The affluent district of Mayfair in London’s West End is home to some of the most desirable and exclusive residences in London.

Mayfair is renowned for its cobbled streets, Georgian buildings, and famous residents. Its in-demand commercial and residential addresses are some of the most expensive in the capital – and the world. Apart from its prime real estate, the proximity to trendy Soho and Marylebone offers many attractions for those thinking of moving to Mayfair.

Residents and workers in Mayfair benefit from numerous green spaces around the area. It’s bordered by four Royal Parks: Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens to the west and St. James’ Park and Green Park to the south, all within walking distance of Mayfair’s vibrant squares.

Businesses, embassies, and museums are based in Mayfair because of its convenient location and prestigious postcode. Among these establishments are the Royal Academy of Arts and the Canadian High Commission.

Here’s an overview of some of Mayfair’s well-known residences and attractions…

Grosvenor Square and Hanover Square

Mayfair’s name originates from the historic annual fair held in May in the 16th and 17th centuries in what is now known as Shepherd’s Market. Following the acquisition of land by the Grosvenor family through marriage, Mayfair became the spot for an ambitious 100-acre development that brought street planning and elegant architecture.

Developments also included the construction of grand public spaces: Grosvenor Square, Hanover Square and Berkeley Square.

Grosvenor Square is a 5-acre oval-shaped garden in the heart of Mayfair, surrounded by offices, boutique shops, and luxury hotels like the Biltmore Mayfair.

Hanover Square was built on land owned by the Earl of Scarborough, Richard Lumley, and gets its name from Hanover in Germany. Located at the intersection of Oxford Street and Regent Street, Hanover Square provides convenient access to offices, shops, and a variety of restaurants.

Mayfair has always been associated with influential families. However, its proximity to Buckingham Palace and St James’ Palace, as well as other royal sites, has created royal links with the area – adding to its sophisticated legacy.

Berkeley Square

Berkeley Square was previously the site of Berkeley House, owned by Admiral John Berkeley. Following the sale of the house, the land was developed into the one-hectare (around 2.471 acres) Grade II listed gardens of Berkeley Square.

The plane trees planted at Berkeley Square are said to be some of the oldest in London, dating back to the French Revolution. Over the years, the terraced houses surrounding Berkeley Square have been home to influential political figures and business founders. These residents included Harry Gordon Selfridge, founder of Selfridges, and numerous prime ministers. No. 48 was the childhood residence of Winston Churchill.

Today, only a few residential addresses remain around Berkeley Square, with the majority converted to commercial addresses for local and international businesses. Commercial and residential addresses are sought-after throughout Mayfair, but they are particularly in demand in Grosvenor Square, Hanover Square and Berkeley Square. The Georgian-era buildings of Mayfair’s three squares blend period character with modern facilities to create contemporary living and working spaces.

Berkeley Square’s green landscape also features the Lansdowne Drinking Fountain sculpture by Alexander Munro (1825-1871) echoing the taste for the arts felt throughout Mayfair. The history of Mayfair has brought together notable artists, musicians and writers, some of which are commemorated by oval blue plaques – the one outside 23 Brook Street commemorates Jimi Hendrix who once lived there.

Curzon Street and Park Lane

Curzon Street is known for being the home of many of Oscar Wilde’s literary characters. Lord Henry Wotton from ‘The Picture of Dorian Gray’ was one of them. Like other parts of Mayfair, Curzon Street has its own historical landmark. Curzon Mayfair Cinema, built in 1963, is a grade II listed building that still retains its original features. Following the war, Curzon Street was reconstructed and attracted businesses and commercial developments to the area.

A few minutes away from Curzon Street is Park Lane, well-known for its luxurious 5-star hotels and residences. The Dorchester and London Hilton are two of many hotels along Park Lane. Guests staying at Park Lane’s hotels are within walking distance of Hyde Park, high-end restaurants, and Mayfair’s commercial and retail districts.

Luxury fashion at Mount Street, Bond Street and Regent Street

During Mayfair’s transformation, Mount Street was reserved for tradespeople and businesses. Customers of Mayfair’s earlier years would stroll down to Mount Street for fine shopping and dining, making Mount Street synonymous with upscale retail. Carolina Herrera and Lanvin are just some of the international fashion brands on Mount Street.

Close by, on Bond Street, is the elegant Royal Arcade, a Victorian-era building, which houses niche luxury shops including chocolatiers, jewellers, and custom tailors. Shoppers can also find classic brands on Bond Street such as Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and Tiffany & Co.

Just a short walk away from Bond Street, Regent Street offers a mix of high-street and luxury fashion: H&M, Burberry, and Tommy Hilfiger are just a few outlets. Mayfair’s retail wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its niche bookstores and galleries. Literary attractions include Shapero Rare Books on Bond Street; perfect for browsing after afternoon tea at Caffè Concerto or Café Royal on Regent Street.

Bond Street also has something for vintage enthusiasts with antique stores selling furniture and decorative pieces. Art lovers will enjoy browsing Bond Street’s Halcyon Gallery and Eden Gallery.

Moving to Mayfair

From the start, influential families and grand real-estate projects aimed to transform Mayfair into a centre of wealth and commerce. This legacy established Mayfair’s Georgian buildings and picturesque green spaces as some of the most prized real estate in London.

Whether it’s working from a Georgian office, luxury retail, or a break at a bespoke coffee shop, it’s not hard to see why Mayfair is a desirable place to live and work. New residents to Mayfair won’t need long to feel at home; all that’s needed is an experienced Mayfair removals company to get settled in.