Review: Traditional Afternoon Tea inspired by Cirque du Soleil at The Milestone Hotel

by Natasha (@ilovecakeandtea)

In celebration of the dazzling Cirque du Soleil performances at the Royal Albert Hall, The Milestone Hotel in Kensington has unveiled a beautifully theatrical Afternoon Tea. Running until 5th March, this limited-time experience brings a touch of Cirque magic to one of London’s most storied hotels.

The tea menu is carefully chosen, but two blends really stand out. The Planters Breakfast is rich and full-bodied — a classic that works beautifully across the menu — while the Chai Cinnamon offers an earthy, gently spiced warmth that feels especially comforting and indulgent.

The savoury selection is a whimsical nod to a twist to traditional British Afternoon Tea. A beautifully curated assortment of finger sandwiches, the roast chicken and the ham with piccalilli mayo were standouts. 

Freshly baked plain and raisin scones arrive warm and inviting, accompanied by Cornish clotted cream, homemade strawberry jam, and lemon curd. The scones strike that elusive balance: light yet substantial, crumbly without being dry.

The sweet tier is where the Cirque du Soleil inspiration truly comes to life, with a collection of delicately crafted patisserie that feels theatrical yet refined.

A Guanaja 70% chocolate and raspberry ladybird macaron delivers richness with a sharp, fruity lift, while the hazelnut praline butterfly choux is indulgent yet light, with a beautiful balance of texture and depth. Rounding things off, the mango and passion fruit cake brings a vibrant, sun-kissed sweetness that feels celebratory and uplifting.

The Milestone Hotel in Kensington is unapologetically regal, think plush carpets and furnishings. The Cirque du Soleil influence is refined rather than showy, adding a sense of playfulness and imagination without ever overpowering the hotel’s old-world charm. A fantastic Afternoon Tea experience. 

Click here for more information and to book now.

The Milestone Hotel also offers Cream Tea, Afternoon Tea party packages, Afternoon Tea sitting with resident artist Shelley Levey and more. Explore all experiences here.

Free Online Booking

Natasha (@ilovecakeandtea)

 For more London foodie adventures follow Natasha on Instagram: @ilovecakeandtea

Related news

Chelsea Flower Show Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel

The Milestone Hotel is a wonderful traditional Afternoon Tea experience in Kensington, and have a special Chelsea Flower Show Afternoon Tea available for a limited time. We caught up with the creators behind the menu and sampled the offering.

Review & Win: Family Cream Tea Hamper From Devon Hampers

Our team at AfternoonTea.co.uk was recently delighted to receive a charming Family Cream Tea Gift Hamper courtesy of Devon Hampers.

Review: The Kensington Hotel's New "Let Us Eat Cake" Afternoon Tea

Inspired by the V&A’s “Marie Antoinette: Style” exhibition, five-star London hotel The Kensington serves Let Us Eat Cake, a Marie Antoinette–themed Afternoon Tea in the Drawing Room of its Georgian townhouse near South Kensington.