Afternoon Tea Meets London Landmarks

Any visit to London should include afternoon tea. No matter your schedule, carve out time for the tradition; I did, even though my most recent visit was only overnight. If you’re looking to combine the timeless act of afternoon tea with some of London’s other famous icons, visit The Kensington Hotel.

Its on-site restaurant Town House hosts a new London Landmarks Afternoon Tea, a fitting tribute to the city.

I made my way to the hotel on a dreary January afternoon, but I was immediately warmed by my cozy corner booth and pot of traditional English breakfast tea. The restaurant felt more like hanging out in a chic home than a stuffy hotel eatery.

The tea honors some of London’s most recognizable sites, particularly with the desserts: “The Gherkin,” a white chocolate-covered dark chocolate ganache; “The Shard,” carrot cake with milk chocolate; an iconic red telephone booth of rhubarb mousse; and a Big Ben lemon curd tart.

Displayed on a London Eye-themed serving tray, alongside tea sandwiches and warm scones (one raisin, one plain, perfect when paired with the clotted cream), everything was delicious! The sandwich options include smoked salmon, pesto and cream cheese on brown bread; coronation chicken on brown bread; egg salad on a bridge roll; and marinated cucumber with crème fraiche. An appetizer course starts the experience, and includes a crab cake, a mini quiche and a steak and ale pie.

The price is approximately $55 per person, or around $70 with a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV Champagne.

Visitors to London will be thrilled with the special touch of London served at Town House.