A classic in one of London’s most prestigious neighborhoods.

London’s Mayfair neighborhood is known for stately, neoclassical architecture. Elegant shops and upmarket restaurants line the streets, maintaining the area’s regal appearance. From the exterior, The May Fair Hotel fits that mold. The entrance is adorned with royal flags and an antique wrought­iron awning, preserved from the original 1927 building. Inside, an aristocratic aesthetic—colorful, maximalist, and ornate—is streamlined to fit modern tastes. Among the property’s 400 guestrooms are 45 suites, each fashioned in distinctive materials and bold palettes. The aptly-­named Azure Suite features upholstery in shades of blue and a gold leaf and mosaic bathroom; the China­-inspired Opium Suite showcases East Asian antiques atop gold, red, and black furnishings. Even queen rooms feature Catalan­ designed furniture and Sicilian marble baths. For guests craving a slower pace, restorative treatments at the May Fair Spa will be welcome. A languorous afternoon tea at the May Fair Kitchen is another option, where traditional British blends are sweetened with a selection of Italian­ inspired ​dolce. After hours, the May Fair Bar attracts London’s sophisticated set with electric blue lighting and well ­crafted cocktails.