Mayfair

Historically, Mayfair is London's most established smart address. It has always appealed to international buyers due to its affluent surroundings and ideal position just south of the West End. First developed as a fashionable residential district in the 18th century, most notably by the Grosvenor family, it houses many important buildings, such as the current US Embassy in Grosvenor Square and the Royal Academy of Arts, as well as hotels such as Claridges and The Dorchester. Though mainly commercial today, with major corporate headquarters, hedge funds and real estate businesses, Mayfair retains a substantial number of residential properties, beautiful squares and parks.

Its exclusivity is epitomized by London's most expensive shopping street - Bond Street, with its luxury designer boutiques - and fine restaurants, including Nobu, Le Gavroche and Cipriani.