The Kensington Hotel offers a refined and stylish Afternoon Tea experience set in the heart of South Kensington. This elegant take on a timeless tradition is presented in The Drawing Room, a space that blends classic British charm with contemporary design, making it ideal for intimate celebrations, relaxed afternoons with friends, or a quiet solo treat.
The Setting: Understated Luxury
Afternoon Tea is served daily from 12:00pm to 4:30pm in The Drawing Room, a thoughtfully designed space with open fireplaces, plush velvet armchairs, and soft lighting. The atmosphere is calm and luxurious, offering guests a peaceful escape from the buzz of nearby museums and high-end boutiques. It’s an inviting spot to unwind, making it a fitting choice for those looking to combine culture, style, and indulgence.
The Menu: The Art of Afternoon Tea
The Kensington Hotel’s Afternoon Tea is more than a meal – it’s an artistic experience. Known as The Art of Afternoon Tea, the menu is carefully curated with a balance of traditional elements and creative twists.
Savouries include:
Smoked salmon and cream cheese on rye
Cucumber and dill on caraway bread
Coronation chicken
Truffle egg mayonnaise on brioche
Each sandwich is delicately prepared and served fresh, showcasing both flavour and presentation.
Scones are served warm, with a choice of plain and fruit, accompanied by clotted cream and homemade preserves. The texture is light, and the balance of sweetness allows the accompaniments to shine without overpowering the palate.
The pastry selection is where the culinary artistry is most evident. Inspired by art and seasonal ingredients, the patisserie changes throughout the year but typically includes vibrant mousse domes, hand-crafted tarts, and imaginative flavour pairings. Expect desserts that look as good as they taste, with intricate decoration and balanced textures.
Tea and Drinks Selection
Guests can choose from a wide selection of teas, including traditional black teas, green teas, floral infusions, and caffeine-free options. Tea is served in elegant china, with staff on hand to explain flavour profiles and offer pairings. For those looking to elevate the experience, champagne can be added for an additional charge.
Dietary Options and Booking
The hotel caters to a wide range of dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free Afternoon Teas are available with prior notice, ensuring all guests can enjoy the experience fully. The team is also happy to accommodate allergies or specific requests where possible.
Who It’s For
This Afternoon Tea is ideal for couples looking for a romantic break, visitors to London exploring the nearby Natural History or V&A museums, and locals marking special occasions. It’s particularly suited to those who appreciate artistic presentation and a thoughtful, modern twist on tradition.
Booking and Reservations
Due to high demand and limited seating, advance booking is recommended. Reservations can be made online via the hotel’s official website or by calling directly.
Address :
109-113 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London, SW7 5LP, United Kingdom
Opening Hours :
Daily
12:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Reviews
Afternoon tea was superb. Lovely sandwiches, with the truffled egg mayonnaise a total winner. Beautiful & delicious cakes. Only snag was the scones were a bit dry.
The London landmark afternoon tea at The Kensington Hotel pays fitting tributes to London's most famed architecture. It is a great way to tour the city without leaving the comfortable surroundings of the hotel.
The Kensington Hotel's afternoon tea is a stunningly luxurious experience, with impeccable service and enchanting decorations. The Around the World in 80 Days theme adds a delightful twist to the traditional tea.
The Kensington Hotel Afternoon Tea costs £58 per person, plus £18 for Rare Teas or Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV. This is a great price for those looking to spend an afternoon indulging in an idyllic location.
The Kensington Hotel's Afternoon Tea is a delightful experience. The service is charming and attentive, and the food is beautifully presented. The scones with strawberry jam & Devonshire clotted cream were just amazing!
The Dilly, London
Afternoon Tea at The Dilly, London is served daily from 12:30pm to 3:00pm and includes classic sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and handcrafted pastries, all paired with a wide tea selection. A special children’s menu is also available, featuring fun treats and kid-friendly drinks. Located at 21 Piccadilly, it’s ideal for families, celebrations, or relaxed afternoons. Priced at £49 for adults and £39 for children
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
For a refined afternoon tea experience, Four Seasons London at Park Lane offers elegance and contemporary charm in the Amaranto Lounge. Overlooking Mayfair and Hyde Park, this indulgent tea service features gourmet sandwiches, buttery scones with clotted cream, and exquisite patisserie, including raspberry macarons and praline tarts.
Enjoy a curated selection of fine teas or upgrade with Ruinart or Dom Pérignon Champagne. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. A truly elevated afternoon tea experience in London.
The Milestone Hotel
Overlooking Kensington Palace, The Milestone Hotel offers a luxurious afternoon tea in an elegant setting with live piano music. Guests enjoy classic finger sandwiches, including smoked Scottish salmon on beetroot bread, alongside warm scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves. The patisserie selection features chocolate ganache tarts, Victoria sponge, and Earl Grey mousse, paired with a curated tea menu or Champagne upgrade.
Vegan, gluten-free, and children’s afternoon tea options are available. A refined and traditional experience in the heart of London.
Claridge’s
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Served in elegant surroundings with impeccable service, it’s perfect for special occasions or indulgent afternoons. A Children’s Afternoon Tea ensures an inclusive experience. Served daily from 2:45 pm to 5:30 pm, prices start at £95 per person. Advance reservations recommended.
Peggy Porschen
Step into a pastel dreamland at Peggy Porschen Belgravia, where exquisite patisserie meets timeless tradition. Enjoy delicate savouries, warm scones, and handcrafted cakes, including a Lemon & Raspberry Mini Layer Cake and a Strawberry & Champagne Cupcake, all served in a floral-filled, Instagram-worthy setting.
Perfect for special occasions, tea lovers, and those who appreciate artistry in every bite. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. An elegant afternoon tea experience awaits!
Ladurée Covent Garden
Experience a Parisian-inspired afternoon tea at Ladurée Covent Garden, blending French elegance with British tradition. Set in Covent Garden Piazza, enjoy savoury delights like smoked salmon brioche and Brie & truffle on sourdough, followed by buttery scones with Ladurée preserves. Indulge in signature pastries, including the Mini Ispahan and chocolate éclair, alongside world-famous macarons.
Pair with premium teas or upgrade to a Champagne Afternoon Tea. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus available. A chic, luxurious treat in London’s most vibrant setting.
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