5X Afternoon Tea fit for a Queen (or King)
The celebration of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee is fast approaching. If you have a sweet tooth like me, there is no sweeter (better) way to honour this day than to indulge in one of the most fabulously British traditions? As such, I have compiled a list of the most fitting afternoon teas for you to get a taste of the life of a "royal tea" on the special day, and the leading up to it.
You'd be surprised to know that it was not a member of the Royal Family who introduced the tradition of afternoon tea. In fact, afternoon tea was started by Anna Maria Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford. The Dutchess was a close friend of Queen Victoria. What was once simply an afternoon snack has now become an iconic indulgence.
Below is a selection of afternoon teas that are fit for a Queen on every budget.
Taj 51*
Did you know that the word "Taj" means "crown" in Hindi? Taj 51 Buckingham Gate definitely lives up to its name. And to honour the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, the luxurious hotel is hosting a Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea from Wednesday to Sunday until 30th November. You can find this amazing set-up in their beautiful restaurant Kona, where each tier of the tea set is carefully curated, referencing not only the Royal residences but the milestone of Her Majesty's life. Without a doubt, this is an experience you do not want to miss! From the table decoration to the bell ringing and the explanation of each delicacy, everything about this tea is truly exceptional!
Experience this unique and memorable afternoon tea for £70 pp.
Conrad London St. James
What better way to immerse yourself in a royal afternoon tea than to dine in what was once Queen Anne's Chamber?
The Orchard is an afternoon tea lounge located in a 19th-century building looking over Big Ben. Very fittingly, the 'RoyalTea' includes sweet treats made with ingredients from Royal Warrant holders. For those who don't know, having a Royal Warrant signifies the ultimate approval from the three most senior members of the Royal family, namely Her Majesty the Queen, the late HRH Duke of Edinburgh and HRH the Prince of Wales. With this seal of approval, what more convincing do you need?
Enjoy an afternoon tea in the former royal setting for only £45 pp.
Brigit's Bakery
Brigit's Bakery is offering you a truly movable feast. That's right, an afternoon tea served on the classic red double-decker bus. From now until the end of July, you can hop on from Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square and enjoy a 90-minute bus ride around some of the most iconic landmarks in the city. These, of course, include Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey and Big Ben, just to name a few. What's more? To give it the ultimate royal seal of approval, the Bakery has partnered up with Debrett's, the go-to authority on British etiquette and the Royal Family. You will be acting like a true royalty by the end of the ride.
The tour costs £40 for children and £50 for adults.
British Pullman, A Belmond Train
Once a month, the iconic British Pullman train invites you to indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea onboard. However, on the 5th of June this year, a very special Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea will be served on the beautifully adorned vintage carriages of the British Pullman train. As such, place your napkins around your neck and get ready for a round-trip journey back in time. Luminary Bakery exclusively designed the menu, so you can be sure that this will be your most royally scrumptious ride yet!
The train departs from London Victoria at 12:20 on the 5th of June. Tickets start from £340 pp.
Tea On The Thames
Why not cruise down River Thames while enjoying an afternoon tea? Tea On The Thames hosts two sessions of afternoon teas once a month on weekends. And for this very special occasion, they are welcoming guests with a complimentary glass of fizz upon arrival. However, don't be fooled by the name! River Thames runs a long way and this two-hour excursion is located in Caversham, in Reading, NOT London.
Tickets are £31 for children and £42 for adults.
Out of all these afternoon tea options, which one takes your fancy the most? Would you choose the more traditional style tea or are you more inclined on making it an adventure?
