The Orangery

The Orangery, majestically placed within Kensington Gardens, epitomizes both historical elegance and modern revitalization. Originally built in the early 18th century for Queen Anne, this Baroque treasure promises sweeping views of Kensington Palace from its sunbathed south-facing terrace. Despite its resplendent setting, experiences can be as varied as the gilded pastries on offer; the meticulous selection ranges from scones with clotted cream to salmon roses on open sandwiches, striking a balance between traditional and inventive. Service, however, fluctuates, with some guests feeling overlooked and challenged by staffing inflexibility. Although iconic, it has faced critique over issues with seating arrangements and allergen accommodations, which detract from the poised allure of afternoon tea. As a venue, it melds grandeur with occasional oversight, leading some patrons to marvel at its surroundings while longing for consistent culinary excellence.