Mayfair needs very little introduction. At the heart of London, it’s an exclusive and iconic neighbourhood known as the playground of the rich and famous.
But what does Mayfair offer for regular visitors and tourists? Here are five awesome things to try during an upcoming visit to one of London’s most famous areas.
Visit the Royal Academy of Arts
Located in Picadilly on the outskirts of Mayfair is the Royal Academy of Arts, located at Burlington House since 1768. You don’t have to be artsy to enjoy a visit to the Royal Academy, as it’s an awe-inspiring venue that has displayed work from some of the most iconic individuals of the past 250 years.
Given the cost of spending time in London (and Mayfair in particular), the fact that entrance to the Royal Academy is free is a huge bonus. Art lovers can browse the various displays from world-class exhibitions at the Academy and marvel at the history of one of Picadilly’s most iconic addresses.
Enjoy the Cartoon Museum
While Mayfair is known for its elegance and wealth, one of the most impressive attractions in this part of London is the Cartoon Museum, owned by the Cartoon Art Trust. You can browse more than 5,000 books and 4,000 comics, and the museum boasts an ever-changing display of 250 beautifully curated exhibits.
The idea behind the Cartoon Museum is to preserve the very best British cartoon artwork, and it’s a colourful and impressive venue in one of London’s most salubrious neighbourhoods. If you’re into artwork but don’t have the patience for abstract pieces or those open to complex interpretation, an afternoon at Mayfair’s Cartoon Museum could be precisely what you need.
Watch a movie at the Curzon
Rebuilt in 1966, the Curzon is undoubtedly Mayfair’s most iconic cinema. It’s one of the UK’s best-preserved cinemas of the post-war era and features stunning period design and a jaw-dropping 60s-style art-deco ceiling. The main auditorium has a quaint and intimate setup, and you can enjoy the action on an eleven-metre screen.
In terms of what’s on, you can watch the latest blockbuster movies and a range of art-house films. Before arriving in Mayfair, it’s a good idea to check the Curzon’s schedule and see what’s on during your visit. Booking tickets in advance is also a good idea, as this is one of London’s most popular cinematic experiences.
Head to the Palm Beach Casino
It’s fair to describe the Palm Beach as the most iconic casino in Mayfair. Open seven days a week, you can join Palm Beach for free and enjoy a wealth of slot machines and classic table games, getting your James Bond on in the process! Sip martinis and play baccarat at one of London’s hottest casinos to revel in the personality of Britain’s best-loved spy. You will have a heart-of-London experience that you will remember forever.
Palm Beach Casino is in the heart of Mayfair and has plenty of traditional table games, plus a poker room where you can test your skills at the best poker games. After enjoying the games of your choice, you can dine at the swanky Palm Beach restaurant or slip into the member’s bar for more cocktails. Even if you’re not an experienced gambler, a trip to the Palm Beach Casino should be high up on your Mayfair itinerary.
Sample street food at Mercato
When you think of eating at the heart of Mayfair, street food is perhaps the last thing on your mind, given the fine dining experiences that are customary in this part of London. However, located in an abandoned church at the heart of Mayfair is Mercato, a high-end street food experience that adds something new and exciting to the Mayfair dining scene.
A sibling to Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant & Castle, Mercato’s new venue in Mayfair serves up delicious eats ranging from doner kebabs to Japanese Juzu. Wash your meal down with champagne or craft beer for an iconic dining experience in Mayfair.
Recap
Mayfair is one of London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, and while you might not be able to afford to stay there, there are many things you can do in this part of London without breaking the bank. So, you’re now ready to plan your trip to Mayfair and experience the very best that this neighbourhood has to offer.
