, billionaire Roman Abramovich, singer Rita Ora, and members of international royalty, making it a hub for the rich and famous.
Mayfair’s Culinary Scene: Dining at Its Finest
No visit to Mayfair would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights, which include some of London’s most unique dining establishments.
Jeru: For an exceptional Mediterranean dining experience, Jeru offers three floors of authentic, timeless flavors crafted by Chef Roy Ner. With an open kitchen, a chef’s counter, a fresh fish market, and an artisanal bakery that becomes a wine bar at night, Jeru provides a gourmet journey at every turn. The Layla Dining Room adds live DJ music, creating an ambient backdrop for those who enjoy dining with a beat.
Park Chinois: Inspired by the glamour of 1930s Shanghai supper clubs, Park Chinois offers experiential dining with live music and entertainment. Here, guests can savor exquisite Chinese dishes, jewel-like dumplings, and the specialty 72-hour roasted Duck de Chine. For a more intimate setting, Club Chinois offers low-lit luxury dining, live entertainment, and an opulent ambiance that’s perfect for special occasions.
Bocconcino: This fine Italian restaurant blends traditional Italian flavours with contemporary flair. Known for its extensive wine list and live music, Bocconcino offers two floors of dining. The ground floor replicates a cosy Italian trattoria ideal for date nights, while the lower ground floor exudes glamour with live music and sophisticated lighting.
Sexy Fish: Located on the corner of Berkeley Square, Sexy Fish is an opulent seafood restaurant designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, adorned with art by Damien Hirst, Frank Gehry, and Michael Roberts. Known for its Japanese-inspired seafood and the world’s largest collection of Japanese whiskey, Sexy Fish is the epitome of luxury dining in Mayfair.
1 Hotel Mayfair: A recent addition to the neighbourhood, 1 Hotel’s dining experience, Dovetale, is helmed by two-Michelin-starred Chef Tom Sellers. The restaurant emphasizes sustainable, seasonal ingredients, offering a menu of reimagined European classics. Dover Yard, the hotel’s cocktail bar, boasts nature-inspired aesthetics and innovative cocktails.
Property Styles: Iconic Residences and Prestigious Apartments
Mayfair’s real estate offers some of the most iconic property styles in London. From Georgian townhouses to luxurious modern apartments, each residence reflects the district’s charm and historical roots.
Georgian Townhouses
Mayfair is known for its elegant Georgian townhouses, recognizable by their classic facades, large windows, and grand entrances. Many have been converted into embassies, luxury apartments, or private homes. For instance, a six-bedroom Georgian townhouse on South Street, listed at £10.5 million, spans five floors and retains period details like parquet flooring and fireplaces.
Featured Listing:
6-Bed, 4-Bath Georgian Townhouse on South Street – Price: £10,500,000
This stunning home spans five floors, including a lower-ground kitchen and breakfast area, multiple reception rooms, a private terrace, and six bedrooms. With a historic blue plaque marking the residence of Catherine Walters, the “last Victorian courtesan,” this home merges historical charm with modern elegance. Located near Berkeley Square and the greenery of Hyde Park, it offers exclusive London living at £2,414 per square foot.
Luxury Apartments
Mayfair’s historic buildings have been repurposed into high-end apartments with modern interiors and amenities. A three-bedroom apartment on Upper Grosvenor Street, priced at £9.5 million, combines the grandeur of Georgian architecture with luxury finishes, featuring a 30-foot reception room, air conditioning, and lift access. Another notable residence on Clarges Street includes extensive spa facilities, a 25-meter pool, and private treatment rooms, blending historic elegance with modern convenience.
Featured Listings:
3-Bed, 4-Bath Apartment on Upper Grosvenor Street – Price: £9,500,000
A newly refurbished, south-facing apartment on the second floor, featuring a 30-foot reception room, separate kitchen, and air conditioning throughout. The grand windows and doorways accentuate the apartment’s luxurious interiors.
Mansion Blocks: Elegant mansion blocks in Mayfair offer spacious apartments and communal gardens, favored by affluent families. An example is a five-bedroom apartment on Park Street in Fountain House, priced at £6.5 million, which offers panoramic views of Hyde Park, a private balcony, and a 24-hour porter.
Luxurious Hotels and Serviced Residences
For those seeking the flexibility of hotel living, Mayfair offers several prestigious options. The Connaught and Claridge’s provide serviced residences that blend five-star hospitality with privacy. The Connaught’s penthouse suite, for instance, includes personalized touches like embroidered pillowcases, a private butler, and exclusive access to the Aman Spa. Claridge’s The Residence suite offers a hydrotherapy pool, panoramic views of London, and bespoke services, including monogrammed bathrobes and in-suite dining experiences.
Mansion Blocks
Mansion blocks in Mayfair offer spacious, luxurious apartments with access to communal gardens, often favored by affluent families.
Featured Listing:
5-Bed, 5-Bath Apartment on Park Street – Price: £6,500,000
Positioned on the fourth floor of Fountain House, this apartment features five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a private balcony with views of Hyde Park. The building provides a 24-hour porter, offering residents both convenience and security in a prime location at £2,939 per square foot.
Private Members Clubs: Exclusive Social Hubs
Some of Mayfair’s historic properties have been transformed into exclusive private members’ clubs, such as The Lansdowne, St. James’s Hotel & Club, Fox Club, The Arts Club, and One Carrington. These clubs offer high-end amenities and draw a clientele of wealthy international residents and visitors.
Featured Listings:
- The Connaught Penthouse Suite
- Located in one of Mayfair’s most prestigious hotels, The Connaught’s penthouse suite includes two bedrooms, a private balcony, 24-hour butler service, and exclusive access to the Aman Spa. Guests enjoy personalized details like embroidered pillowcases and a complimentary bottle of Krug champagne.
- Link to Suite
- Claridge’s The Residence
- This two-tier glasshouse suite includes two bedrooms, panoramic views, a fully equipped kitchen, and an expansive terrace. Guests are treated to monogrammed bathrobes, a private cocktail bar, and access to a private hydrotherapy pool and spa.
- Link to Suite
The Allure of Mayfair
Mayfair’s blend of rich history, sophisticated dining, exclusive properties, and iconic architecture creates an unparalleled allure. For those who desire London living at its finest, Mayfair provides an idyllic and prestigious option. Whether you’re captivated by its storied past, culinary hotspots, or luxury residences, Mayfair remains one of London’s most sought-after neighbourhoods.
