Experience an elegant afternoon tea at St. James’s Hotel and Club in the heart of Mayfair, where classic hospitality meets artistic indulgence moments from Buckingham Palace.
Located in the heart of Mayfair, just moments from Buckingham Palace, St. James’s Hotel and Club Mayfair sits quietly at the end of Park Place, a secluded cul-de-sac that feels like a retreat from the bustle of the city. This five-star boutique hotel has long been associated with elegance and timeless charm, an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon tea.
As I approached the hotel’s grand red-brick façade, I was greeted by the doorman and guided through to the dining room. The space exuded an air of calm sophistication, with soft lighting, ornate textured wallpaper, and beautifully set tables adorned with elegant crockery and polished silverware.
The St James’s Hotel and Club boasts a rich history dating back to 1857, when aristocrat Earl Granville and Marchese d’Azeglio, a Sardinian minister, founded a new London club for travelling diplomats. Once a private gentlemen’s club, it later evolved into the five-star hotel we know today.
The building itself was completed in 1892 as luxury apartments before becoming the club’s permanent home in 1980. Over the decades, the guest list has included celebrated figures such as Liza Minnelli, Sir Michael Caine, Sir Sean Connery, Michael Parkinson, and Lord Attenborough. With visits from Sir Elton John, Tom Selleck, and Christopher Reeve, it’s easy to see why St. James’s has long been regarded as one of London’s most exclusive addresses.
After being seated and offered to have our coats taken, we were handed the tea menu and invited to select from a range of blends. I chose Victoria’s Earl Grey, a light, floral tea that perfectly complemented the afternoon ahead. Moments later, our art-inspired afternoon tea was brought to the table. A beautiful three-tiered stand featuring savoury sandwiches, warm scones, and creative patisserie pieces inspired by some of the world’s most famous artists. The waiter took time to explain each tier in detail, his knowledge adding depth to the experience.
I begin with the scones, which arrived perfectly baked, golden, fluffy, and still warm. They paired beautifully with the rich clotted cream and strawberry jam, simple yet flawless, and among the best I’ve tasted.
Moving to the savoury tier, I started with the smoked salmon on rye, a Scandinavian-style open sandwich that offered a refreshing twist on the traditional. The rye provided a subtle nuttiness, topped with smoked salmon and a thin slice of red onion for balance, delicate and harmonious. The ham and plum chutney sandwich followed, the chutney’s sweetness enhancing the savoury depth of the ham without overpowering it. Next, the Montgomery cheddar with green tomato chutney delivered a pleasant tang, though I found it slightly less refined in appearance, as some crusts remained on the bread. The final sandwich, egg mayonnaise with watercress on brioche, was soft and creamy, though the flavour could have been a touch bolder.
The desserts, displayed on the top tier, each presented as an edible work of art. I began with the Spot Painting, a coconut and white rum bavarois inspired by Damien Hirst. Its texture was luscious and creamy, with coconut taking the lead. Though generous in size, it was rich enough that half would have been sufficient.
Next was The Son of Man, a Bramley apple mousse inspired by René Magritte. This dessert was light and refreshing, with layers of apple compote encased in smooth mousse and coated in a glossy green chocolate shell that offered a satisfying snap when broken. The biscuit base beneath added welcome texture and balance.
The Sunflowers choux, representing Vincent van Gogh, held a bright raspberry compote at its centre. The choux pastry was airy and well-executed, though the pistachio and lemon notes were subtle.
Finally, I saved my favourite for last, The Persistence of Memory, a dark chocolate mousse with black cherry inspired by Salvador Dalí. It was a standout, a silky, indulgent mousse encased in a firm chocolate cube, revealing a tangy cherry layer and soft sponge beneath. The interplay between rich cocoa and tart fruit was exceptional, a memorable finale to the afternoon.
Halfway through, the staff returned to offer a fresh pot of tea, a thoughtful gesture that encouraged us to savour the experience at leisure.
The afternoon tea menu was created under the direction of Executive Chef William Drabble, who also helms the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, Seven Park Place. Known for his refined yet approachable interpretation of British cuisine, Drabble’s influence shines through in both the artistry and balance of the menu.
St. James’s Hotel and Club delivers an afternoon tea that is steeped in history. The combination of creative patisserie and elegant atmosphere makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a classic yet distinctive afternoon tea in the heart of the city.
At £50 per person, it represents excellent value for a five-star Mayfair experience.
St. James’s Hotel & Club Afternoon Tea Menu:
Savouries
- Ham with plum chutney
- Montgomery cheddar with green tomato chutney Smoked salmon on rye
- Egg mayonnaise with watercress on brioche
Scones
- One plain, one fruit
- Served with clotted cream and strawberry jam
Sweets
- Spot Painting by Damien Hirst – Coconut and white rum bavarois
- The Son of Man by René Magritte – Bramley apple mousse
- Sunflowers by Vincent van Gogh – Pistachio, raspberry, and lemon choux
- The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí – Dark chocolate mousse with black cherry
They also offer a gluten-free afternoon tea, with vegetarian and vegan options available upon request. Guests are advised to mention any dietary requirements when booking.
Afternoon Tea London – find more experiences in our High Tea Venue Directory
Reviews for this venue:
- 30 October 2012: Afternoon Tea at St James Hotel London
