With so many hidden gems in London, and a host of new ones popping up all the time, it’s not often I get a chance to revisit some of the hidden gems I’ve uncovered. But when Sharps said he’d like to go for afternoon tea for his birthday (if that doesn’t scream middle-aged I don’t know what does?) there was only one obvious choice, The Landmark Hotel, London.

Landmark London hotel

London’s Landmark Hotel

I’ve blogged about this hidden gem before as I took my Mum there when she came to visit (click here for my post on London’s best afternoon tea) and yet again it didn’t disappoint. From my previous visit to the Landmark London for afternoon tea I knew I was in for a treat and I’d recommend a light breakfast, or no breakfast at all, to make sure you’ve got plenty of room for the feast that lies ahead.

Landmark London Hotel chocolate afternoon tea

Chocolate afternoon tea at The Landmark

Staff are incredibly attentive as they serve up a quintessentially English afternoon tea, without making you feel uncomfortable. First up are  the sandwiches – smoked salmon, cucumber, chicken and egg and cress – two of each though any dwindling supplies are quickly replenished. Accompanying them on the table is a beautifully arranged tiered cake stand bursting with delicate pastries and cakes. We opted for the chocolate afternoon tea, it was too good to resist, and I graciously let Sharps take his pick first, forgetting of course it wasn’t an issue as we could just ask for more.

Landmark London Hotel afternoon tea

Warm scones, jam and clotted cream are just part of the Landmark’s afternoon tea

And for me it’s this attention to detail, as well as my gluttonous streak that loves the fact that the flow of food appears to be never-ending, that for me makes afternoon tea at The Landmark London a real hidden gem. Sharps too was in his element as we toasted his birthday with rosé champagne (we had the champagne afternoon tea). And by the time the freshly baked scones came out, complete with clotted cream and jam, I was bursting at the seams. This time round I was sensible and decided to ask for a doggy bag to take home the leftovers (I’d been too embarrassed on the last occasion but noticed other people had no such qualms) which meant we could enjoy the remnants of our delightful day out when we had more room. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, or you just want to treat yourself, then the Landmark London’s afternoon tea is ideal. Think I’ll phone my mum and see when she’s next coming to stay…