Imagine yourself strolling through the bustling streets of London, the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the air, and the iconic black cabs whizzing past. This is the city we experienced, starting with our arrival at Gatwick Airport.
From Airport to Hotel: A Journey Through London’s Heart
Our journey began with a comfortable and affordable train ride from Gatwick Airport to Victoria Station. The station, though immense, was a whirlwind of activity, a true testament to the vibrant energy of London. It brought back fond memories of my previous visits, one in 2001 when I called London home, and another in 2007 during a memorable round-the-world trip with my husband.
To stay connected in this bustling metropolis, we decided to secure a mobile data plan for our phones. A pop-up booth offered a tempting deal: two SIM cards with unlimited data and calls for a reasonable price. We felt reassured knowing we could stay in touch with the world.
With our communication needs met, we navigated the labyrinthine Victoria Station, luggage in tow, following the black line that led us to the elusive taxi stand. Though tempted by the underground, our luggage and the daunting prospect of navigating London’s extensive subway system with stairs and limited elevators, we decided on a taxi for a more convenient journey.
Flemings Mayfair: A Dreamy Destination
Our taxi journey culminated in the heart of Mayfair, a luxurious neighborhood that felt straight out of a Monopoly board game. We arrived at Flemings Mayfair, a hidden gem with an unassuming exterior that belied the opulent world awaiting us within.
Imagine a world of pure imagination, like stepping into a page of Alice in Wonderland or Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. This is the feeling that enveloped us as we explored Flemings Mayfair. Its lavish restaurants and bar offered a glimpse into a world of comfort and elegance.
Founded in 1851, Flemings Mayfair is a collection of six interconnecting Georgian townhouses, each with its own unique charm. The hotel boasts 129 exquisitely designed rooms and apartments, as well as The Townhouse, a luxurious seven-bedroom private residence.
Beyond its captivating interiors, Flemings Mayfair offers exceptional service. The concierge team proved invaluable, providing helpful advice and assistance, even kindly storing our pram for easy access.
A luxury apartment was our home away from home. Our two-bedroom, two-bathroom haven, complete with a fully equipped kitchen and living room, felt like a royal retreat. After a friendly welcome from the reception staff, we ascended the library-inspired elevator to our room on the seventh floor.
A Room with a View: Comfort and Amenities
Stepping into our room, we were greeted by a delightful surprise. The children’s faces lit up with joy at the sight of slippers, storybooks, and thoughtful presents neatly piled on their beds. An invitation to call room service for irresistible cookies and hot chocolate made them feel like royalty. The children’s restaurant menu, featuring a cute frog mascot, was a delightful touch.
Our spacious apartment offered everything we needed for a comfortable stay. The only minor setback was the internet connection, which was patchy and slow. Though we brought up the issue with the staff, they assured us it was functioning correctly.
While the internet issue was a minor inconvenience, we relied on our unlimited data SIM cards to stay connected, a small price to pay for seamless communication. It’s worth noting that the hotel is upgrading its internet connectivity next year, so this issue will soon be a thing of the past.
Culinary Delights: Flemings Mayfair’s The Grill
The Grill, Flemings Mayfair’s main restaurant, is a culinary haven. Each morning, a fresh continental buffet awaited us, with the option to indulge in a delicious hot breakfast. From silky smooth buttermilk pancakes drizzled in syrup to a full English breakfast with sausages and bacon, eggs benedict cooked to perfection, and much more, there was something for everyone.
Lunch at The Grill was a treat fit for a king. We were welcomed with complimentary appetizers: salmon mousse, Rockford biscuits, and mini spring rolls. The kids devoured the spring rolls, and even I, not a salmon enthusiast, found myself enjoying the mousse.
For our main courses, Josh opted for a perfectly cooked steak, while I indulged in a hearty lamb roast with garlic mash. Fruity cocktails, The Istanbul and The Sydney, complemented our meal.
Dessert was a delightful finale. Josh, never one to turn down a sweet treat, chose the crème brulee. Though not quite as smooth and creamy as he hoped, his steak was the highlight of the meal.
The children’s menu offered delicious options for our little ones. Caius enjoyed pumpkin soup and puff pastry pizza, while Mia ordered garlic bread and perfectly cooked pasta. They both devoured the icing off their cupcakes for dessert, leaving the carrot cake behind – a childhood experience we all can relate to.
The private dining areas of The Grill are beautifully designed, with modern décor and lighting, making them ideal for special events and celebrations. Conveniently located a short walk from Green Park underground station, The Grill is easily accessible.
Flemings Mayfair: A Luxury Experience
If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a Monopoly board game hotel, Flemings Mayfair is a dream come true. It combines a fabulous location, a captivating interior, and luxurious accommodations, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of London.
We were sad to leave after only two nights, and I wish we could have stayed longer.
Highlights of our stay at Flemings Mayfair:
- Children dine for free from the Fleming Frog kids menu
- Exclusive signed copy of the Fleming Frog book
- Hot chocolate & cookies at bedtime
Flemings Mayfair offers a truly unforgettable experience, blending luxury, charm, and exceptional service. We highly recommend it to anyone seeking a memorable London getaway.
