I have a confession to make. I never traveled as a child. Most of my notions about the world are things I’ve read about in a book or seen in a movie. So of course when we decided to go to London, I insisted straightaway (hey, don’t I sound British already?) that we all experience an authentic tea party. And where better to do that than at the iconic Ritz Hotel itself?
Make no mistake though, this hotel is not part of the ubiquitous Ritz Carlton franchises known all over the planet. The ‘Ritz London’ is one of only three original Ritz hotels left in the world, and is one of a kind.
Here its all about tradition, and the hotel is the epitome of classic British elegance where the staff still wear waistcoats and white gloves. It’s nothing like America, everything like the stereotype, and we loved every moment of it!
Merry Christmas everyone! Or as the British keep saying to us “Have a lovely Christmas!” Isn’t that so cute and British sounding?
Everything about this place is so quintessentially traditional right down to the white gloved doorman and polished brass railings.
Inside you won’t find any trace of contemporary. It’s 100% old school British elegance.
This magnificent tree greets you as you step inside the lobby.
Coming from a place where people hardly even say the word Christmas out loud much less recognize the holiday, seeing all these spectacular decorations everywhere is a glorious sight.
And the rooms are none too shabby either with classic style carpets, marble fireplaces, and REAL keys!
“Team Estrogen” as Brian calls us in our matching robes getting ready for afternoon tea.
Here everything is looked after right down to the smallest detail.
The girls conferring on which kind of tea to order. There were so many to choose from.
Grace getting some suggestions from the very smartly dressed waiter. Notice the ornate walls and ceilings.
And of course Olivia had to wear her tiara to this very special tea party.
My friend Laura told me that champagne and tea pair very well together. She was right!
Cheers!
Enjoying all the lovely offerings and Christmas carolers in the back serenading us.
Olivia even got her very own silver pot of hot chocolate.
Scones with strawberries and clotted cream. How can something so simple be so good?
All these delicate and intricate desserts were as delicious as they looked.
They are smiling here, but both these guys are not into leisurely teas. I could have stayed much longer than we did.
And no matter how good the tea is, this is still Brian’s drink of choice