Washington Mayfair Hotel

Built in 1913, the hotel has an attractive classic facade and a revolving glass entrance door that offers a hint at the fine interiors. The lobby is an expansive space, with a patterned carpet, curved wooden reception desk, plenty of comfortable seating areas, and a bank of computer stations for guests’ use. The look is a blend of traditional and contemporary styles, with eclectic furniture that ranges from low-slung couches to tables and chairs with antique silhouettes. There’s a flat-screen TV mounted on the wall as well as potted plants and fresh flowers dotted around that provide a bit of homey style. It’s a light, bright space with lots of floor to ceiling windows overlooking the street outside. The hotel is popular with business guests and tourists as it provides good value for money in an expensive part of London. 

Set on Curzon Street in the heart of London’s upmarket Mayfair, many of the city’s most famous sights and top attractions are within a short walk of the hotel. Green Park, Hyde Park, and The Ritz are a four-minute walk; while St. James's Palace, Buckingham Palace, Fortnum and Mason, the high-end shops of Bond Street, the Royal Academy of Arts, and celebrity nightspot Mahiki are all within a 10-minute walk. The area is also packed with top-class restaurants and plenty of coffee shops. It’s easy to get around on public transport from here too, as the Green Park Underground station is just a four-minute walk away. Heathrow International Airport is around a 50-minute taxi ride from the hotel, although this varies widely according to traffic conditions. The trip takes the same amount by tube and is far cheaper. Gatwick Airport can be reached in 45 minutes by combining the tube and Gatwick Express train.

The Washington Mayfair's 178 guest rooms are available as Classic, Superior, and Deluxe Double or Twin, though style is identical across the board. There are also a range of Suites, including some two-bedroom options that have a large separate lounge and a kitchenette. The decor has a stylish and modern look, using warm, earthy colors with pops of bright green alongside dark wood furniture with leather headboards. Patterns make a statement here, from the circle-print yellow wallpaper on accent walls, to the headboards, metallic lamps, and soft furnishings. Many have views toward Green Park. All rooms include free Wi-Fi, minibars, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, coffeemakers, air-conditioning, desks, and safes. Bathrooms are sleek and modern with contemporary white sinks (but limited counter space in many rooms), tan porcelain tiling, mist-free mirrors, shower/tub combo and upgraded toiletries. Noise can be an issue from inside and outside the hotel, and while all rooms have air-conditioning, it's not always up to snuff.

The hotel has a good restaurant on-site, Madison's, which is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant serves international cuisine and has an intimate atmosphere in the evenings when the tables are candlelit. Unfortunately breakfast is not included in room rates. The lounge bar serves hot beverages as well as a range of bubbly, wines, and spirits. It also has a snack menu and serves a popular afternoon tea. Twenty-four-hour room service is also available at the hotel. Private dining can be arranged for groups, and the hotel has many different options for meetings and events. There's a small on-site fitness center with weights, treadmills, and exercise bikes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property as well.