Mayfair is a stunning area of London with plenty of photo-worthy spots—whether you’re taking pictures for social media, for the art of photography, or a combination of both. Mayfair is home to historic buildings, inviting parks, unique eateries, and abandoned sites that perfectly set the scene for a photoshoot. Among the plethora of scenic locations, these eight stand out as the most photogenic.
1. Burlington Arcade
Established in 1819, Burlington Arcade remains one of Britain’s oldest covered shopping arcades and has earned a reputation for being a beautiful building and a place to shop for luxurious items. The tall ceilings, skylights, boutique windows, and ornate detailing from floor to ceiling leave no shortage of elements to photograph. The aesthetic, described as ‘quintessentially British’, also serves as an interesting and dynamic backdrop for taking candid photos of people.
2. Sketch
One element takes hold of your vision when you step into The Gallery dining room of Sketch: the exceptional use of pink. From the pink ceiling and walls to pink velvet-upholstered chairs and floor tiles, it’s an eye-catching element that has helped Sketch become a popular attraction for bloggers, foodies, and photographers. You don’t have to enjoy the colour to appreciate its effect in creating an impressive interior.
Adding to the allure of Sketch isn’t just the pink dining space. The restaurant has four other dining and lounge spaces, each with an awe-inspiring and unique decor. Even the restrooms here are said to be photo-worthy! Because this is such a popular place, you’ll need a reservation to take photos and indulge in the three Michelin-star-rated food.
3. Down Street
Down Street is richer in history and more traditional than Sketch, but it’s not the historic architecture of the street that makes this site so photogenic; it’s what can be found below the street.
Beneath Down Street is a decommissioned subway station that’s a fascinating subject for moody and artistic photography styles. The abandoned space has old fading signs, a labyrinth of subway tracks and tunnels, and exposed machinery that has a unique draw for photographers inspired by forgotten corners of urban life.
4. The Palm Beach Casino
Heading out for a night of games, delicious food, and drinks sounds perfect, and at The Palm Beach Casino, you get that and more. The casino also offers plenty to photograph and luxurious backdrops for selfies and portraits. Each area of the casino, from the dining room to the gaming floor, is stunningly styled with upscale finishes and furnishings. Adding to the beauty of the space are the exquisitely presented food and cocktails that are ideal photo subjects with an Instagram-worthy aesthetic.
The exterior is just as refined and luxurious, alluding to the beauty you’ll find inside, so even if you can’t get in the door, you’ll still find something to photograph. If you had your heart set on placing a wager or two, you could always opt for an online option with a vast array of slots UK to choose from instead.
5. Grosvenor Square
The pairing of historic buildings, gardens, and greenery at Grosvenor Square creates an inspiring combination. It’s an ideal setting for photographers passionate about landscape and urban photography. The combination also creates a picturesque backdrop that makes the square an ideal setting for photography sessions with your partner, friends, or family—whether you’re taking the photos yourself or hiring a professional.
6. Royal Academy of Arts
The Royal Academy of Arts (RA) has been operating since 1768, and the building that houses its operations is nothing short of impressive from the inside out. It incorporates two-sided staircases with open views to the floors above and expansive rounded arches and columns. It has a grand, regal look that translates well into photos.
Alongside the character and style of the building are plenty of art exhibits and sculptures. The RA is also home to classic red telephone booths, an iconic feature of Britain that is always inspiring to photograph or pose with.
7. The Dorchester
The renowned London hotel The Dorchester sets itself apart in the Mayfair neighbourhood with its polished and refined atmosphere. The five-star hotel was established in 1931 and has maintained its sense of elegance ever since. Its opulence comes through to create an incredibly photo-friendly setting.
You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to snap a few photos there. The Dorchester has many dining amenities where you can make reservations, like their Afternoon Tea room with picture-perfect sandwiches and cakes, The Promenade fine dining dinner space drenched with elegance, and the glamorous Artist Bar with crystal chandeliers. Regardless of the space you indulge in, the grandeur of The Dorchester emanates from each one.
8. Fortnum & Mason
The Fortnum & Mason department store has operated since 1707, and this long history has seeped into its charm. It has a reputation for delivering beautiful product displays and for being particularly charming during the Christmas season. Regardless of the season, Fortnum & Mason offers visitors a visually pleasing experience throughout the entire building. While the product displays never fail to impress, neither do the food and drinks and the comfortable and stylish lounge spaces. It’s an enjoyable place to stop to take photos and shop until you drop.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for photo opportunities, Mayfair is sure to deliver. It offers everything from glamorous store displays and inviting green spaces to abandoned places with eerie charm. And with so many photogenic spots in Mayfair, you only have to worry about figuring out when to go!
