The Orangery

As befits its regal setting within Kensington Palace, The Orangery is a beauty. Its windows are almost impossibly tall, with nothing but a stylish summer terrace & pure white umbrellas separating the lofty interior from the lush green lawns beyond. It’s a place that lends brightness to the gloomiest of days, so it’s a shame the food doesn’t quite live up to the surroundings. Sure, the kitchen can rustle up a decent salad & serve creditable breakfasts, but given that the main attraction here is afternoon tea, too many guests leave disappointed. As one reader points out, the use of tea bags instead of loose leaves is ‘unacceptable’ &, while the scones are good, the sandwich selection often seems stingy & bland. In any other location, people would vote with their feet but, despite its shortcomings, The Orangery is always busy.