Fortnum & Mason Tea Room

Fortnum & Mason is a department store at 181 Piccadilly in St James's, London, England, founded in 1707 and long associated with the royal household, fine food and tea. Its tea salons, including the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon opened in 2012, serve afternoon tea in a formal, elegant setting. The salon is decorated in pale blues and creams with a grand sweeping design, and tea is poured by waiting staff in a calm, old-fashioned manner. The traditional afternoon tea is the signature offering, featuring finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, pastries and cakes, served with a choice from a long list of Fortnum's own blends such as Royal Blend and Earl Grey. A champagne version pairs the same menu with a glass of sparkling wine, and other options include a high tea with savoury dishes and menus for children. The store also sells its teas, preserves and hampers downstairs for visitors who want to take a taste home. The atmosphere is refined and quiet, with moderate noise and attentive service, and smart casual dress is the norm, though there is no strict code. Reservations are required, as the salon is a popular destination, and weekend and holiday tables are often booked weeks ahead. Prices are premium, with traditional afternoon tea costing in the region of £60 to £75 per person, and champagne tea slightly higher. Tea is typically served in sittings across the afternoon, with opening hours broadly from mid-morning to early evening. Visitors should check the current menu and times before booking.