Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough 

There are many places in London where time feels as though it has paused just for you. The Lanesborough is one of them. Nestled beside Hyde Park, this neoclassical style hotel offers a moment of calm and ceremony in the form of its celebrated afternoon tea. Whether you are arriving from a morning stroll through the park or slipping away from the city’s bustle, stepping into the Wedgewood blue tea room lined with white Grecian columns is like entering another world. 

The current offering, the Bridgerton Afternoon Tea, is inspired by the Regency era. Though I have never watched the series (and likely never will), the experience is a triumph of storytelling through taste. Each pastry is like a character, each sip of tea a scene. “The Book of Eloise” is a particular delight—purple flowers, delicate, and almost too pretty to eat. 

The setting is in The Lanesborough Grill, also host to a flagship restaurant by night. Afternoon Tea service is accompanied by a pianist on weekends, but the clink of fine China is still enough if you can only make it during the week.  This is certainly a place where elegance is effortless, and indulgence is encouraged.

The Menu Highlights 

Finger Sandwiches: Smoked salmon with dill, poached cornfed chicken, cucumber with garlic herb cream 

Warm Scones: Served with clotted Devonshire cream and fruit preserves 

Pastries: Inspired by Bridgerton characters and stories—think pistachio, mandarin and vanilla cheesecake mousse 

Tea Selection: A curated list of black, green, and herbal blends, including the Lanesborough’s Teas With A Twist – chocolate brownie, white choco chilli, and rhubarb and vanilla 

Prices begin at £89 per person, with champagne and cocktail options available. A children’s tea is offered at £55, and dietary accommodations are available with notice. 

A Note from My Day at The Lanesborough 
(Tucked into my notebook, just for you) 

To conclude, I recommend this as a must for any trip to London (or for the Favourites already living there). And if you have not explored something like this in your own city, take a Sunday to try. You may find that a little ceremony is exactly what your week needs. 

Katherine’s Picks for a Tea-Inspired Day 

Fortnum & Mason Rose & Violet Creams Infusion – A floral, chocolatey tea inspired by Fortnum & Mason’s iconic English chocolates 

Fortnum & Mason Silver-Plated Teapot Infuser – Perfect for gifting or elevating your own tea ritual 

Tea Forté Jardin Petite Presentation Box – A beautifully boxed trio of teas and accessories featuring botanical illustrations from the New York Botanical Garden Collection.