
I don't have many places I dream of. Its my nature to be an explorer; discover new things, random finds and odd little hideaways.
Yet there is one place in London that I have longed to go for years and years. I've called it my London dream now for too long.
Yet on Thursday, I made my dream come true.
I sat down for Afternoon Team at Claridge's.

My parents and friends often asked me what I found so appealing about Claridge's. For me, Claridge's is a magical place, almost stuck in time. The professional service, 'ma'am, can I help you?', not to mention the glamour and classic feel around, is something we've lost now.
I sometimes say I was born in the wrong era, and so for one night, Claridge's would let me play out that fantasy.


Having dreamed of Afternoon Tea at Claridge's for so long, I wondered what I would feel walking in. Well, I felt what I hoped I would. Elated, breathless all with a hint of butterflies. It was beautiful.

For this special occasion I couldn't have thought of anyone better to join me than my amazing friend Caroline.

And I met the gorgeous Lou.


Having taken our seats, we let the dream commence.

Starting with that award winning tea and service.



After a few moments to relax, soak in the atmosphere with our hot drinks, we were presented with an array of classic crust-less sandwiches, and a couple of delightfully gooey, hot cheese choux's.


Its not often I would bother using anything but my fingers for sandwiches, but I thought I'd make the effort.

Of course, we all know what everyone really wants on a Afternoon Tea selection. The scones, and cakes. And Claridge's certainly didn't disappoint.


Warm, soft, raison and plain scones, with thick clotted cream and Marco Polo jam, I slathered it on until they bulged at the seams. These may be the only scones to rival my Nana's, and I never say that.


The cakes were the most luxuriously little creations I have ever witnessed. Blueberry shortbread pastry with a crumble topping. Salted chocolate praline topped brownies. Tart strawberry and champagne bombs, and perfectly rich Dundee cake. Utterly indulgent, utterly extravagant, but utterly divine.

Feeling like I was in heaven, we all feasted until we could feel out skirts pinching and pulling around the seams, yet that wasn't the only thing pulling at the seams. Our smiles could have burst at the corners, they were so big.
Claridge's was everything I dreamed off. Attentive staff, gorgeous atmosphere, we even had a pianist to lull us into a euphoric haze.
Feeling on cloud nine, we bundled ourselves into our carriages and like Cinderella, slipped from the dream and into the night.

If you have a dream place you want to visit, my advice, just go for it, and see where the day takes you.
London
W1K 4HR

Looks absolutely gorgeous :) and your hair is fantastic here! The Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea is a brilliant experience too and they keep refilling your plates - now that's a dream!!
ReplyDeleteLucy xxx
La Lingua : Food, Life & Travel in Italy
Beautiful post, I loved your descriptions of the surroundings and the cakes. I really felt like I was there with you. I'm so glad you got to live out your dream in such a beautiful hotel!
ReplyDeleteLots of love,
Angie
SilverSpoon London
food looks delicious :) x
ReplyDeleteThis looks amazing!! Glad you enjoyed your day x
ReplyDeleteClaire | AgentSmyth
I've never had an afternoon tea before but this looks absolutely delicious!
ReplyDeleteHayley
Water Painted Dreams xxx
Looks divine! and I don't really use that word but describes the photos and the food! Mmmmmmm
ReplyDeleteBecky The Shutterbug Blog x
This looks incredible I just love the decor and the food looks even better! I really like the cakes especially as I love anything sweet haha! The scones also look lovely would love to visit one day if I ever get around to visiting London ;) x
ReplyDeletewww.krystelcouture.com ♥
Have you had brunch at Ritz? The setting is wonderful and everything if delicious! x
ReplyDeleteHello from California :)
ReplyDeleteI love reading about other people's afternoon tea experience especially when it's in a different country!
This place looks absolutely gorgeous and food looks delicious! It seems like you had a great time with your friends :)
Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
~Crissy
www.whimsicalfawn.com
It was lovely meeting you Laura. I had such a wonderful time !! Hope to catch up soon. Great blog by the way ;-) xxx
ReplyDeleteAhh Laura this makes me want to have so much tea and cakes! I haven't been for proper afternoon tea in too long...
ReplyDelete{Teffy's Perks} X
The Wolseley is my favourite place for afternoon tea but i'm also rather longing to go to Claridges for afternoon tea!!!
ReplyDeleteXOXO
A.Corn
your hair looks amazing!! have you tried afternoon tea at the Chesterfield? i had a charlie and the chic factory themed one, it was delish
ReplyDeletehttp://thewanderlusthasgotme.blogspot.co.uk/2014/03/columbia-road-flower-market.html
sounds amazing! I'm off for Afternoon Tea at EllenBorough Park in April! I cant wait! xx
ReplyDeletehttp://www.nicolabishopx.blogspot.co.uk
Looks so nice! :)
ReplyDeletewww.gingerbreadsmiles.co.uk
xox
Would love to go! I missed my chance when I was in London several years ago. Had a few other great afternoon teas though.
ReplyDeleteReese
www.simplyoldschoolcooking.com