A grand arrival
Situated in London’s sophisticated Mayfair district, The May Fair Hotel seamlessly combines old-world charm with modern luxury. From the moment we arrived, the red-uniformed doorman greeted us with a warm smile, opening the doors to a world of understated elegance.
There’s something about that first step into the marbled lobby — with its gleaming floors, opulent floral displays, and sultry lighting — that immediately makes you feel like something special is about to begin.
The hotel has a long Mayfair pedigree. It was inaugurated by King George V, is now part of the Radisson Collection, and is owned and run by Edwardian Hotels London, a privately owned hospitality group. It sits in the heart of W1, among Mayfair’s galleries, tree-lined parks and world-famous shops, and has a long history of hosting weddings and soirées as well as royalty, artists and world leaders.
A night in the Schiaparelli Suite
Our stay in the Schiaparelli Suite was nothing short of a dream. Named after the legendary fashion icon Elsa Schiaparelli, the suite pays tribute to her love of surrealist art and that unmistakable signature fuchsia, which appears subtly in the design. At 139m², this one-bedroom suite is spacious, theatrical, and utterly romantic — the perfect setting for a wedding night, bridal prep, or a luxurious city break.
Every detail was designed for indulgence — from the British handcrafted Vispring king mattress and freestanding limestone egg bath, to the Sonos sound system and integrated fireplace that gave the whole suite a warm, cocooning feel. We spent the evening sipping Nespresso by the fire, music playing softly, and the buzz of the city gently muted beyond the windows. It felt like our own little world.
The suite’s stylish work and lounge areas gave us space to relax. At the same time, the bathroom was a highlight in itself, complete with Noble Isle amenities and the kind of bathtub that practically insists you light a candle and soak the evening away.
The Schiaparelli is one of 37 suites. At the top sits the Penthouse, on the ninth floor and reached by a private lift, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a furnished 100-foot wrap-around terrace. The Signature suites, named Saffron, Opium, Amber, Amarillo, Azure and Ebony, are each individually designed, several with kitchenettes, Sonos systems or freestanding baths. Studio Suites are open-plan, and Duplex Suites are split over two levels.
May Fair Kitchen: a culinary gem
Later, we dined at May Fair Kitchen, the hotel’s signature restaurant, and it truly lived up to its reputation. The menu of Mediterranean small plates was a delight — from the wild mushroom risotto to the lobster tacos and that perfectly rich chocolate fondant for dessert. The ambience was effortlessly chic, and the service warm and attentive.
Dining is a major focus at The May Fair, and catering for weddings is in-house only.
A spa escape in the heart of the city
Although we didn’t have time to indulge ourselves, the May Fair Spa is renowned for its candlelit tranquillity, luxurious treatments, and beautifully designed relaxation spaces — perfect for pre-wedding pampering or a serene start to a romantic weekend.
May Fair Spa & Gym sits a few floors from the ballroom, so the bridal party can have treatments before the ceremony, or a quiet facial the morning after.
Weddings at The May Fair
A wedding here ranges from an intimate Private Dining Room to the grand Crystal Ballroom, planned with the same calm, discreet approach to every detail, from the floor plan to the flowers.
The Crystal Ballroom
A six-metre Baccarat chandelier hangs over 336 square metres, and the room has its own Berkeley Street entrance. It takes 260 guests seated or 370 standing.
The Danziger Suite and Atrium
An Art Deco first-floor suite for 170 at dinner, with the glass-roofed Atrium for drinks included in the hire.
The Private Dining Room
Walnut, marble and a terrace. The room is licensed for ceremonies of up to 60 and opens onto the heated May Fair Terrace.
Ceremonies at The May Fair take up to 180 guests, and the whole hotel can be taken for exclusive use. Every wedding is assigned a dedicated planner, who stays with the couple from the first conversation through to the final toast. The hotel works with florists, decorators, stylists and cake artists, and planners can also work with the suppliers a couple has chosen.
Why it’s perfect for weddings
Whether you’re searching for a pre-wedding pamper, honeymoon suite, or an elegant setting to begin your wedding weekend, The May Fair is a standout. Its city location is unbeatable for access, yet it feels discreet and exclusive. The Schiaparelli Suite is particularly ideal for bridal preparations, with space, glamour, and beautiful light for photography.
Our 5 Star wedding highlights
- The exquisite Schiaparelli Suite, perfect for romance and celebrations
- A refined, stylish dining experience at May Fair Kitchen
- The on-site spa for the ultimate pre-wedding unwind
- Beautifully attentive service with thoughtful personal touches
- A central London location that feels tucked away and luxurious
