London is full of hidden gems and historic corners waiting to be explored. One place to spend time over a delicious afternoon tea is the Library Lounge at the luxury five-star London Marriott Hotel County Hall. The Library is a stunning room featuring oak panelling, bookcases full of literary classics, antique furniture, mirrors, and paintings.

The Library Lounge is a quintessential haven nestled in bustling Southbank, overlooking Big Ben on the other side of the Thames. There is plenty to enjoy in this neighbourhood before retreating to an afternoon tea at The Library Lounge. The London Eye is just next door; Waterloo and Westminster are a leisurely stroll away. The London Aquarium is just below.

The Library Lounge has a fascinating history. It was used as a seat of government when King George V and Queen Mary opened County Hall in 1922. The building has been steeped in history throughout its existence, and it was the centre of much political drama. Today, its restoration showcases a stunning architecture – from the towering bronze doors to the polished marble floors. The Library Lounge is a truly magnificent space with an abundance of atmosphere. It’s perfect to enjoy this British tradition, the afternoon tea.

The day I visited, a Sunday afternoon, the room had a friendly atmosphere, and the bubbles were flowing. I suspect a good time was had by everyone. The staff was attentive and ready to replenish our platters of sweets and savouries. I highly recommend this afternoon tea when in London.

Afternoon Tea at the Library Lounge, London Marriott Hotel County Hall

There are a lot of treats on offer, a choice of several varieties of tea, finely cut sandwiches, savoury pastry, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, and a range of delicate sweet homemade cakes and pastries. In addition to that, there’s also an option to add some bubbles to the proceedings.

The Afternoon Tea Menu

Pineapple, Lime Marmalade, Banana & Coconut Verrines. Not traditional but It was a fabulous way to start the Afternoon Tea.
A verrine, the French cousin of pannacotta. A verrine is served either as an appetiser or dessert. It consists of some layers of deliciousness served in a small glass, in this case, coconut and banana cream topped with diced pineapple and lime marmalade.

Selection of Finger Sandwiches and savoury pastry:

Goats cheese and spinach quiche, it was a delight to see an exquisite pastry amongst the sandwiches. Again perfectly baked pastry, light and delightful filling.
Coronation chicken, caraway and coriander bread, for those who don’t know this filling is made of cooked cold chicken meat, herbs and spices, and a creamy curried mayonnaise, it was nicely seasoned, and the meat was moist.
Wiltshire Ham & English Mustard on tomato bread, a classic with a twist served on tomato bread.
Burford Brown Egg Mayonnaise & Cress on brown bread
Salmon, cream cheese and chives on brioche, a change from the traditional smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich – delightful!

 

 

Selection of Cakes & Pastries:

Salted caramel chocolate mousse enrobed in chocolate – just the right sweetness
Hazelnut and coffee cake topped with Amareno cherry
Raspberry tart with white chocolate, I just love the contrast of tartness of the fruit against the sweetness of the white chocolate.
Strawberry and Meringue, a classic recipe that never fails to please.
Lemon Curd pie topped with raspberry, the pastry was perfectly baked, and the filling was very pleasing to the palate.

 

 

Selection of Scones:

Raisin Scones served strawberry jam and clotted cream; the jam is Marriott County Hall own brand – fabulous!

Cheese and Basil scones served with cream cheese and sundried tomato – not sure about the cream and tomato mix, perhaps was my palate playing tricks on the day.

 

Afternoon Tea Prices (November 2017) :
Traditional Afternoon Tea £36 per person
Champagne Afternoon Tea £38 per person
Traditional Afternoon Tea with free-flowing bubbles (Cava) £41 per person

Afternoon Tea at The Library Lounge at the Marriott County Hall Hotel London :
Booking in advance is strongly recommended
Reservations: +44 020 7902 8055
Seatings are between 2:30 PM and 4:30 PM.
The Library Lounge is accessible via the South Bank, Queen’s Walk by the London Aquarium or via the main door on Westminster Bridge Road.

Afternoon Tea  Library at London Marriott Hotel County Hall
The London Marriott Hotel,
County Hall, London, SE1 7PB

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Disclosure: I was a guest at this  afternoon tea  at the Library Lounge, London Marriott Hotel County Hal. All views are my own.