Claridges Hotel Afternoon Tea Review

Published on October 22nd, 2025

I had afternoon tea at Claridge's Hotel with an old friend today. He doesn't much care for patisseries, but is a fan of quality teas. We each had a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne and caught each other up on our lives. We spoke of mutual friends, and people we'd not seen in a while, and where we'd been. He and I aren't ones to discuss the future. Sometimes I think he knows my future exactly.

Claridge's has an exquisite range of tea leaves from around the world, though in actuality one only has the time to try two or three of their selection. For us my friend chose the Chinese Fujian oolong and the Himalayan pure black tea. I admired the gorgeous tea ware and considered purchasing a set for myself. Later, when we went to the hotel boutique, I saw the price of a single teacup and balked.

The finger sandwiches did not strike me as outstanding, but the selection of pastries was incredible. I was spoiled for choice. I had a tempered chocolate and almond gateaux, choux pastries topped with cream and strawberries, a pistachio cookie, and a creme caramel. What luxury. At times I had to tear myself away from the dessert to force myself to focus on the conversation. As he sipped tea, my dear friend told me to enjoy the sweets but I would've hated to neglect him. We don't get to see each other very often.

Although very expensive, the quality of refreshments and atmosphere are well worth the price at Claridge's. I only wish we could have stayed longer to relax and indulge in conversation, but the tables are only available to be booked for 2 hours at a time. I will miss the iced buckets of champagne, the tuxedoed waiters, and the live grand piano until next time.

Love, Makona