Mayfair is one of London’s most prestigious and affluent neighbourhoods. Its handsome Georgian streets and squares are bordered by magnificent parks and grand avenues, and it is known around the world for its luxury hotels and for high-end shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Mayfair also has a fascinating history – from its origins as a swampy field used for the annual May Fair celebrations in the 17th century, to its more recent status as the most expensive property on the London Monopoly board!
Mayfair even has its own Jewish stories, with former residents ranging from influential Victorian aristocrats (including Disraeli, Montefiore, Sassoon, and Rothschild) to famous 20th century hairdressers, musicians, and celebrities. Hear about their lives, and learn about 1000 years of Jewish history in Britain.
Also, did you know that Mayfair has a long association with the United States? John Adams (later the second U.S. president) set up the first U.S. diplomatic mission to London in 1785 whilst living on Grosvenor Square, near to where General Eisenhower (34th President) had his wartime headquarters over 150 years later, whilst Theodore Roosevelt (26th President) was married in Hanover Square.
Our Mayfair walk will take us from Hyde Park Corner to Oxford Street. Along the way we will see the former homes of 7 different British Prime Ministers (including the only Irish and Jewish ones!), and also the statues of 3 different American Presidents. Our stops and stories will include the following locations:
- Hyde Park Corner
- Hamilton Place
- Park Lane
- Curzon Street
- Shepherd Market
- Berkeley Square
- Mount Street and its Gardens
- Grosvenor Square
- North Audley Street
- Oxford Street
Join us as we stroll through magnificent Mayfair, enjoying its geography and learning about its history – both general and Jewish. This tour is for everybody!
