Enjoy Festivi-Tea at St Ermin's Hotel, London's only bee friendly hotel

The four-star deluxe St Ermin's Hotel which is in London's St James' Park, renowned for its quintessential Afternoon Tea, has today announced its festive menus. 

The delicious new Afternoon Tea menus offer a tantalising array of savoury and sweet treats, with separate plant-based, gluten-free and Children's Tea menus also available. All menus include a selection of Take Makers of London teas.

Festive Afternoon Tea with a glass of Champagne – £52 per person

Sandwiches include smoked turkey with bacon and maple syrup, chicken and tarragon, West Country Brie with cumin, mint and red onion chutney, prawn cocktail wraps with spicy Marie Rose sauce, and smoked Wiltshire Ham with pesto and spinach. 

Sweet treats include mint chocolate macaroons, Bailey's Mouse with cranberry jelly, White Forest with Amarena Cherry, maple pecan tart and mini-Christmas cakes. Plain and fruit scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam are also included.

Plant Based Festive Tea with a glass of Champagne – £52 per person

Savouries include Caesar salad, pine nuts and crispy shallots in a beetroot warp, blue cheese and chestnut crumble, guacamole with red peppers, lime and coriander, chickpea humous with cumin, cucumber and English watercress, and feta and spinach with kalamata olive with mint. 

Sweet treats include stem ginger cake with maple vegan cream, chocolate mousse with blueberry compote, raspberry cheesecake with raspberry and thyme gel, marmalade lamington topped with desiccated coconut, and carrot cake with vegan cream cheese frosting. Plain scones with coconut cream and strawberry jam are also included.

Gluten-free Afternoon Tea with a glass of Champagne – £52 per person

Sandwiches include smoked turkey with bacon and maple syrup, chicken and tarragon, West Country Brie with cumin, mint and red onion chutney, prawn cocktail wraps with spicy Marie Rose sauce, and smoked Wiltshire Ham with pesto and spinach. 

Sweet treats include stem ginger cake with maple vegan cream, chocolate mousse with blueberry compote, raspberry cheesecake with raspberry and thyme gel, marmalade lamington topped with desiccated coconut, and carrot cake with vegan cream cheese frosting. Fruit scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam are also included.

Children's Afternoon Tea - £24 per child

Sandwiches include turkey and cranberry sauce, ham and red pesto cream cheese, and tuna mayonnaise with cucumber. Sweet treats include red velvet cupcakes, candy cane lollipops, and a chocolate Christmas tree. Fresh fruit is also served, along with a selection of teas and hot chocolate.

Afternoon Tea is served daily in the stylish Tea Lounge, featuring ornate original Rococo plasterwork, Monday-Wednesday 12 p.m. - 5.30 p.m. and Thursday-Sunday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. 

FACTFILE:

With a glamorous heritage, eclectic styling, gorgeous rooms and suites, the enigmatic Caxton Bar and Terrace plus award winning signature restaurant, The Caxton Grill, the St. Ermin's Hotel is a distinctly individual, contemporary and welcoming offering. 

The hotel is dog-friendly, and the welcome has even extended to bees with the opening of London's only 'Bee & Bee' hotel alongside the hotel's resident Buckfast bee hives on the third-floor wildflower terrace. St. Ermin's is a member of Marriott International's Autograph Collection.

For further information on St Ermin's Hotel, visit www.sterminshotel.co.uk.

Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Westminster. Your Ideal Festive Break

A new festive afternoon tea, Christmas menus, and quintessential decorations set the arrival of the festive scene at the five star Great Scotland Yard Hotel, Westminster. 

The perfect stay for a festive break, an 1820’s Grade II listed building with iconic landmarks on its doorstep, it's also the famous address of a legendary site immersed in iconic British history, originally the HQ of the Metropolitan Police, subsequently taken over by the Ministry of Defence and also used as the recruitment office during both World Wars.

With a bespoke collection of Christmas menus, a sumptuous multi-sensory Festive Afternoon Tea, and a roaring New Year’s Eve party, Great Scotland Yard Hotel remains the place to celebrate during the festive months.

Festive Afternoon Tea

This Christmas season, indulge in the new, elevated Festive Afternoon Tea in Central London at The Parlour in partnership with B Corp premium chocolate brand, Valrhona Chocolate, where seasonal treats and classic scones await. For an extra touch of luxury, opt for the Champagne Afternoon Tea or upgrade to the Infinite Champagne Afternoon Tea. Launching on 18th November, the experience is also available to book on Christmas Day.

Guests can indulge in seasonal festive delights, from wild mushroom and rocket quiche; turkey, celeriac remoulade and cranberry sauce on brown bread; smoked salmon, caviar, horseradish cream on malted bread; egg truffle mayo and chives on pain de mie (V); chestnut and Montgomery cheddar Yorkshire pudding (V); to classic Afternoon Tea delicacies, such as freshly baked plain and spiced gingerbread scones and cornish clotted cream and blackberry jam.

An assortment of festive teas, cakes and pastries are also available, such as the hotel’s signature GSY bûche de Noël Spiced Jivara chocolate and bergamot teacake; a Christmas tree tart; chestnut and cassis Mont Blanc Black Forest reindeer Kalingo chocolate; and Amarena mousse

New Year’s Eve

Say goodbye to 2024 at the hotel’s New Year’s Eve Party near Big Ben, where guests will celebrate the New Year in style at the intimate speakeasy bar, Sibin, which will open its doors and share the space with The 40 Elephants cocktail bar up until 2 am with a DJ raising the vibe and welcoming in 2025. Guests will enjoy sustainable cocktails and also have the chance to purchase take-out champagne to enjoy while watching the Westminster fireworks. New Year’s Eve celebrations will begin at 5pm for the pre-firework drinks and a DJ playing from 8pm. Minimum spend of £70pp

Christmas Parties

For businesses planning festive parties or for those needing a luxury space for a private celebratory event, the Festive Private Party package at Grace & Favour provides the ultimate Christmas hideaway, full of cozy elegance and holiday cheer, guests can handpick wines within Grace & Favour, decked in Christmas décor.

www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/england-united-kingdom/great-scotland-yard/lhrub 

A Guide to Festive Afternoon Teas in the UK

As the Christmas season approaches, there’s nothing quite like embracing the festive spirit with a quintessentially British tradition: afternoon tea. 

And what better way to enjoy this delightful pastime than with a seasonal twist? 

Across the UK, tea rooms, hotels, and restaurants elevate their traditional offerings by adding festive flavours and seasonal cheer. 

Whether you're looking for a cosy tea experience in the countryside or a lavish spread in a luxurious city hotel, here’s your guide to the best festive afternoon teas in the UK.

1. The Ritz, London

One cannot mention afternoon tea without The Ritz springing to mind. Its festive afternoon tea offering is truly a magical experience. Throughout December, The Ritz transforms its Palm Court into a Christmas wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, and live music. Expect delicate sandwiches with turkey and cranberry, freshly baked scones, and festive pastries infused with seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. A glass of champagne adds extra sparkle to the occasion.

Where: The Ritz London, 150 Piccadilly, London

Top Tip: Book early, as spaces fill up fast during the festive season!

https://www.theritzlondon.com/dine-with-us/afternoon-tea

2. Claridge’s, London

For those seeking opulence with their Christmas tea, Claridge’s offers an experience like no other. The iconic hotel is famed for its festive decorations, and the afternoon tea is no exception. Their offering includes traditional favourites, such as smoked salmon sandwiches and freshly baked scones, but also festive surprises like chestnut éclairs, gingerbread, and mince pies. All of this is served with a selection of the finest teas and a choice of champagne for an extra treat.

Where: Claridge’s, Brook Street, Mayfair, London

Don’t Miss: The Christmas tree designed by renowned fashion designers!

https://www.claridges.co.uk/restaurants-bars/afternoon-tea

3. Bettys, Harrogate and York

For a more traditional and relaxed setting, head to Bettys in Harrogate or York. This historic tea room is known for its classic afternoon teas, and during the Christmas period, they add a touch of festive charm. Expect mince pies, Christmas cake, and other seasonal treats alongside their famous scones and sandwiches. Pair your tea with a glass of mulled wine for an extra dash of holiday spirit.

Where: Bettys, Harrogate & York

Top Tip: Don’t leave without taking home some festive treats from their gift shop.

https://www.bettys.co.uk

4. The Balmoral, Edinburgh

Edinburgh is a magical city at Christmas, and what better way to take in the festive atmosphere than at The Balmoral? The hotel’s afternoon tea is served in the stylish Palm Court, where live harp music adds to the serene ambiance. Their festive menu includes savoury delights like turkey and cranberry finger sandwiches, followed by sweet treats including spiced Christmas pudding and cranberry scones. The Balmoral’s tea selection is vast, ensuring the perfect brew to accompany your meal.

Where: The Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh

Must Try: The signature Balmoral blend tea, paired with their Christmas macarons.

https://balmoraledinburgh.com

5. The Lanesborough, London

If you’re looking for a festive afternoon tea with a grand setting, The Lanesborough is an excellent choice. Its Christmas tea is served in the stunning surroundings of the Celeste dining room, beneath a domed glass ceiling. The festive menu includes turkey and stuffing sandwiches, cranberry scones, and yuletide pastries inspired by the season. Paired with the finest teas from around the world, this is a truly elegant way to celebrate the festive season.

Where: The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner, London

Extra Treat: Their festive afternoon tea is accompanied by live piano music to set the mood.

https://www.oetkercollection.com/hotels/the-lanesborough/the-hotel

6. Brown’s Hotel, London

Brown’s is another historic London hotel offering a festive twist on its classic afternoon tea. Set in the hotel’s cosy English Tea Room, it’s the perfect spot to escape the winter chill. The menu includes traditional finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of Christmas-themed pastries. Brown’s is also known for its excellent tea selection, making it a top destination for tea connoisseurs.

Where: Brown’s Hotel, Albemarle Street, Mayfair, London

Good to Know: Their tea includes a vegan festive menu, ensuring everyone can indulge.

(We have enjoyed afternoon tea at Brown's Hotel.)

https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/brown-s-hotel

7. The Grand Hotel, Brighton

For those looking to enjoy festive afternoon tea by the sea, The Grand Hotel in Brighton offers a delightful seasonal experience. With views over the English Channel, guests can enjoy a menu featuring Christmas turkey sandwiches, cranberry-studded scones, and festive cakes. Add a glass of champagne or a festive cocktail to make the occasion even more special.

Where: The Grand Hotel, Brighton

Highlight: Their sea-view terrace adds a special touch to the festive atmosphere.

https://www.grandbrighton.co.uk

Tips for Enjoying a Festive Afternoon Tea

Book early: Popular venues, especially in London, can get booked up months in advance for their festive afternoon teas.

Dress code: Some venues, particularly high-end hotels, may require smart attire, so check ahead.

Dietary options: Many places offer gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan alternatives. Be sure to mention any dietary requirements when booking.

Embrace the atmosphere: Many places are beautifully decorated for Christmas, so take time to soak in the festive ambiance.

Final Thoughts

There’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than indulging in a festive afternoon tea. From historic hotels to iconic tea rooms, the UK offers a range of venues that combine the tradition of afternoon tea with the magic of the festive season. 

Whether you’re in the heart of London or the picturesque surroundings of Harrogate, a festive tea is sure to be a memorable experience. So, gather your friends, don your festive best, and enjoy a seasonal treat that’s as British as mince pies and mulled wine!

Give the Loved Ones in Your Life the Gift of Cornwall This Christmas With Trewithen Dairy's Luxury Hampers

Justifiably famed for its delicious dairy products, family owned and run Trewithen Dairy has the perfect selection of luxury hampers with exceptional provenance to gift or enjoy this Christmas.

Carefully made to a traditional Cornish recipe, Trewithen Dairy's Cornish clotted cream is produced using milk from local herds from their farms within a 25 mile radius of the dairy. The milk is then slowly heated to achieve its signature golden crust. 

With a selection of carefully selected local products to complement their award-winning clotted cream, Trewithen Dairy's range of hampers capture the essence of Cornwall's culinary heritage and make perfect gifts from the heart of Cornwall.

 All the hampers are available direct from trewithendairy.co.uk and offer free weekday delivery using carefully insulated packaging, to ensure your hamper arrives in perfect condition.

Luxury Cornish Cream Tea For Two - £49.49

Offering a stylish blend of tradition and indulgence, this luxury hamper includes half a bottle of Joseph Perrier Champagne (37.5cl) and 175g of delicious Buttermilk clotted cream fudge that partners perfectly with the traditional cream tea staples: 114g Trewithen Dairy's Cornish Clotted Cream, 227g strawberry jam, four light and airy scones and 40 bags of Cornish Tea.

Prosecco Cornish Cream Tea Hamper - £26.49

Get in the festive spirit with this sweet and fruity hamper, containing four light and airy scones, 114g golden crusted clotted cream, 227g strawberry jam and 40 Cornish tea bags. The hamper also includes two 20cl bottles of fruity prosecco that compliments the sweet and rich taste of the cream tea. 

Cornish Larger and Pasty Hamper - £27.49

At the heart of this hamper are world-famous Cornish pasties, packed full of flavour and perfectly paired with Korev's Cornish lager. Enjoyed together they transport you to the rugged coastlines and rolling hills of Cornwall. Accompanying the two pasties and two 500ml bottles of lager are the essential components of a classic cream tea: four fluffy scones, ready to be generously smothered in golden crusted clotted cream (114g), and fruity strawberry jam (227g) along with 40 Cornish tea bags. 

All Trewithen Dairy hampers provide the option to choose between plain scones, fruit scones and gluten free scones (+£3) and to swap Cornish Tea for 227g of Cornish Ground Coffee (+£3).