The May Fair Hotel opened in 1927 with Royal approval – since then it’s played host to many a celebrity and is as known for its discretion as much as its flowing champers. Sounds like the perfect place for a lavish stay – especially as I’m attending a star-studded film awards bash downstairs.
Hoping to make the most of it, I rock up early to an elegant building that’s a short walk from Green Park tube station. Result: they are able to check me and inform me that I have a King Studio Suite. Taking the lift up, I find a spacious room with arresting modern decor, open plan lounge and a large Sicilian marble bathroom with a freestanding bath. Most promisingly there is a walk-in wardrobe, where I can hang my gown, and you could have a small party in there if you wanted, too. All the usual amenities are included, from great toiletries to a well-stocked mini-bar.
The hotel has over 400 rooms, but the staff have time for everyone, and it’s one of those well-planned spaces that never feels too crowded even if it’s fully booked. Our awards reception is in the Crystal Room, a dramatic retro ballroom harking back to the hotel’s glamorous heritage, while the private cinema is well worth a visit if you can score an invite to a screening there. But on any given night, hotel guests have fabulous hang-out options: my favourite is the charming Enchanted Terrace, a hidden gem where you can eat al fresco, sit in swing chairs and enjoy cosy fires in winter.
The May Fair Kitchen also does excellent lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, with the accent on fresh, modern Spanish and Italian sharing plates in a stylish setting with industrial design touches.
Drinks wise, we do not go thirsty: the long and luxurious May Fair bar has everything from cocktails to champers in a cool blue setting with plenty of nooks and crannies to sit and chat in. Their brunch menu is popular with both guests and locals in the know, though when we rise – reluctantly – from our very comfortable bed, we head to the May Fair Kitchen for a slap-up selection of buffet food, with a la carte options included. And yes, we did host an after-party in our room, but that is all I will say – discretion is key at the May Fair, after all.
Tell me more about the May Fair Hotel
The May Fair Hotel, Stratton Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 8LT Tel : +44 (0)207 769 4041
Queen Superior rooms start at £285 per room per night inc VAT, room only. King Studio Suites from £425 per room per night inc Vat, room only.
