Spring in London, a time of great excitement and rejuvenation. Especially since Shangri-La The Shard, London is putting on such a spectacular array of celebrations for Her Royal Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee. Until September 2022, visitors can enjoy beautiful displays from McQueen’s Flowers with views over the Tower of London, where this summer a ‘superbloom’ display of millions of gorgeous wildflowers will be visible in its moat.
Jubilee interiors
The combination of Springtime opulence and vitality is evident, with every detail ornately decorated. I thoroughly enjoyed the Queen and Royal Household photographer, Hugo Rittson-Thomas’s displays of contemporary photographs of Her Majesty and other royals. We were then swiftly transported to the 35th floor in seconds by the royal chariot decorated lift, a journey that allowed us to take in the views of Sandringham and Balmoral Palaces on the entrance and exit as well as Pet Relations Manager Rocky.
We were greeted by homages to all of HRH’s most recognisable travels, including the scene of Sydney harbour. Also on this floor, a memorable arrangement of pop art depictions and specially created sculptures shaped in HRH’s iconic stamp shape, placed carefully so as to allow a view of historic British buildings, including St Paul’s.
Joining the art displays is a homage to royal culture, a creative immersion of gold birdcages, gold picture frames and crowns. Once I had been immersed in the nostalgic feeling of the Queen’s most famous moments, it was time to begin the iconic afternoon tea.
Jubilee afternoon tea
Surrounded by the beautifully hung wisteria we started with a tea tasting of the Queen’s regular go to, an Earl Grey with a fruity twist. With gentle hints of orange and jasmine the expertly described champagne of tea was a clean start to a well paired feast. Freshness and flavour were the standout points of the evening with every sweet and savoury plate provided bursting with colourful flavour. One of the favourites of the table, pancakes with slow cooked duck breast on a bed cucumber with plum sauce and caviar.
Next we were greeted with neatly presented towers of plates stacked with a selection of sweet and savoury afternoon tea classics including finger sandwiches, scones and a royal Jubilee themed trifecta of desserts. The royal theme continued through the courses with every carefully chosen piece fully immersing you into a picnic in the royal gardens complimenting the English garden aesthetic. Between sampling each enticing item we were introduced to a glass of Nyetimber’s classic cuvee, a proudly British based sparkling wine.
Jubilee cocktails
Also available at Shangri-La The Shard, London this royal season, Jubilee cocktails at GŎNG, the highest hotel bar in western Europe. Enjoy the Asian inspired reinterpretation of one of the queens favourite drinks, Dubonnet. As designed by the team at GŎNG, the drink features gin with violet and strawberry liqueur mixed with blue curacao and Japanese Shochu and continuing the royal garden inspiration with a delicate flower for decoration.
Historic Royal Palaces
Book a two night celebration stay in a new ticketing partnership with Historic Royal Palaces, the royal gates will open with access to the Tower of London, Kensington palace and Hampton Court. With private tours available in the morning and evening, you will also receive a limited edition souvenir, a packet of wildflower seeds created by the team behind this years ‘Superbloom’ display bringing a piece of the royal experience to your own gardens.
The Jubilee celebration will be running until September 2022 at Shangri-La The Shard, London.
To discover more, visit: shangri-la.com
All imagery courtesy of Shangri-La The Shard, London
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