Cherish Finden has long been an ATC inspiration, with her delicate yet striking cake creations, heading up our afternoon tea wish list since around 2013. Her residency at the Langham has produced some absolutely beautiful teas, with her Wedgwood creation being the latest example of the hotel's flair for afternoon tea.
Upon arriving at the Langham we were greeted and taken to our table, before being offered a choice of tea and a glass of champagne to start. The choice of tea at the Langham is quite extensive, offering everything from Earl Grey to Darjeeling First Flush, along with a selection of less conventional blends to appeal to even the most ambitious tea drinker.
To start, we were presented with a lemon posset as a pallet cleanser, before being brought a selection of traditional finger sandwiches and rolls. The selection on offer with this tea was very good, including an egg roll and mini ham and cheese bun, alongside traditional cucumber, salmon and chicken finger sandwiches. As with lots of London venues, the food here was unlimited, with offers of additional food coming at regular intervals.
Next up were the fresh scones, followed by the piece de la resistance - the patisserie. Out of all the teas we've been to, I have to say that I was most impressed by these cakes. Each one was individually crafted with colours and textures to deliver a completely unique experience. Just look at these magical names and try and not to drool:
Wedgwood Tea Cup – White chocolate mousse, tropical jelly and dark chocolate sablé
White Cameo on Blue – Strawberry and white balsamic Victoria sponge
Daisy Teapot – Cinnamon shortbread cookie
Hathaway Rose Motif – English Rose and lychee log
Kouglof – Chocolate, raspberry and lightly roasted pistachio financier
Our favourites had to be the Hathaway Rose Motif and of course the adorable daisy teapot.
We really loved the way the Langham did things a little differently. From allowing you to choose your sandwiches from a fresh selection served on a tray to the ceremony of each individual layer arriving at the table at different intervals, it made for a very special experience.
To top it off, the Langham, Palm Court is just a beautiful location for Afternoon Tea. It somehow pulls off being grand and delicate all at the same time whilst doing away with those stuffy stereotyped images you might imagine of a traditional London tea venue.
If you're looking for somewhere extra special, this is where you need to be.
The Wedgwood Afternoon Tea is priced at £47 per person.
To find out more and to book visit: www.palm-court.co.uk/
Afternoon tea was provided to us for review purposes, but as usual, all thoughts and opinions are our own. Prices correct as of September 2015.
