Okay, so I decided it was high time I actually went for a proper afternoon tea again. You know, one of those really fancy London ones. Heard a lot about The Goring, near Buckingham Palace, always sounded a bit posh, maybe a bit stuffy? But curiosity got the better of me. Figured I’d book it and see what the fuss was about.
Getting There and First Impressions
Making the booking online was easy enough, picked a mid-week slot hoping it wouldn’t be absolutely rammed. Turned up on the day, found the hotel tucked away on a side street in Belgravia. Stepped inside and it felt… quiet. Calm, you know? Not like some of those huge, bustling hotel lobbies. Staff were instantly welcoming, took my coat, showed me the way. Didn’t feel stuffy at all, actually, just very polished and smooth. Felt like they knew what they were doing.
The Tea Experience Itself
They led me through to this lovely bright room overlooking a garden. Sat me down at a comfy table. Felt quite relaxed, watching the world go by outside. A waiter came over sharpish, handed me the menu. Loads of teas to choose from. I just went for their own Goring Blend, sounded like the safe bet. It arrived pretty quickly in a silver teapot, proper china cup and saucer, strainer, the whole nine yards.
Then the main event arrived – the three-tiered stand. Looked impressive, I’ll give them that.
- Sandwiches: Started at the bottom, obviously. Finger sandwiches. Think there was cucumber, egg and cress, smoked salmon, coronation chicken maybe? Standard stuff, done nicely. Crusts off, very neat. Tasted fresh. They offered more when I finished, which I took them up on. Can’t resist extra sandwiches.
- Scones: Moved up to the middle tier. Scones. One plain, one fruit. They were warm, which is always a good sign. Came with clotted cream and some jam – strawberry, I think. Piled it all on. Honestly, the scones were probably my favourite bit. Just right.
- Pastries: Top tier. This is where they usually get really fancy. Tiny little cakes and pastries. Looked like works of art. Think there was a little cheesecake thing, a chocolatey one, something fruity. They were alright. Pretty rich, though. Could only manage a couple after the sandwiches and scones.
Service and Final Thoughts
The tea kept getting refilled without me even asking. Staff were attentive, always someone nearby if you needed anything, but they weren’t intrusive. Didn’t feel rushed at all, which was nice. Just sat there, sipping tea, nibbling away, watching the garden.
So, what’s the verdict? It was a lovely experience, no doubt about it. Very traditional, very elegant. Felt like a proper treat. The food was good, especially the scones, and the service was impeccable. It’s not cheap, mind you, definitely a special occasion sort of place rather than your everyday cuppa. Glad I went, ticked that box. Would I rush back? Maybe not immediately, there are so many places to try. But for that classic, slightly grand London afternoon tea feeling? Yeah, they nailed it. Left feeling very civilised and very, very full.
