MAYFAIR – Architecture & Change Amidst The High Life

For centuries Mayfair has occupied a place in London as the capital’s most desirable neighbourhood. Once rolling fields at its western edge, home to the bawdy ‘May Fair’, this coveted 8-acres was developed in the 18th century with elegant streets, squares and houses for England’s upper-classes. Commercialised in the 20th century, it has undergone waves of change with offices, hotels and apartment blocks replacing the grand old aristocratic houses, but has always managed to retain its exclusive status. Meandering the contours of its underlying topography, this walk explores the evolution of Mayfair, charting a story of architecture, (re)development and resilience.

A walking tour by The London Ambler - Mike Althorpe