London’s allure is undeniable. From its majestic architecture to its vibrant culinary scene, the city offers an unforgettable experience. I’ve always been captivated by London’s charm, but lately, I’ve been too busy to fully immerse myself in its magic. To remedy this, I decided to embark on a delightful adventure with my husband—a London Landmark Afternoon Tea at The Kensington Hotel.
This unique experience promises a delightful journey through London’s most famous and exquisite architectural marvels, alongside its beloved culinary traditions. We were eager to escape into the elegant ambiance of The Kensington Hotel and savor every morsel.
A Cozy Setting for Indulgent Delights
We arrived at The Kensington Hotel on a Saturday afternoon, ready to enjoy our pre-booked 2pm tea time. As we stepped inside, we were warmly greeted and guided to the hotel’s elegant Drawing Room, the designated spot for the afternoon tea experience. We were fortunate to snag a charming table by the window, with a roaring fireplace keeping us cozy—a perfect spot to relax and unwind on a weekend afternoon.
After carefully selecting our teas, our taste buds were tantalized with a trio of savory starters: a Colston Bassett stilton and broccoli quiche, a warm steak and London ale pie, and a delectable crab cake with tartar sauce. These delightful bites set the stage for the main event, a symphony of flavors that awaited us.
A Culinary Masterpiece Inspired by London’s Iconography
The afternoon tea itself was a visual masterpiece, presented on a specially designed structure resembling the iconic London Eye. Each tier held a delightful array of sandwiches, scones, and decadent desserts, inviting us to embark on a leisurely culinary journey.
We began with the sandwiches, featuring classic combinations like smoked salmon, Coronation chicken, and a refreshing egg and cress bridge roll. Next, we savored warm scones, generously coated with clotted cream and jam—a perfect treat to celebrate our special occasion. Finally, we reached the main event—the desserts!
A Sweet Finale with London’s Architectural Flair
Each dessert was a delectable tribute to London’s iconic architecture. We were presented with “The Gherkin,” a white chocolate masterpiece filled with rich dark chocolate ganache. Another highlight was “The Shard,” a moist carrot cake infused with subtle winter spices, showcasing the beauty of simple flavors. We also enjoyed a red telephone box made with rhubarb mousse and Big Ben, a lemon curd tart.
My personal favorite was “The Gherkin” – the smooth dark chocolate ganache perfectly complemented the delicate white chocolate. The “Shard” was another winner, thanks to the moist carrot cake and the subtle warmth of the winter spices that enhanced the natural sweetness of the carrots. To our delight, the staff surprised us with an anniversary cake, adding a special touch to our celebration. By this point, our stomachs were well-contented. We concluded our culinary journey with a cup of coffee before venturing out into the charming Kensington neighborhood to walk off our delightful feast.
An Unforgettable Experience with Affordable Luxury
The London Landmark Afternoon Tea at The Kensington Hotel costs £42 per person, or £54.50 with a glass of Champagne. This price point is incredibly reasonable considering the generous portions, the high quality of the food, and the impeccable service. It aligns perfectly with the prices of afternoon tea at other prestigious London hotels.
The London Landmark Afternoon Tea at The Kensington Hotel is a remarkable tribute to London’s architectural marvels. It offers a delightful way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks without leaving the comfort of the hotel. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a leisurely afternoon with friends, or simply seeking a unique culinary experience, this afternoon tea is a must-try for any visitor to London.
