English
Possibly one of the most charming aspects of being in London is the opportunity to participate in a traditional London tea time. Far from being the pastime of old ladies and their cats, afternoon tea is undergoing something of a revolution throughout London’s boutique tea rooms, bakeries and hotels. Certainly, you’ll find the typical touristy offerings at some of the big chain hotels; but if you’re willing to get off the beaten path a little, you’re bound for a real treat – and at a mere pittance.
Bea’s of Bloomsbury
Find it at: 44 Theobalds Road, WC1X 8NW
If you’re looking for a stellar tea selection, look no further. Bea’s of Bloomsbury sources its selection from Jing, who supplies the restaurants of such culinary stars as Heston Blumenthal. But the delights don’t end with the tea selection. If you stop in for a Sweet Afternoon Tea at this bakery, you’ll be treated to multi-tiered plates, loaded with mini meringues, mini Belgian Blondie cakes, mini Valrhona brownies, and (perhaps best of all) signature Bea’s cupcakes.
Bookings are a mere £12 per person, and reservations must be made by email at: tea@beasofbloomsbury.com.
Bake-a-Boo
Find it at: 86 Mill Lane, West Hampstead NW6 1NL
Bake-a-Boo is the stuff of little girls’ tea party dreams. From the powder-pink exterior to the tea-time offerings, this spot corners the market on cute. If you show up for afternoon tea, you’ll be treated to tea and traditional cream and scones, along with mini brownies, teapot-shaped biscuits, and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Make sure you book by phone 24 hours in advance at: 020 7435 1666. The fare is £15 per person.
Drink, Shop & Do
Find it at: 9 Caledonian Road, London N1 9DX
This King’s Cross tea spot was once a Victorian bath house, and has now been converted into a design shop, cocktail bar and café. The décor alone is worth the visit (all pieces are actually available for purchase), but the afternoon tea is really the star. You’ll be served a large pot of tea of your choice, along with fancy cakes, a mix of sweets, and some really lovely, dainty sandwiches.
Enjoy tea here with a friend for a combined price of £22. Make your reservation at: 020 3343 9138.
The Sanderson
Find it at: 50 Berners Street, London W1T 3NG
If you’re looking for a bit of whimsy with your tea, look no further than the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at the Fitzrovia Sanderson. The event was initially a temporary promotion to tie in with Tim Burton’s 2010 film; however, it quickly became so popular that the Hotel has continued to date. Both kids and adults will thrill to the crazy fare, including rainbow-colored sandwiches, “Eat-Me” cake, “Drink-Me” smoothie, and delightfully strange pineapple lollipops that turn from hot to cold in your mouth.
All of this can be enjoyed for a mere £25 per person (add a glass of champagne for an extra £9.50). Reservations are made by phone at: 020 7300 1444.
find apartment accommodation in London and discover one of the most distinctive traditions on British people, the tea.
