History of Afternoon Tea | Palm Court at The Langham London

A London Resident Since 1865

With over 150 years of history discover the years of legendary heritage, including famous guests and innovations from Europe’s first ‘Grand Hotel’. The Langham continues to captivate today and is truly a London icon, with the six-bedroom Sterling Suite and an extravagant Langham Club Lounge. Prepare to be amazed and whisked away by The Langham, London as you enter through the doors and walk into over 150 years of history.

Birthplace of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea was first thought up by Lady Bedford, one of Queen Victoria’s ladies in waiting and it soon became fashionable in high society. But it was The Langham who popularised this tradition by being the first hotel to feature this new meal on its menu when it opened in 1865.

In the Heart of London

Palm Court today offers all-day dining, Afternoon Tea and delicious cocktails and Champagne. At the heart of The Langham, London it’s just a short walk from Mayfair and Oxford Street.

Birthplace

of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon Tea is a great Victorian invention; served first in the homes of the aristocracy. When The Langham opened in 1865 it included Afternoon Tea on the menu. As the hotel was the last word in style and modernity, it soon caught on and our Afternoon Tea has been famous ever since.

A Favourite of Favourites

The Langham continued throughout the 20th century to be a favoured spot with members of the royal family, such as Diana, Princess of Wales and many high-profile politicians including Winston Churchill and Charles de Gaulle.

Home of Historic Guests

In 1867 a former Union officer named James Sanderson was appointed general manager and the hotel developed an extensive American clientele, which included Mark Twain and the miserly multi-millionairess, Hetty Green.

Neighborhood of British Icons

The Langham Hotel keeps good company. Placed opposite the British Broadcasting Corporation.
The BBC’s wartime staff used to broadcast from the roof of the Langham, in particular the US correspondent Edward Murrow. JB Priestley was also a guest in this period to be close to Broadcasting House for his frequent late-night transmissions of Britain Speaks to North America.