Claridges London

Claridge's hotel London, is one of the finest hotels you can stay in in all of London. A London holiday could not be more opulent or memorable then by staying at Claridge's. With the restaurant of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsey on site and a 5 star facility the price tag is high but worth it.

Claridge's London is a great place to stay and visit. How about trying an afternoon of tea at Claridge's? You will need to book a reservation but if you cannot book a room there you can enjoy the high quality of Claridge's London. With a selection of teas from around the world, an array of finger sandwiches and a selection of sweet pastries you will enjoy your classic British tea time experience. For a little bit more you can have a Champagne afternoon tea instead!

With a range of quality services Claridge's London makes for a great treat for any holiday or special occassion. The afternoon tea alone is great for a surprise, be it a birthday surprise, and anniversary surprise or for someone you want to make feel special.

I may not be able to afford a stay at Claridges Hotel London but I did find the afternoon tea at Claridges was a treat that I could afford. The afternoon tea at Claridges was a great surprise from my husband after landing a great contract in the center of London. He sure does know how to celebrate and show off the living history of this city for an ex-pat american like me.

Did you know that Claridges is often considered an 'extension of Buckingham Palace'? This is down to its history, especially an extended stay from Empress Eugenie who entertained Queen Victoria at the hotel. The hotel has also entertained stays from many well known actors including Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn and regular visitors like Alfred Hitchcock, Mick Jagger, Brad Pitt and U2. This hotel that started of as Mivart's Hotel in 1812 is now a grade 2 listed building for its historical importance.

When hubby told me to get out my nicest outfit, that he was taking me someplace posh I got a little nervous and excited. We live very practical lives and wear very practical clothing (I work outdoors so fashion is not a top priority) so it was really nice to have the challenge of deciding on the poshest outfit I could manage.

I did my makeup and hair (curlers the night before when my hair was still wet). I got my fancy frock out (I have lived in the UK too long now! using words like frock instead of dress!) and my favorite leather boots. The overall effect was not what I would call proper posh, more like casual Friday posh. It was just fine, I felt more then comfortable at my afternoon tea at Claridges. The effort was enough that I didn't feel like some dirty peasant in the palace (I had worried about that a little to be honest).

The tea's and cakes were delicious and there was less pomp and circumstance then I expected. I was worried about dropping crumbs or not using the right fork, I guess if your a paying customer you can get away with being common! LOL. All in all it was one of the most romantic surprises my husband has given and I will remember it for the rest of my life.