Hello there! 👋 Today, I’m sharing my experience enjoying the Afternoon Tea at Abbey Road, a charming café inside the Sokcho Kensington Hotel Seorak. Living in the metropolitan area, I frequently indulged in afternoon tea, but finding a specialized place for it in Sokcho proved challenging. So, when I stumbled upon the “Mood in London” package, which included an afternoon tea, I didn’t hesitate to book. Here’s my detailed review of this delightful experience.
About Kensington Hotel Seorak
Kensington Hotel Seorak boasts an unbeatable location, just a five-minute walk from the entrance of Seoraksan National Park. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, the hotel offers an immersive experience with nature that is hard to find elsewhere. While photos capture its beauty, seeing it in person is a whole other level of awe-inspiring.
Despite being officially classified as a 4-star hotel, I believe its unique charm rivals many 5-star hotels. With its traditional British aesthetics and stunning views of Seoraksan visible from its rooms, the hotel offers a retreat that’s well worth your time—especially if you’re a mountain enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape into nature.
In November, the hotel lobby was already brimming with Christmas cheer, complete with a large tree—a rarity in Sokcho. If you’re looking to soak in the holiday spirit, Kensington Hotel Seorak should definitely be on your list. Plus, the Kenny Shop in the lobby offers local specialties and exclusive souvenirs, adding an extra touch of fun to your visit.
Abbey Road Afternoon Tea: A Unique British Vibe
The “Mood in London” package I booked included an afternoon tea at Abbey Road, located on the hotel’s 9th floor. Decorated with rare Beatles memorabilia, the café exudes a British atmosphere that feels truly special.
Abbey Road also features an outdoor terrace, one of the best spots within the hotel to take in the scenic Seoraksan views. Although the chilly November weather kept me indoors, I could imagine how perfect this spot would be for sipping coffee while soaking up the scenery in spring or summer.
A Touch of Elegance: The Afternoon Tea Experience
The afternoon tea is served using Burleigh, a prestigious British ceramic brand with over 170 years of history. Known for its handcrafted designs and high-quality clay, Burleigh’s tea sets are both elegant and functional, retaining heat well to keep your tea warm. This brand is also favored by luxury establishments like Banyan Tree Club & Spa Seoul.
For guests not opting for a package, the tea set is available at a reasonable price of 49,900 KRW for two, including two drinks of your choice (excluding drinks priced at 9,900 KRW). Service hours are from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with the last order at 3:30 PM.
What’s on the Menu?
When the tea is served, it comes with a beautiful three-tiered tray:
- Bottom Tier: Scones and croissant sandwiches.
- Middle and Top Tiers: Strawberry pudding, dried persimmon rolls, financiers, and assorted petit desserts.
Start from the bottom and work your way up—beginning with the savory items to satisfy your hunger before indulging in the sweet treats for a fuller experience.
Highlights:
- Scones: Warm, buttery, with a hint of basil—absolutely delightful when paired with strawberry jam.
- Croissant Sandwiches: Crispy layers filled with savory ham, providing the perfect balance of texture and flavor.
- Dried Persimmon Rolls: A unique blend of sweet and salty, these were my unexpected favorite.
Practical Info
Location: Abbey Road, Kensington Hotel Seorak
Address: 998 Seoraksan-ro, Sokcho, Gangwon Province, South Korea
Price: 49,900 KRW (for two, including two drinks)
Hours: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (Last Order: 3:30 PM)
Phone: +82-33-636-5626
Reservations: ✅ Recommended
Parking: ✅ Available
Final Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Abbey Road at Kensington Hotel Seorak. The combination of a Beatles-themed ambiance, majestic mountain views, and delicious desserts made for an unforgettable tea time. Whether you’re a dessert lover or searching for a cozy date spot in Sokcho, Abbey Road is a must-visit. With its reasonable price and charming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax and indulge. Highly recommended! 😊
