When it comes to Afternoon Tea, we are obviously spoilt for choice with the likes of Claridge’s, Fortnum & Mason and The Savoy offering some of the finest tea experiences in the world, not to mention the multitude of creative spins conjured up by hotel lounges and drawing rooms across the capital.
However, the Pan Pacific in Liverpool Street is not just offering a different theme on afternoon tea this Mother’s Day, but arguably a whole different tradition, High Tea.
High tea dates back to the 19th century when it was introduced by the working class in Britain. Unlike the more delicate “afternoon tea” enjoyed by the upper classes, high tea was a heartier affair served at a high table (hence the name) after a long day’s work. It typically included savoury items like meat pies, bread, cheese, and pickles, alongside a mug of strong tea. Over time, high tea evolved into a more refined experience, merging elements of afternoon tea with its rustic roots to become a sophisticated yet substantial meal itself.
The Pan Pacific has masterfully blended this tradition with modern flair, creating a high tea experience that is both luxurious and refreshingly different. That this was not going to be your typical afternoon tea was evident the minute I stepped into the Maxwell Room at the hotel, a stunning botanical sanctuary, with walls adorned with live plants reminiscent of the secret gardens scattered throughout the city.
The thoughtful touches began immediately. A small map of hidden gardens across the Square Mile was placed on my plate, accompanied by a delicate sachet of seeds—an invitation to bring a little piece of the experience home with me.
Then came the tea. For someone whose tea experience is generally limited to a mug of ‘builders’, this was a revelation. Here was a selection presented in a sleek black lacquered case containing ten exquisite loose-leaf teas. Each pot was a sensory delight, from the floral notes of Persian Rose to the warming spice of Masala Chai and the citrusy sweetness of Rooibos Orange. After much deliberation, I opted for Milk Oolong. Smooth, delicately sweet, and utterly delicious, it reminded me of a creamy milk bottle from a packet of Haribo.
I needn’t have deliberated, though. Teas here, of course, are unlimited; you’re encouraged to sample and explore different blends throughout the afternoon, and the heated stand for the teapot ensured my brew stayed perfectly warm—a small but thoughtful detail that sets a five-star experience apart from the rest.
As the service began, this is where High Tea and high-end combined; the butternut squash soup was less an earthenware bowlful, more a delightful amuse-bouche of velvet sweetness infused with sage oil and topped with toasted seeds. And what might once have been a slice of pie alongside it became a delicate Isle of Man cheddar tart—buttery, rich, and bursting with flavour.
This being tea in the afternoon, there are sandwiches, naturally, but of the finger variety, not the doorstop from a farmhouse loaf. These came as classic in the traditional sense; a smoked salmon and cream cheese, cucumber and dill, and Wiltshire ham and mustard, but the standout was a pillowy brioche bun filled with Burford Brown egg and watercress – for those unfamiliar, Burford Browns are renowned for their deep golden yolks and rich flavour, making this a true indulgence.
No tea of any variety is complete without scones, and the Pan Pacific delivered with a twist alongside the plain: a mixed peel and candied ginger scone. That ginger kick certainly added a different dimension, and of course, the age-old debate resurfaced. Devonshire style (cream first) or Cornish style (jam first)? The only solution? Cut the scone in half and try both!
When we were ready, our waiter—the charming and knowledgeable Albert—brought out a plate of desserts and teased us by placing them in a gilded birdcage, just out of reach, guiding us through the proper order of indulgence; first, a light and floral Honey Pomegranate Mousse, swiftly followed by a Passionfruit Orange Tart with a burst of tropical citrus and a crisp pastry base. My personal favourite, a Tarragon Apricot Bavarois (a combination of herb and fruit I might now try at home), before a finale of a decadent Chocolate Hazelnut Layer Cake – a perfect ending to the experience.
While tradition holds an important place in British culture, the Pan Pacific proves that, sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from reimagining the classics – and adding a dash of sophistication to an otherwise humble homestay. So, this Mother’s Day, swap the familiar for the unexpected and treat mum – and yourself – to an afternoon tea of the high variety.
The Mother’s Day High Tea at Pan Pacific Hotel is £68 per adult and £29 per child for Children’s Afternoon Tea. For more information, and for bookings, please visit www.panpacific.com.
