Blog (Get Ready for Afternoon Tea Week!)
Whether you’re looking to celebrate an occasion or simply catch up over a leisurely afternoon, you can’t go wrong with one of the teas at the Doyle Collection Hotels.
But with all the excitement that comes from towers of intricate delicacies and the promise of champagne, the tea itself can often get overlooked in the excitement of it all. Afternoon tea is available in 108 Pantry in The Marylebone, and Townhouse in the Kensington, and both offer exceptional and unique teas provided by the Rare Tea Company. The London-based company work with the best farms and producers around the world, in order to offer luxurious teas to well-respected chefs, restaurants and hotels. Its founder, Henrietta Lovell, comes from a long line of traders and adventurers, so worldwide trading is in the soul of the company itself!
To celebrate National Afternoon Tea Week in the UK, which runs from 10th – 16th August, we’ve rounded up some of the best teas on offer in both hotels.
Earl Grey (both locations)
A sophisticated English classic, Earl Grey is a delicately scented black tea spiked with hints of bergamot. Citrus notes give the tea a burst of freshness and depth of flavour. Usually taken without milk, it’s a great option for those looking for a more traditional tea with a twist.
Lapsang Ospray (Townhouse)
Lapsang has a naturally smoky, slightly tarry aroma and flavour, which is amplified when the leaf is fired over wood chippings. This produces an incredibly rich, intense tea, reminiscent of campfires in the great outdoors. Great for adventurous tea drinkers!
English Chamomile (108 Pantry)
Traditionally a calming, soothing option, chamomile is a flavourful and therapeutic alternative to a caffeinated tea. The blend on offer in 108 Pantry is particularly special, because it’s grown in the Tregothnan Estate in Cornwall. The flowers are carefully picked along with their stems, to provide a hay-like flavour. Perfect for those looking to relax.
Wild Rooibos (both locations)
Decaffeinated tea needn’t mean an overly herbal taste. Rooibos or ‘Red Bush’ tea has a deeply rich flavour reminiscent of a traditional breakfast tea, with earthy notes of berries and cedar. Give it a kick with honey or a twist of lemon zest for a unique nose.
Jasmine Silver Tip (both locations)
Nothing compares to the deeply floral scent of Jasmine, and this tea is packed with these exotic flowers. The aroma is heady, but the taste isn’t overpowering – this is a delicate, pretty brew, which perfectly complements an afternoon tea.
During Afternoon Tea Week, both 108 Pantry and Townhouse are offering a fantastic 25% on their teas. You can see more, including menus and booking details, as follows:
Townhouse
The Kensington Hotel
109 - 113 Queen's Gate, South Kensington, London, SW7 5LR
0207 58 96300
108 Pantry
The Marylebone Hotel
108 Marylebone Lane, London, W1U 2QE
0207 969 3900
