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Category: what to do

Celebrate The Queen’s Birthday: What To Do In Mayfair & London

Loved across the empire and world, Queen Elizabeth II is a true icon and this year will be extra special for her fans as she will be celebrating her 90th birthday. As the longest-reigning monarch in British history it is only fitting for London to offer exclusive and exciting events in the run up to and on the Queen’s birthday. As the Queen actually celebrates her birthday twice a year we have prepared a brief guide to make sure to don’t miss the best events.

Why 2 Birthdays?

Official celebrations for Kings and Queens have often been held on a day different from their birthday and this is true of Queen Elizabeth II with her actual birthday on April 21st, and again on a Saturday in June. This is more common for those who weren’t born in the summer as this would allow them to enjoy the summer weather as part of their birthday celebration.

When is Britain Celebrating?

Britain will be hosting events from her actual birthday date right through to her summer birthday celebration. Nevertheless, the main celebrations and biggest events will be put on nearer to the time of her summer celebration. For the best chance of enjoying these make sure you are in London during the month of June. Celebrate with a luxury stay in exclusive Mayfair at the Washington Mayfair hotel.

What Events Are Happening?

Many events are still working out the final details on but below is a basic schedule of when some unmissable events will be happening.

May 12 – 15 2016

The Queen’s 90th Birthday Celebration will be a 90 minute long spectacular

  • 900 Horses
  • 1,500+ Riders
  • Spectacular performers + much more

June 10 2016

A Friday service will be held at St Pauls Cathedral. This is the start of a weekend of celebrations for both the Queen’s 90th and The Duke of Edinburgh’s unofficial 95th birthday. Unfortunately the congregation will be made up of only special guests (invite only).

June 11 2016

Trooping the Colour (The Queen’s Birthday Parade)

During this event the Queen has the chance to inspect and judge each soldier from the household division. If you aren’t able to make it to London this day BBC will be televising the event from 10am. However if you have the chance to be near the Buckingham Palace this day you could see the Royal Family travelling to and from Buckingham Palace throughout the day in their Carriages.

June 12 2016

The Patrons Lunch

This huge event is an immense street party for 10,000 guests eating a picnic and being entertained by dozens of street performers and circus acts, find out how to get involved here.

Take advantage of the great offers we have available to you when you stay in London with us.

Find our latest offers here.

What To Do This April In London

Easter has ended and a new month begins. London will be hosting a vast number of exciting and captivating events this April. The Washington Mayfair is a hotel that offers a perfect location to stay when visiting London. We also have some great suggestions on the top places to be each month. April is the month of the London Marathon, Circus Fest and so much more.

Live On Tour 2016

German-born composer Hans Zimmer is known as one of Hollywood’s most innovative musical talents. He has written and co-written over 100 soundtracks dating back to 1982 whilst being nominated for over 20 awards. Some film titles he has scored for include Rain Man, Da Vinci Code and many more classics. Having the chance to bear witness to this musical genius would be an opportunity of a lifetime. So don’t miss out by getting tickets to see Hans Zimmer live at the Wembley Arena either the 6 or 7th of April.

Paint the Gardens

Who knew that gardens played such a pivotal part of the evolution of art. This April the Royal Academy of Arts will be hosting “Painting the Modern Garden” for the last month. Using Monet as a starting point, this landmark exhibition examines the role gardens have played in the evolution of art starting in the early 1860’s through to the 1920’s. Experience some of the most important Impressionist, Post-Impressionist and Avant-Garde artists of the early twentieth century. Ending on the 20th of April you should book your tickets today as this exhibit is proving to be very popular with both residents and tourists.

A Birthday Fit for a Queen

April 21st 2016 will mark the 90th birthday of the British Monarch. This is will be the first ever time that a reigning monarch will have reached the age of 90. Many events will be taking place not just in April but all the way through till June. Make sure you stay in a luxurious location when coming for the Queen’s birthday. The Washington Mayfair offers a beautiful and prestigious hotel in the finest location.

Be sure to wine and dine in Mayfair at the delicious Madison’s Restaurant. At the Washington Mayfair we can provide all of our guests with offers towards their dining experience. Find out more here. Afternoon tea has been part of our tradition at the Washington Mayfair since the hotel opened in 1913. Found out how you can get complimentary champagne here.

What To Do In Mayfair This February

With 2016 being a leap year you have one more day this February to explore the best of London. With a number of great events planned for February here are our top 2 picks:

Chinese New Year

You don’t have to be Chinese to enjoy the party this New Years. London hosts the largest Chinese New Year celebration in the world so make sure you are in London on Monday, February 8th.

This great festivity is held in and around Chinatown to encourage a more traditional and energetic atmosphere. The Chinese believe that by wearing red when entering the New Year it will bring good luck. Get into the spirit of Chinese New Year by wearing something red.

This year is the Year of the Monkey. This means anyone born this year is gregarious, intelligent and witty as decreed by the Chinese zodiac. However the year of the monkey also includes people born in 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, or 2004.

Valentine’s Day 2016

Cards and flowers for Valentine’s Day are an easy but slightly boring option. Spice up your Valentine’s Day with with a truly unforgettable gift. Show just how much a that special person means to you with a trip to luxurious Mayfair London.

With so much to do and see, London is the perfect place to spend Valentines this February. Visit the many cocktail bars for a romantic drink in relaxed atmosphere. Alternatively treat your loved one to the finest dining in exclusive restaurants or plan a day to pamper yourself with a spa experience.

Spark the Valentine’s Day passion by staying at The Washington Mayfair.

At The Washington Mayfair we strive to achieve excellence in luxury and finesse. We offer a great location that is at the heart of Mayfair. With quick access to the whole of London via Taxi or tube London is just outside your room at The Washington Mayfair.

Be sure to book your stay now with the “Winter Warmer” special offer and experience winter in London’s Luxury Quarter.

Round out your day in London with a extra special treat. Enjoy a real British tradition with sumptuous afternoon tea at the Washington Mayfair.

What To Do This January In London

January is the perfect time to forget about the stress of Christmas and plan your trip to London. With so much going on in London this January here are some helpful tips on the must see events and experiences.

New Year’s Parade

London will be hosting a magnificent parade on New Year’s Day at 12 noon. The Parade will be made up of huge floats and balloons perfect for families to enjoy and be part of this London tradition that started in 1987.

The London New Year’s Parade will travel between The Ritz London and Big Ben. The Washington Mayfair is the ideal choice of hotel as it would allow you to be away from the crowds on and around the days of the parade but just 30mins from the attraction.

Elvis is back?

This Winter “The King” has arrived at the O2 arena, London. From now until the 10th January take the opportunity to visit the King and experience his life. Look back on the chronicle of his life and how he became the ‘King’ of rock ‘n’ roll.

The exhibition will also showcase over 300 artefacts direct from the Presley family’s treasured Graceland Archives, some of which have never been exhibited outside of Graceland in Memphis. This will be the largest exhibition of Elvis Presley ever displayed in Europe so be sure you don’t miss out on this amazing experience and book tickets soon.

Lumiere London

From the 14th to the 17th January, two areas of London will be illuminated with magnificent lights and illuminated buildings. Lumiere London 2016 is spread across the West End and King’s Cross and offers a unique opportunity to experience London in a unique and beautiful light.

This is a completely free event and shouldn’t be missed. Visit the event’s website to download a map showing you the locations and dates of the exhibits.

A Night to Remember

On the 25th of January it is Burns Night. While Burns Night is commonly celebrated in Scotland it has become more of an annual celebration outside of Scotland. This lively night celebrates the famous Scottish Poet (Robert Burns) who died in 1796. The night is filled drinking, dancing and energetic music that is sure to uplift anyone and instill joy and laughter.

Many pubs in London are offering deals, music and a great atmosphere to fully experience the night and this great Scottish tradition.

Make the most of your trip to London with the Winter Warmer offer from The Washington Mayfair hotel. To find out more about this limited time offer click here.

There is nothing quite like a delicious afternoon to round out your London experience. Don’t miss out on our fantastic Mayfair afternoon tea offer. Upgrade for free to the champagne afternoon tea. Find out how here.

The Top Christmas Activities In Mayfair & London

The British winter is well known for being long, dark and cold. The best antidote to the winter blues is to visit London during the winter months. London in the winter really comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. The festive cheer in the air and the huge array of world renowned shops such as Harrods make London a great place to spend your winter.

The Best London Christmas Shopping

Usually Christmas shopping can seem like a chore because you never know exactly what to get everyone and once you think of something you can never find it. In London you will find the inspiration to find that special gift with an endless selection of gifts at the best prices.

Harrods

Relocated to Knightsbridge in 1849, Harrods is one of the oldest department stores in London. Here you can find luxury and rare items as well as everyday essentials.  With its truly awe-inspiring range of products all available under one roof, Harrods has to be visited at least once in your lifetime.

Harrods isn’t the only place to shop in London, with thousands of both chain and independent retailers across London so be adventurous and you will find the perfect gift.

Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park

Only a 20 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Winter Wonderland is a magical place for both children and adults. Ice rinks, Ice Kingdoms, a variety of circus shows, a fair ground and so much more can all be found in Hyde Park from the 20th November to the 3rd of January. It is truly the epitome of the winter fair and will be an instant hits with parents and kids.

The Washington Hotel is now offering ‘A Christmas Break’ special offer on rooms and included luxuries. Spoil your loved ones with our extra special Christmas offer. Find out more here.

Regent Street August 2015 Food Festival

Embark on a culinary voyage of discovery this August with the Regent Street August Food festival. Sample some of the very best in fine dining in London. Get your wristband and explore the variety of offers, amazing cocktails and gastronomic treats on offer at the finest Regent Street bars, restaurants & hotels.

The Washington Mayfair is a casual stroll away from the Regent Street August Food festival and offers its own selection of fine dining and accommodation options. For the summer we have some tempting accommodation specials so that you can get the best Regent Street August Food festival expereince.

4th Night Free Offer

Enjoy London this summer with our amazing summer deal. Stay four nights and only pay for three.

Rate includes VAT and WIFI access. Discount applied to nightly rate at time of booking. Full Prepayment required. Non-Cancellable, Non-Refundable. Subject to availability

Click Here To Book Now & Save

Summer Breakfast Offer

Celebrate summer in London with our great website only flexible rate.

Enjoy a complimentary Full English Buffet breakfast when booking this special offer. Rate includes VAT, Full English Breakfast and WIFI access. Free upgrade to next room category subject to availability.

Click Here To Book Now & Save

Experience London’s Parks This Summer

London’s Parks offer a calm oasis in amongst the hustle and bustle of the city and in the summer they really come alive. Washington Mayfair enjoys an ideal location to enjoy some of the best London parks so here is a brief guide to get the most out of London’s Parks this summer.

London parks mapJust a few moments from Washington Mayfair Hotel lie Hyde Park, Green Park and St James’s Park. Each have their own unique character and host different summer events.

What To Do In Hyde Park This Summer

Hyde Park is one of the largest London parks and offers a large number attractions to enjoy. This is best done on a bicycle so why not hire a Boris or other bike and whizz along the the pathways that criss-cross the various green spaces. Stop at The Serpentine and admire the beautiful white swans. Take a dip at Lansbury’s Lido or if you don’t fancy the idea of getting wet hire a rowing boat.

Pack or buy a pre-packed picnic and bring along a blanket to enjoy in the cool shade of the ancient trees of the Park. Be sure to visit Kensington Palace and Gardens at the western border of Hyde Park.

What To Do In Green Park This Summer

At the South Eastern corner of Hyde Park lies Green Park. The smallest London Park, Green Park borders Buckingham Palace and the Buckingham Palace Gardens. Green Park is perfect for picnics and very popular for sunbathing. Grab a deckchair and soak up the sun with Constitution Hill and Buckingham Palace in the background. Deck chairs are available for hire in Green Park from March through to October.

What To Do In St James’s Park This Summer

St James’s Park is the oldest London park and is at the heart of ceremonial London, providing the background for special pageants such as Trooping the Colour. Catch the Prudential Ride London on the 1st and 2nd August and the changing of the guard at 11:00am daily and 10:00am on Sundays outside the Horse Guard building.

Washington Mayfair is located in Curzon Street which mean these 3 London parks are literally on the hotel’s doorstep.  The hotel offers 178 bedrooms and suites perfect for a summer stay in London. Speak to one of our staff about how to get the best out of the nearby London parks.

Lets hold thumbs from some sizzling summer weather and enjoy the best of London’s parks!

Afternoon Tea In Mayfair, London

For many surviving a day without coffee is a step too far but with our traditional English afternoon tea selection you will scarcely have a chance to miss it. The traditional afternoon tea is thought to have been the idea of Ann Duchess of Bedford who created the concept of afternoon tea to stave of the hunger pangs between lunch and dinner. Mayfair is well known as one the best places in London to enjoy a sumptuous afternoon tea and so why not round off a day of shopping or sightseeing in the local area with a traditional afternoon tea in Mayfair at Madison’s.  Choose from a selection of delicious sandwiches and warm scones with Cornish clotted cream and preserves. Top this all off with a choice of freshly baked pastries served with the infusion of your choice or a classic pot of English tea.

For the ultimate luxury afternoon tea, spoil yourself with a glass of chilled Louis Dornier Champagne with our champagne afternoon tea. Seasonal and themed Afternoon Tea menus are also on offer throughout the year.

Afternoon Tea Special Offer

For a limited time if you email us on info@washington-mayfair.co.uk and mention that you have seen the promotion on our website, we will upgrade your Mayfair Afternoon Tea to the Champagne Afternoon Tea for no extra charge!