Afternoon Tea Week

Just in case you needed an excuse for a pot of tea and some finger sandwiches, Afternoon Tea Week is here.

Afternoon Tea Week 2018

Yes, we know what you’re thinking, there is never a bad time for tea. But now is a particularly good one, as it is officially Afternoon Tea Week. A celebration of the traditional British feast of sweet and savoury delights accompanied by the nation’s favourite drink.

If you’re looking for the very best afternoon teas in London, you can refer to our full guide. But here are three of the most exciting new creations to enjoy this week…

The Ampersand Hotel’s Tea Pot-Tails

Set in the gorgeous light-filled (and velvet armchair-scattered) Drawing Rooms at the Ampersand Hotel, the hotel’s new take on the famous Science Tea is new in time for Afternoon Tea Week. A grown-up twist on the Science Museum-inspired menu, this new addition includes a cocktail flight, and is to be served between 6pm-9pm Thursday to Saturday.

Drinks on offer include Darwin’s Draught – with Lalani & Co Earl Grey infused Chase vodka, Kamm & Sons, cucumber, apple and ginger – and Marie Cure-All – Lalani & Co Premium Genmaicha infused rum with Aperol, Antica Formula & Amer Picon – all suitably scientifically presented, in smoking teapots and the like. This is a novelty afternoon tea done really, really well, with seriously good food (the cheddar and thyme scones served with truffle butter are the star) and a really clever drinks menu. £49.50 per person, www.ampersandhotel.com.  

The Beaumont’s Cake Trolley

Launched just in time for National Afternoon Tea Week is The Beaumont’s very first foray into afternoon tea. Bringing a slice of New York to Mayfair, Head Pastry Chef Pierre Storti combines American favourites within a traditional English Afternoon Tea format. The delights (including lobster rolls, coffee and pecan cake and red velvet cake) will be served on an antique cake trolley and will be available daily between 3pm and 6pm in The Beaumont Lobby. Priced from £26.50, and you can add a glass of champagne from £15.50. Call 020 7499 1001 (The Beaumont) or [email protected] to book.

Pop Up Champagne Bar at Chilworth Manor, Southampton

If you’re escaping London this week, celebrate Afternoon Tea Week at Chilworth Manor’s pop up Champagne Lounge. Add a glass of champagne to your sweet and savoury afternoon menu at this happily-situated pop-up. Overlooking stunning grounds and the conservation area beyond, it is the perfect setting for a summer afternoon tea. From £22.50