London offers plenty of quirky dining experiences
Perusing all those fascinating London attractions can be thirsty work, and tourists should schedule time for some refreshments into their itinerary.
Breakfast or morning coffee at the Orangery, situated within the grand grounds of Kensington Palace makes for a marvellous start to a day of sightseeing. The Orangery is situated in an eighteenth century building and boasts one of the finest tea selections in London, with over ten different flavours on offer - making it a quintessentially English way to start the day.
During the summer months when the weather is nice, diners at the Orangery can sit outside on the terrace, and enjoy morning tea or mid-afternoon champagne against the royal backdrop of Kensington Palace and its elegant gardens.
The menu is bursting with delicious homemade food, and opens early so guests can enjoy a traditional breakfast, or relax with coffee and a pastry. Lunch and afternoon tea consist of sumptuous homemade cakes and pastries, and those in the mood could accompany their refreshments with a selection of wines and beers.
After a morning of sightseeing, a cold drink can be just the pick-me-up you need to get back on the tour bus and enjoying the rest of the day. Perfect for those on a health kick, Crussh offers a range of healthy food and drink options including freshly pressed juices, made-to-order smoothies, luscious salads and filling sandwiches as well as a great range of soups and organic porridges.
People who don't want to take too much time out of their sightseeing schedule could enjoy a sugary snack from Cinnebon to keep them going through the rest of the day. It is the cinnamon roll that made the brand famous, and it is no mystery why, with a chunk of warm dough filled with the Makara Cinnamon, topped with rich cream cheese frosting. Also available is the roll within the roll - allowing people to enjoy a warm cup full of their favourite bit. Sugary beverages are also on offer, with refreshing Chillattas, Coffees and MochaLattas on the menu.
The Tiltyard Cafe, set in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace, provides yet another chance to dine in a historical setting, "whether you want to feast like a king or simply enjoy a light bite". Gourmet snacks, fresh fruit, seasonal salads, homemade cakes and tasty meals are all available for diners to enjoy.
The look of the Tiltyard Cafe and Deli has been revitalised with designers opting for a clean, modern look that emphasises the site's Tudor heritage but brings it firmly into the 21st century. A site of historical interest, it was originally used for feasting, playing and jousting by tyrannical monarch Henry VIII.
Furthermore, the Snug, located within the cafe, is a cosy private dining space that is ideal for a special function, or to accommodate bigger groups.
Another interesting dining location is in the New Armouries Cafe, which is situated at the Tower of London. Perfect for anyone perusing the tower, the cafe is located just opposite the White Tower, and was originally built in 1663 as a storehouse for arms and provisions. It offers a range of food, from traditional teas and cakes, to sandwiches, salads and full meals - as well as a special children's menu.
When it gets to tea time, visitors should not pass up on the opportunity to take a trip back to Tudor times with the Medieval Banquet, which takes place by torchlight in the vaulted cellars of Ivory House. The cabaret-like experience features serving wenches who sing and dance while the serve you. Unlimited beer and wine are served during the meal, and music and dancing go on until late - allowing revellers to really let their hair down.