Mayfair is one of London’s most prestigious and luxurious neighbourhoods, known for its high-end shopping, elegant architecture, and exclusive members’ clubs. But it’s not just a playground for the rich and famous – there are plenty of fun and family-friendly things to do in Mayfair too! Whether you’re a local resident looking for new ways to entertain your kids or a visitor to the city with little ones in tow, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and cosmopolitan neighbourhood.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best things to do with kids in Mayfair, from museums and art galleries to playing in the park and shopping on Bond Street. So grab your family, put on your walking shoes, and let’s discover all the exciting things that Mayfair has to offer!
Mayfair Facts:
- Mayfair is an affluent area in Central London.
- It is named after the annual May Fair held from the 1680s until the 1760s.
- Mayfair is known for luxury brands, designer stores, and high-end restaurants.
- Famous people like Winston Churchill, Jimi Hendrix, and Queen Elizabeth II have lived in Mayfair.
- Some apartments in Mayfair cost over £50 million.
- Berkeley Square is one of London’s most expensive and exclusive addresses.
- Mayfair hosts the annual Mayfair Art Weekend and has several art galleries.
- The Curzon Mayfair cinema has been showing films since 1934
Things to do in Mayfair with kids:
- Visit the Royal Academy of Arts
- Hang out in Hyde Park
- Check out Burlington Arcade
- Visit the Handel & Hendrix Museum
- Have afternoon tea at the Connaught
- Go cycling around Mayfair
- Go supercar spotting
- Stay in a posh Mayfair hotel
- Go shopping with tweens and teens in Mayfair
Visit the Royal Academy of Arts
If you are looking for some fun and creative activities to do with your family, why not visit the Royal Academy of Arts in Mayfair? The RA is a place where art is made, exhibited and debated, and it offers a lot of opportunities for families to enjoy and learn about art together.
You can explore the RA’s free Collections displays, where you can find a chameleon hiding among the artworks and ask questions to discover more about them. You can also see the Architecture Wall, a changing display of drawings, models and photographs by Royal Academicians who have shaped the history of architecture.
The RA also hosts exhibitions of works by famous and emerging artists, such as Impressionists on Paper, Entangled Pasts, 1768–now, and Angelica Kauffman. You can book tickets online or at the RA ticket desk. Under 16s go free to all RA exhibitions.
If you want to get hands-on with art, you can join the RA’s workshops, short courses and drop-in sessions, where you can learn new skills and techniques from professional artists and educators. You can also pick up an Art Detectives pack in the galleries, which contains activities and games to help you look closely at the artworks on display.
The RA is a great place to spend a day out with the kids, where you can discover, create and enjoy art together. To find out more about the RA’s family events and activities, visit their website.
Hang out in Hyde Park
Hyde Park is right next to Mayfair, offering a range of fun and exciting activities, whether you want to relax, explore, or learn something new. Here are some of the family-friendly things to do:
- Splash around in the Diana Memorial Fountain: This circular fountain is a tribute to Princess Diana and a great place to cool off on a hot summer day. You can dip your feet in the water, walk along the granite ring, or watch the water flow through different textures and patterns. It’s a tranquil and relaxing spot that kids and adults will love.
- Boat on the Serpentine Lake: The Serpentine is a large lake that divides Hyde Park from Kensington Gardens. You can hire a pedal boat, a rowing boat, or even a solar-powered boat and cruise along the water, enjoying the views of the park and the city skyline. You might also spot some swans, ducks, or geese on the lake. It’s a fun and romantic way to experience Hyde Park.
- Visit Speakers’ Corner: Speakers’ Corner is a famous spot where anyone can stand up and speak their mind on any topic, as long as they don’t break the law. You can listen to passionate speeches, debates, or rants, or join in the discussion if you feel like it. You never know what you’ll hear or who you’ll meet at Speakers’ Corner. It’s a unique and lively place that showcases the diversity and freedom of London.
- Enjoy the Lido and paddling pool: If you’re looking for more water fun, head to the Lido, a 100-meter swimming area on the Serpentine lake. You can swim with the ducks and enjoy the fresh air, or relax at the Lido Cafe and Bar. There’s also a family area with a paddling pool, a sandpit, and swings for the little ones. It’s a perfect place to spend a sunny day with your family.
- Play at the South Carriage Drive Playground: This playground is designed for children of all ages and abilities, with adventurous play equipment such as slides, swings, climbing frames, and zip wires. There’s also a sensory trail, a musical area, and a water play feature. The playground is surrounded by trees and plants, creating a natural and stimulating environment for children to play and learn.
Check out Burlington Arcade
Established in 1819, this historic shopping arcade is renowned for its elegant architecture, luxurious stores, and exclusive boutiques. As you stroll through the arcade, you’ll feel transported back in time, with its ornate ironwork, mosaic floors, and vintage shopfronts. Kids will love exploring the different stores and admiring the beautiful window displays. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the arcade’s resident Beadles, who are responsible for maintaining the traditions and etiquette of this iconic London landmark.
Visit the Handel & Hendrix Museum
This museum is dedicated to the lives and music of two great musicians, George Frideric Handel and Jimi Hendrix. Kids will love learning about their different styles of music and seeing the instruments they used. The museum has a “Musical Rumpus” program for babies and toddlers, where they can sing and dance to live music, and a “Little Hands” program for children aged 2-5, where they can make music and art inspired by Handel and Hendrix.
Have afternoon tea at Chesterfield Mayfair
For families looking for a traditional and elegant afternoon tea experience in London, The Chesterfield Mayfair is a wonderful choice. While Mayfair is an area with plenty of luxurious hotels, Chesterfield Mayfair is one of the few hotels that made it to our list of the most affordable children’s afternoon tea places in London. Chesterfield also offers a children’s afternoon tea menu, which includes mini sandwiches, mini cakes, and hot chocolate.
Cycle your way through London
If you want to go cycling in London, starting from Mayfair, you have plenty of options to choose from. The most popular and convenient way to rent a bike is Santander Cycles, which has docking stations all over London, including several in Mayfair. You can hire a bike for as little as £2 for 30 minutes, and return it to any docking station when you’re done.
If you prefer an electric bike, you can also try Lime, which has e-bikes that you can unlock with your smartphone and park anywhere within the service area. You can find Lime e-bikes near Oxford Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Marble Arch, all within walking distance from Mayfair. The cost of using Lime is £1 to unlock the e-bike, plus 15p per minute of riding.
Once you have your bike, you can explore the many attractions and sights that London has to offer. You can start by cycling through Hyde Park, one of the largest and most beautiful parks in the city. You can enjoy the views of the Serpentine Lake, visit the Diana Memorial Fountain, or stop by the Speakers’ Corner to hear some lively debates.
From Hyde Park, you can continue to Kensington Gardens, where you can see Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, and the Peter Pan statue. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also cycle along the Grand Union Canal, which runs from Paddington to Little Venice. This is a scenic route that takes you past colourful houseboats, charming pubs, and historic buildings.
Alternatively, you can cycle towards Westminster and see some of the most iconic landmarks in London. You can pass by Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the King, and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony if you’re lucky. You can also see Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Westminster Bridge.
If you cross the bridge, you can visit the London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city. You can also explore the South Bank, a vibrant area that hosts many cultural events and attractions, such as the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe, and the National Theatre.
No matter where you go cycling in London, starting from Mayfair, you’re sure to have a fun and memorable experience. Just remember to follow the traffic rules, wear a helmet, and lock your bike when you park it. Happy cycling!
Check out one of our recommended family-friendly cycle routes in London, such as the green belt cycle path between Kensington and Westminster, right next to Mayfair.
Cycling is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore London, and it’s a great way to keep the kids entertained while also getting some exercise.
Stay in a posh Mayfair hotel
Staying in a posh Mayfair hotel is a great way to enjoy the best of both worlds: the classic charm and sophistication of Mayfair, and the modern and trendy vibe of London.
What are the pros and cons of staying in Mayfair when visiting London? Is it worth it?
Pros:
- You will be surrounded by elegance, comfort and style. Mayfair hotels are known for their exquisite decor, high-quality amenities and impeccable service. You will feel pampered and spoiled by the attentive staff, who will cater to your every need and preference.
- You will be close to some of the best attractions, shops and restaurants in London. Mayfair is one of the most central and prestigious areas of the city, where you can find many famous landmarks, such as Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Piccadilly Circus and Oxford Street. You will also have access to some of the finest dining, entertainment and shopping options in London, from Michelin-starred restaurants to designer boutiques.
- You will have a unique and memorable experience. Staying in a Mayfair hotel is not just a place to sleep, but an opportunity to enjoy a slice of London’s history, culture and glamour. Many Mayfair hotels have a rich and fascinating heritage, dating back to the 18th or 19th century. Some of them have hosted celebrities, royals and dignitaries over the years, and have stories to tell.
Cons:
- You will pay a premium price. Mayfair hotels are among the most expensive in London, and you can expect to pay hundreds or even thousands of pounds per night for a room. You will also have to factor in the cost of extras, such as breakfast, parking, Wi-Fi and room service, which can add up quickly. Unless you have a generous budget, staying in a Mayfair hotel might not be the best value for money.
- You might feel out of place or isolated. Mayfair hotels are not for everyone, and you might find them too formal, snobbish or pretentious for your taste. You might feel uncomfortable or unwelcome if you don’t fit in with the typical clientele, who tend to be wealthy, sophisticated and well-dressed. You might also miss out on some of the diversity and vibrancy of London’s other neighbourhoods, which offer more variety and authenticity.
Our suggested family-friendly hotels in Mayfair:
The Chesterfield MAYFAIR:
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- 🌟 Rating: 10 out of 10 (according to TripAdvisor)
- Description: The Chesterfield Mayfair is a luxurious hotel known for its outstanding quality and consistently high standards of tea service. Families can enjoy homemade cakes, scones, and pastries during the Afternoon Tea event. The hotel offers amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, airport transportation, and conference rooms. Located at 25 BrookStreet, London W1K 4HB1.
Browns Hotel
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- 🌟 Rating: 10 out of 10 (according to TripAdvisor)
- Description: Brown’s Hotel is a glamorous destination in the heart of Mayfair. With contemporary design, an eclectic collection of art, and elegant furnishings, it strikes a perfect balance between style and sophistication. Families can unwind in the intimate spa sanctuary or enjoy decadent afternoon tea in The English Tea Room. Amenities include a spa, fitness center, restaurant, bar lounge, and air conditioning. Find it at 33 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4BP.
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Both of these hotels offer a blend of luxury, comfort, and family-friendly amenities. Enjoy your stay in Mayfair! 🏨🌟
Take your tweens and teens shopping in Mayfair
Mayfair is one of the most fashionable and exclusive areas in London, and it has plenty of options for young shoppers who want to stand out from the crowd. Here are some of the coolest clothing shops for teenagers in Mayfair that you should check out:
- Dover Street Market: This is not your typical market, but a multi-level concept store that showcases some of the most cutting-edge and avant-garde designers in the world. You can find everything from streetwear to haute couture, as well as art, books, and accessories. Dover Street Market is a must-visit for anyone who loves fashion and creativity.
- Selfridges: Selfridges is one of the most iconic department stores in London, and it has a huge selection of clothing for teenagers. Whether you’re looking for casual, formal, or trendy outfits, you can find it here. Selfridges also has a dedicated section for young designers, where you can discover some of the hottest new talents in the industry.
- Burberry: Burberry is one of the most iconic British brands, and it has a flagship store in Regent Street, near Mayfair. Burberry has a sophisticated and elegant collection of clothing for teenagers, featuring its signature check pattern and trench coats. You can also find some modern and edgy pieces that reflect the brand’s heritage and innovation.
- Browns: Browns is another legendary department store in Mayfair, and it has a reputation for being one of the first to spot and support emerging designers. Browns has a curated collection of clothing for teenagers, featuring some of the most exciting and innovative brands in the market. You can also find some vintage and second-hand pieces that are unique and stylish.
- Harrods: Harrods is one of the most famous and luxurious department stores in the world, and it’s located in Knightsbridge, near Mayfair. Harrods has a stunning selection of clothing for teenagers, from high-end brands to exclusive labels. You can find everything from classic to contemporary styles, as well as some bespoke services that can make your shopping experience more personalized.
Go supercar spotting
If you’re looking for a fun and free activity to do with your kids in London, why not try spotting supercars in Mayfair? Mayfair is one of the most affluent and exclusive areas in the city, where you can find luxury hotels, designer shops, and fancy restaurants. And of course, where there’s money, there’s supercars.
You can see some of the most expensive and exotic cars in the world parked on the streets or driving around. From Ferraris to Lamborghinis, from Bugattis to McLarens, you’ll be amazed by the variety and beauty of these machines.
You can make a game out of it with your kids, and see who can spot the most supercars, or the rarest ones, or the ones with the coolest colours. You can also take photos and videos of your favourites, and share them with your friends and family. Spotting supercars in Mayfair is a fun way to explore a different side of London, and to enjoy the thrill of seeing these amazing vehicles up close.
Explore Mayfair on foot
If you’re looking for a nice stroll in London, you might want to check out these five streets in Mayfair, one of the most glamorous and historic neighbourhoods in the city. Here are my picks for the best streets to walk through in Mayfair:
- Shepherd Market: This is a charming little village within Mayfair, full of quaint pubs, shops, and restaurants. You can access it from White Horse Street or Hertford Street, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere and the historic buildings.
- Mount Street: This is one of the most upscale streets in Mayfair, where you can find luxury boutiques, art galleries, and fine dining options. You can walk along Mount Street from South Audley Street to Carlos Place, and admire the elegant architecture and the chic window displays.
- Chesterfield Street: This is a lovely street with beautiful facades and a classic Mayfair vibe. You can walk down Chesterfield Street from Curzon Street to South Street, and peek into Red Lion Yard, a hidden alley with old world charm. At the end of the street, you’ll find the Punch Bowl, a famous pub that dates back to the 18th century.
- Grosvenor Square: This is a large and leafy square that was once the site of the US Embassy in London. You can walk around Grosvenor Square from Carlos Place to Upper Grosvenor Street, and enjoy the green space and the statues of famous Americans like Franklin D. Roosevelt and Ronald Reagan.
- Bond Street: This is one of the most famous shopping streets in London, where you can find some of the world’s most prestigious brands and designers. You can walk along Bond Street from Oxford Street to Piccadilly, and browse through the stores or just window shop. You’ll also see some impressive art installations and sculptures along the way.
- These are just some of the streets that make Mayfair such a fascinating and attractive neighbourhood to explore. I hope you enjoy your walk!
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