What To Do | Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

Your December 2023 in London

As the chilly winds sweep through the iconic streets of London, December transforms the city into a winter wonderland, offering an enchanting experience that captivates the hearts of locals and visitors alike. For a truly memorable stay in London this winter 2023, treat yourself by choosing the Washington Mayfair Hotel as your luxurious base. Here are some local attractions to visit on your December London break as you make the Washington Mayfair Hotel your home away from home.

London Lit Up

December brings a unique opportunity to see London lit up by thousands of dazzling lights. It’s so great they even host a bus tour so you can take it all in. The Christmas Lights London by Night bus tour offers a special journey through the illuminated streets of London with a night bus showcasing all the city’s Christmas lights. Tour around landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. All accessible from the convenience of the Washington Mayfair Hotel’s central location.

Bag a Bargain

December marks the onset of the much-anticipated winter sales, turning London into a shopping haven. The bustling streets of Oxford Street, Regent Street and Bond Street, all within walking distance from the Washington Mayfair Hotel, come alive with shoppers seeking the best deals on high-end fashion and luxury goods. Unleash your inner shopaholic and explore the myriad of stores, indulging in the city’s renowned retail therapy.

Captivating Theatre

London’s West End is synonymous with world-class theatre productions, and December offers a special experience with extra shows on offer for the holiday period. From classic plays to Broadway-style musicals, immerse yourself in the captivating world of live entertainment. The Washington Mayfair Hotel’s proximity to the West End ensures that the enchanting theatres are within easy reach, allowing you to experience the magic of the stage during your stay.

Outdoor Ice Rinks

Indulge in a quintessential winter activity by gliding across one of London’s enchanting outdoor ice rinks. The iconic rink at Somerset House and the picturesque setting at Hyde Park are just a short journey from the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Lace up your skates and twirl under the twinkling lights, creating memories of a London winter that will linger long after you return home.

Hyde Park’s Peter Pan Cup

Have you witnessed the Peter Pan Cup? An annual Christmas Day swimming race held in the icy waters of the Serpentine in Hyde Park. Cheer on the brave participants or join the onlookers in this quirky London tradition. Just step round the corner to Hyde Park to watch this exhilarating Christmas morning spectacle.

Winter Markets

London’s winter markets are a treasure trove of delights, from handmade crafts to delectable treats. Some of the top locations for 2023 are:

Southbank Centre
Covent Garden
Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland
Leicester Square
Greenwich
King’s Cross

The Washington Mayfair Hotel’s central location ensures that you can easily navigate the markets, take in all the sights and enjoy a mulled wine or two!

We look forward to seeing you this winter! We believe our cosy central London hotel is the most convenient base for your trip and the best hotel in London. Enjoy our spacious rooms our even upgrade to a suite for an extra special stay. Remember you always get our very best prices when you book direct, plus extra perks!

Experience the Magic of Mayfair This Winter 2023

Winter is a magical time to visit London, and planning your trip now can ensure you make the most of your holiday in this vibrant city. Among the many boroughs to explore, Mayfair stands out as a must-visit destination. Known for its elegance, history, and unique attractions, Mayfair offers a quintessential London experience that you won’t want to miss this winter.

Stay in the Best Hotel in London

Your trip to London starts with choosing the right place to stay. Fortunately, Mayfair boasts some of the finest accommodations in the city including The Washington Mayfair. This boutique hotel offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, making it one of the best hotels in London. Here’s why you should choose The Washington Mayfair:

Prime Location: Situated in the heart of Mayfair, this hotel puts you within walking distance of all the district’s attractions, ensuring you make the most of your winter getaway.
Elegant Accommodations: The Washington Mayfair offers elegant and well-appointed rooms and suites, providing a cosy retreat after a day of exploration.
Exceptional Dining: The hotel’s Madisons Restaurant offers delectable cuisine with a seasonal menu, perfect for indulging in winter comfort food.
Warm Hospitality: The staff at The Washington Mayfair are known for their warm hospitality, ensuring your stay is comfortable and memorable.

What to Do in Mayfair Winter 2023

Mayfair may be one of London’s smallest districts, but it packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do, especially during the winter season.

Shopping: Mayfair is renowned for its high-end shopping. Bond Street and Mount Street are dotted with designer boutiques, making it an ideal place to pick up unique gifts or indulge in some retail therapy. Plus, these streets boast some of the prettiest lights in the capital during the winter season!

Art Galleries: Explore the district’s vibrant art scene by visiting galleries like the Royal Academy of Arts and the Halcyon Gallery. They often host exhibitions and events that showcase both classic and contemporary art. See the Highlights from the RA Collection at the Royal Academy of Arts until Dec 31 or sample the works from the talented Marina Abramović.
Hyde Park: Take a crisp leisurely stroll through Hyde Park, which borders Mayfair. In winter, it transforms into a magical attraction as it hosts its own Winter Wonderland complete with rides and spectacular shows.
Dining: Mayfair is home to some of London’s finest dining establishments. Enjoy a memorable meal at Michelin-starred restaurants like Sketch, Nobu, or Gordon Ramsay’s Lucky Cat.
Historical Landmarks: Immerse yourself in Mayfair’s history by visiting landmarks such as the beautiful Grosvenor Square and Berkeley Square Gardens.
Holiday Markets: Explore Mayfair’s Christmas markets, where you can savour delicious treats, indulge in unique shopping and enjoy the crisp outdoors.

Winter Charm in Mayfair

Mayfair in winter exudes a special charm. The fresh air and sparkling lights create an enchanting atmosphere that makes your trip unforgettable. The luxury boutiques adorn their shop windows with dazzling displays, and the streets feature a warming glow.

As you plan your trip to London this winter, make Mayfair a top priority on your itinerary. Immerse yourself in its elegance, history, and cultural offerings. Staying in the best hotel in London in the heart of Mayfair will allow you to fully appreciate the district’s unique highlights and create cherished memories of your holiday in London. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of Mayfair in winter 2023.

What to Do in London this Summer 2023 – Part 2

In our last blog we highlighted some of the exciting events going on across the capital of London this summer. The weather may not have been the best for July but don’t worry, summer is not over just yet! Hopefully the sun will shine a little more in August in time for plenty more fun-filled London events.

If you are looking for a place to stay for a quick break away or for more of a longer stay to enjoy the holidays with the whole family then The Washington Mayfair Hotel is the perfect pick for you. There is no better base than the district of Mayfair to add a bit of luxury to any vacation.

Take a look at some of London’s August highlights:

Just a short trip from Mayfair, The National Gallery is hosting a variety of Drop in Creative Sessions in Trafalgar Square. Summer on the Square takes place from 1-28 Aug. You can experiment with a variety of materials at this free festival of events. Plus, it’s easy to tie in with a visit the National Gallery, you can book your free entry online or you can queue on the day to enter.

The August warm weather is perfect for a trip to London’s greatest green spaces of the Royal Parks. There are a host of concerts, plays, walking tours and other summer activities available which you can view here.

Notting Hill Carnival is back! Taking place over the bank holiday weekend (27 Aug & 28 Aug) this iconic London street party lights up the streets of West London as people celebrate this festival of Caribbean culture. There promises to be exceptional music, delicious food and drink and lots and lots of dancing! It is free to attend so even if you are visiting London for another event you should definitely pop by, throw some shapes and eat some jerk chicken!

If you are looking for other events across the bank holiday weekend. There are plenty to choose from:

‘The Cool Down’ ice cream festival returns to Covent Garden with over 40 different varieties of ice cream, sundaes, sorbets, frozen drinks, gelato and more. The conclusion of the event is across the bank holiday weekend but it is taking place from 10th August.

If you fancy something a little more savoury then the Hampton Court Good Food Festival is also taking place from 26th-28th August 2023. You can enjoy a range of artisan food, drinks masterpieces, games, shopping and more… All in the unique surroundings of Henry VIII’s palace!

Finally, A long summer’s weekend of open-air picnic concerts is being hosted by Battersea Park in Concert. The perfect environment to relax at one of London’s most elegant summer events celebrating the best in Classical, West End Musicals, Soul & Jazz. Featuring performances from the elite Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra. You can even order your luxury picnic in advance!

There are plenty of other events happening across London this summer and nearby our hotel. So make sure you do your research after you book your stay to ensure you don’t miss something special. We look forward to welcoming you if you choose to stay at our Deluxe London Hotel in Mayfair!

What to Do and Where to Stay in London this Summer 2023

London is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the world, and it has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, shopping, or nightlife, London has it all. And this summer, there are even more reasons to visit this amazing city. Over the next few blog posts, we will highlight some of the best events happening this summer in London and the best London hotel to enjoy all the action.

Here are just a few of the highlights of what’s happening in London this summer:

Wimbledon: The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, and they’re held every summer in London. If you’re a fan of tennis, this is a must-see event. Tickets are always in high demand and many have already been allocated via the ballot but there is still opportunity to get your hands on some tickets as a number of tickets will also go on sale per day at the event. Wimbledon recommends getting there early to have the greatest success of getting in, so you may want to consider booking your Wimbledon hotel stay the night before so that you can be there early to ensure success! The event is scheduled from 3-16 July 2023.
Queens: A well-loved pre-cursor to the main event of Wimbledon is the Queens Club championship, also known this year in 2023 as the cinch Championship. Tickets to this event are also available now n and this event will take place between 19th and 25th of June 2023.
BST Hyde Park: Is there anything more delightful than some al fresco music? The BST Hyde Park music festival is a multi-weekend event that features some of the biggest names in music. This year’s lineup includes Billy Joel, The Royal Philharmonic, Alfie Boe, Lana Del Rey and P!nk. 23rd June – 9th July 2023.
Taste of London: The Taste of London festival is a food lover’s paradise. It features over 50 of London’s top restaurants, as well as live music and entertainment. This is the perfect event to sample some of the best food the city has to offer. 14-18 June 2023.
Buckingham Palace State Rooms Open to the Public: Buckingham Palace is one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Every summer, the state rooms are open to the public for a limited time. This is a great opportunity to get a glimpse into royal life and see some of the palace’s most impressive interiors. July 14 – Sep 24 2023.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to love in London this summer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

If you’re looking for a place to stay, The Washington Mayfair is the perfect choice. This luxury home-from-home hotel is located in the heart of the prestigious district of Mayfair and is perfectly located to enjoy everything London has to offer this Summer. The hotel offers a variety of beautiful rooms and suites, as well as an in-house restaurant. The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring London.

We hope you’ll join us in London this summer 2023.

10 Facts About The Chelsea Flower Show

The Chelsea Flower Show has a rich history that spans nearly 200 years. The show has grown from a small event in Kensington to a world-renowned event that attracts visitors from all over the globe. It has survived two world wars and has continued to be a symbol of excellence in the world of gardening. This show is more than just a flower show; it is a celebration of the beauty of nature and the skill of gardeners around the world. In this latest blog we look at some fun facts about The Chelsea Flower Show and how to get involved.

In 2000 ‘The Great Pavilion’ was introduced. Often called the jewel in the shows crown, this exhibition space boasts nearly 3 acres of display space. Enough to park 500 London buses!
Show Gardens can take 3 weeks to create, and then they must be dismantled in just 5 days.
The show started as a simple fête in Chiswick, and later moved to Kensington where it was known as ‘The Great Spring Show’ before it was named ‘The Chelsea Flower Show’.
During World War II the show was postponed and the grounds transformed into a united effort to grow vegetables.
The first Chelsea Flower Show in 1913 cost £3,365 to host and it made a profit of £88! Which is like making a profit of £4,000 respectively in today’s money.
In 1932 the weather was so wet and unseasonal leaving exhibitions destroyed, that it could be named ‘The Summer Flower Flow’!
The show is highly valued by the Royal family. With members of the family making appearances. Kate Middleton even designed a garden for the event promoting relaxation and mental well-being. There will also be a special display in honour of King Charles III in the show for 2023.
Every year on the last day at 4pm is a chance to grab yourself a bargain as exhibitioners sell off any plants that they won’t be taking away. So, make sure you have plenty of space in the car for the way home!
The show is so popular that the BBC now televises the whole event so that millions of viewers can join in.
The show inspires many districts of London to create their own ‘blooming’ events. Most notably, the free festival ‘Chelsea in Bloom’ that unites many businesses in the area to come together to compete for the best floral displays, as well as include many fun activities to get involved.

There are so many reasons why you should come to London in May to enjoy this fabulous floral celebration. This year the event is taking place from 23-27 May 2023 in Chelsea. If you are planning your trip to London now then why not choose The Washington Mayfair as your base? Located in the district of Mayfair adjacent to Chelsea, it’s the perfect hotel for The Chelsea Flower Show. We have a variety of relaxing rooms and suites available to choose from and our delightful staff would love to welcome you in May!

Enjoy Mayfair in April 2023

If you’re planning a trip to Mayfair in April 2023 then you’re in for a treat. Spring is getting into full swing in the Royal Parks and events are scheduled throughout the city. Here are some suggestions for things to do in Mayfair during your visit.

Cherry Blossom in Mount Street Gardens

Spring is the perfect time to see the cherry blossoms in Mount Street Gardens. This small park is located in the heart of Mayfair and is home to a stunning display of cherry blossom trees. Take a stroll through the park and enjoy the beautiful pink and white blooms – It’s the perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of spring!

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show

If you’re a fan of flowers and gardening, The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is an event you won’t want to miss. This event is one of the most prestigious flower shows in the world, and it takes place near Mayfair each year. This year it will take place 23-27 May and is available to book your ticket now. The show features stunning displays of flowers, plants, and garden designs, as well as workshops and talks by experts in the field.

London Marathon

The London Marathon is an iconic event that comes to London annually, this year the marathon is scheduled for Sunday 23rd April. The race winds its way through the streets of London and finishes on The Mall in St James’ Park near to the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Even if you’re not a runner, it’s worth checking out the race and cheering on the participants.

Shopping

Mayfair is known for its high-end shopping, and there are plenty of designer boutiques and luxury shops to explore. In April, many of these stores will be showcasing their new spring and summer collections, so it’s a great time to do some shopping. Don’t miss out on the iconic department store, Fortnum & Mason, which has been a fixture in Mayfair since the 1700s.

Stay in Mayfair

Mayfair is a vibrant and exciting neighbourhood with plenty to offer visitors in April 2023. Whether you’re a runner, a nature lover, or a fashionista, you won’t be disappointed with the activities available in this luxurious district. If you are looking for the best London hotel so that you can enjoy all that Mayfair has to offer, look no further than The Washington Mayfair. Premier accommodation with a home-from-home feel. So book your stay, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Mayfair this spring!

Enjoy Winter in London

Woolly hats, crisp frosty mornings, steaming cups of coffee… What do you love about winter? Winter is well under way here in London and at the Washington Mayfair Hotel we are excited to welcome guests to the hotel for 2023. January has got a bit of a reputation for being a quieter month to visit London which is why we would argue that it’s one of the best. With less queues at some of London’s top attractions and a little less of a crush on the tube! If you are happy to wrap up and brave the cooler weather, then the start of the year could be the best time to visit the capital.

Every season offers something beautiful to see in the Royal Parks and winter is no exception. It may surprise you to know that London is actually home to over 5000 acres of quality green space… Not quite the concrete jungle some may imagine! There are many highlights of the parks that can only be discovered in winter like the frost-covered landscape with the grass crunching underfoot, the frozen transformation of the Sperpentine or even catching a glimpse of the first delicate green shoots emerging from their hibernation. So, take a detour from the busy metropolis and spend some time to enjoy what’s on offer, with self-guided tours available and winter warmer talks scheduled throughout the next few months. Whether you are visiting London for pleasure or business the Royal Parks can be enjoyed as a little break from London Life, plus it’s great for boosting physical and mental wellbeing!

Let’s face it though, we don’t always want to be outside when it’s cold… Sometimes you just want to be appreciating the warm surroundings of a cosy café, or restaurant as you tuck into a culinary delight. London offers a huge selection of eateries to choose from for a variety of budgets. Some of which have transformed their roof terraces offering fireplaces, faux fur, creative cocktails and stunning views of London, so you can enjoy the outside but also keep warm – perfect!

The Washington Hotel Mayfair is the best hotel to plan your next London trip. You will find everything you need to enjoy your stay to the full whether you are travelling for business or for leisure with a large selection of rooms and suites available to add a little luxury to your stay. We would love to welcome you this Winter to The Washington Mayfair so take a look and book your London Adventure today.

A Showstopping Start to 2023

Start your 2023 the right way and immerse yourself in culture, history and jaw-dropping performances in London’s iconic West End.

Just a short journey from The Washington Mayfair hotel, lies arguably the most magical area of London, where you can be transported to another world of drama and suspense. Hosting a huge selection of West End theatres showing London’s top musicals and productions – you will be spoilt for choice!

Many would agree that there is something extra special seeing real-life performances acted out in front of you, watching the raw emotion of the actors and sharing this moment with the people around you. In this blog we look at six top West End performances to see at the start of 2023.

The Phantom of the Opera

Playing at Her Majesty’s Theatre, this haunting story of love and jealousy has been a favourite performance of many west-end goers. Based on a 1910 novel by Gaston Leroux, Phantom tells the story of a young soprano who becomes the subject of a musical genius’ obsession. Containing the iconic tracks, Music of the Night, All I Ask of You, Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again and Masquerade.

Mamma Mia

Sing along to the widely popular tunes of Abba in this stunning performance playing at the Novello Theatre. Follow the story of a young woman planning her wedding day as she searches for her father to give her away. Laugh and cry along on this journey of discovery

Hamilton

Playing at the Victoria Palace Theatre, immerse yourself in American history as you see Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the USA, brought to life in a delightfully modern way. Take the twists and turns of his interesting life accompanied by catchy tunes and a talented cast.

Back to the Future The Musical

Winner of Best New Musical 2022, Back to the Future The Musical brings the Hollywood blockbuster to life in a unique performance that you won’t want to miss. Playing at the Adelphi Theatre, join Marty Mcfly and Doc Brown as they change the course of history!

Matilda

Take a trip down memory lane and jump into Roald Dahl’s beloved novel Matilda. The Royal Shakespeare Company bring the story of this extraordinary little girl to life, with a beautiful soundtrack written by Tim Minchin. Playing at the Cambridge Theatre.

The Mousetrap

Holding the title of longest-running play in the world, The Mousetrap continues to entertain audiences in the West End. Join a group of seven strangers as they are snowed in together at a house in the country. Will you guess ‘whodunnit’ in this Agatha Christie Murder Mystery, playing at St.Martin’s Theatre?

These are only a few of the shows on offer in London’s West End, you can see the whole catalogue here at Official London Theatre. Why not book a London hotel stay and show so you can really make the most of your London trip. The Washington Mayfair is perfectly located to enjoy all the delights of the West End. We have a whole range of rooms and suites to suit all our guests needs, plus special offers when you book direct!

Luxury Shopping in Mayfair

Mayfair is home to a unique shopping experience that you won’t find anywhere else in London. With delightfully British streets offering designer goods and finery’s that one might only dream of owning, there is something truly special about seeing such luxury all in one place.

Bond Street is renowned as the go-to street for London’s opulence. Where Jewellery stores offer exclusive designs and rare stones, and the fashion is only the best. This special street is regularly frequented by the rich and famous and home to huge fashion names like Chanel, Gucci and Hermès. In fact, Bond Street is known to have the highest concentration of haute couture stores in Europe!

A short walk from Bond Street, is another must-shop destination – Mount Street. A slightly lesser-known gem but no less dripping in luxury fashion and art. Hosting more big brand boutiques like Christian Louboutin and Jenny Packham, it showcases a perfect combination of modern shop fronts and Victorian architecture. Just don’t forget to let your mouth water over the beautiful pastries on offer in Pastricceria Marchesi. Indulge in a little slice of Milan and taste its skilfully made specialities using only the highest quality ingredients. You’re sure to find a treat on one of the original shopping streets in London!

No Mayfair trip would be complete without a visit to Burlington Arcade. The Uk’s oldest and longest shopping arcade. Yet again, a lovely opportunity to combine some history and architecture with a splash of retail therapy. You can even book a tour with one of the ‘Beadles’ who, donned in their Victorian inspired uniforms, uphold the peace within the arcade. So no running allowed! The Beadles are known as one of the smallest private guards in the UK – You can’t help but be surrounded in British culture.

For the next few months, a London shopping experience will be even more magical. The nights will be illuminated by thousands of sparkling lights. Bond Street’s decorations will be a little different this year and have been designed to celebrate the British Monarch. With inspiration taken from the Jubilee and the iconic crown jewels. So, you can be sure to expect crowns, necklaces, and tiaras aplenty. Creating all the glitz and glamour will be over 90 000 twinkling LEDS!

Once you’ve shopped, you’ll need somewhere to drop! Come and take a load off your feet and admire all your new purchases at The Washington Mayfair Hotel. Our cosy hotel rooms are situated in Mayfair only a short distance away from Bond Street and Burlington Arcade, so it makes the perfect destination to stay. Visit our website to book your stay and receive some special rewards if you book directly, as a little thank you from us. We hope you enjoy visiting this luxury area of London, our only advice… don’t spend too much!

Autumn Has Arrived in London

Do you love Autumn? For many it is their favourite season. Stunning colours, comfier clothes, and steamy hot chocolates aplenty. There’s no better place to enjoy this special season then amongst the hustle and bustle of London. Even the darker nights offer a special opportunity to enjoy a magical side of the capital, as it is illuminated against the dark sky.

We feel that the best London trips start and end in Mayfair. With upmarket shopping areas, exclusive hotels and elegant abodes, there’s no wonder why this area is favoured by the rich and famous. Our hotel – The Washington Mayfair, is conveniently placed right in the heart of this elite district. To really enjoy autumn to the full, why not take a moment out from city-life and take a stroll over to one of London’s Royal Parks. Inhale all the delights of Autumn as you take a trip through Green Park which connects Mayfair to the iconic Buckingham Palace. You may even get a glimpse of the new King!

Not too far from Mayfair, across the Thames is the Southbank Centre which, this month of October, is hosting the London Literature Festival. In its 15th edition this festival celebrates the written and spoken word with a series of planned events between the 20th and 30th of October. Masterclasses, activities, and talks are available now to book.

The Southbank Centre offers beautiful riverside views, plus the opportunity to see some of the many bridges that cross the Thames River. Back in 2021 the bridges in London became part of the World’s largest public art commission. Entitled ‘Illuminated River’, nine bridges are uniquely lit in a delightful display. This time of year offers the best opportunity to see the work in all its twinkly glory.

An alternative way to see the illuminations is by taking a relaxing river cruise. Bateaux London runs dining cruise experiences which take you along the Thames at night, passing some of London’s top landmarks like the London Eye and Big Ben. With freshly prepared meals and entertainment on-board it is the perfect way to enjoy an autumn evening in London.

With other exciting events planned over the next few months including fireworks displays, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and Oktoberfest. You will be spoilt for choice when planning what to do in London. For a hotel that ticks all your boxes and is perfectly located to enjoy all the fun, why not stay at The Washington Mayfair Hotel? We offer a variety of luxury rooms and suites to suit whatever your needs. Take a look at our special offers available here. We hope you have a fabulous Autumn in London!

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Category: what to do