From 18th-24th May  Botanica located within the 5-star 100 Queen’s Gate Hotel in South Kensington will be offering a limited-edition Afternoon Tea menu inspired by The Garden Against Time, a memoir by Olivia Laing, which vividly describes the restoration of her walled garden in Suffolk, an overgrown Eden of unusual plants. The celebrated book is a Sunday Times number one bestseller and has been praised by Nigel Slater, amongst others.

The light and elegant Botanica Tea Room is one of London’s hidden gems; a Victorian glass and mirrored atrium where you can enjoy an intimate Afternoon Tea amongst the décor of cherry blossom and lavish greenery. 

Timed to coincide with the iconic Chelsea Flower Show (19–23 May), just 1.5 miles from the hotel, this Afternoon Tea celebrates the beauty, tranquillity, and gentle symbolism of the garden, with dishes thoughtfully crafted to reflect its changing seasons and moments.

The menu includes a delicate and beautiful Savoury Selection:

Rose of the World: an elegant rose-shaped tart with salmon, crème fraîche and dill

Common Treasury: a rustic composition of beef bresaola, parmesan mousse and balsamic on brown bread

Hidden Riches (v): an earthy interpretation of a classic, truffle egg mayonnaise on white bread

Sap-Green Tide (v): a seasonal pairing of goat’s cheese mousse and asparagus in a soft mini bun

The colourful array of Sweet Delights include:

All Blossoms (v): lavender-infused cheesecake with a delicate floral aroma

Paradise of Apples (v): assorted macarons with delicate orchard-inspired flavours

Dark Eden (v): a chocolate creation, reflecting the richness of the earth

A Wilderness of Sweets (v): freshly baked classic and sultana scones served warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam.

The afternoon tea is complemented by a selection of premium teas by Newby including Botanica’s Blend, a delicate rosebud tisane blend with subtle floral notes. There is also the option to add a glass of  Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée or a cocktail with alcohol free options. 

The Garden Against Time: Chelsea Flower Show Edition Inspired by Olivia Laing

• Available from Monday 18th May until Sunday 24th of May.
• £45 per person
• £52 per person with a glass of Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée, NV
• £50 per person with a cocktail or mocktail