The Franklin London, a part of the Starhotels Collezione, has redefined the traditional afternoon tea experience for connoisseurs of haute couture and fine living.
Nestled in the heart of Knightsbridge, this iconic hotel has seamlessly woven fashion, creative design, and elegance into its afternoon tea service.
An Afternoon Tea to Remember
The Haute Couture Afternoon Tea at The Franklin London is a daily affair, delighting guests from 2 pm to 4 pm. However, to ensure you get a taste of this sartorial treat, a 24-hour advance booking is essential.
Head Chef Roberto Roncolato draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of Parisian couture houses. This stylish afternoon tea is designed especially for fashion enthusiasts, accompanied by a selection of exquisite teas.
The journey begins with four savoury delights that set the tone for an extravagant experience. Then, delve into sweet delicacies inspired by Haute Couture and the Vie en Rose lifestyle. Indulge in the taste of fig mousse & orange sable Sheath Dress, walk the catwalk of flavour with a yoghurt and lemon cake Pochette, or touch up your lips with a red chocolate lipstick – just a glimpse of the surprises that await.
Guests can elevate their experience by upgrading to a Champagne tea or including tickets to the latest V&A temporary exhibitions, such as the sold-out Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto.
Haute Couture Afternoon Tea Menu at The Franklin London
Savoury Selection:
- Butter croissant with crème fraîche, smoked salmon and pickled cucumber
- Pan brioche with egg and truffle
- Mini baguette with crème cheese, Dijon mustard, and roasted ham
- Bigne with foie gras mousse and candy orange
Sweet Selection:
- Mille-feuille with creme chantilly
- Sesame macaron
- Chocolate shoe sable with Valhrona Azealia cremeux
- Fig mousse, orange sable, white glaze
- Yoghurt and lemon cake
- Red chocolate lipstick
Scones:
- Chocolate scones with Champagne crème anglais
- Plain scones, clotted cream, and strawberry jam
Elegance and Tradition at The Gore London
Meanwhile, The Gore London, also a part of the Starhotels Collezione, proudly introduces its Quintessentially English Afternoon Tea. Located in the heart of Kensington, this historic hotel has been a beacon of British hospitality since 1892.
Served from 2 pm to 4 pm every Wednesday to Sunday, The Gore’s Quintessentially English Afternoon Tea embodies the very essence of British heritage and tradition. Head Chef Frederick Forster takes you on a gastronomic journey spanning centuries of British history, where scones and sandwiches hold a special place in the hearts of many.
The Quintessentially English Afternoon Tea Menu at The Gore London
Savoury Selection:
- Cumberland pork bun
Sandwiches:
- Free-range egg and mustard cress brioche
- Loch Duart smoked salmon and lemon butter
- British ham and grain mustard mayonnaise
- Cucumber, cream cheese, and dill
- Breast of chicken, lightly curried mayonnaise, and watercress
Sweet Selection:
- A delightful selection of seasonal cakes inspired by authentic British pastry traditions
Scones:
- A choice of plain and raisin scones served with seasonal jam and clotted cream
In the bustling heart of London, The Franklin London and The Gore London stand as beacons of sophistication and culinary excellence. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the world of haute couture at The Franklin London or embark on a quintessentially English journey at The Gore London, both hotels promise an extraordinary afternoon tea experience.
These offerings, enriched with history and creativity, make for moments that linger in your memory long after the final sip of tea. So, indulge your senses and treat yourself to the epitome of refined hospitality, where tradition and fashion harmoniously coexist in these iconic London establishments.


