The Terrace at The Royal Horseguards Hotel

You’d be forgiven for wondering if summer will ever make an appearance this year. That’s why seizing the opportunity to enjoy a pleasant afternoon or evening is essential. A hidden garden terrace in the heart of London can help you do just that. This year, The Terrace at The Royal Horseguards Hotel has teamed up with Champagne Lanson Le Rosé Création to create an exquisite space where you can enjoy champagne, cocktails, and great food in a relaxed and luxurious setting.

The Royal Horseguards Hotel, a discreet yet essential destination for visitors to London, is conveniently located near both the Embankment and Charing Cross Stations, though its main entrance is subtly positioned on Whitehall Court. Guests can also access the terrace through Victoria Embankment Gardens.

Constructed in 1884 as part of Whitehall Court, the hotel boasts a rich history, having served as the Secret Service headquarters during both World Wars. Its distinctive French chateau-style design has earned it roles in notable films such as “Elephant Man” and “Skyfall.” Sitting out on the terrace does feel like being in a bit of London history.

With a bottle of Lanson Père et Fils Brut Classic and some delicious honeyed nuts to nibble on, we could have easily spent the evening lounging. But the allure of the special menu beckoned, making it easy to choose from a selection of seasonally appropriate dishes to pair with our bubbles.

My companion began with a visually stunning plate of pan-seared scallops with pineapple carpaccio, king prawns, and citrus Thai dressing. The scallops and prawns were cooked to perfection—plump, tender, and slightly caramelized. The pineapple carpaccio, tender and slightly sweet with a hint of acidity, was an unusual but delicious complement to the seafood.

I opted for the smoked chicken and ham hock terrine, which came with just the right amount of honey mustard dressing, a crisp crostini, and a garnish of garden leaves.

While there were plenty of small plates for those who prefer grazing, we both decided on main courses. I chose the substantial and delicious pan-fried salmon fillet with tiger prawns, a decision I did not regret. The generous portion of perfectly cooked, flaky salmon was complemented by stir-fried Asian greens and sticky rice, all finished with a delicious Thai coconut broth that had just the right amount of heat.  Garnished with scallions, red chillies, and a handful of tiger prawn this dish was the perfect comfort food.  Itpaired surprisingly well with the fragrant and complex Lanson champagne, and I fully intend trying to recreate it at home.

My companion’s Royal Beef Burger was customized to accommodate her tomato intolerance but was declared utterly delicious. I confess to stealing a few chips—after all, chips and champagne are an essential luxury.

For dessert, my burnt Cambridge cream was light and delicately flavoured with vanilla. The caramel was fine and crisp, and I loved the drizzle of berry compote and shortbread on the side.

My companion’s raspberry Eton mess was lovely, though it could have benefited from more mixed berries and berry coulis.

Washed down with the Lanson champagne, the desserts were a perfect way to round off the meal. 

The pretty terrace at the Royal Horseguards Hotel is a peaceful haven in a part of London that can be very busy – within easy walking distance of the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, Covent Garden and of course, the River Thames.  It’s the perfect location to enjoy a glass or two of Lanson and some excellent food.

Royal Horseguards Hotel

2 Whitehall Court,
Westminster,
London, SW1A 2EJ