Alice in Wonderland is a global phenomenon. First published in 1865, London’s appetite for Lewis Carroll’s adventure story remains undimmed almost 160 years later. The Sanderson Hotel in Fitzrovia invites you to retell childhood tales with a colourful feast in the form of whimsical afternoon tea.
Down the rabbit hole
The eclectic boutique hotel located in the Grade II-listed modernist building minutes away from Oxford street is the perfect setting for this experience. The décor and furniture in lobby and bar alone is enough to make you feel like you are in Salvador Dali’s vivid dream. Fun fact: in 1969 Dali was commissioned to illustrate Alice in Wonderland!
Afternoon tea is served in The Sanderson’s covered terrace with a little garden and a Japanese-inspired pond dividing two sides of the restaurant. The space can be used all year around thanks to heat lamps which is especially valuable in winter when most of the outdoor spaces in UK are closed.
Story of Alice in sweet treats
Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea transports guests into a world of creativity and adventure, where you can enjoy magical moments of eccentric eats and extreme pleasure with eye-deceiving dishes and surprises at every turn.
You do not need to shrink to three inches, thankfully, nor must you solve perplexing riddles, again, thankfully, or encounter psychedelic smiling Cheshire cats floating mid-air to secure your gastronomic journey; instead, the hotel has introduced a much more digestible homage to the beloved story.
Every little detail has been thought through quite thoroughly, from Alice themed crockery to a range of bespoke tea flavours, including Mad Hatter, Queen of Hearts, Cheshire Cat and Alice alongside with a medley of classic and herbal teas. You can elevate your afternoon tea experience even further with a glass of champagne. Dress code is smart casual but fancy dresses are available for kids upon request.
Madhatters treats
The indulgent afternoon tea includes a tall tower of cakes, patisseries and sandwiches. The menu slightly varies depending on the season, for example, in addition to plain and sultana scones we were offered festive cinnamon ones, cute snowman meringues and homemade gingerbread cookies but the biggest surprise was delicious pigs in blankets.
On other occasions you can get a three-tiered tray decorated with the vibrant candy floss, macaroons and other sweet and savoury delights. Either way, you won’t be disappointed. And for your very own ‘drink me’ moment don’t forget to sip on a refreshing juice of pomegranate, mango and lime.
Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea runs every day from Noon to 7pm. The menu is priced at £55 per person, a vegetarian alternative is also available. The champagne afternoon tea ranges from £76 to £80.
