Melissa Hoyer
Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition and few places do it as elegantly as The Langham, London. Renowned for being the birthplace of the afternoon tea tradition, this iconic hotel has been serving its refined selection of teas, delicate sandwiches, and exquisite pastries since 1865.
So, morning to have a couple of quintessential London experiences with my son – who has been living in London for the last few months, we zipped off for some arvo tea (before heading out to the must-see ABBA Voyage show.)
Afternoon tea at The Langham remains one of the most indulgent and sophisticated experiences in London – making it a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in some timeless elegance.
A Grand Setting: The Palm Court
Afternoon tea at The Langham is served in the Palm Court, a beautifully designed space that exudes old-world glamour with a modern twist. Soft lighting, plush seating, and live piano music create an atmosphere of refined relaxation. The setting is both grand and intimate, allowing guests to sink into comfortable chairs while being surrounded by soft hues of gold, cream, and pastel tones. The attentive yet unobtrusive service ensures that every guest feels like royalty.
The Tea Selection
One of the highlights of The Langham’s afternoon tea is its impressive selection of teas. Curated by the hotel’s tea sommelier, the menu offers a range of black, green, white, and herbal teas, each carefully sourced from the finest tea estates. Whether you prefer a robust Assam, a delicate jasmine green tea, or a fragrant oolong, there is a blend to suit every palate. Guests are encouraged to experiment with different teas throughout their sitting, making the experience both indulgent and educational.
A Refined Culinary Experience
The afternoon tea menu at The Langham is created by the hotel’s Executive Pastry Chef, often featuring collaborations with celebrated pastry chefs.
Savory Selection
The experience begins with a selection of finely cut sandwiches, often featuring classic British flavors such as smoked salmon with cream cheese, coronation chicken, egg and cress, and cucumber with mint. Each bite is light yet satisfying, with the softest bread and fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Scones: The Heart of Afternoon Tea
No afternoon tea is complete without scones, and The Langham’s are exceptional. Served warm, they arrive with generous portions of clotted cream and house-made fruit preserves. The scones strike the perfect balance—crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside—making them an irresistible centerpiece of the experience.
Exquisite Pastries
The pastry selection is where The Langham truly shines. The desserts are often inspired by seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. Expect delicate éclairs, intricately designed tarts, and creative takes on classic British sweets. The balance of sweetness, richness, and texture ensures that each bite is as delightful as the last.
A Timeless Indulgence
Afternoon tea at The Langham is more than just a meal: it’s an experience steeped in history, elegance, and indulgence. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a luxurious afternoon, The Langham gave us a refined yet welcoming setting where every detail was carefully considered. It’s a moment of tranquility in the heart of London, where tradition meets modern sophistication, making it an unmissable experience for tea lovers and luxury seekers alike.
Check out more here: https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/london/dine/palm-court/
