Once Halloween has passed, it’s fair to assume that the festive season is upon us– ‘tis the time to be jolly, whether you like it or not. However, these days the Christmas experiences in London are far from delightful- with never ending queues and suffocating crowds flocking to every festive hotspot. So, if you’re at a loss as to where to find that fuzzy, festive feeling this year, I have just the recommendation. That is, one of the best festive afternoon teas in London.

Pan Pacific’s Festive Afternoon Tea

Sat proudly amongst the hustle and bustle of Spitalfields is Pan Pacific London, an elegant hotel which during Christmas in London, is marked by a staggeringly 67ft tall tree adorned in glistening lights. Inside, the lounge has been transformed into a festive haven, bedecked in grand trees and elegant baubles. From the cozy flames dancing in the room’s centre to the aroma of pine from the trees, the lounge exudes a serene atmosphere, providing a welcomed escape from the crowds and chaos of Christmas in London.

The idea of a few hours spent catching up and unwinding over delightful bites, aromatic teas, and sparkling wine has always appealed to me. So, when I heard of a festive afternoon tea for just £68, I jumped at the chance. However, the Executive Pastry Chef behind this collection has gone beyond the usual array of sandwiches, scones and cupcakes. Along with the traditional menu, he has created four exquisite new patisseries, beautifully presented within bird cages on mirrored plates for a stunning play on light and reflection.

Afternoon Tea with a Twist

For those who seek a new festive afternoon tea experience, there is also a menu available called Kopi Tiam. Expect afternoon tea, but with a Singaporean twist. This unique menu can’t be found anywhere else in London and celebrates bao, dim sum, and choux.

They also offer entirely gluten-free and vegan menus comprised of Singaporean-inspired summer rolls as well as traditional hand-made pastries and scones. You can even bring the little ones, with a mini festive afternoon tea available for children. It’s truly an extraordinary Christmas experience in London, tailored to all. What’s more, each fantastic course can be served with a glass of sparkling wine straight from the British vineyards. What better way to get in the festive spirit than sipping on fizz beside a gloriously grand tree?

As you can expect, the expertise of the staff here is second to none. After much humming and harring through the extensive menu of luxury teas from the Rare Tea Company, we decided to turn to our dedicated Tea Connoisseur to lead us towards the perfect choice to satisfy our particular tastes. From antioxidising white to loose leaf oolong, we were guided through the menu and finally settled on the caffeine-free Tisanes range (it was the evening, after all). We chose the Golden Lily Milk Oolong, known for its succulent, creamy texture and sweet notes. This was the perfect, deep finish to savour between courses.

To conclude, with the overwhelming hustle and bustle that fills the lead-up to the big day, sometimes it can be difficult to stop and enjoy that merry, festive feeling from the typical Christmas experiences in London. However, this year you can experience a blissful day of refuge with a festive afternoon tea at Pan Pacific London’s Orchid Lounge.