Is Mayfair worth visiting for history fans?

Absolutely, Mayfair is rich in history ranging from 18th-century urban planning to 20th-century pop culture. You can see everything from the site of the original May Fair to the building where the Beatles played their last concert.

What is the best walking tour in Mayfair for architecture?

A self-guided route focusing on Berkeley Square and Savile Row is ideal. It highlights the transition from Georgian residential squares to the Art Deco luxury of hotels like Claridge's.

Can you walk through Burlington Arcade for free?

Yes, Burlington Arcade is a public thoroughfare during its opening hours. While the shops are high-end, anyone is welcome to walk through and admire the Regency architecture and the Beadles' traditional uniforms.

Where is the most haunted house in London?

The 'most haunted house' is widely considered to be 50 Berkeley Square. It is a key stop on this walk, known for 19th-century legends of a ghost that frightened residents to death.

Can I see tailors working on Savile Row?

Yes, many of the tailoring houses on Savile Row have basement workshops with large windows. Walking along the street allows you to see master craftsmen cutting and sewing bespoke suits.

Is this Mayfair walk suitable for families?

Yes, the walk is easy and flat, making it family-friendly. Children often enjoy the 'secret' feel of Shepherd Market and seeing the uniquely dressed Beadles at Burlington Arcade.

What is the best time of day for a Mayfair stroll?

The best time is a weekday afternoon between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. This ensures all the arcades and tailoring shops are open, and the area is buzzing with its characteristic professional energy.

Are there many hills on this walking route?

No, this is an easy-flat route. Mayfair is situated on a gentle plateau, so there are no significant inclines, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Mayfair stands as the ultimate symbol of London's prestige, a district where aristocratic history meets contemporary opulence. This self-guided walk invites you to uncover the layers of heritage tucked behind its exclusive facades. From the haunting legends of Berkeley Square to the hidden village atmosphere of Shepherd Market, this neighborhood stroll reveals a blend of grand architecture and social intrigue. You will explore the covered elegance of Burlington Arcade, where strict Victorian-era rules still apply, and the world-renowned tailoring heritage of Savile Row. This walking route London offers is perfect for those who appreciate fine design and the stories of the British elite. As you move from quiet green spaces to the bustling centers of luxury like Claridge's, you can explore Mayfair independently and at your own pace. Whether you are interested in the Art Deco glamour of the city's finest hotels or the historic site where The Beatles performed their final rooftop concert, this architectural journey provides a comprehensive look at London's most expensive real estate. This self-guided walk is an ideal way to experience the quiet elegance and hidden secrets that define the West End's most famous neighborhood. Discover the evolution of London's high society through its private squares and historic shopping corridors. This route ensures you see both the iconic landmarks and the lesser-known corners that many visitors miss. Experience the luxury of Mayfair without the constraints of a group, allowing the history of each square and storefront to unfold through your own discovery.

Highlights

The 18th-century plane trees and haunting legends of Berkeley Square

The charming, 'secret village' atmosphere of Shepherd Market

The historic Beadles and luxury boutiques of the Burlington Arcade

The grand architectural facade of the Royal Academy of Arts

The world-famous home of bespoke tailoring on Savile Row

The iconic Art Deco design and royal history of Claridge's

Tour Stops (6)

Berkeley Square

Begin your self-guided adventure in Berkeley Square, one of London's most famous addresses. Laid out in the mid-18th century, the square is renowned for its ancient London Plane trees, some of which date back to 1789. As you walk the perimeter, look for Number 50, which has long held the reputation of being the most haunted house in London, allegedly home to a nameless, terrifying spirit. The square transitioned from an aristocratic residential enclave to a hub of luxury commerce, now surrounded by high-end car showrooms and private members' clubs. It represents the quintessential Mayfair blend of natural beauty, historic mystery, and immense wealth.

Shepherd Market

Tucked away between Piccadilly and Curzon Street, Shepherd Market is a 'village' within Mayfair. This small square and its surrounding alleys were the original site of the 15-day May Fair, from which the entire district takes its name. Developed in the 1730s by Edward Shepherd, it features a maze of small shops, pubs, and restaurants that feel a world away from the grand boulevards nearby. In the 20th century, it was known as a bohemian haunt and a red-light district, but today it is one of the city's most charming and sought-after pockets for dining and boutique shopping.

Burlington Arcade

Step into the height of Regency elegance at Burlington Arcade. Opened in 1819 for the sale of jewelry and fancy articles of fashionable demand, it is one of the world's oldest shopping arcades. Notice the Beadles, the private police force in traditional top hats and frock coats who still patrol the corridor. They still enforce original rules, such as no whistling, singing, or running. The architecture is a masterpiece of light and symmetry, housing shops that specialize in vintage watches, rare perfumes, and luxury cashmere. It remains a vital link between the grand houses of Mayfair and the commercial energy of Piccadilly.

Royal Academy of Arts

Located in Burlington House, the Royal Academy of Arts is a unique institution led by prominent artists and architects. The building itself is an architectural treasure, a Palladian mansion that was significantly altered in the 19th century to house the Academy. As you approach the entrance, you will see the statue of Sir Joshua Reynolds, the Academy's first president. This site has been a center for British art since 1867, hosting the famous Summer Exhibition every year without fail. The courtyard offers a moment of grand neoclassical scale, reflecting the neighborhood's long-standing connection to high culture and fine arts.

Savile Row

Savile Row is synonymous with the world's finest bespoke tailoring. For over two centuries, this street has been the destination for kings, presidents, and stars seeking the perfect suit. The term 'bespoke' is said to have originated here, referring to cloth that was 'been spoken for' by a customer. While the fashion is legendary, the street also holds a place in music history. At Number 3, the former headquarters of Apple Corps, The Beatles performed their final public concert on the rooftop in 1969. Today, you can still peer into the basement workshops to see master tailors at work, continuing a tradition of hand-crafted excellence.

Claridge's

Conclude your walk at Claridge's, often called the 'annex to Buckingham Palace' due to its long history of hosting royalty and heads of state. This hotel is a pinnacle of Art Deco design, particularly the stunning interiors revamped in the 1920s. During World War II, it served as a refuge for many exiled European monarchs. The lobby and tea rooms are legendary for their timeless elegance. Standing outside this Brook Street landmark, you are at the heart of Mayfair’s social history, where the service and style have remained unchanged in their commitment to luxury for over a century.

Frequently Asked Questions

This self-guided walk typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. The route covers approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) at a leisurely pace, including time to stop and admire the architecture at each location.