As autumn arrives in London, we look for the best ways to savour its golden light in style. From a refreshing swim to ice cream in the gentle sun and cocktails with a view, we’ve put together our ultimate guide to transitioning from summer to autumn in Mayfair.
The Best Pools in Mayfair
to Beat the Heat
Mayfair is home to some of the capital’s most exclusive swimming pools, where you can unwind and retreat from the city’s action. What better way to keep the sheen of summer alive than emerging post-dip into a warm autumn evening? Each pool offers a unique experience, blending tranquillity and indulgence with gentle movement.
The Connaught
Discover a private sanctuary within The Aman Spa at The Connaught Hotel. Reserved for members and spa guests, the calming atmosphere and tranquil waters provide a perfect escape when you need some pampering time. From facials to full body massages, a treatment followed by a swim in the black granite pool will leave you rested and rejuvenated in Mayfair
Mandarain Oriental
With a state-of-the-art fitness suite including a gym and a Bodyspace Movementum studio with a full roster of classes on offer, there are plenty of options to get your heart rate up here. But if you’re looking to keep your summer glow rolling into the autumn season, we recommend a dip in the hotel’s 17-metre stainless steel pool. Available to hotel guests, members or when you book a 90-minute treatment at the spa, you can also book a professional coach to improve your swimming form.
The Dilly Health Club
Near Green Park you’ll find The Dilly, with one of the largest indoor pools in central London. Its floor-to-ceiling windows drench the pool in natural light, and being child-friendly, it’s ideal for a full-family splash, float and unwind.
Serpentine Lido
For an outdoor adventure, head to the Serpentine Lido in the heart of Hyde Park. An historic and cherished spot for open-water swimmers, here you can reconnect with nature as you wild swim in the heart of the capital. As the seasons change and the water temperature drops, the Lido becomes an ever-more challenging, and invigorating, proposition. Make a day of it with a gourmet picnic, enjoy a snack at the waterside Lido Cafe Bar or stop by The Serpentine Bar & Kitchen for a more robust post-swim replenishment.
Rooftop Bars in Mayfair for Elevated Autumnal Evenings
Sparrow’s Nest rooftop garden terrace in Mayfair
Combining city views with a luxury Italian-inspired dining experience, this steakhouse is a local favourite in Mayfair. The Sparrow’s Nest rooftop garden terrace is an ideal spot to sip a cocktail from its unique, hand-crafted menu, including Italian chili-infused blanco tequila and nitrogen-infused honeydew pisco. There’s also heartier fare on offer spanning classic spuntini (Italian snacking plates) through to Wagyu carpaccio, pasta, steak and fish dishes.
Perched on top of the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, The Rooftop is an exclusive 50-seat terrace with breathtaking panoramic views across London, from Mayfair to Hampstead Heath and the London Eye. Thoughtfully designed by Studio Indigo, the design draws inspiration from the sky-high setting with nods to the changing colour of the sky and movement of the clouds. The cocktails are sophisticated and the food expertly crafted, ideal for autumnal soirées, intimate gatherings or memorable date nights. Reservations are essential.
There’s something special about London pubs in the autumn months. So if you’re looking for a dose of authentic Mayfair life, make sure you check out The Windmill. Stop by for a quick drink and a light bite, or settle in for an award-winning pie and a cold pint from their draught selection. Whatever you choose, you’ll be sure to find a slice of Mayfair magic on its rooftop bar.
The Best Spots for Sweet Treats in Mayfair
As the russet leaves fall from the trees, autumn days in Mayfair conjure the need for a decadent treat. From artisan gelatos to cosy cocktails, what’s your favourite way to soak up the autumn sunshine?
Iconic Parisian Maison Ladurée’s cafe in the heart of Mayfair
Experience authentic Parisian cafe culture on Mayfair’s Audley Street, where you’ll find Ladurée, the acclaimed macaron patisserie. Constantly reinventing itself since 1862, the delicious selection of coffees, teas and pastries brings a little bit of Paris to London. We recommend taking a seat in the sun for one of Ladurée’s famous macaron latté, a slice of French toast and a croissant.
Known for its real Italian recipes, Badiani offers a selection of the creamiest gelatos and most refreshing sorbets in London. Since its founding in 1932 in Florence by Idilio Badiani, its gelato aficionados have been defining the concept of mouth-watering refreshment ever since. Badiani’s world-famous trademarked Buontalenti flavour boasts the shortest ingredients list in the gelato world: just milk, cream, sugar, and eggs. We recommend trying the pistachio gelato and passion fruit sorbet for a true taste sensation. Located in Mercato Mayfair, inside the grandeur of the converted St Mark’s Church, there’s plenty more to explore once you have your sorbet in hand.
Mayfair has perhaps one of the highest densities of top-tier hotel bars in the world. Sitting at the top of that list is Claridge’s Bar, where David Collins Studio’s art deco-influenced interior pairs exquisitely with award-winning cocktails. If the weather is chilly then choose a seat in the snug interior, or if the afternoon is balmy, take a spot on The Terrace to enjoy your favourite champagne in classic style. Whether you’re sipping a specially-sourced rare champagne, or trying something a little different like the Champagne Cobbler, a few hours relaxing here is time well spent..
Green Spaces for Autumn Sunshine in Mayfair
Hyde Park
Just moments from our front door, Hyde Park is a 350-acre sanctuary with open-ended opportunities for autumnal activities. From morning walks along tree-lined paths to bike rides through dappled sunlight, the park’s mature plane trees and ancient oaks provide a haven from whatever weather early autumn brings. Keep your eye out for the roster of events hosted in the Park for livelier moments including concerts, nature walks and cooking pop-ups.
Grosvenor Square
Nestled within Mayfair itself, Grosvenor Square offers an intimate green retreat when you need a moment to breathe. This historic square, fringed with abundant London plane trees, is a local favourite for al fresco lunches and catch-ups with friends, kicking through the leaves.
Mount Street Gardens
Perhaps Mayfair’s best-kept secret, Mount Street Gardens is a true hidden gem to those who find it. This jewel-like green space, tucked discreetly away from the bustling streets, offers a serene and private atmosphere that feels worlds’ apart from the bustle of central London.
Autumn in Mayfair is Filled with Opportunities
Autumn in Mayfair means bracing morning swims, golden sun-drenched park walks, cosy rooftop cocktails and delicious food.
Mayfair village remains the pinnacle of refined living, and Hyde Park Residence is your safe, relaxing home within it.
