Beautiful botanicals might not be the first thought that comes to mind whilst walking down Oxford Street & Marble Arch, but The Marriott on Park Lane is set to change that, in the most delightfully delicious manner. Lanes of London is an elegant, contemporary restaurant attached to the hotel serving seasonal British food for breakfast, lunch, dinner and of course, Afternoon Tea.

Whilst glancing over the menu, our knowledgeable server presented us with a box of teas, explaining the factors of each whilst we had the opportunity to take in their varying fragrances. She recommended we start with a blossoming green tea to reflect the theme to start with, giving us the option to change teas throughout the experience.

We were then presented with two semi bird cages encompassing a stunning range of sweet and savoury treats. Opting for both the vegan and original menu we were able to indulge on everything on offer, and both menus tasted as delicious as the other.

It is clear that a lot of thought has gone behind each piece. The sandwiches were sublime - these weren’t your standard finger sandwiches. Each one was designed individually - from the salmon wrapped around wasabi cream cheese & pickled gherkins, topped with caviar and finished with a crisp brown bread cracker base, to the cucumber ribbon wrapped around the confit duck sandwich, presenting it as a present. I personally normally am underwhelmed by the savory selection of afternoon teas, but these were truly marvellous. 

The scones have an exciting twist being flavored with cinnamon and date, which compliments the thick homemade spiced plum jam perfectly. They are also served with a plain version for those preferring to stick with tradition.

The pastries are the most fun element: representing the life cycle of a butterfly, the cakes start with a deliciously light white chocolate praline choux with mango caviar, representing butterfly eggs. Resting beside is the cutest marzipan caterpillar perched upon a rich chocolatey mandarin log. A light thyme, raspberry & lemon curd entrapment is adorned with a chocolate butterfly, before finishing with an edible chocolate flower pot filled with a scrumptious ginger carrot cake, further emphasizing the botanical theme.

The whole experience is incredibly enjoyable, the staff are attentive and well versed in their field and after being exposed to such pretty patisserie inspired by nature, it is perfectly located beside Hyde Park which you can look over to from your window seat. Spring is approaching and what a better way to celebrate!