Keeping Cool in Mayfair: Top Things to Do During a London Heatwave

by | Jun 25, 2026 | Latest News

Photo credit: © Lucy Sutton-Long

This week we are experiencing high temperatures in London, and you may welcome some ideas of what you can do to keep yourself cool while still enjoying everything this central London neighbourhood has to offer. From cool indoor attractions to shaded green spaces, discover our top recommendations for keeping comfortable and making the most of your Mayfair stay during the heatwave.

Leisure

Our nearest park, Hyde Park, is an extensive green space with many trees to keep you in the shade. It offers some fantastic leisure facilities, including swimming in the Serpentine Lido, pedalos and rowing boats on the lake, and a lovely playground to keep younger visitors entertained.

A local hidden gem is Mount Street Gardens; filled with trees, shrubs and benches, it’s a lovely space to relax in the shade.

Culture

Mayfair is home to some world-class museums and galleries, including The Wallace Collection, Spencer House and the Royal Academy. They make the perfect attractions to enjoy in the cool.

Starting on 29 June and running until 16 August, Everyman on the Canal will be screening films and sporting fixtures during the daytime and evenings. Please see their website for the full programme, which offers a fantastic selection of titles for every taste and age.

Our local cinema, the Curzon Mayfair, provides a perfect retreat with a fabulous weekly programme of films and screenings, relaxing chairs and a brilliant bar where you can purchase cooling drinks, snacks and ice cream.

Just beyond Shepherd Market, Heywood Hill is a beautiful, historic bookshop—an ideal spot to pick up a good read and enjoy a moment of calm in the shade during your stay.

Food and drink

Mercato Mayfair is a food court in the unique setting of St Mark’s Church, offering a fabulous variety of international cuisine over three floors, and is dog-friendly. The cooling, shaded rooftop terrace is truly special. Oh, and be sure to enjoy a gelato from Badiani’s (their range includes vegan options)!

The Parlour at Fortnum & Mason is another excellent spot to purchase an ice cream or sundae.

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