Traditional afternoon tea

"K2T Wisata"

By Lara Kavanagh in London—

A proper afternoon tea in London can be an expensive affair, with the classic set-up usually costing a hefty £40 or £50 per person. Delightful as it is to indulge at renowned institutions such as Fortnum and Mason or Claridges, you can save a bundle of cash by booking an alternative high tea prepared by students of the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu patisserie school.

Afternoon tea with Le Cordon Bleu

Tea party with Le Cordon Bleu

108 Marylebone Lane
UK W1U 2 (tel. 020 7969 3900)
Web site

This monthly event, at which you can feast on the elaborate creations of pastry chefs in training, is held at 108 Marylebone Lane Restaurant & Bar, at the Marylebone Hotel. The menu includes an enticing array of cakes, pastries and classic scones with jam and clotted cream, plus other treats such as sugar sculptures, macaroons and strawberry and champagne mousse.

The next event takes place on December 1, 2010 from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. The price per head will be a very reasonable £9.95. The first two events of 2011 will be held on February 8 and March 9 at the same time, and places are priced at £13.95. Bookings, plus information on further dates, are available via email or phone.

Other options for tea and cake

If your visit to London doesn’t coincide with one of Le Cordon Bleu’s events, here are some alternative budget-friendly options for a great afternoon pitstop.

Bea’s of Bloombsury
44 Theobald’s Road
WC1X 8NW
Web site

Afternoon tea: £9.90
Served: Monday through Friday 2:30 p.m.-5:30; Saturday and Sunday noon-5:30 p.m.

Candid gallery café
3 Torrens St
EC1V 1NQ
Web site

Open: Monday through Saturday noon-10: p.m.; Sunday noon-5 p.m.

Betty Blythe’s Fine Food Pantry
73 Blythe Road
W14 0HP
Web site

Open: Daily 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

The Bridge Coffeehouse
15 Kingsland Road
E2 8DA