Claridge's

Claridge's is as close to perfection as a hotel gets in my opinion. Unsurprisingly given the stunning art deco surroundings of the foyer and the impeccable service afternoon tea here did not disappoint. The Tea Guild has given Claridge's afternoon tea an Award of Excellence for the last four years running.

As a guest of the hotel I had spent the past several days exploring the superb list of 30 teas. There were some delicious herbal teas on the list as well as a fine list of black and green loose leaf varieties. I settled for a pot of smoky Assam impeccably served in a tea pot that matched the stylish pale green striped tea set.

The sandwiches were tasty, on fresh bread and with a nice mix of classic salmon, cucumber and ham fillings. We were given a silver pot of hot water to add to our tea as required.

I had initially been somewhat concerned about the raisin and apple scones - being nothing but a purist when it comes to all things afternoon tea. However the scones were served warm, were delightfully moist and crumbly and were only slightly apple flavoured. The tea infused jam was another less successful initiative as it tasted quite strongly of tea. With a pot of tea on hand to provide that taste I think flavouring the jam was belabouring the point somewhat. However there was a second pot of "normal" jam as well. On the whole the scones were a pleasant surprise and how glorious to once again be in England and be served real clotted cream.

The tray of cakes were quite special and caused some consternation as there were only a few of each variety meaning we had to share. Selflessly I offered the rich and decadent chocolate creation to my good friend and enjoyed a tasty mini trifle instead. My husband opted for the mini pear cake, beautifully decorated with gold leaf and candied peel. There was also a delightfully simple fruit tart. After the generosity of the sandwiches and scones, we couldn't manage the second chocolate or pear cake and so asked for a take-away box for an absent friend. We were presented with a beautiful box covered with the Claridge's logo and some scones were put in for good measure as well. Yet another example of the impeccable service and style at one of my favourite hotels.