How I just love entering the double-framed doors of The Kensington hotel and being welcomed by a bowler-hatted doorman! There is just something about stepping back in time to a more genteel, service-oriented age (am I right, or am I right?)  Certainly, The Kensington’s luxurious white stucco façade  (a collection of four 19thcentury townhouses in my favourite part of London),  and the Victorian grandeur of its high ceilings, heritage décor and open fireplaces evoke something of a bygone era!

As my friend was in London for the day, I had decided to take her for a very special treat at Town House at The Kensington

As we visited in late October, the hotel was clearly celebrating Halloween, which made the experience even more fantastic

I am not a bike-rider, but this one I really wanted to take home with me!

Comfortable, stylish and relaxing atmosphere – with a dash of humor! Love it!

The reason we were at The Kensington Hotel was to try out their famous Beauty and The Beast Afternoon Tea “Tale as old as time”. Before moving to London, I hardly knew the concept of Afternoon Tea! I actually thought, that it was just a cup of tea (which is why, I was quite shocked to see the prices… For a cup of tea?) But Afternoon Tea is so much more! There is an art to Afternoon Tea, where a perfect composition of creativity, flair, luxury and tradition combine to create a memorable experience with your dear ones. I am for sure a fan, and my mission is to try out as many Afternoon Teas as possible! 

Welcome to Town House!

Our beautifully decorated table 

There were plenty of figurines around the room, so none of the tables missed out on the Disney magic! Say Hello to Lumiere, Cogsworth and the rose! Bonusinfo : The Afternoon Tea’s theme is taken from the “Be our Guest” scene in the story and is a French twist on the classic afternoon tea

The menu card…

There were different teas to choose from – and you can have as much as you want in different varieties and flavours

For starter, we had a variety of savoury delights: Bite-Sized Venison Pie, Cheese Soufflé with Roscoff Onion Pissaladiere, and a delicious Beef Ragu & Saffron Arancini served with Lemon Crème Fraiche. I really enjoyed all of it! 

This is where we both expressed a loud “Awwwww…” Mrs. Potts and Chip Potts dishware and cute cakes – a perfect treat for any Disney fan!

A close-up of the delicious finger sandwiches: Potted Argyle Smoked Salmon & Crème Fraiche, Roast Devon Red Chicken with Cranberry, Cucumber & Cream Cheese, Egg Mayonnaise & Cress 

As French as it gets!

Marie’s Sweet Brioche Baguette with Apricot Preserve & Chocolate Pot (I must admit, that I am a bigger fan of traditional scones and I found out too late, that you can actually ask for a switch – but now you know!)

This was the highlight of the day! 

Vanilla and Gold Jelly (clear with a rose petal in, to emulate the rose in the bell jar) served with double cream poured from Mrs Potts herself. An adorable Cogsworth chocolate Tart, a White Chocolate Mousse topped with ‘Grey Stuff’ (cake frosting) inside a cute Chip teacup and a Spiced Snowball Macaroon with Coconut and Chocolate (my favourite)

Another incredibly cute detail was the Belle’s dress golden cookie. We took it with us home and enjoyed it later that evening

My Verdict?  All Disney fans simply have to try this out! This is a real special treat for young and old! We had an amazing afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed all elements of it. The “Tale as old a Time Afternoon Tea” is VERY popular and was completely  sold out until January (so keep an eye out for cancellations. That is how I succeeded in getting us a reservation!)

Tip: If you are here do visit K Bar inspired by the sophisticated atmosphere of a gentlemen’s club! They have a quite impressive cocktail list – and the perfect place for a datenight if you ask me!

X Louise