There’s something undeniably timeless about afternoon tea in London—a ritual that combines elegance, indulgence, and a dash of theatrical flair. As the city blossoms under the warm summer sun, the capital’s finest hotels and restaurants invite you to linger longer over delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an artful array of pastries. This season, the tradition is elevated with creative twists, breathtaking views, and settings that range from historic grandeur to contemporary chic. Whether you’re seeking a serene sanctuary adorned with crystal chandeliers or a playful experience inspired by literary classics and West End theatre, London’s afternoon teas offer more than just a meal—they are immersive moments of delight. Here, we take you on a curated tour of the best afternoon teas to experience this summer, each promising a unique way to sip, savour, and celebrate the season. The Chinoiserie at Jumeirah Carlton Tower To pay homage to King Charles III’s love of gardening, Jumeirah Carlton Tower draws inspiration from Highgrove for its afternoon tea. The menu features wild mushroom and tarragon tart, smoked salmon with crème fraîche, and a delectable chocolate biscuit cake. The venue champions sustainability, embracing ethical practices and a green vision for the future. Even the floral arrangements feel like they’ve been handpicked from the royal gardens, adding a stately touch to this eco-conscious yet decadently delicious experience. Where: 1 Cadogan Place, Ground Floor, The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, London SW1X 9PY Website: jumeirah.com Hyatt Regency London Travel the world through tea at The Montagu Kitchen with the jet-setting Flavours of the World afternoon tea. Guests receive a boarding pass, welcome drink, and enjoy worldly bites like Mexican bean tacos and corn-bread chicken sandwiches, with sweets presented in a handcrafted luggage box. It’s the sort of tea you book when you’re back from Mykonos and already itching to plan your next escape—passport not required. Where: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH Website: hyatt.com One Aldwych Inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this sweet-themed tea features fluffy candy floss, ‘hair toffee’ mousse, ‘snozzberry’ jam scones, and whimsical cocktails such as The Chocolatier, topped with champagne. Perfect for kids and adults alike. It’s less white gloves, more golden tickets—an afternoon of sugar-laced storytelling that’ll charm even the most cynical grown-up. Where: 1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ Website: onealdwych.com Bread Ahead - Tea House, Pavilion Road Tucked above Bread Ahead’s Pavilion Road bakery, The Tea House feels like a secret garden party—if that party were hosted by someone who trained at a Parisian patisserie and happened to love Battenberg. The space is airy and unpretentious, with a view into the pastry kitchen that gives the whole experience a quietly theatrical charm. The menu is classic-with-a-twist: finger sandwiches that actually make you pause mid-bite, and a cake selection that’s basically a masterclass in British nostalgia. It’s the kind of afternoon tea that makes you want to cancel the rest of your day and stay for another pot of Fortnum’s finest. Priced at just £35pp, this is ideal choice if you are looking into indulge in long conversations sheltered away from the busy streets of Sloane Square. The Lanesborough Fans of Bridgerton will adore The Lanesborough’s festive afternoon tea, created in partnership with Netflix and Shondaland. With finger sandwiches like truffled egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon with lemon mayo, plus the hotel’s signature scones, cream, and jam, this tea offers a delightful nod to the beloved series. Expect Regency-era opulence with modern precision—ideal for anyone who’s secretly hoping to be discovered by a duke while sipping Earl Grey. Where: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA Website: oetkercollection.com Pan Pacific London Tucked away in the tranquil Maxwell Room, Pan Pacific’s latest afternoon tea is a botanical dream come to life. Inspired by the hidden gardens of the Square Mile, the menu celebrates nature’s seasonal bounty with delicate patisserie creations that are as artful as they are indulgent. Surrounded by lush greenery, this serene setting offers more than just a tea—it’s a sensory experience that lingers long after the final sip. Where: 80 Houndsditch, London EC3A 7AB Website: panpacific.com The Prince Akatoki London For a sophisticated Japanese twist, The Prince Akatoki serves smoked salmon blinis with celeriac and wasabi remoulade, quail’s scotch egg sandwich with Japanese mustard mayo, and sweets such as matcha and cranberry scones and passion fruit yuzu Swiss rolls. The result is less clotted cream, more Kyoto minimalism—a calming, umami-forward affair for the aesthetically attuned. Where: 50 Great Cumberland Place, Marble Arch, London W1H 7FD Website: theprinceakatokilondon.com The Stage at The Londoner Hotel Discover a collection of handmade patisseries alongside signature sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and East India tea. Highlights include Cornish clotted cream with homemade strawberry preserve and lemon curd, a chocolate praline tart, and the sweet paprika cured salt beef sandwich. The mood here is modern Mayfair meets West End chic—think velvet banquettes, fashion editors at the next table, and a sugar high with style. Where: 38 Leicester Square, London WC2H 7DX Website: thelondoner.com The Peninsula London Nestled in a grand, light-filled space with triple-height ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and hand-painted de Gournay murals, The Lobby in The Peninsula offers a serene setting for afternoon tea, accompanied by live music. Guests can enjoy a refined selection of finger sandwiches like golden beetroot with dill cream or roast pepper with baba ganoush, alongside seasonal amuse bouches and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and homemade jams. Sweet treats include indulgent creations such as red velvet cake with vegan cheese mousse, a mango mousse “Bunny Bauble,” and a maple cream-filled “Honey Pot.” Served daily, this elegant experience is paired with a curated selection of fine teas and a children’s menu is also available. Where: 1 Grosvenor Place, London SW1X 7HJ Website: peninsula.com Searcys at The Gherkin Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the City of London while sipping on a glass of Cuvée Brut Rosé Champagne. The sweets are almost too pretty to eat—almost. But the real showstopper is the sky-high setting, ideal for marking milestones or just pretending you’re starring in your own episode of Succession. Where: The Gherkin, 30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8BF Website: searcysatthegherkin.co.uk Oblix at The Shard Afternoon tea with panoramic views of London Bridge and the city skyline is hard to beat. Oblix offers impeccable service paired with a cocktail and champagne package featuring must-try creations like the Pink Cadillac. It’s urban glamour at altitude—best enjoyed in heels, with a second glass of fizz and no evening plans. Where: Level 32, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY Website: oblixrestaurant.com The Stafford London Winner of the 2024 Afternoon Tea Award of Excellence, The Stafford delivers an impeccable experience in The Game Bird restaurant and lounge. The ambience is discreetly luxurious, with white-glove service and a wine list that might tempt you to stray from tea altogether. Where: 16-18 St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NJ Website: thestaffordlondon.com Theatre Royal Drury Lane Set within the beautifully restored Grand Saloon, the Theatre Royal offers a theatrical afternoon tea divided into three acts: A Savoury Prelude, The Sweet Dilemma, and The Finale. It’s afternoon tea with drama—in the best possible sense. Every course is a performance, right down to the curtain-call of caramelised popcorn. Where: Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF Website: thelane.co.uk Sanderson Hotel Step into a whimsical Alice in Wonderland-themed afternoon tea where menus are hidden inside vintage books, and quirky quotes adorn the crockery. It’s delightfully unhinged, in that only-in-London way—made for Instagram, yes, but also genuinely delicious. Where: 50 Berners Street, London W1T 3NG Website: morgansoriginals.com The Rubens at the Palace Overlooking Buckingham Palace’s Royal Mews, The Rubens invites you to dine like royalty with sandwiches featuring smoked salmon, caviar, and chive cream cheese, plus sweet treats such as caramel marshmallow tea cakes and Berliner doughnuts. Arrive in time to spot the Queen’s horses and stay for the polished, pomp-filled hospitality that defines this stately institution. Where: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0PS Website: rubenshotel.com Strand Palace Just minutes from the Novello Theatre, this playful afternoon tea channels the spirit of MAMMA MIA! with a menu bursting with sweet and savoury delights inspired by the musical. Think glitter, showtunes, and just the right amount of edible kitsch—because who doesn’t want to belt Dancing Queen with a macaron in hand? Where: 372 Strand, London WC2R 0JE Website: strandpalacehotel.co.uk Lucy Wong For a distinctive Oriental afternoon tea, Lucy Wong offers festive savouries like pork bao and duck puffs alongside seasonal patisseries, including coconut pandan mousse—a deliciously unique London experience. The tea is served in a seductive, low-lit lounge inspired by 1950s Hong Kong nightlife, creating an atmosphere that’s as alluring as the menu. Pair it with tea-infused cocktails for an unexpected twist on tradition. Where: 33-34 Rathbone Place, London W1T 1JN Website: lucywong.co.uk

Dubai’s skyline is more than a collection of towering buildings and glittering developments—it’s a vivid, ever-evolving playground for the world’s ultra-wealthy, where architecture flirts with fantasy and real estate transcends into spectacle. Here, luxury isn’t just a lifestyle; it’s an art form, performed on a scale so grand it makes the most lavish mansions elsewhere seem positively quaint. From the dizzying heights of the Burj Khalifa’s “Sky Palace” penthouse to the theatrical excess of Palm Jumeirah’s Frond H6, and on to Emirates Hills’ sprawling tech-savvy fortress, Dubai has curated a portfolio of properties that read less like homes and more like living dreams. Each of these residences tells a story of ambition, design, and unapologetic extravagance—the kind that invites you not just to live, but to inhabit an entire mood, a private theatre of wealth where every detail is deliberate and every view curated. In Dubai, the ultimate trophy is never just a trophy. It’s a lifestyle manifesto. The Ultimate Trophy: 108 Floors Up in the Burj Khalifa If you’ve ever looked at the Burj Khalifa and thought, I want to live in the part that makes people dizzy, now’s your chance. The so-called "Sky Palace" has just hit the market at £40 million (approx. $53 million), making it the highest residential property in the world—because of course it is. Sitting 108 floors above Dubai, this 21,000-square-foot penthouse is not so much a home as it is a planetary vantage point, complete with its own private lift and twelve parking spaces for your fleet of supercars. It’s currently an empty shell—just concrete and staggering potential—but that’s the point. For a cool £4 million more, you could transform it into a Bond villain’s dream pad, an AI-assisted design fantasy, or a bi-level sanctuary in the clouds. From its 460-metre-high perch, the views are absurd: the Arabian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah, the distant Ras Al Khaimah mountains—like having a rotating Instagram filter built into your windows. Residents get access to all the Burj's luxury accoutrements: private lounges, rooftop jacuzzis, infinity pools, three gyms, and the Armani Hotel’s five-star indulgence. It’s less a flat and more a micro-country. According to Invest Dubai Real Estate CEO Asad Khan, who’s handling the exclusive sale, the Sky Palace could eventually resell for more than £90 million. Which makes this listing not only the ultimate trophy asset but, in Dubai terms, a smart long-term play. Just remember to budget for the vertigo. Frond H6, Where Luxury Meets Theatre on Palm Jumeirah On Palm Jumeirah—Dubai’s man-made island shaped like a date palm, because subtlety has never been the city’s strong suit—there’s a villa so aggressively curated it feels less like a home and more like the inside of a billionaire’s subconscious. Designed by Samir Vissram, Frond H6 is an aesthetic fever dream of polished travertine, oversized art, and lighting that says: “Please admire my success.” The entrance is double-height, glass-walled, and flanked by tropical greenery that likely has a team of full-time horticulturists. Inside, every surface gleams with an editorial sheen. It’s the kind of place that looks permanently staged for a photoshoot—probably because it is. The kitchen is sculptural, the staircase dramatic, and the living room more tastefully restrained than one might expect from a city that loves to gold-plate everything, including its ATM machines. This exquisite property is listed with Engel & Völkers Middle East. Step outside and the fantasy continues. The infinity pool drips effortlessly into a private beach—because apparently private pools aren’t quite private enough—and a glossy white yacht floats just beyond the jetty like the world’s most expensive lawn ornament. There’s a terrace for every mood: one for brunch, one for sunset drinks, and one, presumably, for pondering your next crypto investment. The vibe isn’t just luxury—it’s lifestyle theatre. This is Dubai’s new real estate language: curated to within an inch of its life, global in its references, and just aspirational enough to make you wonder if you should’ve married that guy with the tech start-up. Frond H6 isn’t a house. It’s a mood board in motion. Luxury Redefined in Emirates Hills’ Crown Jewel In a city where extravagance is the baseline, this AED 150 million Emirates Hills mansion doesn’t just raise the bar—it reinvents it. Spanning a staggering 32,869 sq. ft., this six-bedroom architectural marvel is a symphony of bespoke design and cutting-edge innovation, crafted for those who demand their home be nothing less than a statement. This property is listed with Engel & Völkers Middle East. From the private cinema where you can binge in absolute darkness, to the spa and gym that make wellness a daily ritual, and the rooftop jacuzzi perched above Dubai’s iconic skyline and the Burj Khalifa’s glittering spire, every inch is curated for indulgence. A soundproof sports bar in the basement invites high-stakes celebrations while ensuring the party stays strictly on premises—and out of earshot. Privacy here is paramount, with a dedicated staff wing, a private lift connecting all floors, and secure parking for ten cars, making exclusivity effortless. Meanwhile, state-of-the-art smart home technology orchestrates your every need with just a tap or a word, so life here is as seamless as it is spectacular. Nestled in Sector W—the crown jewel of Emirates Hills—this residence is less a house and more a fortress of luxury, designed for the discerning few who settle for nothing but the ultimate.

Let’s get one thing straight: Venice is not for the minimalist. It’s for the romantic, the maximalist, the person who thinks an embroidered velvet slipper counts as a neutral. It’s a city that has perfected the art of the flourish. Gilded palazzi rest on the water like couture gowns suspended mid-swirl. Gondoliers wear striped shirts with the casual elegance of a Saint Laurent campaign. Even the pigeons seem to loiter in St Mark’s Square like they’re waiting to be photographed for a Loewe lookbook. Venice is a city where the line between past and present, reality and theatre, is not just blurred—it’s stylishly smudged. But Venice isn’t just a backdrop for fashion—it’s a destination about fashion. It’s where tailors once dressed doges, and where masked balls set the template for everything from Dior’s high fantasy to Gucci’s decadent reinventions. Today, the city’s floating beauty plays host to high-gloss events like the Venice Film Festival and Biennale, both beloved by editors and celebrities who treat the city like a runway. So if you're going to visit, you do it properly: you arrive looking like you belong on the front row. When to Visit (And What to Wear) Timing matters. While Venice has a year-round charm (think moody fog in winter, golden haze in autumn), the most fashionable season to visit is early spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October) . That’s when the city blooms without being besieged by cruise crowds, and you can stroll the streets in gauzy linens or cashmere-light trench coats without melting. Avoid August—unless you like heat, humidity, and the smell of canal water stronger than your Byredo. Byredo Inflorescence Eau de Parfum - £150.00 - Click here Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo – Fico di Amalfi - £147.00 - Click here The nearest airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) , about 20 minutes by water taxi to the city proper. And yes, we do mean water taxi—skip the land transport. There is nothing chic about dragging Rimowa wheels over cobblestones. Where to Stay: Five Hotels as Stylish as You Are Aman Venice Set inside a 16th-century palazzo on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice is the hotel for those who understand that true luxury whispers. With museum-worthy interiors, original Tiepolo frescoes, and a private garden (a rare Venetian luxury), this is where fashion designers and discreet celebrities check in to disappear. Karl Lagerfeld once hosted a Chanel soirée here—need we say more? Vibe: Couture-level elegance meets monastic calm. Book if: You want to feel like the protagonist in a Luca Guadagnino film. The Gritti Palace Overlooking the Grand Canal with views of Santa Maria della Salute, The Gritti Palace is unapologetically ornate. Rooms are filled with antique Murano glass, Rubelli fabrics, and oil paintings worthy of a Sotheby’s lot. It’s also home to the legendary Gritti Epicurean School and the always-buzzy Riva Lounge terrace. Vibe: Decadent, baroque, and utterly photogenic. Book if: You packed a wardrobe of maximalist silks and brought three books you won’t read. Ca’ di Dio This newcomer sits quietly near the Arsenale, away from the cruise crowds. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Ca’ di Dio is minimalist, architectural, and soothing—almost spa-like. The interiors blend stone, wood, and subtle luxe touches that whisper sustainability without shouting “eco-resort.” Vibe: Contemporary Venetian chic with a conscience. Book if: You prefer a hidden gem with design credentials and zero foot traffic. Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel Located on Giudecca Island, just across the water from the main hubbub of San Marco, the Cipriani is cinematic in every sense. Think: 1950s jet-set glamour, gondola arrivals, and guests in headscarves and silk kaftans sipping Bellinis by the Olympic-sized pool. It’s not quiet luxury—it’s confident luxury. Vibe: Old-school glamour, Aperol in hand. Book if: You like the idea of arriving to Venice by private launch with matching luggage. Nolinski Venezia A new favourite among the art-and-fashion crowd, Nolinski Venezia brings Parisian cool to Venetian grandeur. Housed in the former Chamber of Commerce near Piazza San Marco, the interiors are pure visual drama—designed by Le Coadic & Scotto , it’s a moody blend of velvet, marble, and gold-leaf finishes that feels like Studio 54 met a Renaissance palazzo. The rooms? Plush, sensual, impeccably dressed in tonal layers. The vibe? Intimate and theatrical. There’s also Il Caffè , a contemporary take on the classic Venetian café-bar, and a subterranean spa for post-gondola recalibration. It’s where stylists go when they want to not be seen but still be seen. Vibe: Editorial shoot set meets Italian aristocracy in after-dark mode. Book if: You love Loewe, order martinis dirty, and want to stay somewhere with real edge. Where to Eat: Fashion Girl Dining Approved Antiche Carampane A local favourite tucked away in San Polo, this trattoria is as unpretentious as it is exceptional. Must try: Spaghetti alle Vongole . Order the fritto misto and act like you’re on a Vogue food shoot. Ristorante Quadri Overlooking St. Mark’s Square and boasting a Michelin star, Quadri is where you go when you want to dress up and dine like a Medici. Must try: Risotto with red prawns and saffron . The interiors? Restored by Philippe Starck. Osteria alle Testiere Tiny, intimate, and wildly sought-after—book ahead. Their grilled scallops with orange zest and basil are legendary. Bring someone you’re trying to impress, or take yourself and be impressed anyway. Glam Two Michelin stars and a terrace on the Grand Canal. Glam, helmed by Chef Donato Ascani, delivers Venetian cuisine that’s modern without trying too hard. Must try: Smoked eel risotto . Très editorial. What to See in Three Days (Besides Yourself in Every Mirror) Day 1 St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace : Start traditional—there’s fashion in the frescos. Aperitivo at Caffè Florian : Iconic, opulent, and the birthplace of many accidental fashion campaigns. St. Mark’s Basilica is Venice’s original statement piece—proof that maximalism never really goes out of style. Day 2 Take a private boat to Murano for a glassblowing atelier visit. Book in advance and wear something flowy—it looks better with fire. Visit Fondaco dei Tedeschi : A historic palazzo turned luxury shopping haven curated by DFS, with brands from Gucci to Bottega. Head to the rooftop for panoramic views. Walk on the Rialto Bridge , where designer boutiques now flank the centuries-old span once lined with spice traders—proof that fashion and commerce have always been at the heart of this city. Day 3 Explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art and stylish ghosts. Afternoon walk through Dorsoduro for quieter alleys and independent boutiques. Book an evening at Teatro La Fenice . Yes, the opera. No, you don’t have to stay awake the whole time. But the outfits? Worth it. Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors Pack for water: Always have flats or sandals that won’t drown. And for the love of Anna Wintour, no stilettos. Get lost on purpose : Venice is a labyrinth and the best moments happen when you’re off Google Maps. Invest in a 72-hour Vaporetto pass : It’s like public transport, but make it nautical. Skip the tourist traps in Rialto for aperitivo : Head to Campo Santa Margherita or the bars in Cannaregio for spritzes where the locals go. For the Fashion-Focused Itinerary Personal shopping experience at Fondaco dei Tedeschi : Book a concierge session and let someone else carry your bags. Visit the Rubelli textile showroom : An insider spot where haute couture meets Venetian fabric heritage. Attend Venice Fashion Week (October) : Intimate, artisanal, and refreshingly anti-Milan. Commission a custom mask or accessory from local artisans in San Polo. Think of it as wearable history. Private gondola ride with prosecco and a violinist : Yes, it’s cliché. It’s also perfect. In Conclusion: Venice Is Always a Good Idea (Especially in Designer Sunglasses) Venice is not a checklist city. It’s a mood. It demands that you slow down, look around, and maybe change your outfit twice a day. It rewards drama, extravagance, and old-school charm. Whether you’re eating tiramisu by the Grand Canal or drifting under bridges in silk trousers, Venice reminds you that beauty, like fashion, is meant to be experienced—not just observed. Pack your best vintage Valentino, book that water taxi, and let Venice do the rest.

Whether you're networking with the new Chelsea set or toasting Champagne under a gold-tiled ceiling in Mayfair, private members' clubs remain London's ultimate status symbol in 2025. But this isn't your grandad's gentleman's club roundup. From fashion-forward rooftops to plush dog-friendly lounges, we've curated the most relevant and remarkable places to be seen (and ideally invited) this year. Annabel’s, Mayfair For glamour, spectacle, and a little hedonism. Private members’ clubs don’t get much more storied than Annabel’s. Originally opened in 1963 by Mark Birley at 44 Berkeley Square, it was one of the first nightclubs in London to welcome both high society and celebrity under one glittering roof. Elizabeth Taylor danced here, Princess Diana drank here, and Mick Jagger once jumped behind the DJ booth. Today, under the stewardship of Richard Caring, Annabel’s sits grandly next door at 46 Berkeley Square in a jaw-droppingly lavish Georgian townhouse where each room is an aesthetic fantasy — the powder-pink ladies’ room has become practically Instagram folklore. From its maximalist interiors by Martin Brudnizki to its rotating seasonal façades (think: a festive Alpine chalet or a 20-ft high pumpkin tower for Halloween), the club is a masterclass in theatrical hospitality. Whether it's a Dior dinner, a Harper’s Bazaar party, or a red carpet film screening, Annabel’s is where the capital’s elite come to see and be seen — provided you’re lucky enough to secure an invite. Need-to-know: Entry is strictly members and guests only. Membership: £3,750 annually (£1,850 joining fee); under-35s: £2,250 + £600 joining fee. Recommendation required: Yes — by a member of a Birley Club. Home House, Marylebone For decadent nights and debaucherous weekends. Home House blends 18th-century aristocratic opulence with a very 21st-century appetite for partying. Once the residence of Lady Home, who scandalised Georgian London and earned the nickname "Queen from Hell", the building now plays host to a different kind of high society. Lavish parties and Champagne-fuelled dinners are the norm — it's estimated members go through 20,000 bottles of bubbly a year. But the club isn’t all velvet booths and late-night mischief. By day, it transforms into a serene space for business meetings, leisurely breakfasts, and afternoon teas in chandeliered drawing rooms. There’s a subterranean gym and spa, lush garden for al fresco lunches, and a handful of plush bedrooms to sleep off the night’s festivities. Home House is also one of the most pet-friendly clubs in town — dogs are allowed practically everywhere, and they’re often seen curled up in a corner of the bar. Need-to-know: You can book a stay even if you’re not a member. Membership: £2,250 + £499 joining fee; under-35s: £1,450 + £399 joining fee. Recommendation required: Not mandatory, but advantageous. George, Mayfair For caviar, cocktails and dachshund-friendly decadence. Playful, irreverent, and wildly stylish, George is Annabel’s cool younger sibling — the one who drinks mezcal at brunch and lets their dog sit at the table. Fresh off an 18-month renovation led by Richard and Patricia Caring, the club reopened with a dog-themed art collection (including a David Hockney), a bronze dachshund sculpture, and a gold-tiled ceiling. Interiors are opulent but not overly formal — a blend of 1930s glamour and Italian riviera charm. On weekends, brunch on the terrace is a Mayfair ritual; by night, things move underground to The Hound Bar, an Art Deco den with plush velvet seating, tapas, and well-heeled young creatives sipping espresso martinis. There’s even a dedicated dog menu — so yes, your pampered pooch can snack on wagyu biscuits while you have oysters. Need-to-know: No walk-ins — guests must come with a member. Membership: £2,250 + £1,250 joining fee; under-35s: £1,000 + £500 joining fee. Recommendation required: Yes, by an existing member. Ned’s Club, The Ned, City of London For high-flying finance meets high-end hospitality. Housed in a former Midland Bank building, The Ned is a dazzling 1920s playground with eight restaurants, live jazz daily, and a buzz that never really dies down. But beyond the grand public spaces lies Ned’s Club — a labyrinth of members-only perks spread across the rooftop, basement and behind locked doors. The rooftop, with its pool, skyline views, and alfresco dining, feels more Los Angeles than Liverpool Street. The basement brings back the Gatsby-era speakeasy, complete with live music and vintage cocktails. Upstairs, the Library Bar is a leather-clad sanctuary, while members also benefit from priority bookings, hotel discounts and Soho House-style wellness benefits. Crucially, The Ned is one of the few private clubs where a more affordable ‘Friends’ tier exists — ideal for the upwardly mobile crowd who aren’t quite ready to commit to a full membership but want access to the vibe. Need-to-know: Non-members can join Ned Friends for limited access. Membership: £3,465 (under-30s: £2,200); Ned Friends: £250/year. Recommendation required: Yes — two existing members. The Sloane Club, Chelsea For co-working, cocktails, and quiet luxury in SW1. Steeped in royal history, The Sloane Club started life as a sanctuary for servicewomen and has since evolved into a chic haven for Chelsea’s global set. You’re as likely to meet a Paris-based art consultant as a tech founder from Tel Aviv. By day, members plug in at The Chelsea, a co-working space filled with light and fashionably quiet conversation. At cocktail hour, the vibe switches to casual glamour — signature cocktails and Asian-European sharing plates in The Garden Room, followed by fine wines in the velvet-draped bar. The rooftop is a secret weapon in summer, while dog owners adore the all-access pet policy. Add to that over 100 global reciprocal clubs, and it’s no wonder The Sloane Club is fast becoming the modern Sloane’s club of choice. Need-to-know: Apply directly or be proposed by a member. Membership: From £1,950/year + £750 joining fee. Recommendation required: Not essential, but recommended. The Arts Club, Mayfair For the creatively connected (and quietly affluent). Once the domain of Dickens and Whistler, The Arts Club has undergone a glamorous renaissance — gone are the dusty reading rooms, replaced with Art Deco elegance, modern art, and an impossibly curated crowd. Set across several floors of Dover Street real estate, the club offers Michelin-level dining, live music in its brasserie-style lounge, and an art programme that rivals Mayfair galleries. Upstairs, members can stay in sumptuous hotel suites with butler service, while below street level, there’s a moody speakeasy with some of the city’s best negronis. And yes, the health club really does have its own MRI machine. Need-to-know: Members must be part of the creative industries. Membership: £3,200/year + £1,600 joining fee. Recommendation required: Yes — one proposer and one seconder. Soho House (Multiple locations) For creatives, founders and international cool kids. The OG of cool member spaces, Soho House is now a global lifestyle brand with outposts from West Hollywood to White City. In London, the choices are endless: 180 House offers East London edge, White City House is a media hub, and Shoreditch House has that rooftop pool. Each House blends co-working, dining, events, and serious interior design cred — think vintage Italian furniture, curated art, and members wearing The Row. The global network is a key draw: get in once and you can House-hop across the world. If you’re not quite ready for full membership, opt for Soho Friends, which gives access to bedrooms, retail perks, and events. Need-to-know: You’ll need to work in a creative industry to get in. Membership: £3,450/year for Every House access (under-27s pay less); Soho Friends: £100/year. Recommendation required: Yes — two member nominations. The Hurlingham Club, Fulham For polo whites, Pimms, and prestige. The Hurlingham Club is the most exclusive club you’ve (probably) never been to. A leafy 42-acre estate in SW6, it’s the closest Britain gets to a true country club — immaculate lawns, tennis courts, croquet, cricket pitches, and a Georgian mansion to host it all. The waiting list is the stuff of legend: closed for years and rumoured to be three decades long. Unless you were born to a member or marry into one, entry is borderline impossible. But the reward is access to one of the most elegant and relaxed clubs in London — perfect for families and anyone allergic to Soho-style scenesters. Need-to-know: Membership is closed to newcomers. Membership: £1,400 annually, plus a joining fee (when available). Recommendation required: Yes — and then some. Century Club, Soho For rooftop drinks and creative energy. Hidden behind a black door on Shaftesbury Avenue and accessed via 100 steps (hence the name), Century Club is an under-the-radar Soho gem that favours the in-the-know crowd over glitzy scenesters. Across five floors, you’ll find stylish lounge areas, cocktail bars, event spaces and private dining rooms, but the real draw is Soho’s largest rooftop — expanded during lockdown, it's an unrivalled sunset perch. Century leans into its creative roots with regular live music, industry talks and theatre afterparties. The vibe is more "art director on their third negroni" than buttoned-up banker — and that’s just how members like it. Need-to-know: Open to online applications. Membership: £875/year. Recommendation required: No, just apply. Mark’s Club, Mayfair For old-world charm, culinary precision, and quietly serious style. Tucked away on Charles Street behind an unassuming black door lies one of Mayfair’s best-kept secrets: Mark’s Club. The recent redesign has brought new elegance to the historic townhouse, without disturbing its unmistakable DNA. Inside, it’s all polished oak floors, Old Master artworks (including a newly acquired George Stubbs painting), and the quiet hum of members who look like they might own several racehorses. The dining experience here remains resolutely old-school in the best possible way — the kind of place where dishes are carved tableside, waistcoats are pressed, and Champagne flutes never go dry. The Greenhouse, a new addition, brings natural light and a slightly softer formality to the club’s otherwise impeccably traditional dining ethos. Signature dishes include the famed chicken pie and prawn curry, but the true joy lies in the theatre of it all — a Dover sole filleted before you, a menu that reads like a love letter to British produce, and a level of service that borders on telepathic. Need-to-know: Dining jackets encouraged; phones frowned upon. Membership: Undisclosed; applicants must be proposed by existing members. Recommendation required: Yes — and discretion is essential. Savile Club, Mayfair For artistic heritage, literary ghosts, and ballroom-level drama. Occupying a grand 18th-century mansion on Brook Street, the Savile Club exudes a romantic, old-London glamour rarely seen today. Once the London residence of J.P. Morgan, the building now plays host to a more bohemian set: actors, authors, playwrights, and media types who enjoy the club’s offbeat elegance and unapologetically intellectual leanings. The interiors are dramatic — especially the ballroom, which feels plucked from a Merchant Ivory film — and the events calendar reflects the club’s literary and artistic roots, with poetry readings, concerts, and spirited debates taking place weekly. It’s a club where the service is warm but never stiff, the food far better than it needs to be (try the wild mushroom risotto or the roast pheasant when in season), and the atmosphere less about networking, more about nurturing creative connection. If Annabel’s is flash, and Home House is flirtation, Savile is where the conversation actually happens. Need-to-know: A favourite for weddings and private parties thanks to its striking ballroom. Membership: By application and committee approval. Recommendation required: Strongly advised; creatives encouraged.

We were recently invited to Kanpai Classic, the Japanese restaurant that opened last year in the heart of Soho, London, to experience first-hand the wonders of Wagyu and the art of Yakiniku cuisine. As the newest Japanese steakhouse on the scene, Kanpai Classic offers an extraordinary selection of 15 cuts of Wagyu beef — from delicate sliced cuts to richly marbled steaks — and presents them in ways both surprising and elegant, from Wagyu-topped sushi to indulgent caviar pairings. Opting for the 14-course Signature Wagyu Cuisine Omakase, I settled in for an unforgettable tasting journey through one of the most luxurious beef experiences available in London today. Kanpai, meaning “cheers” in Japanese, is more than clever branding. It’s a philosophy of hospitality woven into every corner of the experience. The moment you step inside Kanpai Classic, you’re enveloped by the aroma of gently sizzling beef, an intoxicating welcome that lingers in the air. Soft lighting dances across the dark interiors, while an open kitchen hums with quiet precision, framed by a glittering glass wine cellar. Even before the first bite, the mood is set: you are here to be transported. We were invited to experience the Signature Wagyu Cuisine Omakase , a 14-course tasting menu that reads like a love letter to Yakiniku — the Japanese art of grilling meat in small, exquisite bites. At Kanpai, this is done with an almost cinematic flair: each table is outfitted with its own smokeless charcoal grill, where your personal waiter cooks, guides, and educates you through the experience with graceful expertise. You can book the experience here , with 30% off food until 11 May during select hours. The journey begins with Wagyu Tallow Truffle Chips — a lesson in restraint and balance. The earthiness of truffle glides over the crisp, tallow-kissed chips, offering an elevated take on a familiar pleasure. Next arrives the Wagyu Treasure Caviar , an opulent arrangement of sea urchin, king crab, and salmon roe — a shimmering jewel box of the sea. By the time the Wagyu Tartare with celeriac purée and salmon roe arrives atop a sheet of crisp seaweed, you are fully immersed in Kanpai’s world of textural play and precision. Then comes the dish that divides — beef tongue — but in the hands of Kanpai’s chefs, skepticism melts away. The cut, taken from the middle and back where the fat marbles just so, yields a bite so tender and complex, it reshapes your understanding of this humble ingredient. The tempo picks up with the arrival of Sugatayaki Chuck Flap , dressed with Yakiniku sauce and garlic purée, and a trio of marvels: Negiyaki from the hind leg, with a house-made spring onion sauce that soaks into the just-seared meat; Karubi , the crown jewel of Yakiniku, its snowflake marbling melting into an umami crescendo; And Rib Finger (Geta) , a delightful dance of chewy, fatty, and lean, served with lettuce, miso sauce, and a spicy miso kicker. By the time the Mizoreyaki arrives — delicately grilled with grated daikon — the ritual of fire and flavour has become hypnotic. The Sugatayaki Tri Tip , grilled tableside and paired with Nanatsuboshi rice from Hokkaido, is a masterclass in simplicity: the meat speaks, the sauces whisper, and the wine — a silken pinot noir from Spy Valley, New Zealand — completes the conversation. The evening crescendos with the Moriawase Platter , showcasing three more cuts, each an ode to Wagyu’s incredible versatility. And just when you think you’ve reached the peak, a playful Wagyu Gyoza arrives, nestled in a delicate tomato Surinagashi soup with Japanese yam noodles. But it’s the final savoury course — the Japanese A5 Wagyu Steak, Filet Mignon, and Rump — that delivers the showstopper moment. The filet, so tender it nearly dissolves on the tongue; the rump, richly flavoured and assertive. It’s an unforgettable demonstration of why Wagyu has become the global symbol of indulgence. As a gesture of generosity, the chef sends out an off-menu Wagyu Beef Curry , its fatty richness infusing the sauce with a depth that lingers. Then, a thoughtful nod to tradition: Chicken Kamameshi Rice (a classic iron-pot rice served at the end of a meal), perfectly cooked and steeped in broth, the kind of simple perfection that punctuates a meal with quiet satisfaction. And finally, dessert: a dark chocolate soufflé , crowned with strawberry powder, raspberry jam, and delicate chocolate flakes. It’s less a sweet ending and more a joyful exclamation point, designed to be mixed, matched, and devoured in one perfectly indulgent spoonful. What elevates Kanpai Classic beyond its (already lofty) culinary ambitions is the passion that runs through the entire experience. The staff are not just servers; they are storytellers, educators, and guardians of a tradition honed over decades. It’s no surprise — the Kanpai Group, with 68 restaurants across Asia and a Michelin-starred Yakiniku outpost in Shanghai, has arrived in London with something to prove. For those eager to enter this world, there’s even more reason to book now: Kanpai Classic is offering 30% off food until May 11, in partnership with The Fork, for both lunch and select dinner seatings. In a city where culinary experiences are increasingly vying for your attention, Kanpai Classic doesn’t just demand it — it earns it. This is not a place you visit casually; it’s a destination for those who seek the rare, the refined, the truly exceptional. So here’s my advice: book the table , clear the evening, and let Kanpai Classic take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. Kanpai, indeed.

There are doughnuts, and then there’s Bread Ahead’s Crème Brûlée doughnut—the sugar-dusted, custard-filled legend that sells over 4,000 a day and still manages to trend harder than your oat latte. Now, in a move that’s both generous and highly Instagrammable, the cult Borough Market bakery is launching a new one-hour Crème Brûlée Doughnut Making Experience in honour of National Doughnut Week (10–18 May). You get to make them. You get to eat them. You get to say you brûléed something other than your weekend plans. But here’s the part that really matters: 10% of all bookings made during National Doughnut Week will go directly to The Children’s Trust , the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injuries and neurodisabilities. It’s an experience that tastes good—and does good. The workshop, held at Bread Ahead’s shiny new Doughnut Studio in Borough Market, runs five days a week and lasts just an hour—ideal if your calendar is already packed with gallery openings, launch parties, or just a very committed skincare routine. For £50, you’ll roll dough, fill it with the good stuff, take home four freshly made Crème Brûlée doughnuts, and sip coffee while trying not to eat them all before you leave. And for the truly sweet-toothed (and deal-hungry), Bread Ahead is offering a 2-for-1 special during the launch weekend, from 2nd to 4th May. Bring a friend or a date—this is the kind of baking that doesn’t require matching aprons, just a mutual appreciation for torched sugar. The Children’s Trust, which supports thousands of children each year through specialist rehabilitation and education services, is one of the most vital charities of its kind in the UK. Bread Ahead’s contribution during National Doughnut Week adds a powerful purpose to the pleasure of a perfectly brûléed bite. “There’s something magical about the Crème Brûlée doughnut—our customers can’t get enough of it,” said Bread Ahead founder Matthew Jones. “Launching this experience during National Doughnut Week and being able to give back while we do it makes it even more meaningful.” So yes, you can now tick “brûlée a doughnut” off your bucket list. But more importantly, you can do it while supporting children and families across the UK. Honestly, what better excuse to cancel your Saturday plans and head to Borough Market? Bookings open Monday 28th April at breadahead.com . Spots are limited, and sugar waits for no one.