Though largely dominated by tourists, Kensington Palace Orangery retains all the grandeur you’d expect from a former royal, alfresco entertainment space. Imposing colonnades, vaulted ceilings and a spacious terrace make it a lovely place to stop for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.
The latter is a relatively simple affair, with a fixed selection of sandwiches, scones and either tea (a good range) or coffee. The basic version costs £24; adding alcohol bumps it up to £30.50 for Pimm's or £34 for a glass of Laurent-Perrier NV champagne.
Breakfast focuses mainly on standard pastries, cereal, and egg dishes including a full English for £11.95. Lunch options are more extensive, modern-style cooking with an admirable emphasis on buying British produce including London smoked salmon and the wonderful charcuterie from Trealy Farm. There are British beers and a short wine list for those thirsting for alcohol. Whatever you eat or drink, however, the whole experience is elevated unquestionably by the incredible backdrop.