The Lanesborough unveils new Hyde Park-inspired menu

In the midst of winter, especially on a cold and gloomy January afternoon, it’s hard to picture the halcyon days of spring. It may feel like forever away, but sunny days and warmer temperatures are on the horizon. And bringing us one step closer to the joys of spring is the launch of a seasonal new afternoon tea at The Lanesborough.

The Knightsbridge five-star hotel has just launched a cute and colourful new afternoon tea that is sure to flood Instagram feeds for weeks to come. Dubbed The Lanesborough’s Meadow Afternoon Tea, the new offering is inspired by the flora and fauna of neighbouring Royal Parks, including Hyde Park, St James’s Park and Green Park.

While you will find a host of traditional afternoon tea favourites, including scones, jam and cream and delectable finger sandwiches – with flavours such as Cotswold chicken, mustard mayonnaise and parmesan; and organic cucumber, cream cheese and chive – the menu also features some spectacular sweet treats that showcase the skills of head pastry chef Salvatore Mungiovino. These include bee-shaped white chocolate and heather honey ganache cakes, as well as the Chamomile Daisy centrepiece – a chamomile bavarois with an almond crunch biscuit base and mango crémeux, designed to be shared between two.

If you’re sticking to tradition, a glass of house champagne is a must when tucking into the new afternoon tea. However, it would be remiss not to mention the brand-new pairing cocktail devised by Mickael Perron, manager of The Library Bar at The Lanesborough. The elderflower and jasmine cocktail is a refreshing drink made from St-Germain elderflower liqueur, gin, fresh lime juice, white peach and jasmine soda and a dash of Maraschino liqueur. A non-alcoholic version is also available.

The Lanesborough Meadow Afternoon Tea is priced from £68 per person; from £82pp with the elderflower & jasmine cocktail; or from £85pp with a glass of house champagne. Children’s afternoon tea menu from £35pp for children under 12.