In keeping with its ‘stately home environment’, the Park Room & Library at Grosvenor House has delved into afternoon tea’s heritage to create an intriguing line-up of menus. Named after Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford (the lady who is credited with ’inventing’ this leisurely repast), the spread is all finger sandwiches, buttermilk scones, cream puffs and French patisserie enjoyed with or without Champagne. Meanwhile, the themed ‘Downton’s upstairs downstairs’ variant is fun for fans of the TV series – don’t miss Lady Mary’s madeleines, Carson’s bread pudding or thinly sliced cucumber sandwiches with mint butter. If that’s not enough, look out for the Christmas bonanza, a boozy version themed around Hendrick’s gin, and a Cornish cream classic with ‘thunder and lightning’ (treacle and golden syrup). Hyde Park views and a resident pianist are cherries on the cake.