A Unique London Afternoon Tea (almost) Worth Getting Arrested For – The Dixon Hotel, London Bridge

Fancy a very unique London afternoon tea (almost) worth getting arrested for? (To be fair, the ladies I was with are the ones who I’d either be in jail beside or calling at 3am to arrange rescue/bail.)

The Dixon Hotel is in a Grade II-listed Edwardian building that was formerly a Magistrates’ courthouse and police station, near London Bridge, down Tooley Street, next to Tower Bridge.

You walk across the original tiled floors – ones that still bear police insignia – up the grand central staircase, past the Murano glass chandelier and through the contemporary art-lined corridors – it is a beautiful, upmarket Mariott hotel with a fantastic sense of place.

Oh, did I mention that when I got home, the Mr lit up with recognition? Turns out that years ago he used to prosecute in this very Magistrates’ Court. Isn’t it a small, criminal world?

Goodness, it was so nice to be gathered around a table, nattering away, catching up and solving the world’s problems. A modern Salon de Thé if you will.

The afternoon tea itself was delectable – starting with a hands-on tea menu, we enjoyed a very refreshing cocktail and got rather excited when the tea stands appeared. My vegan friend LOVED hers – which was very similar to ours which is a lovely touch – so much so that 3 of her work colleagues have now booked.

The lovely team noticed how curious we were about the design features, and the lovely Nav took us on a tour of the highlights – from the handcuff chandelier details to the two complete jail cells that feature in the Provisioners restaurant – and the unique coffee ‘Shakedown’. I’m not going to tell you all of the details because I want you to discover them for yourself – just keep your eyes sharp! (I’d say keep your valuable close to stay in theme, but it’s not that kind of place.)

“The design intention was to create something truly beautiful, which intrinsically links back to the origins of the building and the iconic location. Collaboration has been essential to the finely crafted designs and finishes throughout the hotel, drawing upon a wide range of expertise to establish a truly stunning final product.”

So cool right!?

What’s your favourite unique London afternoon tea location?