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London Fashion Week generally goes by in a flash. So, if you do find yourself across the pond this weekend, and behaving like a whirling dervish running in and out of shows, be sure to schedule a bit of respite in as well. What does this mean when you're on Greenwich Mean Time? A stop off for a spot of tea, of course. Of course, some social media documentation will most certainly be required. After all, it's not every day that you get to take part in a ritual worthy of her majesty, the Queen. Here, four local institutions worth a visit.
With it's central location, the Rosewood London is a classic for this time of the fashion year. And currently, its Mirror Room is offering a tea service inspired by five great artists including Alexander Calder, Mark Rothko, and Banksy. (There's also a splatter paint homage to Damien Hirst, and polka dots a la Yayoi Kusama.) You'll still get the traditional scones and sandwiches, but the five artistically-inclined miniature pastries are what really make this jaunt worth your while.
If you are a fashion purist, exclusively focused on the art of the silhouette, pick The Berkeley's Prêt-à-Portea as your poison. No, this tea house has nothing to do than the liberally-inclined California town. Their afternoon "fashion" tea changes bi-annually, but this year happens to be its tenth anniversary. For the occasion, Berkeley's is offering Burberry Trench chocolate biscuits, among other treats. And if you are more of a colorist, there is one locale in particular that should more than satisfy your visual sensibilities. Sketch Gallery, and its perfectly posh, plump, and pink velvet cocoon seats are Instagram gold. Luckily, the food they serve is often just as bright, beautiful, and saturated with color.
Finally, if you are most looking for a dose of literary references--and a little bit of magical realism--go to The Sanderson. The hotel serves a Mad Hatter's afternoon tea, which boils over with thoughtful details from Lewis Carroll's famous tale. Soon enough, you'll fall right down the rabbit hole. Not the worst thing in the world of London teas.