NEXT UP: Mad Hatters Tea Party

You can't visit London and not participate in afternoon tea.

The custom of afternoon tea supposedly began in the 19th century when the Duchess of Bedford started serving a light meal with tea to her aristocratic friends between breakfast and dinner (apparently lunch was beneath these posh people). Although the ritual seems to be enjoyed more by tourists than actual Brits nowadays, it is still a very English concept.

During my recent visit, my family and I enjoyed an Alice in Wonderland-themed "Mad Hatters Tea Party" at the Sanderson Hotel.

Confession: I was so distracted by the eats and sweets on the table that I barely drank any tea. You would be too if you were served the following:

Rainbow Coloured Finger Sandwiches

"Eat Me" Hearts: Queen of Hearts Strawberries & Cream Mousse

"Drink Me" Bottles: Passion Fruit Jelly, Coconut Pana-cotta & Exotic Foam

Chocolate Rabbit's Clock: Chocolate & Coffee Layered Sponge Cake

Blueberry Lollipop

Hazelnut Praline Ice-Cream Lollipop

Traditional Scones with Strawberry Preserve & Clotted Cream

The first of many plates

My favorite items were the craisin scones and the "Cucumber & black pepper on beetroot bread"sandwiches. The sweets were (gasp) a bit too sugary for me, but that didn't stop me from tasting all of them. Tea, champagne, and sparkling water were also served. All in all, it was a wonderful experience that stayed true to the Alice in Wonderland theme.
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