Where to live next: Mayfair, London

At the heart of Mayfair lies Grosvenor Square, a tranquil haven that has shaped the neighbourhood’s history for over three centuries. Established by the Grosvenor family in the 1720s, its proximity to the best shops and services of the day, the opera and St James’s Palace drew the country’s elite to the area. 

Today, Mayfair remains a mecca for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Stroll through its streets, lined with gorgeous Georgian, Regency, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and you’ll encounter world-class culture at every turn, from the bespoke tailors of Savile Row to exclusive art galleries and Michelin-starred restaurants. 

“International buyers love the diversity you get in Mayfair. The market here is one of the most varied in terms of nationalities,” explains Kimberley Pratt, Sales Manager at Knight Frank’s Mayfair office. “The area is incredibly unique and cosmopolitan with phenomenal hotels, luxury retail and fantastic green spaces. And not only do you have the sophistication of Mayfair, but many of our clients love being in such close proximity to Soho and Covent Garden for the buzz and nightlife it has to offer.”

This unique combination results in a lifestyle that is second to none. She notes a demand for high-quality homes that offer a hassle-free move, with those offering luxurious extra features particularly sought after. “Buyers are no longer just attracted to the cachet of a specific postcode, but drawn as much by the character and lifestyle opportunities offered by these properties, some of which have hotel concierge services and extensive residents amenities,” she says. 

Mayfair has some of the most exceptional new developments in the London market, including Clarges Mayfair, 60 Curzon Street and One Carrington, offering high-end facilities ranging from state-of-the-art spas to access to private members’ clubs. In the area expect to pay around £1.5 million to £2.5 million for a modern 2-bedroom apartment, or at the top end £15 million to £40 million-plus for a larger (5,000 to 10,000-plus sq ft) period house.  

“Demand for prime London homes, particularly those that provide a turnkey solution, is likely to pick up throughout 2025 thanks to a combination of relative value, greater political certainty, a higher presence of cash buyers and rising level of global wealth,” she predicts. However, when it comes to the main factor that speaks to the neighbourhood’s enduring popularity, she says simply: “it really does offer a fantastic lifestyle that can’t be found elsewhere”. 

Rosie Waters, Knight Frank’s Senior Lettings Negotiator in the area, similarly sees a diverse range of applicants seeking out the connected and upscale lifestyle that comes with residing in the neighbourhood. “Mayfair’s blend of luxury and local charm makes it a place that's constantly buzzing with activity, appealing to a multi-national demographic. It is an area that never stands still and is continually evolving, and it feels so exciting to experience such a special area of London everyday,” she says. 

This extends to some surprisingly peaceful corners, an oasis of calm in this famous urban centre. “There are beautiful pockets of green space in and around Mayfair which are sometimes overlooked. You have Hyde Park on your doorstep, alongside Grosvenor Square and Berkeley Square to name a few.” 

Renting offers a convenient option, particularly for those who may regularly stay in the area for business or leisure without requiring the longer-term commitment of a full-time home. This effortless living is only bolstered by Mayfair’s prestigious properties, with high-end amenities and services making settling in when travelling seamless. 

“There is a consistent demand for rental properties here, especially from ultra-high-net-worth individuals looking for a second home or a lock up and leave,” Rosie adds. “We have recognised an uplift in demand for hotel-style living, Mayfair boasts numerous branded residences such as Mayfair Park Residences, part of the Dorchester Collection, alongside the much-anticipated Mandarin Oriental Residences on Hanover Square which launched in the summer,” she shares. A 2-bedroom apartment in the area would typically let for around £7,000 per month upwards.

With Mayfair home to some of the best culture and businesses in the world it attracts an eclectic mix of residents, and for Rosie the opportunity to connect and hear their stories is one of the best parts of the job. “It’s amazing getting to see the incredible properties that I do, but what I find particularly interesting is the fascinating people I get to meet along the way.”