As somewhat of a quintessential British tradition, it’s little wonder that National Afternoon Tea Week is currently in full swing in London. Running until 16 August, the celebration has prompted a variety of initiatives and events from some of the capital’s top retailers and brands.
“Afternoon Tea Week was established in order to offer greater exposure for afternoon tea venues across the U.K. and put the spotlight on such a fantastic industry,” said Keith Newton, founder of AfternoonTea.co.uk and Afternoon Tea Week. “We had the knowledge and access to the afternoon tea network as founders of afternoontea.co.uk, but we wanted to make it even easier than ever for the wider public to get involved in the celebrating a truly British tradition. We wanted to break down some of the mystique associated with venues like the 5-star hotels and make people feel comfortable about walking into The Ritz or The Savoy.” As part of the initiative, luxury department store Harrods will be holding a Tea Tasting Masterclass and Afternoon Tea in its Georgian Restaurant on 13 and 14 August. As a sponsor of National Afternoon Tea Week, Harrods will be going all out to support the event and will be bringing in experts to guide visitors through different tea types, their origins and various different blends and brews. Floris London, a bespoke perfumer based in the capital, has also teamed up with the InterContinental London Park Lane to offer a scent-inspired tea that will be available throughout 13 August. Combining the allure of perfume with the tradition of afternoon tea will see the Scents of Summer Afternoon Tea come to life to offer visitors a “sensory journey” as they enjoy the chance to take tea alongside executive chef Ashley Wells and bespoke perfumer Nicola Pozzani.
“It’s important to recognize the contribution to our tourism and travel industry afternoon tea is, too. Afternoon tea is such a celebration, dedicating a week to highlight the talent and creativity in the U.K. industry was a natural next step,” said Mr Newton. “The combination of ritual and history which makes afternoon tea so special means it attracts a varied and diverse audience. We have such a range of venues and events taking place across the week, there really is something for every taste. From tea tastings to themed menus, historical afternoon teas to London afternoon tea bus tours, Afternoon Tea Week caters to a whole host of tastes.”
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