When you think back over the history of London, one particular area that has always been known for its grandeur and high-class reputation is Mayfair.
Regarded as an elite commercial and residential quarter, Mayfair is bounded by Oxford Street, Regent Street, Park Lane and Piccadilly, putting it right at the heart of everything that screams luxury in England’s capital.
Tourists or visitors who opt to enjoy the benefits of serviced apartments in Mayfair for their stay are perfectly placed to experience some of the best that London has to offer. But where did it all begin? How did Mayfair attain its prestige and luxurious tag? Here are some of the highlights that have cemented Mayfair as one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods.
● Mayfair as we know it today came to be thanks to a number of family estates but mainly the prominent Grosvenor family (who became the Dukes of Westminster in 1874) who acquired the land and began a series of extensive developments back in 1677. These developments included Hanover Square, Grosvenor Square, Berkeley Square and the St George’s Hanover Square Church. All of these areas came to be regarded as the most elite and most expensive residential areas in the city, and they remain so to this day.
● Unlike many of the affluent areas of 18th century London, Mayfair did not lose its reputation along with the decline of British aristocracy and landowning classes. The culture of the neighbourhood was so strong between the 18th and early 20th centuries, that the lack of aristocrats in its residential areas did nothing to dent its affluent image. Many of the grander houses in Mayfair were subsequently converted into luxury offices and international embassies.
● Mayfair is considered so luxurious that it was granted the privilege of the very top square on the traditional London Monopoly game board. This is testament to its highest standing among the other areas of the capital!
● When it comes to hotels, you simply cannot do better than the interesting and world famousarray of luxury establishments in the Mayfair area. From The Connaught Hotel to the JW Marriott Grosvenor to Claridge’s, Mayfair is unrivalled in the quality of its hospitality.
● Mayfair is also the most expensive district in London when it comes to retail therapy. Such iconic store names as Fortnum & Mason, Selfridges, Liberty London and Burberry can all be found on the streets of Mayfair.
● There is plenty of culture and history to go along with the luxury shopping experience of the district, as Mayfair is also home to a number of London’s best museums including the much celebrated Royal Academy of Arts, the Halcyon Museum, the Handel & Hendrix Museum and the Faraday Museum.
There is no doubt that Mayfair has well and truly established itself as the leading luxury location in London. The history is there for all to see, and the future of the neighbourhood shows no signs of slowing when it comes to increased grandeur and even more luxury in the decades and generations to come.
