Just around the corner from Hyde Park in the heart of Kensington, experience the timeless allure of The Milestone Hotel, an exquisite haven that blends its rich Victorian history with sophisticated modern comforts. With a menu thoughtfully curated for Valentine’s Day, I had the pleasure of experiencing their romantic take on their quintessentially British Afternoon Tea.

We were graciously greeted in the lobby before being led through the sophisticated Park lounge, which is where Afternoon Tea is usually served, and shown to The Oratory. Originally the mansion’s private chapel, it’s been well preserved so you can admire the ornate vaulted ceiling and wood panelling. This intimate and charming space can be booked for a cosy and romantic dining experience, or a truly unforgettable place for a proposal! The tables were elegantly embellished with crimson ribbons and adorned with fresh roses too.

The Valentine’s Afternoon Tea menu is set but there are alternative options for those with dietary restrictions and staff checked in to reconfirm if we had any allergies. Whilst champagne was served chilled at the table, we deliberated on our choice of tea from an extensive loose-leaf selection. We decided on a pot of the Planters' Afternoon and Planters’ Green. A light black tea with floral notes, and served with optional milk, the Planter’s Afternoon was comforting and paired perfectly with the food.

Presented beautifully on a traditional three-tier stand, the waitress talked us through each sweet and savoury item. She also informed us that the scones would be served later as they’re best enjoyed warm, of which we wholeheartedly agree. We started with the savoury items tucking into the miniature quiche Lorraine, which had a rich bacon flavour encased in a golden, buttery shortcrust pastry. We then proceeded to enjoy the sandwich selection, each a delightful twist on the classic, such as the egg mayonnaise elevated with an earthy truffle flavour, as well as the lemon and dill crème fraiche that helped bring out the umami in the smoked salmon sandwich. The generously filled creamy and meaty chicken mayonnaise encrusted with toasted almond was divine, a pleasurable crunch that complimented the filling and soft bread.

The sweets were a delight to behold, each one crafted with care and precision, and made even sweeter with little touches that truly encapsulated the Valentine’s theme. Our eyes instantly lit up as we indulged in the slightly tart and aromatic rhubarb and bay leaf bavaroise that resembled a rose. We cooed over the choux’s crunchy craquelin, which complemented the texture of the smooth and decadent chocolate ganache, as well as slowly savouring the citrusy and nutty flavour combination of the blood orange and pistachio macaron. The shell was half-dipped in chocolate and lovingly decorated with mini sugar hearts.

All the desserts were spectacular, and the chef successfully executed a balance of sweetness and tart in each dessert. This is especially true for the signature baked vanilla cheesecake, one of best I’ve eaten and whose recipe was created by Red Carnation Hotels founder Bea Tollman. The crunchy caramelised biscuit base and smooth, light and creamy filling was made even more delightful with a fruity passionfruit curd under an adorable chocolate heart of two love birds.

The staff provided clean plates as they brought out the freshly baked plain and raisin scones alongside pots of clotted cream and homemade strawberry preserve. The warm scones had a fluffy and buttery crumb interior with a golden and slightly crisp exterior. Topped with indulgent cream and slightly sweet strawberry preserve, we enjoyed these with fresh teapots of the refreshing loose peppermint tea and fragrant jasmine green tea.

The exceptional food, impeccable service and romantic ambience made for a truly enchanting and memorable experience.