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The Journal

Research notes from the London desk — on tea, geometry and gin.

A Tiered afternoon tea stand with scones, clotted cream and pastries in a London hotel lounge

The Afternoon Tea Ritual

Guide · 11 min read · Updated 2026

Five sittings, five personalities. Prices, dress codes, the scone-first debate and how far ahead you really need to book.

DiningEtiquetteMost read
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B Geometric Art Deco panelling and brass wall lighting inside a historic hotel interior

Art Deco London

Architecture · 13 min read

Ionides, Bernard, Messel and the ocean-liner aesthetic that gave London's hotels their stepped geometry and silvered walls.

DesignHistory
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C Bartender stirring a cocktail in a dimly lit hotel bar with brass fittings

The Great Hotel Bars

Drinking · 9 min read

Where to sit, what to order, and the precise hour to arrive at the American Bar, Connaught Bar, Rivoli and Fumoir.

CocktailsNightlife
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