On a bright Autumn afternoon, the two boys and I ventured out into the clutches of the busy London Streets. Now normally I probably wouldn't go anywhere near London with my two boisterous little soldiers without the security of my husband to keep them in line like any good sergeant major! However, as it was a Sunday afternoon and with an invitation to Afternoon Tea at a luxurious location, how could I possibly refuse? So I decided to give my angels the benefit of the doubt and trust that their good manners would kick in as and when necessary.
I love a good Afternoon Tea and I have to say, I've been to a few over the years. Normally held in top hotels or department stores such as The Ritz, The Landmark, Fortnum and Mason and Harrods, they all have one thing in common, all are based on that traditional English past time offering a wonderful array of pastries, scones, tea and of course, the eponymous cucumber sandwich.
Our Tea, or TLSee as it has been so aptly named, is a fantastic treat for both the kids and their parents. Held at the Swissotel The Howard hotel at Temple, London, just off the Embankment, this is a clever Afternoon Tea concept incorporating Tea, London and Sightseeing, without actually having to leave the gorgeous comfy sofas and warm atmosphere of the hotel's signature restaurant and lounge, The Mauve Lounge.
The Howard's TLSee afternoon tea consisted of a delightful array of finger sandwiches including the most amazing smoked salmon, strawberry fruit smoothies quirkily served in small shot glasses, sweet, soft scones that resembled brioche rolls with heavenly clotted cream and strawberry jam and a beautiful selection of cakes including macaroons, fruit tartlets, fruit cake and chocolate mousse. But the piece de resistance and focal point of this tea was of course the biscuits shaped as London's favourite historic landmarks. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Brian Spark, each teatime biscuit treat is exquisitely baked and designed to represent the vibrancy of the city. All patisserie items are baked in-house and hand-finished with the utmost precision from bespoke moulds. Iconic buildings such as Big Ben, The London Eye, the synonymous red letterbox and Tower Bridge, are but a few of the delicious biccies on offer!
And of course, no teatime is complete (well, not this one anyway) without the necessary entertainment. In this case, a classic DVD with a London theme. We had a choice of Disney's Robin Hood, Mary Poppins, 101 Dalmations or the Pink Panther. After a little bickering and slightly tense discussion, Mummy made the final decision and the boys settled on 101 Dalmations 2, Patch's London Adventure.
I have to say, the DVD is a brilliant idea and really more for the parents (not because I was watching too) but to keep the little monsters quiet for over an hour and the parents able to enjoy their tea in a little piece and quiet. And with an amazing selection of exotic and traditional English Teas on offer, or a decadent glass of Champagne to tickle your tastebuds, it's a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Overall it was a really pleasant day and I think my youngest son summed things up delightfully as he leaned back, clutching his belly and groaned, "I think I've eaten enough." The eldest on the other had actually said nothing, far too hypnotized by the DVD and rather giddy from the hot chocolate!
TLSee is priced at £28 per adult and includes: sandwiches, scones, a selection of pastries and the following choice of iconic shortbreads and 3D chocolates: Big Ben, Tower Bridge, London Cab, London Eye, Temple Underground Sign, ER red post box, St Paul's Cathedral, London Routemaster and the Crown Jewels.
To make a reservation go to www.tlsee.co.uk or call 020 7300 1700.
