Afternoon Tea and a Manuka Honey Spa treatment at The Athenaeum

Regular readers of this blog know that I adore afternoon tea. On Thursday I was fortunate enough to visit the Athenaeum to experience afternoon tea and a Ren Spa treatment. Now, I am not entirely a stranger to the Athenaeum - I had a HUGE surprise from my husband last June when he booked a stay at this charming boutique hotel for my birthday. I was happy to be returning as I didn't get a chance to experience the afternoon tea on that occasion.

Afternoon Tea is served in the Garden Room - an intimate room that is so comfortable and relaxing that you feel as if you are sitting in your lounge. It is a brightly decorated room with gentle background music playing.

The Honey Afternoon Tea has been inspired by the honey from Regents Park and every item on the menu uses honey from the Royal Parks as one of the ingredients - A novel idea! I love the taste of honey so I was very much looking forward to trying this.

Pure indulgence followed. I was served a Honey Fizz (Champagne, Honey, Chambord and Vodka) to start, which was followed by Athenaeum Blend English Breakfast Tea and tasty sandwiches. I ate a smoked salmon sandwich and a caramelized goats cheese mini roll with honey, Although there were other sandwich choices of egg or ham.

Up next were hot crumpets and freshly baked warm scones served with honey, jam, clotted cream and butter. I chose to try another tea on the menu - This time I opted for the Niagara Peach which is a green tea blended with peach pieces. A great choice. There are many more teas to choose from however so you will be sure to find one to suit your palette.

And then, the moment I was waiting for ...the final course appeared of extremely tempting, delicate and exquisite home-made pastries including Honeycomb Marquis, Honey Cake, Elderflower Jelly, Lavender and Honey Macaroons,Chocolate and Honey Mille Feuille and Honey Cheesecake. I defy you to say no. Beautifully presented and moreish. A fine and carefully thought out menu.

Peach tea and the pastries that made it onto my plate

As you leave you will receive a complimentary pot of Regent's Park Honey as a souvenir of your afternoon. I think this is a lovely touch.

Spa Treatment

After this mouthwatering experience I ventured downstairs to the newly re-opened Spa for the REN Manuka Honey Facial. The friendly team were there to greet me and put me at ease. I haven't had a facial before so wasn't sure what to expect. I was taken to a large room with two beds in it, although I was alone. The lighting was atmospheric and the music playing, soothing. I had the most relaxing experience whilst I was cleansed, exfoliated, massaged and pampered with minerals and essential oils.  A truly sleep inducing detox that left my skin feeling the cleanest and softest it has ever felt. I literally glowed as I waltzed out of The Athenaeum.

I will definitely be attempting (time permitting) to have regular facials from now on.

I did have a peek at the other spa facilities whilst I was there and found two fantastic hot tubs which were incredibly inviting  (sadly I did not have my swimming costume), a steam room, and the obligatory gym equipment. 

I honestly cannot think of a nicer way to spend an afternoon. I urge you to act fast and book as these fantastic offers are only available to the 31st January!

The Athenaeumʼs Honey-Tea is priced at £39 for two people including a glass of honey fizz. Reservations can be made by calling 020 7499 3464. Quote 'honey offer'

The Spa Honey Facial (£100) is currently on special offer - book one and the second is complimentary. Reservations can be made by calling 020 7640 3347 or email spa@athenaeumhotel.com, 72 hours in advance quoting' honey offer'.


www.athenaeumhotel.com