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 Beaumont
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The Ochard Room
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The Wolseley
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A relaxed yet refined experience, perfect for special occasions or a stylish afternoon in London. Advance booking recommended.
The Chesterfield Mayfair
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Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
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Ruxley Manor
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Ruxley Manor’s Mulberry Tree Café, where seasonal menus are served in cosy private pods all year round. Priced at £29.99 for adults and £16.99 for children, each tea includes savoury sandwiches, sweet bakes, warm scones with clotted cream, and a hot drink. With menus tailored to spring, summer, autumn, and winter, each visit brings something new. The heated or cooled pods seat up to six, making this a relaxed, charming experience for families, friends, and special occasions. Booking is essential.
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