Bang smack between Charing Cross and Westminster, nestled in a small back street, is the Great Scotland Yard Hotel. I had no idea it was here. Greeted by the most charming of doorman, I’m taken through to ‘The Parlour’ where my guest is already waiting for me. Tropical wallpaper, slatted blinds and contemporary but classic furnishings give the place a timeless and almost placeless feel.
We gaze across the menu, and an abundance of teas of all flavours from every corner of the globe pops out at us, needing a bit of guidance, our exceptionally friendly waitress helps us choose one of the many fragrant teas. Champagne is also poured as we settle into our afternoon. The atmosphere at the Great Scotland Yard Hotel is friendly, and soft and has a gorgeous relaxing feel to it.
The Afternoon commences at the Great Scotland Yard Hotel
We sup on our drinks as we are talked through the menu. A nice twist to the classic afternoon tea, the ‘Coronation Tea’, specially designed by the hotel’s head pastry chef Verónica Garrido Martínez. We have coronation chicken on malted bread, which, quite frankly, immediately ignited my childhood love of this sandwich filling – I’ve not stopped thinking about it since. Creamy, yet spicy and sweet it was dreamy – an absolutely winning combo. The asparagus, caviar and lemon quiche was also one of my standouts from the savoury course.
A nice break in between courses is always welcomed in my book but as soon as I see the china tower heading my way from the kitchen I’m utterly delighted at the array of colours and creations before me. We have the King Charles II lemon and strawberry charlotte. The St Edwards Crown, a lavender and blueberry tartlet that was so beautiful, I almost didn’t want to cut into it.
The standout for us was the Sovereign’s orb of grapefruit, white chocolate mousse with a raspberry cremeux. I’m salivating as I am writing this! However, I’ve always been such a fan of the classic scones and these ones did not disappoint, warm from the oven, the cream almost melting into it as I heap it on generously. And, say what you will, the cream always goes on first in my opinion.
Tea Time at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel
We drink more teas, this time of the jasmine variety and soak up the hotel’s cool but charming surroundings. This afternoon has been a treat at this little treasure of a hotel. I might even come back for a stay next time!
Afternoon teas run from 12pm – 7pm every day.
Great Scotland Yard Hotel
3-5 Great Scotland Yard
London
SW1A 2HN
United Kingdom
