best bed: The Mayfair Townhouse, London, UK

Filled with cheeky charm, The Mayfair Townhouse is the new kid on London’s luxury hotel block. Luckily, the team behind is anything but inexperienced. They also own the oh so renowned Cliveden House and Chewton Glen. Iconic Luxury Group has creatively linked 15 Georgian townhouses to create a hotel they describe as Oscar Wilde meets Alice in Wonderland. The buildings date from the 1730’s but the spirit reflects the late 19th century when Halfmoon Street was the glam bohemian hotspot. And Oscar was in his prime.  He is referenced throughout.  There is a life-sized peacock covered with 25000 crystals in the lobby named Alfie, after one of Oscar Wilde’s lovers. A copy of The Importance of Being Ernest is left bedside at turndown. The Mayfair Townhouse’s icon is the fox. As designer Jo Littlefair notes “it was the symbol of the subversive and mischievous characteristics of the Aesthetes whose influence we were channeling”. Details have been carefully thought out; guests are encouraged to expect the unexpected.  In the best possible way. Bathroom floors are heated, umbrellas are lined with flowers and mini bars are not just free but stuffed with treats you actually want to eat & drink. Funky portraits of the fictional family who might have lived here are scattered throughout. Halfmoon Street has a colorful history. It was named after a raucous pub that once anchored the bottom end. During the Victorian era, it was home to wealthy bachelors think P.G.Woodhouse’s Bertie Wooster and The Important of Being Ernest’s  Algernon Moncrieff. The busy lobby bar is named The Dandy in honor of these gentlemen. The décor  inspired by pocket watches and flapper’s feathers. The Paloma cocktail is a must. Each of the rooms is unique as befitting a townhouse, all furniture bespoke. They are elegantly practical with a touch of the flamboyant; lots of outlets, gorgeous deco bedside lights. Whether you opt for the grand two-bedroom loft suite with its large terrace or an adorable petite cabin suite you will not be disappointed. Make sure to meet ,and ask for advice from head concierge, Diana Bera she is one of very few female Clef d’Or’s in the world.

Number of Rooms: 172 (though it feels way smaller)

Sweet Suite: The two Garden Suites with their gorgeous indoor/outdoor space, headboards shaped like a portico and free-standing tubs these rooms are divine

Favorite Thing: The art… it was curated by Minda Dowling and is found everywhere. Make sure to visit The Den… decorated with multiple fox pictures by multiple artists. Each artist has their own unique frame for all their included works, a subtle helpful touch.  

Near By: the hotel is located right in the heart of Mayfair steps from Green Park. Also close…Hyde Park, Bond Street, Sheppard’s Market, Royal Academy of Art, Piccadilly, Burlington Arcade, Buckingham Palace

Amenities: Dandy Bar, Clubroom, The Den, gym, The Lower Ground Restaurant, Noble Isle bath products, pet friendly, heated bathroom floors, coffee machines and real milk in the minibar

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Themayfairtownhouse.com

The Mayfair Townhouse offers Wells Luxury Travel guests a seasonal welcome amenity upon arrival