Since finding out about the amazing fashion inspired Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea at The Berkeley Hotel it's been top of my list of places to visit. Combined with a visit to the spa and you've pretty much got my idea of a perfect afternoon:
Farfetch invited a small group of bloggers down for the afternoon and what better way to start than a relaxing back massage followed by a calming tea by the rooftop pool. In the summer the roof actually comes down and it was great chat with the other girls and find out more about the brand. I had no idea they stocked so many designers and with competitive prices and free delivery it's definitely been saved for my next shopping spree!
Considering that The Berkeley Hotel is right in the middle of Knightsbridge it felt so peaceful and as I sat by the pool I couldn't help but think how perfect the spa would be for a hen do or birthday party.
Soon it was time for afternoon tea and we were led to the beautiful Collins Room. You can tell that a lot of thought has gone into the decor and I loved the relaxed luxurious feel with it's soft grey walls, plush velvet sofas and blossoming pink peonies.
Believe it or not sandwiches are one of my favourite parts of afternoon tea and The Berkeley Hotel didn't disappoint. With flavours such as smoked salmon and chicken it was a delicious way to start the meal and definitely more filling than usual.
There are no scones on the Prêt-à-Portea menu but the addition of ceviche, red pepper soup and cream cheese muffins were a nice surprise, especially for a savoury girl like myself.
The desserts though were without doubt the star of the entire tea. Each piece is inspired by the themes and colours of the fashion world and the menu
changes every 6 months to reflect the current season. For SS16 there are runway favourites from Prada, Stella
McCartney, Manolo Blahnik to name but a few.
I particularly enjoyed the Nicholas Kirkwood pink fraises de bois and blueberry crémeux with white and dark chocolate garnish and The Emilia Wichstead light dolce and white chocolate mousse with hazelnut sable and zig zag meringue detailing. The red velvet Prada handbag with a real favourite around the table and I loved the contrast of the soft rich sponge with the crunch of the chocolate coating.
There's even a gorgeous marble counter with champagne and extra desserts on offer!
All in all a really lovely afternoon - it's always so nice to meet other bloggers and the team at Farfetch, and the Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea was a real treat. A great mix of the traditional elements with a fun twist, and if you're looking for somewhere new to try then I would definitely recommend giving The Berkeley Hotel a go!
Have you ever tried The Berkeley Hotel Prêt-à-Portea? Where are your favourite places for afternoon tea in London?