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Having eaten a fair few afternoon teas, I was intrigued to see what The Guardsman had to offer. With St James’ Park on the hotel’s doorstep, and both Green Park and Hyde Park just a short stroll away, you can easily miss the cleverly-concealed entrance if you’re distracted by the beautiful architecture in the area. But once you step inside, you’re transported into luxury and tranquillity; the perfect combination to enjoy afternoon tea with a friend.
The hotel hasn’t been open long, and it is a purpose-built luxury boutique hotel on Buckingham Gate that offers the atmosphere, discretion and personal service usually associated with a private members’ club.
Downstairs is where the afternoon tea was situated, and we were greeted by an incredibly friendly member of staff who showed us to our table.
The Guardsman’s Afternoon Tea, which is priced at £45 per person, includes a glass of champagne, which we were offered first to enjoy as we explored the menu.
The teas on offer were beyond organic; some were biodynamic and several can be traced to abandoned tea farms where the plants now grow wild.
Others are from ancient tea trees in the forests of Yunnan and Vietnam, and coffee was available for those that prefer.
Having chosen our teas, the sandwiches and cakes then arrived and the savoury choices offered a modern twist on the classic finger sandwiches.
The Burford brown egg mimosa and rocket mayonnaise was served on a turmeric loaf, while the chicken and truffle filled a small tin loaf.
The Goldstein Scottish salmon, cream cheese and lemon butter, on the other hand, arrived on sourdough, whereas the rare roast beef came with cream of horseradish and watercress.
Next, were the scones, and on offer were two freshly baked, one plain and one fruit, with a healthy helping of Dorset clotted cream and two preserves; strawberry and blackcurrant.
The patisserie selection was equally irresistible, featuring delights such as Raspberry Posy, a raspberry pistachio and Chantilly cream tart, and Toadstool, a delicate strawberry and cream sponge.
The Black Rose was a work of art as rich chocolate ganache had been hand-piped and inside was a sharp black cherry compote.
The Flower Pot was equally as delicious; a modern twist on a classic carrot cake.
The afternoon tea was a delight, but if you’d prefer to enjoy it in one of London’s stunning parks, the pastry team at The Guardsman has curated the Picnic Afternoon Tea menu for you to indulge with friends and family whilst soaking up the great outdoors.
A bottle of Mumm Cordon Rouge Champagne and Belu still or sparkling mineral water is included in the basket.
The Guardsman’s Afternoon Tea is priced at £45 per person, inclusive of a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut Champagne.
Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free Afternoon Teas are also available, at the same price per person.
Afternoon Tea is available Wednesday to Sunday from 12 noon until 5pm. Reservations should be made in advance by emailing [email protected].
The Picnic Afternoon Tea is available until August 31, 2022, and priced at £85pp.
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