With its historic architecture, independent shops, lively cafes, luxury boutiques, and secluded green spaces, Mayfair is our favourite place to spend a summer’s day. From a cooling swim to ice cream in the sun and cocktails with a view, we’ve put together our ultimate guide to make the most of the last weeks of summer in Mayfair.
The Best Pools in Mayfair
to Beat the Heat
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 in the hottest months of the year, 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 and find a little respite from the heat. 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 Summer Evenings
Sparrow’s Nest rooftop garden terrace in Mayfair
Combining city views with a luxury Italian-inspired dining experience, this steakhouse is a local summer 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 summer soirées, intimate gatherings or memorable date nights. Reservations are essential.
Enjoy the sun at The Windmill’s rooftop bar
There’s something special about London pubs in the summer. So if you’re looking for a dose of authentic Mayfair summer, 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 summer magic on its rooftop bar.
The Best Spots for Sweet Treats in Mayfair
No summer day in Mayfair is complete without a decadent treat. From artisan gelatos to ice-cold cocktails, what’s your favourite way to cool down in the sun?
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.
The Neapolitan Gelato Box from Badiani Gelato
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.
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. Choose from a seat in the cool interior or a shady 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.
Shady Green Spaces for Summertime in Mayfair
Hyde Park
Just moments from our front door, Hyde Park is a 350-acre sanctuary with open-ended opportunities for summertime activities. From morning walks along tree-lined paths to bike rides through dappled sunlight, the park’s mature plane trees and ancient oaks provide welcome shade during the warmest months. 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 in the summer light. This historic square, fringed with abundant London plane trees, is a local favourite for al fresco lunches and catch-ups with friends.
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.
Stay Cool in Style this Summer
Summer in Mayfair means cool morning swims, sun-drenched gardens, shady park walks, breezy rooftop cocktails and delicious food. We hope you enjoy a delightful summer of luxury, leisure and sun-drenched memories in Mayfair.
Mayfair village remains the pinnacle of refined living, and Hyde Park Residence is your safe, relaxing home within it.
