Imagine this: you’re lost in the moment, so captivated by your surroundings that you completely forget to snap a photo. This is exactly what happened to us during our two-night stay at the magnificent May Fair Hotel in London.
We were invited to experience this luxurious hotel as part of a collaboration with Lastminute.com. It was a spontaneous adventure, a whirlwind of excitement as we rushed from a bloggers’ brunch in Birmingham straight to the heart of London.
The moment we stepped through the grand doors of The May Fair, we were smitten. The lobby was an intoxicating blend of elegance and comfort, its air thick with the most exquisite scent. It was a fragrance so captivating, I longed to bottle it and carry it with me everywhere. Later, I learned from the concierge that this exclusive scent was a special creation by the hotel owner’s wife – a woman with impeccable taste!
The May Fair is steeped in history, having first opened its doors in the 1920s. However, this historic gem has been beautifully renovated and updated, boasting a modern, luxurious feel. Nestled in the heart of Mayfair, just a short walk from Green Park tube station, this iconic hotel offers a perfect blend of elegance and convenience.
A Room to Remember
Our room, located on the second floor, was a haven of style and comfort. The large, plush bed beckoned us to relax, while the stunning bathroom, complete with a TV opposite the bath, offered a touch of luxury. The room was adorned with interesting pieces of furniture and art, evoking a calming East Asian aesthetic, with subtle hints of Buddhism and Zen.
After a long day, we simply wanted to unwind and soak up the atmosphere. We had a glimpse of the countryside on the television, enjoying a little bit of “Countryfile” as we relaxed on the bed.
Exploring the West End
This was our first time staying in the West End, and we were thrilled to be able to walk to Soho, our favorite part of London. We strolled down Piccadilly, savoring the tranquility of a Sunday evening, marveling at the historic, charming architecture that defines London. We even enjoyed a delicious £5 dinner at Wong Kei, a delightful contrast to our luxurious surroundings.
A Night of Unexpected Discomfort
Sadly, our evening was not without its hiccups. We were forced to move rooms in the middle of the night due to noise from the casino below. It was a frustrating and disappointing experience, especially after a long day. The second room was uncomfortably cold, leaving us weary and longing for a good night’s sleep.
A Delicious Start to the Day
The following morning, we headed to the Quince restaurant for breakfast, a truly delightful experience. The opulent décor, with its rich blues, reds, and golds, created a warm, inviting atmosphere. We were seated on a plush, deep red bench, and Kristyna, our attentive and friendly waitress, made our breakfast truly memorable.
The breakfast menu was extensive, catering to all tastes. We savored every bite, enjoying a continental selection of fine meats, cheeses, croissants, and fruits, as well as a traditional English breakfast. We reveled in the opportunity to observe other guests, a fascinating window into the diverse experiences that bring people to this grand hotel.
A Night in the Duplex Suite
After voicing our concerns about the previous night, the hotel management went above and beyond to make amends. We were offered a stay in one of their Duplex Suites, a luxurious oasis designed to make up for the previous night’s discomfort.
The suite was an opulent haven of contemporary elegance, featuring a spacious living area with plush sofas, a large flat-screen TV, a Bose sound system, two work desks, a bar area with a Union Jack Smeg fridge and Nespresso machine, a large wardrobe, and a luxurious bathroom. The living room was double-height, leading to a mezzanine bedroom with a king-size bed, draped in luxurious linens. The suite’s décor embraced an understated elegance, incorporating East Asian elements that created a calming and sophisticated ambiance.
A Final Day of Relaxation
We spent the rest of our stay in this luxurious haven, enjoying the music from the Bose system and working on our laptops. After our epic breakfast, we skipped lunch, but as the evening approached, we ventured out for a romantic dinner at Bill’s, a charming restaurant in Soho.
The May Fair Bar
Back at the hotel, we couldn’t resist a visit to the May Fair bar, one of the finest bars in London. This cool, yet welcoming, high-end bar is open to all and offers a vibrant atmosphere. Although the cocktails are a bit pricey, they are worth every penny for a special treat.
However, we were exhausted from the previous night’s disruptions, so we opted for a bottle of red wine and enjoyed a quiet night in our suite. The beautiful bathroom, with its luxurious toiletries, was the perfect place to unwind with a long, hot bath.
Farewell to The May Fair
We slept soundly that night, waking up to the sound of a magnificent waterfall shower, a truly refreshing way to start the day. Our last breakfast at the Quince restaurant was an unforgettable experience, filled with delightful flavors and surrounded by the hotel’s unique ambiance.
We bid farewell to The May Fair, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience this luxurious hotel. The service was impeccable, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, and the décor created a truly luxurious experience. The scent of the lobby was truly divine, and we are already planning a return trip just to bask in its intoxicating fragrance.
We may not be able to afford a suite every time, but we will certainly be back to enjoy the bar, the restaurant, and the unforgettable ambiance of The May Fair Hotel.
We may have forgotten to take photos, but we will forever cherish the memories of our luxurious London getaway.
