History

In 1677 heiress Mary Davies married Sir Thomas Grosvenor; she brought 500 acres of meadow and pasture to the marriage - although the income at the time was relatively small, the future potential was understood even then. An area sometimes referred to as The Hundred Acres is still virtually intact today, with minor exceptions, and forms part of the Grosvenor Estate. Their descendants, and lately deceased, Major-General Gerald Cavendish Grosvenor, 6th Duke of Westminster, was one of our country's richest and largest landowners, and is said to be worth £9.35 billion according to The Sunday Times Rich List 2016. His son, Hugh Grosvenor, 25, is now the 7th Duke of Westminster and set to inherit the fortune. It would be easy for Mayfair to lose its village feel as it continues to attract those seeking to purchase or let a property at the highest end of the market, but developments are always sensitive to the area's architectural heritage, and you will find it clean and tidy - many attribute this to the influence of the Grosvenor Estate. Mayfair has four main areas to note.

Grosvenor Square is one of London's most prestigious addresses; spanning six acres it is London's second largest garden square. Development of the square commenced in around 1721, initiated by Sir Richard Grosvenor; it has strong connections with America and is home to the Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, The Eagle Squadrons Memorial, and the 9/11 Memorial Garden. Mount Street continues to retain a sense of community; this prestigious residential area houses some of the finest retailers, specialist businesses and galleries in its distinctive terracotta buildings.

Architect William Kent originally laid out the garden square in the 18th century, and it was named after the noble Gloucestershire family. Although formerly a residential area it is now mainly offices, and what is said to be the most haunted house in London: 50 Berkeley Square.

Things have certainly changed for the former country lane, which is now one of the most fashionable residential addresses in the city. Park Lane is home to a number of historical properties and luxury hotels, such as Grosvenor House, Somerset House, and the Dorchester Hotel.

Mayfair is blessed with a stunning mixture of architectural styles; many of the historic town houses are now back in residential use after being converted into offices. With magnificent apartments and penthouses on offer, the exclusive development One Hyde Park, as well as grand mansions and beautiful mews, it is not hard to see why it is one of the world's most prestigious addresses.

Famous residents

From the 18th century Mayfair has been home to numerous British Prime Ministers, including Benjamin Disraeli, Sir Robert Peel, William Pitt the Younger, Winston Churchill, and even a Royal - HRH Queen Elizabeth II was born on Bruton Street and lived there as an infant. The French composer Frederick Handel also called Mayfair home for the last thirty years of his life, and to this day the area is popular with musicians, celebrities and models, who appreciate its exclusive central location, including, from the past and present: Andrew Lloyd Webber, Oscar Wilde, Vivien Leigh, Jimi Hendrix and Peter Sellers. Of course, property in Mayfair is expensive, but the lifestyle it offers is hard to beat.

Family friendly living

It’s the weekend, and you have guests; you are thinking of taking them on the Mayfair Chocolate Tour, but then remembered you are going to Scott's on Mount Street for lunch, at their oyster and champagne bar. A morning of culture is agreed upon and you suggest the Handel and Hendrix, made up of two completely contrasting residencies. The stunning Georgian façade at 25 Brook Street was home to the classical composer Handel for 36 years, and is where he composed and also rehearsed several of his works. At number 23 you get to see inside the home of another musical legend - Jimmy Hendrix lived here for just under a year; he decorated the flat, wrote new music, and entertained friends, and the exhibition gives you a great insight into 1960s London.

In the afternoon you accompany your guests as they explore Mayfair; they love the architectural features of the Burlington Arcade, and the children are fascinated by The Royal Institution. Founded in 1799 by leading scientists, its aim was to introduce 'new technologies and teach science to the general public.' With fully interactive and historical displays, it keeps all generations entertained. As the children rest their weary bones, you head out for a evening meal; there are so many exquisite choices, should you head to The Foyer at Claridges, or maybe The Ritz Hotel? You all finally decide upon The Grill at The Dorchester, as their signature blue lobster chowder is just too hard to resist.

West London boutiques

You will find Mulberry, Prada, Miu Miu, Hermes, Church's, YSL, Burberry, Chanel, Dolce & Gabanna, Gucci, Tiffany & Co. and many more luxury brands on Bond Street, which attracts connoisseurs from all over the world. You don't need to be looking for an investment piece to visit Sotheby'’s Auction Shop, it'’s a fascinating place to visit. Mount Street is wonderfully elegant with its striking facade, and has a more relaxed feel than Bond Street, here you will find Marc Jacobs, Nicky Clarke, Porsche and many more.