Mayfair, London's famous aristocratic village - Exclusive, Private Walking Tour

London, GB
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (9 reviews)

Highlights

  • Explore the luxurious mansions of Mayfair
  • Discover hidden gems and enchanting parks
  • Learn the inside story of Royal Warrants
  • Uncover the sordid secrets of Mayfair's past
  • Experience the fascinating history and architecture of Mayfair

Meeting Point

Under the Colonnade of the Ritz Hotel, Piccadilly, Central London beside the sign on the wall which reads ‘Ritz Club’.

Meeting point

150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR , United Kingdom

End point

End Point

Under the Colonnade of the Ritz Hotel, Piccadilly, Central London beside the sign on the wall which reads ‘Ritz Club’.

Meeting point

150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Fortnum & Mason

It's hard to believe looking at this sophisticated store that Fortnum and Mason's started life as a market stall! William Fortnum worked as a Footman for Queen Anne of 'Favourite' fame and took the half used Royal candles to sell on his house mates market stall and there began the entrepreneurial business - we'll do a quick turn around the ground floor of this magnificent store which will leave you wanting to return for certain!

Duration 15 minutes
2

Royal Academy of Arts

If the original owners of this property, the Earls of Burlington, could see their home today, they wouldn't recognise it! Since it was built in the 1660s, at least 9 architects have worked on it to make it the glamorous home of the Royal Academy. Its transformation from private home to world famous art treasure is fascinating to hear.

Duration 10 minutes
3

Burlington Arcade

This arcade has just celebrated its 200 year anniversary - it was originally built by George Cavendish, one of the Earls of Burlington, so that his wife and her aristocratic friends would have somewhere to shop without being pestered by beggars! It also stopped all and sundry from tossing rubbish over his garden wall because, of course, he lived in Burlington House next door! A pleasant 10 minute stroll along the arcade gives you a chance to see the arcade's guardians, the Beadles, in action and enjoy a spot of window shopping as well.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Bond Street

The only road joining Piccadilly and Oxford Street, it is one of the most expensive strips of real estate in the world. As you walk the pavements, the shops certainly read like a who's who of retail! As you absorb the well known names and marvel at the window displays, we'll saunter along Old Bond Street and a part of New Bond Street for about 10 minutes before turning off to see the home of Norman Hartnell, one of fashion's most famous designers from the 1950s and 60s.

Duration 15 minutes
5

Bruton St

Although the building no longer stands, we can see the site where the late Queen Elizabeth II was born and let our imaginations do the rest!.

Duration 5 minutes
6

Berkeley Square

Most famous for its nightingale singing which is stuff of legend, this is a square full of historical interest. From the centuries old plane trees to the grade I listed buildings around its edges, this is one of the most beautiful squares in London - and who would have thought a river runs through it too. All will be revealed as we wander between the ancient trees.

Duration 10 minutes
7

Mount Street Gardens

A tranquil oasis in the heart of a City that never stops. Its past is not quite so calm as today though - come on the tour and in the 10 minutes we'll stay in the gardens, you will find out what lies beneath your feet and what gruesome building used to grace the side of the gardens.

Duration 10 minutes
8

Shepherd Market

Set up in James II's reign, the market he established gave Mayfair its name. For centuries, Shepherd Market was Mayfair's much visited red light district (what else was there for the aristocracy to do!). During our 10 minute stop here you will find out its fascinating history and which MP lost his reputation here!

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    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!
  • Additional information
    Your comfort is my priority - if you need to stop for a coffee or a comfort break just let me know.
  • Additional information
    The tour will last up to 3 hours.
  • Additional information
    The tour will cover about 2 - 3 miles in total.
  • Additional information
    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!
  • Additional information
    The tour is an outside walking tour but does include an internal stop at one of Mayfair's most unique department stores.
  • Additional information
    I will meet you at 10.00 a.m. under the Colonnade of the Ritz Hotel on Piccadilly.
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    100% of my Trip Advisor/Viator reviews are graded 'excellent' and as I now have over 100 reviews in total, I must be doing something right!
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    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.
  • Additional information
    I only accept bookings directly from customers. Any bookings made by a travel agent on behalf of a customer will be cancelled.
Provided by Hobnob Tours

What our experts say

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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Consider visiting nearby Fortnum & Mason.
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    Don't miss the unique shops on Bond Street.
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    Bring waterproofs, just in case!
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    Plan a coffee break at Mount Street Gardens.

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