If you have tired of traditional afternoon teas and are on the hunt for something a little more unconventional, we have a place in mind that is just the (golden) ticket. Inspired by Roald Dahl’s classic childhood tale Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, afternoon tea at One Aldwych is certainly no ordinary affair.
For a start, the tea selection is made up of exotic blends, such as ‘Lemon Sherbet’ and ‘Chocolate Tea’ in place of your standard English Breakfast. The savouries are just as marveloussly unconventional, with traditional finger sandwiches swapped out for the likes of a not-quite-as-it-seems salmon and beetroot macaron. Your selection of savoury bites is then followed up by cheddar scones that can be slathered with an intriguing bacon toffee jam.
Unsurprisingly, the pièce de résistance of the entire afternoon tea experience here is the sweet offering, which manages to be creative, fun, delicious and suitably Instagram-friendly. You can start by tucking into some lemon flavoured candy floss, which arrives at the table accompanied by plates piled high with wondrous cakes, sweets, mousses and scones, all inspired by the mystical Willy Wonka and his fascinating chocolate factory.
It goes without saying that this Charlie and the Chocolate Factory inspired afternoon tea is a family-friendly affair, but there is plenty of scope to keep this a grown-ups only outing too. That’s because there is the option to pair your tea with so-called ‘swimming pool’ fizz or ‘pistol punch’ cocktails, as well as classic Champagne.
Afternoon tea at One Aldwych also boasts a rather plum location right in the heart of Theatreland if you are looking to make a day of it, while friendly and attentive service comes as standard too. A spot on afternoon treat for spectacular special occasions or simply an indulgent afternoon immersed in one of the tastiest tales ever told.