Washington Mayfair Hotel Blog

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN DECEMBER 2019

With lots of festive things to do, December is the most magical month to visit London. Here at the Washington Mayfair we want to guide you to the best activities, events and fun stuff happening in London throughout December 2019.

Get into the festive spirit during your December visit by experiencing some of London’s favourite seasonal activities: shop for handmade gifts and festive food at a charming Christmas market; go ice skating on one of the stunning outdoor ice rinks that pop up across the capital; enjoy carols and concerts accompanied by mulled wine and mince pies; and watch a Christmas pantomime, ballet or family show.

OPERATION SMILE CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT – 4th December 2019

Operation Smile UK has announced that the London Community Gospel Choir, the Fulham Children’s Choir and celebrity readers will be joining them at their annual Carols by Candlelight on Wednesday 4th December 2019 at 7pm at the Grosvenor Chapel, Mayfair. The event will see a number of readings and musical entertainment, followed by refreshment in the chapel. Tickets for the Carol Service are £20 for an adult (Under 16 go FREE) All tickets include seasonal refreshments. Book your tickets here. The Washington Mayfair Hotel is only few minute’s walk from the Grosvenor Chapel.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – until 5th January 2020

Only a 15 minutes’ walk from The Washington Hotel, is the extravagant Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. Get together with family and friends for a festive adventure in Hyde Park, with ice skating, fairground rides, big top shows, Christmas markets and seasonal food under sparkling Christmas lights. New attractions for 2019 include Marvel at the acrobatic wonders at Zippos Christmas Circus or Cirque Berserk and Paddington on Ice – The Grand Voyage.

CHRISTMAS AT ZSL LONDON ZOO – until 24 December 2019

Immerse yourself in the magic of ZSL London Zoo at Christmas as you step inside an igloo at the heart of the zoo to meet the man himself in Santa’s Grotto. It’s then time to journey around the zoo to discover more about its inhabitants. Get up close and personal with donkeys, camels and penguins, as they feast on their very own Christmas treats ahead of the big day. Also, relax and enjoy some time in front of the big screen at the Free Festive Film Screenings. Cosy up with tasty snacks and a hot drink and enjoy your favourite Christmas films. Tickets are free, but must be booked in advance with a valid zoo ticket or membership.

TOP ICE-SKATING RINKS IN LONDON

Covent Garden Ice Rink (until 26th December 2019)
Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Tower of London Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Winter Wonderland Ice Rink (until 5th January 2020)
Natural History Museum Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Somerset House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)
Queen’s House Ice Rink (until 12th January 2020)

CHRISTMAS PANTOMIME, BALLET AND FAMILY SHOW

English National Ballet’s Nutcracker at the London Coliseum – 11 Dec-5 Jan.

More than 100 dancers and musicians tell the story of a young girl’s Christmas adventure that begins in snowy Edwardian London.

Goldilocks and the Three Bears at the London Palladium – 7 Dec-12 Jan. 2020

This top Christmas panto in London includes Paul O’Grady, Matt Baker and Julian Clary, as Dame Betty Barnum and Goldilocks strive to save the beloved family circus.

Nativity! The Musical at the Eventim Apollo – 11-29 Dec. 2019

Based on the Christmas film series, this family-friendly stage adaptation features many of its catchy tunes, including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth and One Night One Moment.

The Snowman at the Peacock Theatre – until 5 Jan. 2020

Raymond Briggs’ Christmas story is filled with dance, storytelling and songs from the film, as the two friends embark on a magical adventure to the North Pole.

Mary Poppins at the Prince Edward Theatre – until 3 May 2020

Join Mary, Bert and the Banks family for a magical adventure this Christmas, and sing along to classic tunes including Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and a Spoonful of Sugar.

White Christmas musical at Dominion Theater – until 4 Jan. 2020

Catch a true classic with the stage production of the famous Bing Crosby film, White Christmas.

NEW YEAR’S EVE FIREWORKS – 31st December 2019

Hear Big Ben’s famous “bongs” ring out at midnight on New Year’s Eve in London, followed by the UK’s largest annual fireworks display over the Coca-Cola London Eye, presented by the Mayor of London. If you want to join in the celebrations on the night, you must have a ticket to attend.

Don’t miss our special packages:

Winter Wonderland – click and learn more

Winter Warmer – click and learn more

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN NOVEMBER 2019

November in London is brimming with fun and sparkles. There are plenty of things to do in November in London to make the most of the longer nights, or to warm up indoors. This month the city comes alive, illuminated with thousands upon thousands of dazzling Christmas lights. It is also the month of the London Jazz Festival, The Lord Mayor’s Show, Winter Wonderland, South Bank Wintertime, Hogwarts in the Snow and Christmas at Kew.

Here’s our pick of the best events and things to do in November during your stay with us!

BONFIRE NIGHT FIREWORK DISPLAYS IN LONDON – from 3 to 5 November 2019

Remember, remember the fifth of November……each year London marks the historic moment when Guy Fawkes and his motley crew attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and King James I in the Gunpowder Plot of 5 November 1605. The day became known as Guy Fawkes Day or more commonly Bonfire Night. The main firework action takes places on Sunday 5th November, but events will run before and afterwards. You can enjoy traditional Bonfire Night food and drink, alongside music, funfairs and family activities.

TUTANKHAMUM: TREASURES OF THE GOLDEN PHARAOH AT THE SAATCHI GALLERY – from 2 November to 3 May 2020

TUTANKHAMUN: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh presented by Viking Cruises at the Saatchi Gallery includes 150 artefacts – with 60 items being shown outside Egypt for the first time. The exhibition commemorates the 100th anniversary of the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, and is the final chance to see these glittering world heritage artefacts before they return to Egypt forever.
Explore the life of King Tutankhamun, and the storied discovery that captivated the world, through more than 150 authentic pieces from the tomb – three times the quantity that has travelled in previous exhibitions.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN LONDON – from 7 November to 5 January 2020

Nothing signifies the approach of Christmas more than the glow of seasonal street lights. From the shimmering lights on Oxford Street to the beautiful decorations illuminating Covent Garden, don’t miss the world-famous London Christmas lights as the city is gloriously decked out for Christmas. Here’s our list to when London’s festive lights are switched on in some of the capital’s biggest shopping destinations.

Carnaby Street (7th November)
Covent Garden (12th November)
Marylebone (13th November)
Regent Street (14th November)
Oxford Street (21st November)

THE LORD MAYOR’S SHOW IN THE CITY OF LONDON – 9 November 2019

Celebrate the new Lord Mayor as the spectacular procession winds its way between Bank and Aldwych for The Lord Mayor’s Show. The Lord Mayor’s Show dates back to 1215, when King John granted a charter allowing the citizens of London to elect their own mayor. Every year since, the newly elected Lord Mayor has travelled from the City of London to Westminster to pledge allegiance to the Crown. The procession kicks off at 11am from Mansion House with cadets, carriages, floats and bands moving through the streets, while festival zones at Paternoster Square and St Paul’s will see a funfair, archive film show, art installations and street theatre takeovers. Check the Lord Mayor Show event page for updates.

WINTER WONDERLAND IN HYDE PARK – from 21 November to 5th January 2020

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN OCTOBER 2019

London becomes a little colder in October as autumn splashes the city’s parks and gardens with a riot of autumnal colours, changing the vivid greens to warm coppers, golds and russet reds. But there’s plenty to see and do in London. Pop ups continue to offer food, booze and fun and there are tons of great autumn events to enjoy both indoors and out.

October in London is also the time of the London Film Festival, London Literary Festival, London Cocktail Week, Frieze London, and the city’s Diwali celebrations. While for sports fanatics the month holds the Six Day London and NFL London Games.

So why not come down and visit us at the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Our location is in the heart of London city and so offers a great location to stay when visiting this great city.

In this article we will be exploring some events and experiences that will be happening during the month of October in London. Happy October!

FRIEZE ART FAIRS IN REGENT’S PARK – From 3 to 6 October 2019

Explore two of the most influential events on the art scene in one place with the world-renowned Frieze London and Frieze Masters art fairs. Every year, Frieze hosts two incredible art fairs side by side in the Royal Park: Frieze London which showcases the best of contemporary art, and Frieze Masters which specialises in art from the past. Highlights of the sculpture trail include works by Carlos Amorales, Cecilia Bengolea, Shezad Dawood and Yasmin Jahan Nupur. You can also join a guided tour of the open-air display, or download the free Frieze Sculpture Audio Tour app, with descriptions of all the artworks on show.

LONDON OKTOBERFEST

3 – 6 October and 10 -12 October 2019 – Millwall Park, Canary Wharf

24 – 26 October 2019 – Olympia, West Kensington

London Oktoberfest is a cult event that you can’t miss. Millwall Park and Olympia are transformed into a gigantic Oktoberfest. The authentic German beer and food are part of the London Oktoberfest. The event attracts around 50,000 guests each year, with live music, long communal tables, staff dressed in dirndl and lederhosen and, of course, plenty of German beer and bratwurst. Admission is free on Thursdays and Sundays (and there’s a special family lunch on Sundays too), otherwise tickets start from £10 for general entry.

COCKTAIL WEEK – 4 – 13 October 2019

London Cocktail Week is an enormous celebration of our capital’s fantastic cocktail scene and the biggest event of it’s kind in the world. A £10 digital pass entitles you to £6 cocktails in many of the capital’s best bars all week across an elongated 10-day week (to celebrate the fact that it’s LCW’s 10th anniversary). It’ll also get you into the immersive ‘Cocktail Village’, which this year sits inside the Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane.

Madison’s Bar at the Washington Mayfair Hotel in celebration of Cocktail Week is offering 2 for 1 on all the cocktails from the cocktail list. Join us!

LEONARDO DA VINCI: A LIFE IN DRAWING AT THE QUEEN’S GALLERY, BUCKINGHAM PALACE – until 13 October 2019

Marking the 500th anniversary of the death of Leonardo da Vinci, the exhibition brings together more than 200 of the Renaissance master’s greatest drawings in the Royal Collection, forming the largest exhibition of Leonardo’s work in over 65 years. Drawing served as Leonardo’s laboratory, allowing him to work out his ideas on paper and search for the universal laws that he believed underpinned all of creation. The drawings by Leonardo in the Royal Collection have been together as a group since the artist’s death in 1519. Acquired during the reign of Charles II, they provide an unparalleled insight into the workings of Leonardo’s mind and reflect the full range of his interests, including painting, sculpture, architecture, anatomy, engineering, cartography, geology and botany.

CHOCOLATE WEEK – 14 – 20 October 2019

It’s the week you’ve all been waiting for: loosen those belt buckles, switch off your mobile phone and grab your best friends, because this week is all about enjoying the sweet life. Here there are few interesting facts about chocolate you might not know.

The first chocolate bar was invented by Joseph Fry in 1847.
The scientific name for the tree that chocolate comes from, Theobroma cacao, means “food of the gods’’, literally translates as ‘god drink’.
The Aztecs used chocolate as currency during the height of their civilisation.
There is a rare fourth kind of chocolate in addition to the classic milk, dark, and white varieties: blond chocolate.

Do you love chocolate? Below there is the list of the best chocolate shops near The Washington Mayfair Hotel.

Pierre Marcolini. Pierre Marcolini is one of the few chocolatiers to roast his cocoa beans himself. Address: 37 Marylebone High St, Marylebone, W1U 4QE
Paul A Young Fine Chocolates. Paul is the only chocolatier in London working in a truly artisan way. Address: 143 Wardour St, Soho, London W1F 8WA

Don’t forget to celebrate Chocolate Week with our special Mayfair Afternoon Tea served with a Chocolate dipped strawberries and hot baileys liqueur coffee at only £29.50 per person.

HALLOWEEN – 25 – 31 October 2019

London is steeped in history, and therefore home to countless ghost stories and gruesome, grisly tales: myths and urban legends as well as terrible, true facts. From haunted venues and bone-chilling attractions, to special Halloween tours and gripping family events, plan your Halloween in London with our roundup of gory ideas and horrifying activities.

Discover the dark secrets and gory history of London with The Ghost Bus Tours or a Tales of Plague guided walk.
Retrace the infamous murderer’s footsteps with Jack the Ripper Ghost Walks.
Go on an unnerving ghost hunt in London with Haunted Happenings or Fright Nights London.
Book tickets to The Woman in Black: one of the West End’s longest-running plays, this show will have you on the edge of your seat.
Catch a West End musical featuring monsters, witches and mysterious characters this Halloween, such as The Phantom of the Opera and Wicked.
Run for your life through the Covenant spaceship in Madame Tussaud’s Alien: Escape experience.
Discover the unnerving history of 19th-century surgery at the Old Operating Theatre Museum.
Get up close to some of the world’s most feared animals in London this Halloween, with Snorkelling with Sharks at SEA LIFE London aquarium and In with the Spiders at ZSL London Zoo.
Step into the menacing world of the Dark Arts as the Harry Potter sets get a Halloween makeover at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN SEPTEMBER 2019

London comes alive with an array of city-wide celebrations in September, many of which are free to attend. Autumn is already on our doorstep but the sky is still blue and the days are very warm.

September in London is the month of the Totally Thames festival, the annual London Design Festival, Open House London weekend when over 800 London buildings are opened to the public, London Fashion Week Festival and plenty of live music from On Blackheath.

Here’s our pick of the best events in London this September.

TOTALLY THAMES 2019 – from 1 to 30 September 2019

Totally Thames is an annual celebration of the River Thames with a creative and diverse programme that inspires, connects and enthrals. Walk along the Thames to see large-scale art installations, free exhibitions and live performances. Enjoy a concert below river-level or join an archaeological tour of the river’s surroundings. See boats of all sizes cruise down the river, or get on the water yourself with water sports and boat parties.

BBC PROMS IN THE PARK – 14 September 2019

Taking place on the closing night of the two-month classical music festival, this year’s main evening performance culminates with the traditional Last Night finale performed live on stage by the BBC Concert Orchestra. The Last Night of the Proms celebrations is hosted by Michael Ball in Hyde Park. The open-air concert celebrates the night with a host of stars from the worlds of classical music, rock and pop, choirs and musical theatre – nearly 150 performers in all!

LONDON DESIGN FESTIVAL – from 14 to 22 September 2019

Explore a range of creative installations and events celebrating contemporary design during the London Design Festival (LDF). The launch of the first Festival took place at Bloomberg on 25 March 2003, with a huge show of support from design, education, government and London organisations. 16 years later, this vision remains ever strong. During the festival, hundreds of large-scale installations, exhibitions and events pop up in many unique spaces across London, from world-famous museums to small local studios. The V&A is the hub of the London Design Festival, hosting a wide range of activities, from tours and workshops, to installations and exhibitions.

OPEN HOUSE LONDON – 21 and 22 September 2019

The annual Open House London weekend gives Londoners the chance to explore behind the closed doors of some of the capital’s biggest, most renowned and most secret venues for free. Enjoy free access to more than 800 public buildings, private houses, churches, museums, schools and offices, and join tours, guided walks and activities throughout the weekend. You can explore iconic buildings that are not usually open to the public, learn something new about more familiar spaces, and step into the private homes of the rich and famous. Highlights of the Open House London programme often include the BT Tower, The Gherkin, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, the Royal Albert Hall and Fuller’s Griffin Brewery.

LEONARDO DA VINCI: A LIFE IN DRAWING AT THE QUEEN’S GALLERY, BUCKINGHAM PALACE – until 13 October 2019

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN AUGUST 2019

August in London is teeming with fantastic events, cultural happenings and things to do. Enjoy the capital’s many outdoor and open-air activities to make the most of the warm summer days. Don’t forget to hit up Europe’s biggest street party Notting Hill Carnival or bag a seat at the BBC Proms at the Royal Albert Hall. Furthermore London hosts family-friendly attractions to keep children entertained during the school summer holidays. Travelling solo? Don’t worry! It’s plenty of things to do and even more to see in London. Main football season starts in August. Soak up the atmosphere at one of the capital’s football clubs.
We have carefully chosen the events to make sure you have a wonderful time in London while staying at The Washington Mayfair Hotel.

PRUDENTIAL RIDELONDON FREECYCLE – 3 August 2019

Get together with family and friends to cycle on traffic-free central London roads for free, with Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle. The route features many of the capital’s world-famous landmarks, from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament and St Paul’s Cathedral. London’s greatest sights create an inspiring backdrop for a memorable day of cycling. The event, which attracted tens of thousands of cyclists in 2018, returns again as part of the wider Prudential RideLondon festival of cycling.

FILM4 SUMMER SCREEN AT SOMERSET HOUSE – from 8 to 21 August 2019

Watch modern and classic movies under the stars at gorgeous Somerset House this summer. Last year, the open-air film festival presented a mixed programme of UK premieres, old favourites and Cannes award-winning films in full surround sound, as well as DJ sets inspired by the films and special guest introductions. Films start at 9pm, but doors open at 6.30pm. Arriving early you can enjoy a picnic listening the DJ playing music inspired by the film.

NOTTING HILL CARNIVAL – 24-25-26 August 2019

Notting Hill Carnival, Europe’s biggest street festival, is a vivid spectacle representing London’s multicultural past and present. Elaborate floats and colourful costumed performers wind their way through the streets to the sound of steel bands and calypso music. Watch the carnival parade, join in the fun and visit the tempting food stalls at one of London’s biggest and best annual events. The Carnival celebrations take over the areas of Notting Hill, Ladbroke Grove and Westbourne Park.

BBC PROMS – until 14 September 2019

We have promised you that you would not get bored whenever you visit London. In couple of days after Wimbledon and British Summer Time Festival, The Royal Albert Hall and other venues are opening the doors to BBC Proms informal concerts of classical favourites, family concerts and contemporary world premieres. Proms founder Sir Henry Wood’s mission was to ‘bring the best classical music to the widest possible audience’. This year marks his 150^th birth anniversary. Mozart’s, Rachmaninov’s, Beethoven’s, Straus’s, Brahms’s, Tchaikovsky’s, Mendelssohn’s masterpieces will be played by leading musicians and orchestras from across the world. A late-night Prom will bring together some of the best sci-fi film music. CBeebies: A Musical Trip to the Moon demonstrates for young generation the power of dreaming big. The eight weeks of concerts culminate in the famous Last Night performances including BBC Proms in the Park, full of chanting and quirky traditions.

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – until 29 September 2019

Buckingham Palace is opening its doors to the public in the end of July every year. The iconic building is the official residence of the Queen. Delve into the States rooms to admire a grand place with the gilded ceilings and glittering chandeliers, the finest English and French furniture and breathtaking wall art. By the way, you will have a chance to see famous paintings of Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Poussin, Canaletto and Claude. Every year, Buckingham Palace’s summer opening features special exhibitions. The year 2019 marks 200 years since Queen Victoria’s birth so a special exhibition will tell the story of how the young queen transformed Buckingham Palace from a private house into a working royal residence. It is also the 50th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci’s death so another special exhibition in the palace brings together more than 200 of the Renaissance master’s greatest drawings in the Royal Collection, forming the largest exhibition of Leonardo’s work in over 65 years.

Have a great time and feel Royal at Buckingham Palace.

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL IN SOUTH BANK – until 29th September 2019

Enjoy a fun-packed festival of live entertainment and al-fresco eating and drinking at Underbelly Festival in South Bank. Stretching throughout the summer, the festival stages affordable circus, theatre, cabaret, comedy, music and children’s shows on the south bank of the Thames.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JULY 2019

Have you ever been to London in July? Don’t miss an opportunity to visit the capital in the one of the hottest months. Well, it was really hot last year. July is the perfect time to explore London’s outdoor attractions and open-air events, including some of the capital’s biggest music, sports and flower festivals. July events include Wimbledon, Pride in London, BBC Proms, BST Hyde Park, RideLondon and the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show.

Here’s our list to some of the best events and things do during your stay with us this July.

WIMBLEDON LAWN TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS – 1 to 14 July 2019

Experience two weeks of first-class tennis, served with strawberries and cream at the Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships. The first famous tennis tournament took place in Wimbledon in 19^th century. Since then The Championships, widely known as Wimbledon, have been hosted by the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. It’s the most watched event and it attracts thousands of people to watch live games at tennis courts and on big screens all over London.

Big screens to watch live games are within 10-15 minutes by taxi or minicab from our hotel.

BRITISH SUMMER TIME HYDE PARK – 5 – 14 July 2019

World-famous artists and rising stars take to the stage in the iconic Royal Park for 2 weekends of live music. Celine Dion is opening the Festival at the beautiful Hyde Park. Barbara Streisand with her famous song Memory, Stevie Wonder with his Song Party: A Celebration of Life and Love & Music, Lianne La Havas and Corinne Bailey Rae are the latest names to be added to the Stevie Wonder Song Party, with Lionel Richie as a special guest , Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Florence and Machine, The National and finally, Robbie Williams is closing The British Summer Time Festival. The Open House festival takes over during the week between the concerts with 4 days of live bands, street food, open-air cinema screenings and free summer activities.

TRAFFIC-FREE REGENT STREET – SUMMER STREETS – 14 July 2019

Enjoy the rare spectacle of a traffic-free street in zone one every Sunday in July, as Regent Street’s classy curve is pedestrianised from Oxford Circus all the way to Piccadilly Circus for a street party.A range of activities, entertainment, food and drink will be offered in place instead of the usual traffic. The event will enable Londoners and visitors alike to relax, unwind and enjoy this central London festival along one of the city’s most iconic streets. Summer Streets will see retailers, restaurants and businesses come together to offer the public memorable summer days out.

BBC PROMS – 19 July to 14 September 2019

BUCKINGHAM PALACE TOUR: SUMMER OPENING – from 22 July to 29 September 2019

Have a great time and feel Royal at Buckingham Palace.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN JUNE 2019

June is an exciting time to visit London. The city welcomes the warm weather and the events calendar is packed with the most famous royal events, as well as outdoor festivals, sports, free entertainment and more. In this month, make sure you explore London’s beautiful parks and green spaces, and stop by a pub with a beer garden or a rooftop bar to enjoy a drink outside on a sunny day.

Here at the Washington Mayfair Hotel, we have picked some of the greatest events to get you out when you stay with us on these warm summer days this June!

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL IN SOUTH BANK – until 29th September 2019

TROOPING THE COLOUR – 8th June 2019

Watch troops from the Household Division honour the Queen’s official birthday with a fantastic military parade that has taken place in London for two centuries. This impressive display of pageantry takes place on a Saturday in June by Her Majesty’s personal troops, the Household Division, on Horse Guards Parade, with Her Majesty the Queen herself attending and taking the salute. Over 1400 officers and men are on parade, together with two hundred horses. Over four hundred musicians from ten bands and corps of drums march and play as one. The parade route extends from Buckingham Palace along The Mall to Horse Guards Parade, Whitehall and back again. If you do not have tickets for the Trooping the Colour ceremony on Horse Guards Parade, you can join the crowds of spectators on the edge of St James’s Park overlooking Horse Guards Parade or along The Mall for the parade.

PRIDE IN LONDON – from 8th June to 6th July 2019

Every year thousands of people of all genders, sexualities, races and faiths come together for Pride in London. This celebrates the capital’s LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans) communities with a programme of events showcasing LGBT culture, including theatre, dance, art, cinema, parties and activities across the city. The month-long festival culminates in the colourful Pride in London Parade in central London, as well as free performances in Trafalgar Square and the West End. This year the parade takes place on 6 July. Join the celebrations to see more than 300 floats and groups performing, singing and dancing through the streets of London.

WEST END LIVE AT TRAFALGAR SQUARE – 22th and 23rd June 2019

Thousands of people gather in Trafalgar Square to enjoy performances from top West End shows for free. A firm favourite for over 10 years, West End Live showcases the best of London’s headline theatre shows for two days of fun, al fresco entertainment. The 2019 line-up for West End LIVE includes classic West End musicals Disney’s Aladdin, Mamma Mia!, The Phantom of the Opera, Les Misérables, Wicked and The Lion King, as well as newer shows Bat Out of Hell, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Chicago, Kinky Boots and Everybody’s Talking about Jamie.

RA SUMMER FESTIVAL AT THE MAYFAIR ART WEEKEND – from 30th to 1st June 2019

Mayfair Art Weekend features an extensive programme of exhibitions, events, talks and tours. Over 40 galleries, auction houses, leading fashion brands and restaurants in Mayfair and St. James’s will open their doors to the public, inviting culture seekers to explore the capital’s commercial galleries out of hours and engage with the world-class curatorial expertise on offer through a series of special events.

SUMMER AFTERNOON TEA AT THE WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL

Summertime Afternoon Tea with fresh strawberries & cream and a glass of Pimms.

Served on vintage china – two for the price of one – just £29.50 for two

Plus 12.5% service charge

Book now: +44 (0)207 499 7000

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN MAY 2019

Prepare yourself for a marvelous May in London. Spring is in full swing and London is in full bloom. Spend those sunny May days in London exploring the capital’s great outdoors or sinking a drink (or two) on one of London’s rooftop bars. May in London is also the month of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London Craft Week, London Wine Week and Museums at Night.

We’ve put together a list of event to keep you occupied during your stay with us!

MUSEUMS AT NIGHT – 15 – 18 May 2019

Museums at Night is the twice-yearly festival of Lates in museums and galleries, produced by Culture24, the Brighton-based arts charity dedicated to shining a light on Britain’s sparkling culture and heritage. Explore art, history and heritage after dark with Museums at Night events across more than 30 venues in London. Discover new exhibitions, take torch lit tours, enjoy live music in historic surroundings, and engage in a range of free and ticketed night-time activities.

REGENT’S PARK OPEN AIR THEATER – from 16 May to 21 September 2019

Spend the warm summer evenings watching theatre shows in an idyllic venue with the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre 2019 season.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Delight in this tale of fairy enchantment as four mismatched lovers escape to the forest in search of true love, 28 Jun-27 Jul.

Evita – Watch Eva Peron escape a life of poverty to become the first lady of Argentina in this hit musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, 2 Aug-21 Sep.

Our Town – Immerse yourself in the fictional American town of Grover’s Corners in this Pulitzer Prize-winning play from Thornton Wilder, 16 May-8 Jun.

Hansel and Gretel – Rediscover this classic fairytale as brother and sister, Hansel and Gretel try to escape from a wicked witch in Engelbert Humperdinck’s opera, 14-22 Jun.

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW – 21 – 25 May 2019

See the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea transformed with stunning horticultural displays for the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show. World-renowned garden designers, plant specialists, florists and nurseries come together every year to one of London’s most charming and affluent neighborhoods to show off cutting-edge garden designs and inspirational floral exhibits. Stroll through show-stopping and award-winning gardens. Discover rare flowers and plants, and creative floral artworks. Spot emerging gardening trends. And browse the horticultural products on sale, from gardening gadgets to sculptures and plants.

This year dozens of shops, restaurants and hotels will create under-the-sea-themed floral displays, along Sloane Street, Sloane Square, King’s Road, Duke of York Square and Pavilion Road. Enjoy the incredible designs at your leisure, or on a guided tours. There will be plenty of in-store promotions and flower-inspired menus to enjoy as well. Check back closer to the time for more information about Chelsea in Bloom 2019.

LEONARDO DA VINCI: A LIFE IN DRAWING AT THE QUEEN’S GALLERY, BUCKINGHAM PALACE – from 24 May to 13 October 2019

CHANGING THE GUARD AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

Changing the Guard, also known as Guard Mounting, takes place outside Buckingham Palace from 10.45am and lasts around 45 minutes, with the actual handover taking place at 11am. The Buckingham Palace Old Guard forms up in the palace’s forecourt from 10.30am and is joined by the St James’s Palace Old Guard at around 10.45am. The New Guard then arrives from Wellington Barracks and takes over the responsibilities of the Old Guard in a formal ceremony accompanied by music. The ceremony is free to watch and currently takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, weather permitting.

SUMMER PACKAGE AT THE WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL

Save with our Summer Sizzler promotion.

The promotion includes:

15% off our Best Flexible Rate
VAT included
Full English breakfast
Free Wi-Fi during your stay
15% off food & beverage when you have a meal in Madisons restaurant
Traditional Afternoon Tea – 2 for 1 in Madisons restaurant

Rate is subject to availability and on sale for stays between Monday 3rd June and Sunday 8th September 2019.

Full Prepayment Required – Secure Payment link will be sent upon confirmation. Once payment has been made booking will then be Non-Cancellable, Non-Refundable.

BOOK NOW

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN APRIL 2019

Its official! Spring has landed in London; Sunny warm weather is just around the corner. Enjoy free outdoor events in April in London, including the London Marathon, cultural celebrations and Easter activities. There’s a whole load of other London happenings, openings and pop-ups to get involved in. As every month, we’ve put together a list of events to keep you occupied during your stay with us!

UNDERBELLY FESTIVAL IN SOUTHBANK – from 5 April to 29 September 2019

EASTER WEEKEND IN LONDON – from 19 to 22 April 2019

From London Easter Egg hunts and interactive family attractions, to a spectacular Good Friday performance and traditional Easter Sunday lunch, find Easter activities and opening times in London. Keep the whole family entertained over the Easter holidays with the round-up of the best things to do during this Easter 2019 in London.

Watch a spectacular free performance of The Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square on Good Friday.
Join an Easter weekend service at one of London’s churches or cathedrals, including Westminster Abbey, St Paul’s Cathedral, St Martin-in-the-Fields and Southwark Cathedral.
Explore the Kensington Palace rooms and gardens during the Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt for delicious chocolatey prizes.
Go on an Easter egg hunt as you learn about London’s history at some of English Heritage’s properties, including Hampton Court Palace.
Get up close to wildlife at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo during the Easter holidays.
Enjoy a beautiful spring day out among the flowers at a top London garden.
Step into Harry Potter’s Forbidden Forest and meet its mystical creatures at Warner Bros. Studio Tour.
Treat the kids to one of London’s child-friendly shows, including The Lion Kingand School of Rock.
Hop down to Theatre Royal Haymarket to enter the magical world of Beatrix Potter in Where is Peter Rabbit.

THE BEST EVENTS IN LONDON IN MARCH 2019

Although the weather may still be quite cold, the first signs of spring appear in March in London. March in London is the month of Pancake Day, International Women’s Day, St Patrick’s Day and Mother’s Day. It’s also a good month to visit the Kensington Palace gardens, Kew Gardens or any of London’s other top gardens, as seas of crocuses and daffodils bloom across the capital. Here at The Washington Mayfair we will bring you the top things to do in London during March, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

PANCAKE DAY IN LONDON: 5^thMarch

Pancake Day takes place 47 days before Easter Sunday. This year is on Tuesday 5th March.

Treat yourself and join in the fun on Pancake Day in London. The Parliamentary Pancake Race is not running in 2019, but you can find other races across the city, such as the Flippin’ Good Pancake races at Greenwich Market. Take part at the annual charity Pancake Race on Tuesday 5th March and win a medal! Also, all the participants will get a free pancake. Do you want more information? Visit Greenwich Market website.

If you with us on Pancake Day order pancakes for breakfast. Our Chef makes some delicious pancakes! Enjoy!

ORCHIDS FESTIVAL AT KEW GARDENS – until 10 March

Escape the dreary winter with Kew’s annual festival of orchids. Through a spectacular ensemble of orchid-laden displays along a curated route, Kew Gardens are celebrating Colombia this year. The flagship display is a carnival of animals, depicting a toucan in flight, a hanging sloth and a swimming turtle. Kew Gardens brought to life the breath-taking rainbow river Caño Cristales and Colombia’s incredible forests – complete with life-sized jaguar! With a surprise around every corner, you’ll spot hundreds of colourful butterflies suspended from the glass ceiling and a floating golden-yellow display to honour the legend of El Dorado. For more information visit the official website.

ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL – 16-18 March

You don’t have to go to Ireland to enjoy the party atmosphere of St Patrick’s Day 2019, there’s plenty going on right here in London. The official holiday lands annually on March 17 (a Sunday in 2019), but this year the main London celebrations take place in Trafalgar Square on March 16-18.

Be amazed by flamboyant pageantry, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the UK, sports clubs and Irish dancing schools in the annual London St Patrick’s Day Parade. The procession sets off at midday from Piccadilly and makes its way along a 1.5-mile (2.4km) route, passing some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including The Ritz, Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square and onto Whitehall.

Join the St Patrick’s Day Festival, which takes place in Trafalgar Square between 12pm and 6pm. At this year’s three-day shindig, more than 125,000 revelers are expected to descend on Trafalgar Square for a lively parade of music and ceilidh dancing, plus plenty of things to do with the kids, from an Irish art exhibition and film festival to Irish walking tours.

ROYAL ACADEMY OF ARTS – BILL VIOLA / MICHELANGELO: LIFE, DEATH, REBIRTH REVIEW – until 31^st March

This exhibition pairs Bill Viola’s powerful installations with rarely-seen drawings by Michelangelo. Journey through the cycle of life in our immersive and unparalleled show. Viola’s large-scale video installations are likewise works of profound emotional impact. They combine sound and moving image to create absorbing works which slow us down and invite us to experience and reflect. These works are shown alongside Michelangelo drawings, which are on display in the UK for the first time in almost a decade. This exhibition, created in close collaboration with Bill Viola Studio, is a unique opportunity to experience two artists, born centuries apart, in a new light.

MAJOR PARKS IN LONDON

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful jogging route, a romantic spot to eat your sarnies, or simply somewhere to play catch with Fido, there’s a park that’s perfect for you.

Green Park (at only few minutes’ walk from the Washington Mayfair Hotel)

Green Park is a peaceful triangle of mature trees and grasslands and offers a quiet retreat from city life, right next to Buckingham Palace. Visit a range of memorials, fountains and statues and look out for Royal Gun Salutes when ceremonial guns are fired to mark special royal occasions.

Hyde Park (at only few minutes’ walk from the Washington Mayfair Hotel)

Take a leisurely stroll, zip around on a bicycle, row a boat or swim in the Serpentine at Hyde Park. Whichever way you choose to explore this huge and centrally located park, there’s plenty to see and do with more than 4,000 trees, a lake, a meadow, rose gardens and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.

James Park

St James’s Park includes The Mall and Horse Guards Parade, and is surrounded by landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, Clarence House and Whitehall. Enjoy impressive views of the lake and fountain from St James’s Café, watch the resident pelicans at feeding time, or while away a sunny afternoon in a deckchair.

Kensington Gardens

Take a stroll through this beautiful Royal Park in central London, home to Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, the Peter Pan Statue, beautiful flowers, green grass for picnics, and the Diana, Princess of Wales memorial playground.

Regent’s Park

Regent’s Park is teeming with attractions, ranging from the animal noises of the ZSL London Zoo to its enchanting Open Air Theatre. Various food and music festivals pitch up there over the summer and rowing boat hire, bandstands, beautiful rose gardens, tennis courts, ice cream stands and eateries complete the picture.

Holland Park

One of London’s finest green spaces, the park surrounds a Jacobean mansion, Holland House, named after its second owner, the Earl of Holland, whose wife (fun fact!) was the first person in England to successfully grow dahlias. They’re still grown within its 55 acres, which also houses the Japanese-style Kyoto Gardens with its koi carp and bridge at the foot of a waterfall. In summer, open-air theatre and opera are staged in the park.

CELEBRATE MOTHER’S DAY AT THE WASHINGTON MAYFAIR HOTEL

Say thank you to mummy by celebrating Mother’s Day in style at the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Relax and enjoy a blissful afternoon together over a glass of pink prosecco and an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, assorted pastries and of course your choice of freshly made tea or coffee.

Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea with a glass of Pink prosecco at £45 for two Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st March

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