Mayfair & Belgravia

Mayfair and Belgravia are London's most expensive postcodes — designer flagships on Bond Street, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the kind of Georgian architecture that's been immaculately maintained because it's always been too valuable to let decline. They're interesting to visit even without the budget to shop or stay there.

Mayfair

Bond Street is the obvious spine — Old Bond Street at the southern end holds the classic luxury houses; New Bond Street blends these with galleries and auction houses (Sotheby's, Christie's). A few streets back, Shepherd Market is a genuinely village-like pocket of narrow lanes, pubs and cafes that feels completely at odds with its high-end surroundings. Mount Street has some of the most interesting independent boutiques and galleries in the area.

Belgravia

Belgravia, south of Hyde Park Corner, is primarily residential at a very high level — white-stucco Nash-era terraces around Belgrave Square — but Motcomb Street and Elizabeth Street have independent food shops, florists and restaurants worth a browse, and the neighbourhood is pleasant for an evening walk even without a specific destination.

Getting There

Bond Street (Central & Elizabeth lines) for Mayfair. Hyde Park Corner or Sloane Square (both Piccadilly/District) for Belgravia.

Tips for Visiting

• Shepherd Market is the most interesting part of Mayfair for someone without a luxury shopping agenda.
• Bond Street galleries and auction houses are free to browse — Sotheby's and Christie's welcome walk-ins outside sale days.
• Elizabeth Street in Belgravia is a good destination for a food shop or independent lunch.