Explore the transformation of Mayfair from a muddy field to an aristocratic playground to a luxurious mix of mansions, shops, and parks. Discover hidden gems, royal connections, and scandalous secrets on this exclusive walking tour.
Explore the transformation of Mayfair from a muddy field to an aristocratic playground to a luxurious mix of mansions, shops, and parks. Discover hidden gems, royal connections, and scandalous secrets on this exclusive walking tour.
- Fortnum & Mason - It’s astonishing to think that this elegant store began as a humble market stall! William Fortnum, who served as a Footman for Queen Anne, sold the partially used Royal candles at his housemate’s market stall, sparking the entrepreneurial spirit that led to this iconic business. A quick tour of the ground floor of this…
- Fortnum & Mason - It’s astonishing to think that this elegant store began as a humble market stall! William Fortnum, who served as a Footman for Queen Anne, sold the partially used Royal candles at his housemate’s market stall, sparking the entrepreneurial spirit that led to this iconic business. A quick tour of the ground floor of this magnificent store will surely leave you eager to return!
- Royal Academy of Arts - The original owners, the Earls of Burlington, would hardly recognize their former home today! Since its construction in the 1660s, at least nine architects have contributed to its transformation into the glamorous Royal Academy. The journey from private residence to a world-renowned art institution is truly captivating.
- Burlington Arcade - Celebrating its 200th anniversary, this arcade was built by George Cavendish, an Earl of Burlington, to provide his wife and her aristocratic friends a place to shop without being bothered by beggars. It also prevented people from throwing rubbish over his garden wall, as he lived next door in Burlington House! A leisurely 10-minute stroll through the arcade offers a chance to see the Beadles, the arcade’s guardians, in action and enjoy some window shopping.
- Bond Street - The only road connecting Piccadilly and Oxford Street, Bond Street is one of the world’s most expensive real estate strips. As you walk along, the shops resemble a who’s who of retail! Enjoy the famous names and stunning window displays as we stroll along Old Bond Street and part of New Bond Street for about 10 minutes before visiting the home of Norman Hartnell, a renowned fashion designer from the 1950s and 60s.
- Bruton Street - Although the building no longer exists, we can visit the site where the late Queen Elizabeth II was born and let our imaginations fill in the rest.
- Berkeley Square - Renowned for its legendary nightingale song, this square is rich in historical interest. With centuries-old plane trees and Grade I listed buildings surrounding it, Berkeley Square is one of London’s most beautiful squares. Surprisingly, a river runs through it too, as we will discover while wandering among the ancient trees.
- Mount Street Gardens - A peaceful oasis in the bustling city, though its past was far from serene. Join the tour, and in the 10 minutes spent in the gardens, uncover what lies beneath your feet and learn about the gruesome building that once stood beside the gardens.
- Shepherd Market - Established during the reign of James II, this market gave Mayfair its name. For centuries, Shepherd Market was a popular red-light district for the aristocracy. During our 10-minute stop here, discover its intriguing history and learn about the MP who lost his reputation here!

- Experienced local guide accredited by ITG & University of Westminster
- Experienced local guide accredited by ITG & University of Westminster
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Transportation to/from the start and end points of the walk
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Transportation to/from the start and end points of the walk
A mere three centuries ago, the region encompassing Mayfair and Berkeley Square was nothing more than an unrefined, marshy field. This enlightening stroll tracks its transformation from a 18th-century luxuriant recreation spot for the nobility, to its contemporary harmonious blend of ritzy mansions, top-tier retail outlets, captivating parks and…
A mere three centuries ago, the region encompassing Mayfair and Berkeley Square was nothing more than an unrefined, marshy field. This enlightening stroll tracks its transformation from a 18th-century luxuriant recreation spot for the nobility, to its contemporary harmonious blend of ritzy mansions, top-tier retail outlets, captivating parks and squares. Uncover concealed wonders in every corner, and be awe-struck by the architectural grandeur of residences once owned by royalty and the noble class, in addition to the splendid display of glassware and ceramics in Mayfair’s storefronts! We stop by London’s most refined department store to learn about their creation of the food basket, Michelle Obama’s influence on their inventory, and the intriguing details of Royal Warrants. Get to know about Mayfair’s past reputation as one of London’s most infamous areas of illicit activities and uncover its scandalous stories. This tour unfurls the roller coaster ride of Mayfair’s fortunes, the eccentric personalities who called it their dwelling, and the occasional famed individual linked to this intriguing district. Everyone who has reviewed my tour on TripAdvisor has rated it as Excellent.
- When your booking is confirmed, you will receive contact details for me (Sandy), your guide on this tour. My aim is to give you, my client, the best experience you could possibly have so if you have any special requests, be sure to let me know what they are!
- Your comfort is my priority - if you need to stop for a coffee or a comfort break just let me know.
- The tour will last up to 3 hours.
- The tour will cover about 2 - 3 miles in total.
- The tour will go ahead come rain or shine so please don’t be put off by the weather. Do wear comfortable shoes and clothing. If needs be, bring waterproofs and an umbrella!
- The tour is an outside walking tour but does include an internal stop at one of Mayfair’s most unique department stores.
- I will meet you outside Le Deli Robuchon on the corner of Piccadilly and Bolton Street, time to be agreed.
- Unlike some other guides, I specialise in just five areas of London, Mayfair being one of them. This means that I have detailed knowledge of the area which I pass on to my clients in a fun and interesting way.
- 100% of my Trip Advisor/Viator reviews are graded ‘excellent’ and as I now have over 160 reviews in total, I must be doing something right!
- I prefer to guide small groups of up to five family or friends so everyone can hear what I am saying above the usual street noises of a busy city. Also, everyone can ask as many questions as they like.
- I ALWAYS contact my clients in advance of a tour so if you have not heard from me one week before your tour date, please contact me.
- I only accept bookings directly from customers. Any bookings made by a travel agent on behalf of a customer will be cancelled.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.