The Big Smoke offers so much to anyone who visits that it’s nigh on impossible to narrow down a comprehensive list of things you must do while you’re there – by the time one finished talking about the options to eat and drink alone, a hundred more would have sprung up on the city streets. So, best to work things out by area, in this instance, Mayfair, in central London, UK on the eastern edge of famous Hyde Park.
Whilst mainly a commercial area now, with many corporations and big brands setting up their offices here, there is still a substantial residential population. There are also many superb restaurants and hotels in the Mayfair district where you can splash out if you feel like pampering yourself. But renting or buying a home here? Forget it unless you’re Daddy War bucks’ favorite orphan. It is possible to rent office space if you need to get some work done and don’t want to get tied into a serious contract, and there are deals to be done if you do your research.
But enough about work – bleh! You’re in town, you’ve got money to burn – what to do?
The Royal Academy
This is a must for culture-vultures. One of London’s best spaces for art and architecture, particularly focusing on the British contribution. There are important works here by the likes of Hockney, Turner, Gainsborough and Constable, as well as many events, exhibitions and debates.
Shopping
If the name on the shopping bag is all important to you, then a trip to Mayfair, Uk will be right up your alley. Stores such as Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Marc Jacobs and Stella McCartney line the streets, and even if you’re just peeking through the windows, lacking the courage to pop in and examine the price-tags, the exclusivity is almost tangible. Head to Bond Street – drool at the shoes, hanker for the handbags, and get ready for the mother of all credit card bills.
Berkeley Square
Some of London’s most prestigious addresses were once to be found among the terraced houses of Berkeley Square. In years gone by though some of the appeal has been lost, probably because of people like you staring around as you eat your sandwiches. Away with you!
Marble Arch
One of the city’s most famous sights, this arch was built in 1827. Nearby is a plaque commemorating Tyburn Tree, where the condemned were brought to face the crowds before being despatched. And just over the road in Hyde Park is Speakers’ Corner – got something on your mind? Why not tell a few disinterested pigeons and foreign tourists all about it, I’m sure they’ll care.
St James’ Square
Some fascinating buildings are in this square, among them the London Library, where you can amuse yourself by reading snarky complaints from famous authors in the Comments book; the East India Club, and Chatham House, where the think-tank on international affairs puts it’s head together.
Piccadilly Circus
Some charming examples of Edwardian architecture are found in the Circus, which was named after a type of ruffled collar sold to nobles by a 17th century tailor, who built his home here with the riches he’d earned.
Ripley’s Believe It Or Not
One for the kids to finish with, or adults with a playful sense of humour. This gigantic museum houses over 700 bizarre exhibits, from a knitted Ferrari to a sculpture of the Beatles made out of chewing-gum. Bizarre, fun and interesting by turns, it’s definitely worth a few hours of your time.
Nataly Hayes
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