You could argue that the British Empire was built on the principle that ‘everything stops for tea’. There are still a few corners of England where this habit holds out, such as the cricket field: here are a few of the best places to take tea in London.
Any comments - or a suggestion for a London secret? Please e-mail me.
Afternoon Tea 1 2
The Orangery
A supremely elegant setting, in the well-groomed grounds of Kensington Palace, the Orangery is the perfect place on a sunny afternoon to sit and watch London go by. If you really want to feel like a princess, enjoy some pink (English) champagne.
Kensington Palace
Tel: +44 (0)20 7376 0239
Tube: High Street Kensington
Pembroke Lodge
Set in its own landscaped grounds with spectacular views over Richmond Park, Pembroke Lodge was once the home of the Countess of Pembroke , ‘a close friend’ of King George III. Now it’s a wonderful setting for afternoon tea.
Richmond Park TW10
Tel: +44 (0)20 8940 8207
Train: Richmond
www.pembroke-lodge.co.uk
The Dorchester
Of all the big hotels, this is perhaps the best for tea – maybe because it’s a bit more off the tourist trail than some others. Champagne, sandwiches, cakes and a silver teapot with tea strainer - all the proper elements are in place here.
Park Lane W1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7629 8888
Tube: Hyde Park Corner
www.dorchesterhotel.com
The Berkeley
The Berkeley’s Prêt-a-Portea has become the fashionable place for afternoon tea with its cakes reflecting the style of various designers. Spot your catwalk favourites, while nibbling treats aimed at the figure-conscious.
Wilton Place SW1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7235 6000
Tube: Knightsbridge
www.the-berkeley.co.uk
Victoria & Albert Museum
The Morris, Gamble and Poynter Rooms at the V&A retain their original decor, showpieces of design when they first opened. They have just been updated with modern catering facilities, so you can enjoy the best of old and modern.
Cromwell Road SW7
Tel: +44 (0)20 7942 2211
Tube: South Kensington
www.vam.ac.uk
Royal Academy
The Gallery Cafe is a quiet, informal place to enjoy a snack only a short distance away from the bustle of Piccadilly Circus. Designed by Norman Foster, it has a light, modern feel and is open from 10am to 5.30pm daily (7.30pm on Fridays).
Piccadilly W1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7300 8000
Tube: Piccadilly
www.royalacademy.org.uk
The Mandeville
Men's Afternoon Tea here is the only one for men in London, offering whiskies and games. Fashion Afternoon Tea is a more delicate affair, with pink meringues and designer cupcakes, served on Royal Doulton china designed by Zandra Rhodes.
Mandeville Place W1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7935 5599
Tube: Bond St
www.mandeville.co.uk
The Park Lane Hotel
The Palm Court Lounge offers a very traditional Afternoon Tea in an Art Deco 1920s setting with harp music. There is a choice of 25 types of tea, served with finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jams, and a pastry trolley.
Piccadilly W1
Tel: +44 (0)20 7290 7328
Nearest tube: Green Park
www.sheratonparklane.com
