With the countdown to the royal wedding already underway, the city of London is gearing up as it prepares to welcome an estimated 600,000 international travelers. To celebrate the momentous occasion, Visit London, the city's official visitor organization, is offering travelers a special selection of afternoon tea, hotel and travel and transport packages exquisitely designed to celebrate the Royal Wedding.
According to a statement by London's Mayor, Boris Johnson, the pageantry, excitement and fantastic atmosphere of a Royal Wedding, against the historic backdrop of London’s world famous landmarks is a glorious occasion he would recommend to everyone.
"Whether you want to spend a week, the weekend or just come for an overnight stay, London promises a warm welcome and an unrivalled array of hotels, restaurants, shops, museums and major attractions to ensure a truly memorable experience," said Mayor Johnson.
In the week leading up to the wedding, London is also offering a a varied selection of afternoon tea and special menu packages.
Celebrate the Royal Wedding With Afternoon Tea in London
- Tea Royale at The Langham
Indulge in a delectable afternoon tea to commemorate the Royal Wedding at the beautiful Palm Court in The Langham, which was originally opened in 1865 by Prince William's ancestor, HRH The Prince of Wales, later HM King Edward VII. - Royal Afternoon Tea at Ten Manchester Street Hotel
Celebrate the pending nuptials in the hotel’s cozy lounge where you can enjoy British-inspired delicacies such as mini-Welsh leek pies, dainty finger sandwiches filled with English mature cheddar cheese and opulent cakes dipped in edible gold-leaf for a truly majestic-feel. - Royal Delicacies - Galvin at Windows
Highlights include a three-course lunch located on the 28th floor of the London Hilton on Park Lane.
Additional local offerings include a 'Royal Afternoon Tea' in the deVille restaurant at The Mandeville hotel, as well as ‘A Taste of Royal Tea’ at The Cavendish London, located in the heart of Piccadilly.
Watch the Royal Wedding in Style
Located just steps from Buckingham Palace, and rumored to be frequented by the Royal Family themselves, The Stafford London by Kempinski, will celebrate the royal courtship by hosting a Royal Wedding viewing party on April 29 in its beautifully appointed outdoor courtyard. Complete with a viewing screen and classic British cocktails and cuisine, this party promises to be a proper social affair.For those who won't be in London to toast the happy couple, The Stafford has offered a few suggestions on how to host your own brilliantly British féte.
Dress to Impress – Keep it a formal affair. Head Concierge Frank Laino (who boasts more than 20 years of experience as a concierge in London) suggests mirroring the actual event’s dress code for a decidedly British feel. His attire suggestions include a stylish yet conservative hat for ladies, and a dark colored two piece suit with a matching understated tie for gentlemen.
Make a Lasting Impression – The royal couple will be flooded with gifts from traditional London retailers. Frank suggests treating guests to special British trinkets as a memento of the event. Consider a piece from one of London’s most renowned shops including Asprey and Floris, both of which have stores in the U.S., or order online from Fortnum & Mason, which ships overseas.
Traditional Fare – As Will and Kate will most likely dine on British fare, a U.K. inspired menu for home events is a must. Executive Chef Brendan Fyldes recommends using British ingredients when possible as the royal family is committed to supporting local producers whenever possible. His pick for a crowd pleaser: British Mutton Burgers (recipe available upon request).
A Royal Toast – Bubbly is a must for every celebration, but Bar Manager Ben Provost suggests a slight spin on the traditional. To toast to the occasion, create a celebratory cocktail with a mixture of Chambord Liqueur and Vanilla Vodka with black raspberries.
Royal Wedding Hotel Packages
- St. James’s Hotel and Club’s Royal Wedding
Take advantage of the area’s rich royal heritage with the hotel’s walking tour palaces in the old palace quarter, led by London Walks. Discover hidden courtyards, secret passageways and antique arcades whilst taking in the spring blossoms and perhaps a glance of the Princess to be in her wedding dress. - Lancaster London
Lancaster London is offering a Royal Wedding Package just two miles from Westminster Abbey at £209 per room per night, including a ‘Royal Breakfast’ for two people. - A Modern Romance at One Aldwych
One Aldwych is offering accommodation and breakfast for two, a wedding gift and bottle of Champagne on arrival, Champagne and treats to enjoy whilst watching the procession and a celebratory dinner in Axis restaurant. The package is priced at £495. - Royal Garden Hotel The five-star Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington has availability for a three-night stay from 28 April to 1 May, which includes afternoon tea for two, complimentary use of the Soma Spa sauna and steam room and a pair of entry tickets to the neighbouring Kensington Palace. The package is priced from £280 per night for a king room or from £330 for a Garden Room.
- The Hyatt Regency London
The Hyatt Regency London is offering an overnight stay, a crown jewels-inspired cocktail, a box of limited edition Royal Wedding truffles, a three-palace tour pass to the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace and Kensington Palace, plus a signed copy of William and Kate - The Love Story for £340.
Travel & Transport Packages
- Travel Places
In honor of this historic day, Travel Places are offering a selection of deals for corporate incentives, clubs, or association groups, for a short stay in London over the wedding period. Accommodation is perfectly situated in Citadines Trafalgar Square, located between Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and the famous Mall, along which the Royal Procession takes place. - National Express
In anticipation of the celebratory crowds headed to London, the national coach operator is slashing prices on advance tickets for travel to the Wedding, with discounts of 50 percent on transport to the Capital.
Exclusive Will & Kate Tour - Kensington Tours & JustLuxe
For those who wish to experience the best of London, Kensington Tours has designed a variety of customizable privately-guided Royal Wedding packages. What's even better, is that they have teamed up with JustLuxe to create an exclusive package that you cannot find anywhere else!Book through JustLuxe and get a complimentary "Will & Kate Tour" complete with a custom private chauffeured tour to see London through the eyes of Prince William and his future wife. See everything from their favorite restaurants, nightclubs and designer shops, to all the famous places and sites associated with this high-profile couple.
