We had a great time for our first 'english afternoon tea'! The food was delicious and the tea was tasty, we must have tried 6 or 8 different ones between us. The added champagne was nice but probably not worth the prices. The staff was attentive and very professional.
While the service and fare were overall excellent, I felt that this was not my favorite or best high/afternoon tea experience in London. On my most recent trip to the city, my usual spot for afternoon tea was closed, so I tried Milestone based on reviews here. Milestone's website made it seem very important that one book in advance, so I made sure to lock in my table reservation ahead of time. I arrived a few minutes early, and was shown to the tea room. The host said that I could sit at the indicated table, but also that I could sit anywhere I liked because the 1:00pm tea was "light" today. By "light," it seems they meant that I was the only booking that day. So, I had a fancy tea by myself in the tea room. It was a little silly, but not terrible. The place is very cute, tastefully decorated, and had classical piano playing during my visit.
The afternoon tea, I learned, includes: two different pots of tea, a "bottomless" sandwich and mini desserts tray, and a final tray with two scones (one with dried fruit, one plain), jam, lemon curd, and clotted cream. The tea itself was very good and the scones were my favorite part, though they are not served until the end. The main sandwiches and mini desserts tray is brought out with the first tea, and the scones are brought out when that is finished and you have your second tea. The sandwiches were honestly just so-so, and I didn't care for the miniature desserts on top of that tray much (could be personal preference!). I also thought the lemon curd that came with the scones was really not good at all (felt low on the lemon, and was like, a mayonnaise texture?). I feel bad giving it four stars, because the service was friendly, the place was beautiful, and the tea was good, but it felt very overpriced and a bit too formal for what it was. I also think that replacing some of the middle tray desserts with a salad or something would really give the whole set of food a much needed lift. I know it's afternoon tea, but this one FELT really heavy. I don't think I would return again, but am glad I tried it.
This was an amazing experience, and I highly recommend it! Come hungry because there was an abundance of food for each person, including multiple sandwiches, pastries , scones, etc. Their tea options were also exceptional. Excellent service & overall experience in a historic hotel.