What’s now regarded as a fabulously decadent way to catch up with friends (and gossip!) started as an snack. Afternoon tea was introduced in England by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, in 1840. The Duchess would become hungry around four o'clock in the afternoon. The evening meal in her household was served fashionably late at eight o'clock, eaving a long period of time between lunch and dinner.

Apart from the traditional Tea and Scones, The Bull & Claw serves beautifully delicate cakes, pastries and sandwiches paired with the finest teas. Very classy. But for those who enjoy “who did what to who with what?” discussions, there’s the option to throw decorum out the window and upgrade to a bubbly version with Champagne. Perfect.

Get the girls together and make a point of booking a table in the garden (while the weather holds up).