Partaking in afternoon tea is a distinctly British tradition, so the next time you head across the pond to London, be sure to sample some of these delights. Emyr Thomas from Bon Vivant, London’s most trusted concierge and lifestyle management service, has given us his selection of the best venues for afternoon tea in London.
The Lanesborough
The public areas at The Lanesborough are a delight, including Aspley’s, where afternoon tea is taken in a formal and elegant manner. The service is impeccable, including England’s first tea sommelier to guide you through the extensive options.
The Foyer at Claridge’s
Claridge’s is the perfect place to indulge in afternoon tea, which is served right at the heart of the hotel in the grand and elegant foyer, which exudes luxury and style. There’s a selection of 30 teas from all over the world and they use exclusive tea-infused jam and Devonshire clotted cream.
The Caramel Room at The Berkeley
For a more contemporary experience, Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley hotel offers afternoon tea with a fashionable twist, taking inspiration from the world of fashion in the style and shape of the sandwiches and cakes.
Bea’s of Bloomsbury
Bea’s offers great value for money afternoon tea in a small, friendly and ‘buzzy’ café environment. The cakes taste as good as they look, and not many people leave without taking home at least one cupcake.
The English Tea Room at Brown’s Hotel
In a light and airy room with the sound of a baby grand piano in the background, Brown’s offers a selection of 17 teas, including their own blend, accompanies by friendly and attentive service. Brown’s was awarded the ‘Top London Afternoon Tea 2009’ award by The Tea Guild.
The Parlour at Sketch
The Parlour offers fine cakes, sandwiches and tea in a grand setting with a cool and quirky vibe. There is a no reservation policy, but any wait will be worth it.
The Capital Hotel
The Capital hotel is unmistakably British, and the sitting room is an ideal setting for afternoon tea. Given the pedigree of the hotel and the restaurant, this is great value for money in a beautiful setting.
ARTea at The Cadogan
Afternoon tea in the drawing room of The Cadogan hotel is now accompanied by an exclusive collection of works from The Kings Road Art Gallery, where you can combine your love of art with your afternoon treat.
Sotheby’s Café
Offering an unusual setting for afternoon tea, tucked in next to the famous auction house, Sotheby’s café is small, elegant, great for people watching and surprisingly good value.
The Mandeville Hotel
The Mandeville Hotel features a men’s afternoon tea, designed to be an alternative to the standard business meeting or a respite from a shopping excursion, offering ‘man sized’ portions, a selection of games and a range of whiskies as well as champagne and tea.
Bon Vivant is a bespoke concierge and lifestyle management service with an emphasis on personal service. Based in London with global coverage. For further information, visit their website http://www.bonvivant.co.uk, their blog at http://blog.bonvivant.co.uk or follow them on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BonVivantLiving
