The Connaught Hotel in London has its roots in the days when fine hotels were meant as a respite and haven for the landed gentry who were obliged to visit the city from time to time.

The décor screams English Country House, or it would scream if only screaming were not such a vulgar and lower class way to deport oneself. There is nothing quite so crass going on at The Connaught, where elegance and a low key ambiance make it an ideal location for anyone wanting a bit of peace.

Afternoon tea is served in the Espelette, a conservatory styled restaurant with enormous glass windows that look out at Mount Street in Mayfair.

There is much about afternoon tea at The Connaught Hotel that is traditional, but the name they have given it, Chic and Shock Afternoon Tea, hints a bit at some of the more unusual elements.

They have a fairly standard selection of teas including house standards such as the Royal Connaught Afternoon Tea Blend and the Espelette Blend, but there are little things that stand out as original. Both Caramel and Pomegranate Teas and available, and they also stock an Imperial Earl Grey and something simply called Paris that begs to be tried.

Unlike many afternoon teas that offer only strawberry preserves, at the afternoon tea at Espelette you can get a variety of seasonal preserves by Christine Ferber such as mango, apple, raspberry, and passion fruit.

The scones are cooked in the hotel bakery and come in either plain or apricot. The pastries and cakes served are also variable by seasons and often include favourites such as Classic English Trifle, Christmas Chocolate Log, Sacher Biscuit, and Winter Pudding.

They also have some very non-traditional treats such as Praline Cream with Apple/Orange/Yuzu Compote and Hazelnut Crumble, Choux Paste with Caramel Pastry Cream and caramelized Rice Krispies, and a Shot Glass of Coca-Cola Jelly and marinated Pink Grapefruit in Whiskey.

The Connaught Hotel in London serves a traditional afternoon tea with a few modern twists.

Venue: The Connaught

Address: Carlos Place, Mayfair, W1K 2AL

Phone: 020 7499 7070

Time: Daily 3.30pm-5.30pm

Price: Afternoon Tea £28 per person

Dress Code: Smart casual - no jeans, no trainers

Nearest Station: Bond Street Tube

Photo courtesy: soham_pablo

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