The Lanesborough Afternoon Tea

Earning the Award of Excellence from the The Tea Guild for the past three years, as well as their Top London Afternoon Tea in 2008, an afternoon brew at The Lanesborough is a bit of a treat. The stylish early 19th century hotel sits right on Hyde Park Corner and tea is served in its recently redecorated restaurant, Apsleys, with its beautiful glass roof. The formal ceremony of afternoon tea here takes on an undisputable air of sophistication with the steaming tea served from silver pots - a Russian samovar if you need to know - and poured into fine bone china cups, a stack of crustless finger sandwiches to accompany it. They don't mess around here, employing a dedicated 'tea sommelier', Karl Kessab, who takes the job of tea buying very seriously - most are purchased at auction. Green, black and white teas are all on the menu, from Gunpowder to Jasmine Pearls - it's a bewildering choice so don't be afraid to ask for advice. There are several different types of afternoon tea price packages to choose from (starting at £35) all of which come with a freshly baked scones, thick clotted cream and home made fruit preserves. Opt for the Belgravia Tea (£45) and you'll get fresh strawberries and a glass of Taittinger Champagne as well as tea to sip on. Or, if you want all the trimmings order the Prestige Champagne Tea (£80) - and a glass of Krug Grand Cuvee arrives to top off an afternoon of elegant indulgence.