Festive Afternoon Teas at the Charterhouse

The Charterhouse is hosting its Festive Afternoon Teas this December, with the first one running on Friday 4 December from 1.30pm to 4.00pm. It's set in the Great Chamber, which is London's only surviving Tudor Great Chamber — the same room where Elizabeth I once held her first Privy Council and signed letters 'from the Royal Palace in London'.

The afternoon starts with a glass of chilled Valentin Leflaive Champagne and an indoor house walk, so you get to see some of the estate before you sit down. After that, you'll have a festive afternoon tea with a classically trained pianist playing the room's grand piano while you eat. It's a proper sit-down affair rather than a quick bite.

To get your bearings on the place: The Charterhouse is an almshouse for residents aged 60 and over, set within a historic estate with buildings dating back to medieval and Tudor times. Founded in 1611, it's been through a fair few lives since 1348, serving as a monastery, a private mansion, a boys' school, and finally an almshouse. The estate's museum display, shop, and chapel are free to visit, and there are guided tours that take you through the historic buildings and rooms.

Places are strictly limited to 100 guests per seating, so it's worth booking early if you're keen. The first one is Friday 4 December, 1.30pm to 4.00pm, at The Great Chamber, The Charterhouse, Charterhouse Square, London EC1M 6AN.