Nestled in the heart of London, the Great Scotland Yard Hotel offers an exquisite experience for those seeking a taste of luxury. Their new seasonal spin on a Traditional Afternoon Tea was truly an experience to remember. 
Upon entering the hotel's tea room, I was immediately struck by the elegant ambiance. The décor exudes sophistication, with plush furnishings, soft lighting, and a subtle hint of historical charm that pays homage to the building's rich heritage. The atmosphere is refined yet welcoming, creating the perfect setting for a leisurely afternoon of indulgence.

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted warmly by the staff, who were professional and attentive throughout our visit. Each member of the team was knowledgeable about the menu offerings and took great care to ensure that the Afternoon Tea experience exceeded expectations.

After ordering our drinks, a tea trolley was brought to our table where we were informed on the history behind the leaves and the best methods for brewing. This interactive element was very informative and added an extra layer to the whole experience.

The three tiered stand then arrived and what a sight it was! The Afternoon Tea selection was nothing short of spectacular. Not only were traditional finger sandwiches served, but two warm mini canapes were also found. My favourite being the Caramelised Jerusalem artichoke and Montgomery cheddar Yorkshire pudding. The melted cheese oozed out with every bite and the traditional Yorkshire pudding was brought back familiar, comforting memories. Whilst chicken Coronation, egg mayo and smoked salmon may sound like traditional flavours, they are served in the most elevated of ways with additional ingredients and textures making them very special.

The scones are also served warm and the classic freshly baked plain and raisin scones and served customarily with Cornish clotted cream & a unique rhubarb and rose jam.

Then on to the delicate pastries: every bite was a delight to the senses. The presentation was exquisite, with each item beautifully arranged on tiered stands, adding to the overall elegance of the experience. Highlights included the Rose, lychee mousse and raspberry crunch, whose layers showcased the skill and creativity of the hotel's pastry chefs. The impressive selection of patisserie items also included a strawberry and white tea choux which was a work of art, crafted with precision and attention to detail. The flavours were sophisticated yet accessible, with a perfect balance of sweetness and richness that left me craving more, it was just a shame to destroy something so beautiful. 

Overall, my experience at the Great Scotland Yard Hotel was nothing short of exceptional. From the elegant ambiance to the impeccable service and exquisite culinary creations, every aspect of the experience was carefully curated to provide a truly memorable dining experience. Rich in history this is a perfect location, whether you're a local resident or a visitor to London -it's an experience that will linger in your memory long after the last crumb has been savoured.

Afternoon Tea at The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel starts at £59 per person. Click here for more information and to book.