The Conservatory at Number Sixteen Hotel

Fiona M

We went for afternoon tea in Number 16 before a girlie afternoon at the Grace Kelly exhibition at the V&A. The hotel is really lovely – very similar in style & atmosphere to the other Firmdale hotels (Covent Garden Hotel, Charlotte Street Hotel, The Haymarket, etc) and is a real find so close to the museums. We sat in the bright conservatory as it was a bit chilly, but the back garden was gorgeous as well, really pretty and private. The only issue was that we were the only group in the conservatory and we arrived at 1 but no-one came to take our order until ten to two, by which stage we had gone out to reception 3 times to tell them we were ready to order. When we had placed our order the service improved substantially (prompt, helpful, second round of sandwiches offered), otherweise I would have given them 1/10 for service. Once the afternoon tea arrived it was yummy – we gobbled up all the sandwiches in seconds and they brought another round. The scones were really warm and were brought out in two rounds so they didn't go cold, very thoughtful. The brownies were pure sinful and the presentation was lovely. I will definitely go back, however next time I think we'll have to order as soon as we are shown to our table to make sure we don't get forgotten!