There are numerous events to attend and things that one can do on this day, from romantic meals followed by a romantic walk to flying out to exotic destinations, the choice is ample. An alternative though is always at hand, and seeing as it’s a Sunday and one has a long week ahead, indulging in afternoon tea after a long lie in is always an excellent option.

This quintessentially British tradition is a great way to spend Valentine’s day, and what better way is there to enjoy a few blissful hours eating delicious savoury and sweet treats as you sip on tea and champagne.

There are countless places here in London where one can go for afternoon tea; here at Clique though we have a chosen precious few chosen for you to indulge in.

The Conservatory at The Montague Hotel

Firstly, The Conservatory at The Montague Hotel, set in the quiet, plush area of Bloomsbury, is doing a special Valentine’s Day afternoon tea which starts from the 12th of February and runs until the end of the month. Sumptuously furnished, it is an ideal place to enjoy a long, leisurely afternoon tea. The delectable tea set menu, comes with a selection of exquisitely hand made scones, sandwiches, desserts, and a glass of pink Joseph Perrier, Brut N.V. champagne all reflecting the Valentine’s day red/pink theme. All this comes at a reasonable £26.50 per person.

Apsleys at The Lanesborough

The other place of choice, is Apsleys the conservatory restaurant at The Lanesborough, a luxuriously decadent five star St. Regis Hotel located in Hyde Park Corner. Their afternoon tea reflects a high level of culinary excellence, and has been awarded the Award of Excellence in 2009 and Best Afternoon Tea in London in 2008, so you know that you are in for something special here. In addition, what caught Clique’s eye the most is Apsley’s consideration in providing a gluten and dairy free afternoon tea for those who are intolerant to such ingredients.

Apsleys at The Lanesborough

Apsleys Valentines Afternoon Tea is available from the 10th to the 14th of February and is set at £48 per person  and £35 for the non gluten option which is served with a glass of Tattinger Champagne. The impressive tea menu as chosen by their tea sommelier Karl Kessab includes fresh tea infusions such as Lemon Verbena, Red Amaranth Flower and Pu-erh Tea all accompanied by freshly baked scones, a selection of home made fruit preserves, along with a delightful choice of finger sandwiches cakes and pastries. If you are a fan of decadence, this is one place you want to be enjoying your Valentine’s day on.

Ruinart

The last but by all means not the least choice here at Clique is a special event at the Miller Harris Fragrant Tea Room, whom in association with Ruinart, the world’s oldest champagne house, are presenting a special Rosé Valentine’s afternoon tea for a respectable price of £19 per person. The event will be held at their flagship store on Bruton Street in Mayfair, and will be running from the 10th to 13th and 17th to 20th February. This tea set comes with a glass of Ruinart Rosé, which is a blend of Pinot noir and Chardonnay and has hints of a citrus and raspberry fruitiness. To top this all off, a selection of cakes from the Primrose bakery have also been carefully chosen to compliment the choices of drinks and to ensure a thoroughly enjoyable experience that is sure to tantalise your senses.

By Aline Davies

Tuesday, 09 February 2010

---