Every aspect of life in Mayfair, particularly those that relate to its thriving but exclusive social scene, is as upper-class as it gets. It’s a refined area that some may call “old money,” and you’ll feel it when visiting or spending time at Mayfair locations, from pubs and restaurants to boutiques, social clubs, country clubs, or even when you’re just out for a stroll. The luxury in this part of London is quiet and reserved, with lifestyles appearing effortless rather than curated. If you, as a foreigner or visitor to London, wish to gain access to the most exclusive places in Mayfair, such as elite, long-running social clubs, you have to know the lore.
To make a splash in the long-established social scene, you need to understand how to operate, who to know, where to go, and how to get there. Happily, we have the inside scoop on all things Mayfair and how you, too, can experience the exclusivity, the kingly level of service, and the eclat that come with frequenting Mayfair’s most prestigious locations.
Travel Right
First and foremost, you need to plan your travel to and around Mayfair (and all of London, surely!) with purpose and style. The more established London airports, such as Heathrow, have excellent private jet facilities, should you be coming in from far afield, and most of the private jet rental companies now assist with other forms of transport too. For instance, booking a helicopter charter to get you around from hotel to hotel and club to club lends the whole affair a level of opulence that even the most prestigious car could never match! The most exclusive and high-end hotels in the area have access to their own helipads, as do some of the more desirable social clubs. Traffic? No, thank you.
Network
If you wish to claim your place in some of the longest-running social clubs that Mayfair has to offer, you’re likely to need to do some networking, especially if you are visiting or new to the area. Take a look at the events calendar for the next time you’re visiting Mayfair (events in other places, such as Chelsea, Kensington, Belgravia, and Wimbledon, also offer distinguished choices and excellent socialising) and put yourself out there to make connections. Choose the most impeccable outfits and present yourself well, with good manners and charm, which are sure to get you noticed in the right way by the right people with the right connections.
Get Members Only Access
To gain access to almost all of Mayfair's most sought-after social clubs, you’ll need to become “sponsored” by a member for a test run, and then become a member yourself. The rules for each club are different, but they’re all usually quite firm, having been established, in some cases, for hundreds of years. Some clubs may allow non-members to buy entry or tables at club events for a variety of reasons: to raise funds for charity, to search for the right potential member to fill a seat at the table, or for an event that a club or society member is hosting and they wish to allow non-members to join. Mayfair’s most distinguished clubs only allow an elite few to join their ranks as members, so be ready to be appraised! Remember that you reflect on whichever member sponsors you, so be polite and well-mannered, as well as considerate. To that end…
Follow Protocol
Protocol is a big part of English high society, as is propriety. Now no one is suggesting that you need to be “tame” or “bland” to gain entry to these alluring clubs, rather that you do what is asked when on their premises or attending their events, and that you inspire others to do the same. Following the dress code, arriving at planned events on time (even nightclub events) and being well-behaved: drink your drinks, dance and laugh, but no swinging from the chandeliers, climbing onto bars (this isn’t Coyote Ugly after all), or doing body shots in public view. Society social events in places like Mayfair are events with decorum and class. Every hair is in place, every stitch flawless, and the champagne doesn't stop flowing…doesn't that sound heavenly?
There’s always a “give to get” with the good things in life, but when all you’re being asked to do is turn up on time, dress well, and behave yourself (a little bit) to get access to gorgeous clubhouses, A-list events, and a plethora of other opportunities, you’re definitely on the winning end of the bargain.
Plan in Advance
Society gatherings in places like Mayfair are never last-minute events. Whether you are a member, hoping to become a member, or simply going to be in town when an event is happening and would like to make the list, you’ll need to plan your schedule carefully and in advance. Unless you’re aristocracy or royalty, the chances are zero that “getting tickets at the door” will be an option. Tend to your social calendar with the care of a gardener tending to rare roses, and you’ll make the cut for sure.
Fail to Prepare, and You Prepare to Fail
While getting into the most desirable locations, clubs, and events in Mayfair may not always be a simple matter, it's one well worth the effort. Put on your best outfit, book the hotel, book the helicopter charter, don a smile, and charge a glass of bubbles to your brand new social scene.
