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Tag: Royal Parks

Winter in London 2024/2025 – A Season to Remember

We’re already seeing signs of winter arriving early in London! It doesn’t have to be all depressing though, we can beat those winter blues and make winter 2024/25 a season to remember. The days may be colder, but the city is coming alive with activities and events planned across the next few months. There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for a quieter London break with less queues or to visit over the holiday period and enjoy the hustle and bustle of people in the capital. Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Washington Hotel offers a sophisticated retreat with prime access to some of the capital’s most enchanting winter activities.

Winter in London is a time of magical moments, unique to this time is the addition of pop-up outdoor ice rinks. Some of these most popular rinks are back in 2024 for another year:

  • Somerset House Ice Rink: A stunning neoclassical backdrop makes this a must-visit.
  • Canary Wharf Ice Rink: Glide beneath a canopy of twinkling lights in the heart of London’s financial district.
  • Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink: Skate in a historic setting steeped in Tudor charm.

With the largest of these being the Hyde Park ice rink located inside its annual Winter Wonderland. Open from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025 this massive attraction offers skating to live music from the band stand plus a whole host of other activities such as food markets, fairground rides and games. It’s basically a huge winter playground.

Mayfair is brimming with cultural and leisure opportunities for the colder months. Film enthusiasts can enjoy a cosy evening at the Curzon Mayfair Cinema, known for its history, art deco interior and a carefully curated selection of films, from the latest releases to indie gems.

The Royal Academy of Arts is just around the corner from The Washington Mayfair and features thought-provoking exhibitions, while the West End’s theatres light up with world-class performances. From live music to classic ballet performances like The Nutcracker, London’s cultural scene is vibrant and varied this season with something for everyone.

Now the nights are getting darker earlier you can explore the local Museums After Dark. Renowned institutions like the Natural History, Science and the Victoria & Albert Museum host after-hours tours, talks, and workshops, offering a new perspective on their fascinating collections and a more intimate museum experience.

Looking to take in all the London’s sights? Take an open-top bus tour to see the city’s landmarks, sparkling under the winter sky. From Buckingham Palace to Tower Bridge, you’ll witness a panorama of London’s iconic sights in all their glory.

Warm Up at The Washington Hotel

After a day of exploring, return to the warmth and luxury of The Washington Hotel. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, offering the perfect respite from the chilly London streets. Enhance your stay with a cheaper deal, book directly through our website to get a 10% discount on our best available rate, free English breakfast, plus cancel up to 3pm 24hrs prior to arrival without charge.

Plan your winter escape today and let The Washington Hotel be your home away from home in Mayfair.

The Best Way to Spend a Long Weekend in Mayfair, London

Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious and glamorous areas, is the perfect place to spend a long weekend. Situated in the heart of the city, Mayfair offers an elegant mix of history, luxury, and modern sophistication. 

When planning a long weekend getaway, Mayfair’s central location allows easy access to London’s most iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, and the bustling West End. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, or someone seeking relaxation in high-end surroundings, Mayfair caters to all interests. 

And where better to stay than The Washington Mayfair Hotel, a historic hotel that offers both comfort and style, while being just minutes from London’s most exciting attractions! Staying here gives you the chance to enjoy modern luxury in a classic setting, with easy access to everything Mayfair has to offer. 

Let’s explore the perfect itinerary for a long weekend in Mayfair, from Friday to Monday. 

Friday: Arrival!

Once you arrive in London, head straight to the Washington Mayfair Hotel. Check-in, freshen up, and drop off your bags ready to explore the local area. We recommend you take a stroll around the nearby Green Park or Hyde Park for some fresh air to completely unwind after your journey and get into holiday mode, whilst enjoying the beautiful scenery of London’s parks in autumn. 

For your first evening, take it easy. The hotel offers an excellent dining experience at Madison’s Restaurant, where you can enjoy a sumptuous dinner. The restaurant’s menu includes an eclectic blend of dishes from around the world, with special dishes available daily. The relaxing atmosphere and attentive service will set the tone for a wonderful weekend ahead. 

Saturday: Exploring Mayfair and Soho

After a restful night, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel (free if you book through our website!) before stepping out to explore Mayfair. Start your day by strolling along the historic streets of Mayfair and let yourself explore all the architectural points of interest and stories behind the buildings. Head on over to the area of Savile Row, famous for its bespoke tailors, and Bond Street, which is home to some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, from Chanel to Louis Vuitton. Also in the area is Burlington Arcade, opened in 1819 this is one of Britain’s earliest shopping arcades. This is a must-visit for those who love fashion, shopping and want to explore this exclusive area of Mayfair. 

For lunch, book a table at Sketch, an iconic Mayfair restaurant known for its unparalleled dining experience. Sketch is not just a place to eat, it’s a collection of uniquely designed spaces, each with its own specific ambiance and menu. There’s something for everyone. 

Aerial View of Mayfair

After lunch, venture into Soho, which is a short walk away. Soho is known for its vibrant atmosphere, boutique shops, and eclectic culture. Spend the afternoon exploring popping into independent shops and galleries. You can also visit Liberty London, an iconic department store with beautiful Tudor-style architecture. 

For dinner, you are spoilt for choice across the many restaurants and eateries that line Soho, try Chinatown for Asian delights or head through to the West End and Covent Garden. You could even book to see a theatre performance whilst near the West End before heading back to the hotel. Find out here what’s on in the West End for Autumn 2024 and book your West End tickets. 

Sunday: Art, History and Hyde Park

Sunday is the perfect day to soak in some culture. After breakfast, head to the Royal Academy of Arts, which often has outstanding exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists. Then, walk over to the Wallace Collection, housed in a stunning historic townhouse. This hidden gem features an incredible collection of world-sourced art, antiques, and armour. 

For lunch visit Mercato Mayfair a fun space to eat in a restored historical building, where you will find a wide variety of kitchens from around the world, all using locally sourced, fresh ingredients. 

In the afternoon, take a trip over to Hyde Park for a relaxing stroll or even rent a rowboat at The Serpentine (available until November). Hyde Park offers a lovely escape from the city’s hustle.  

For dinner, you could opt for something different by trying a Michelin-starred experience at Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, or a more casual evening in Cicchetti for Italian small plates. 

Monday: Brunch and Departure

Before heading home, take a final stroll through Mount Street to admire its beautiful Georgian architecture and boutique stores. Visit Fortnum & Mason, a historic department store known for its gourmet food and tea selection—perfect for picking up gifts before your departure. Then head on over to Buckingham Palace for a royal farewell, time your visit right to catch the changing of the guard ceremony, which will complete your weekend! 

With its blend of luxury, culture, and central location, Mayfair is the ultimate destination for a long weekend escape. We have just discussed a few options of how to spend a city break in Mayfair, London but there is plenty more to see and do, both in the location of Mayfair and further afield throughout London. Staying for 4 nights or more at The Washington Mayfair will get you 20% off your entire break with our Stay Longer Save More offer. Making it more than worthwhile to extend your break. View this offer and book your autumn 2024 London holiday today. 

Changing of the Guard