Celebrate the Coronation in Style: 5 Exquisite London Afternoon Tea Venues
There's nothing quite as quintessentially British as indulging in a spot of afternoon tea. While the tradition has evolved over the years, it still remains a firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. And what could be more fitting than enjoying this classic pastime in the heart of the British monarchy?
In honour of the Coronation, we've compiled a list of the best afternoon tea locations in London for you to don your finest attire and enjoy the wonderful occasion.
1. The Ritz London
No list of afternoon tea locations would be complete without mentioning The Ritz. A London institution since 1906, The Ritz has been serving up exquisite afternoon teas for over a century. The hotel's elegant Palm Court provides a breathtaking setting with its ornate décor, glittering chandeliers, and a resident pianist serenading guests.
The Ritz offers a traditional afternoon tea menu, complete with delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones accompanied by Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves, and an assortment of pastries and tea cakes. You can also choose from an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas or indulge in a glass of Champagne to make your visit truly special.
2. Fortnum & Mason
Another iconic British establishment, Fortnum & Mason has been serving afternoon tea since the early 1920s. Their Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, opened by Her Majesty The Queen herself, provides a luxurious setting to enjoy their award-winning afternoon tea.
Indulge in a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and a variety of cakes and pastries, all made fresh daily. Fortnum & Mason also offers an extensive tea menu, with over 80 blends to choose from, including their famous Royal Blend, first created for King Edward VII.
3. The Savoy
The Savoy is an iconic London hotel synonymous with elegance and sophistication. Their Thames Foyer provides a stunning backdrop for afternoon tea, with its opulent décor, natural light streaming through a glass cupola, and a central gazebo housing a pianist who plays throughout the afternoon.
Their coronation-themed afternoon tea includes an array of delicate finger sandwiches, such as the Coronation Chicken: a nod to the dish created for the Queen's Coronation banquet in 1953. Scones, pastries, and cakes, including a special Battenberg cake with a crown motif, complete the regal experience.
4. The Goring
The Goring, located just a stone's throw away from Buckingham Palace, has a strong royal connection, with the Middleton family staying there before the Royal Wedding in 2011. The hotel's elegant lounge offers a peaceful setting to enjoy its traditional afternoon tea.
With a menu featuring sandwiches, scones, and a selection of cakes and pastries, including a special Coronation-inspired cake, The Goring provides a truly royal experience. You can also choose from a range of teas, including their bespoke blend, or indulge in a glass of Bollinger Champagne.
5. The Dorchester
The Dorchester is another legendary London hotel, providing a glamorous setting for afternoon tea in their opulent Promenade. With plush seating, towering marble columns, and a resident pianist, you'll feel like royalty from the moment you step inside.
The Dorchester's afternoon tea menu includes a variety of finger sandwiches, scones, and an array of pastries and cakes. You can also choose from a selection of teas or indulge in a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne.
Conclusion
Whether you're a London native or a visitor to the capital, these Coronation afternoon tea locations provide the perfect opportunity to experience a slice of British tradition at its finest. So, dust off your best hat, raise a cup for the special day, and indulge in some of the best afternoon tea offerings that London has to offer!
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