5 reasons to try London’s newest afternoon tea at 116 Pall Mall
We could get carried away telling you all about it, but instead here are five good reasons you should get booking!
Enjoy a slice of history
As you sit back, relax and enjoy our delicious array of afternoon treats, you’ll also get a taste for the rich history of 116 Pall Mall, and the parties, portraits and politics that have taken place here for the last 193 years. And not to mention our links to Hollywood and beyond – fans of Downton Abbey, James Bond, Bridgerton and more can sit in a room where their favourite scenes were filmed, their favourite authors used to drink and their most-binged series of lockdown was inspired. Just ask our team to give you the lowdown!
Afternoon tea is a true ritual, it is a moment of pure indulgence to be enjoyed leisurely. The tradition is said to have begun in the 1800s, when the 7th Duchess of Bedford decided there was too long a gap between lunch and supper. Throughout the 19th century, it caught on quickly (who doesn’t love a beautiful cake and a cup of tea as a mid-afternoon pick-me-up?). Soon, the tradition became firmly rooted in society across England.
Our Confectioner’s Afternoon Tea is steeped in its own history too, taking inspiration from John Searcy, the founder of Searcys (and our new catering partner!), who started his illustrious career as a head confectioner to the Duke of Northumberland. In the 1890s, a party hostess could order from the Searcys Afternoon Teas list a vast selection of baked goodies. In 1920, the Queen Magazine wrote that “the company of Messrs Searcy, Tansley and Co is a godsend to the housekeeper. Should she be desirous of giving a party… all that is necessary is to ring up Victoria 2186 and discuss the matter with these experienced caterers. The cakes of Messrs Searcy have won a great reputation.”
While we can’t guarantee you’ll be sitting alongside a Duke or Duchess during your time with us, our team will do everything they can to make you feel like royalty instead.
Fancies and flutes
What could be better than savoury sandwiches, homemade scones and indulgent pastries, handcrafted by our expert chefs and pâtissiers? Adding a glass of bubbles, that’s what! The expert team from the Champagne Bar at 116 Pall Mall by Searcys have chosen the perfect accompaniment to your Afternoon Tea, adding a glass of Champagne to the menu to make your experience even more indulgent.
Get into the spirit
This festive season we’re delighted to offer our Christmas Afternoon Tea, with seasonal sweet and savoury snacks to get you feeling festive – and full up! Tuck into our bite-sized cranberry and orange eclairs and Christmas Battenburg, our festive take on classic flavours like smoked turkey rillette, Cumberland relish and why not treat yourself to a glass of bubbles too – you’ve earned it! Our special Christmas Afternoon Tea is available from 20 November until 18 December so book now to avoid missing out.
Everyone is welcome
Here at 116 Pall Mall, ensuring our guests have the best time possible is our top priority. With that in mind, we’ve created Afternoon Tea menus catering for a number of dietary requirements, ensuring everyone is able to try our treats in a way that suits them. When booking, just let our team know if you or any of your party would prefer a vegetarian, gluten free or dairy free menu, and we’ll build your Afternoon Tea around your preferences and requirements.
Tea and a Tour
Fallen in love with our interiors as you enjoy your Afternoon Tea? Well you’re in luck, our friendly team at 116 Pall Mall are planning to arrange tours of our gorgeous Grade I listed building for you during your visit, giving you a sneak peek of our favourite features – as well as a few hidden secrets! – including the Prince of Wales’ historic personal wine cellar, our 15ft original Regency chandelier and more!
You can also speak to our expert Restaurant Manager on the day to learn more about the history of afternoon tea and the selection of champagnes on offer down in our new Champagne Bar.
And if the glitz and glamour of our beautiful Georgian building isn’t enough, we’re a stone’s throw from the West End, London’s famous theatre district, giving you time to have a delicious Afternoon Tea before heading off to a matinee performance.
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The Confectioner’s Afternoon Tea at 116 Pall Mall
Join us for afternoon tea at 116 Pall Mall. On the doorstep to London’s Theatreland and with many iconic landmarks just a stones throw away, experience a taste of indulgence and while away the afternoon with decadent treats and plenty of bubbles in our beautiful Morning Room.
Make an enquiry to find out more information, including arranging a personal tour of 116 Pall Mall.