Afternoon tea at the Langham

I have a certain fondness for the Langham Hotel, London. I've been there twice now and was disappointed not to win a 7p ticket to go back for its anniversary a couple of weeks ago.
What is it I like about it? The decor is art deco - black and shiny mirrors with fantastic chandeliers. The service and food is second to none.
The first time I went there for tea I also had the privilege of staying at the hotel. My sister in law was doing a stint on the plinth at Trafalgar Square. The trouble was, we hadn't thought about how we were going to broadcast the music in a public place. The concierge of the hotel ended up looking around for an amplifier for us. Such service!
Last year I returned for a Hen Party. The staff coped perfectly well with a large group. They also brought out a special cake for her off-the-cuff, no prompting.
May I also add that the cocktail bar is fantastic and well worth a try ;-)
It has released this week a new afternoon tea menu - a good reason to return?www.cntraveller.com/recommended/food/best-afternoon-tea-in-london/langham-hotel-london-afternoon-tea

Orient Express

For a landmark birthday I was treated to a trip on the Orient Express, murder mystery event. This appeals to me on several levels which you will get to know: I love the 20's|30's era decor and clothing wise and I like a bit of drama.
Needless to say I was thoroughly looking forward to the day. S & I were togged fitting the occasion and travelled 1st class to Victoria where we would pick up the OE.
At Victoria there was a special check-in area, where the attendant told us which carriage we'd be seated and where complimentary tea was supplied (in a plastic cup!!!). There was also a member of staff that was willing to take pictures.  However a professional photographer might have been nice - would have been willing to pay....and we made our way to the train.
We were allocated to the Perseus carriage where Bob our attendant made us very welcome. The table was set nicely for dinner and it began to feel special. As champagne was served we got to know the others in the carriage. As the train departed, outside the window I was brought back to reality  and back to today seeing the graffiti and ugly buildings.
As dinner was served the mystery unfolded and we got a chance to interrogate the suspects. Dinner exceeded my expectations.  It was truly 1st class - all five courses of it!
We never won the carriage prize for solving the who done it, but we had great fun trying.