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Whilst the prices are a little steep, an afternoon tea at The Ritz is something that you will never forget.
This Palm Court really is a stunning setting with its luxurious cupola, birdcage chandeliers, lemon-coloured Dior chairs, and staff dressed-up in brass-buttoned tailcoats. This is a quintessential British experience. It's a piece of theatre. It's like Downton Abbey brought to life.
You will be treated to 18 different varieties of loose leaf tea to go with your finger sandwiches. Then you'll have a traditional scone with lashings of Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry preserve (you have to call it 'preserve' at The Ritz, not jam!). If you still have some room leftover in the corners then you can select a posh cake or pastry from the trolley. Everything is served on pretty chinaware and a gleaming silver tea service. See a typical menu.
If you choose one of the sittings below then you'll get some atmospheric piano playing as well.
Pianist -- 11.30 AM to 5.30 PM (Mon-Fri); 11.30 AM to 7.30 PM (Sat-Sun); String Trio -- 7.30 PM (Mon-Fri); Craig has actually stayed at The Ritz hotel himself (although he hasn't had the Afternoon Tea). You might like to read his review of The Ritz hotel before you go to see what it's like inside.
Note: There is a very strict dress code at The Ritz. Men must wear a jacket and tie. Jeans or sportswear are not allowed. Trainers are not allowed either.
After you've finished your Afternoon Tea you might like to do some shopping down the posh shops of Piccadilly. There are some very expensive boutiques in Burlington Arcade. Or maybe you'd like to see some fine art at the Royal Academy? Buckingham Palace is only a short walk across Green Park as well.
If you want to try some other afternoon teas (maybe some less-expensive ones!) then the next best is probably the one at Fortnum & Mason.
