Go Out for a Jubilee Tea

Queen Elizabeth is celebrating 70 years on the throne, so the afternoon teas will be especially smashing. Here are my favorite places to go for a cuppa (or a glass of fizz) or both.

The Goring Hotel, London. This posh hotel in Belgravia, the only one to have a Royal Warrant for Hospitality services, and is close to Buckingham Palace. Enjoy Coronation Chicken, and Roast Beef finger sandwiches, as well as a Strawberry and Raspberry Crown Diplomat Tart and Her Majesty's Royal Fruit Cake, all serviced in a beautiful pavilion overlooking the private garden. Afternoon Tea costs 60 pounds. Visit thegoring.com

Cliveden House, Taplow, Berkshire

I like to stay here for a few days, 30 minutes from Heathrow Airport, then I go into London.

A beautiful stately home, has had every British monach including the present Queen, to stay. Afternoon tea is served in the Great Hall on Sunday's and in the Cliveden Dining Room Monday to Saturday. Enjoy traditional British savory treats, freshly baked scones and pastries including the Queens' favorite Chocolate Biscuit Cake. Afternoon tea costs from 45 pounds, or 62 pounds with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne. Visit clivedenhouse.co.uk

Billesley Manor, Stratford Upon Avon.

Cream first, or jam? At the 16th century hotel in the heart of Shakespeare country, the question is whether to have your tea in the Stuart Restaurant, Great Hall Bar, or outside on the patio. All the usual goodies for 29.95 pounds per person. Visit billesleymanor.com

The English Tea Bus

Enjoy the sights of London this unique double decker. The bus goes by Buckingham Palace so you can give Her Majesty a wave as you indulge in sandwiches and cakes. The afternoon tea and panoramic tour from 45 pounds. Visit goldentours.com

I am feeling homesick just typing this article. Hope I can go to England soon. I am longing for fish and chips, a bacon butty, and of course, my tea.

Maureen Jones

Travel Consultant

650-961-2340