Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel London

Discover the Charm of Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel

A visit to The Milestone Hotel in London offers more than just a meal – it delivers a refined experience steeped in tradition. Priced at $122.84 per person, this 1 hour 45-minute tour provides a taste of quintessential British elegance. Located on Kensington Court, this 5-star boutique hotel dates back to 1689 and once housed barons and ambassadors, adding historic charm to the setting.

Open to most travelers, this experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, sophisticated afternoon in a luxurious environment. The tour’s highlights include a wide selection of premium teas, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, an array of delicious pastries, and delicate finger sandwiches. An upgrade option adds a glass of Champagne, elevating the celebration.

While hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the meeting point is conveniently located at the hotel itself, near public transportation. The experience is best suited to those who appreciate good food, attentive service, and a taste of historic London elegance.

Key Points

• Price: $122.84 per person, with optional Champagne upgrade
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes
• Location: The Milestone Hotel, Kensington Court, London
• Highlights: Traditional afternoon tea with a variety of sandwiches, scones, pastries, and premium teas
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available with prior notice
• Booking: Most reservations are made 34 days in advance, and tickets are valid only for the booked date and time

The Historic Setting of The Milestone Hotel

The Milestone Hotel’s exterior is impressive, with its historic façade echoing its long history since 1689. The interior features an elegant, inviting lobby that sets the tone for a luxurious tea experience. The hotel’s rich past as a residence for barons and ambassadors lends a regal air to the dining room, making it a perfect backdrop for a traditional high tea.

Guests are greeted warmly upon arrival, and the staff’s attentive service ensures a comfortable, relaxing visit. The ambiance is often described as cozy yet upscale, with a decor that feels like stepping into a beautifully decorated sitting room. The hotel’s location makes it easy to reach from central London, with nearby public transportation options.

What Makes the Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Special

This tour stands out for its authentic British tradition combined with exceptional service. The tea menu features a selection of exclusive single estate teas, providing ample opportunity to find a favorite. The food presentation is notably attractive, with carefully crafted tartlets, cupcakes, and macaroons alongside classic plain and sweet scones topped with clotted cream and homemade preserves.

The sandwiches include three tiers of delicately prepared finger sandwiches, offering both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. The food quality consistently earns praise, with reviews highlighting the freshness and visual appeal of the treats.

Guests can also request special dietary options in advance, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus. The hotel’s staff are known for their friendly attitude, with reviewers mentioning attentive service and helpfulness, especially when accommodating dietary needs.

The Tea Experience and Beverage Selection

The variety of teas is a key feature, with many reviewers expressing satisfaction with the broad selection. The hotel offers exclusive single estate teas, allowing guests to explore different flavors. The tea service is served with Devonshire clotted cream and homemade preserves, enhancing the overall experience.

For those opting for the Champagne upgrade, a luxurious glass of bubbly accompanies the traditional tea, adding a celebratory touch. The beverages are included in the base price, with additional alcoholic drinks available for purchase if desired.

Accessibility and Dietary Accommodation

The Milestone Hotel can accommodate special dietary requirements, provided these are requested at least 72 hours in advance. This includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. However, the hotel notes that they cannot guarantee 100% allergen-free dishes due to the nature of their culinary offerings.

Accessibility has been a point of concern for some. Despite claims of wheelchair accessibility, some reviews report difficulties in accessing the premises, and refunds may be problematic if access issues prevent participation. Guests with specific accessibility needs are advised to contact the hotel directly before booking.

Pacing and Group Size

The tour lasts around 1 hour 45 minutes, providing enough time to relax and enjoy the food without feeling rushed. The experience is private, with only your group participating, allowing for a more personalized ambiance.

The group size is limited to ensure attentive service and a comfortable atmosphere. Guests have noted that the service staff are friendly and attentive, making the experience enjoyable and relaxed.

Practical Tips for Visiting The Milestone Afternoon Tea

Guests should arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get comfortable. The dress code is smart casual, and the hotel requests that visitors refrain from sportswear, flip-flops, or non-tailored shorts. This helps preserve the elegant atmosphere of the venue.

The location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, visitors should plan their transport accordingly. It’s a good idea to notify the hotel about dietary restrictions well in advance to ensure all needs can be met.

How This Afternoon Tea Compares to Other London Experiences

Compared to other afternoon tea options, the Milestone Hotel offers a luxurious, historic setting that some reviews rank among the best in London. The quality of food and service consistently earns high praise, with many considering it a top-tier experience.

However, reviewers also mention that the food portions can be quite generous, so it’s advisable to share or pace yourself to avoid waste. The option to add Champagne makes this experience ideal for special occasions or celebrating.

Summary of the Experience and Who Will Enjoy It Most

The Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel provides an elegant opportunity to indulge in a timeless British tradition. The historic ambiance, delicious food, and excellent service make it well-suited for celebrations, romantic afternoons, or refined gatherings.

Those who appreciate fine teas, beautiful presentation, and a luxurious setting will find it especially satisfying. However, guests seeking a more casual or accessible experience should be aware of dress code requirements and potential accessibility issues. Despite these considerations, this tour remains a highly regarded choice for a memorable afternoon in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available with advance notice. The hotel strives to accommodate special dietary needs but cannot guarantee completely allergen-free dishes.

Can I cancel my booking and get a refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled time are non-refundable.

Is there an option to include Champagne?
Yes, guests can upgrade to include a glass of Champagne, adding a touch of celebration to the traditional afternoon tea.

What should I wear?
A smart casual dress code is expected. The hotel requests guests to avoid sportswear, flip-flops, and non-tailored shorts to maintain the elegant atmosphere.

Is the hotel accessible for guests with mobility issues?
There are reports of accessibility challenges, so visitors with specific needs should contact the hotel directly before booking to confirm access arrangements.

How long does the experience last?
The afternoon tea lasts around 1 hour 45 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the food and conversation.