Guests picked up their boarding passes from one of two flight attendants before entering the first room, where luxury retailer Liberty London offers scarf styling sessions and, just like the in-store experience, expect to see a beautiful array of flowers. Next, the group was greeted by one of London’s iconic black cabs. Hop in for a chance to win a prize, which may include tickets to Britain. Moving further into the room, and past the mannequins paying homage to punk fashion, attendees can make a pit stop in Scotland where Highlands Restaurant Group is serving small bites like pigs in a blanket-esque sausage rolls. For cheese enthusiasts, NYC’s own Bedford Cheese shop is on hand serving cheese from Wales. (You must try the rarebit, which is like a fancy grilled cheese, with a kick, on toast.)
Speaking of fancy, Sanderson has brought its Mad Hatter’s Tea to Manhattan, offering dainty sandwiches like cucumber and chive cream cheese on spinach bread, and savory sweets such as strawberries and cream homemade marshmallow mushrooms and mango cheesecake coated in white chocolate, among other treats. Not to mention, the assortment of teas available for tasting is a tea connoisseur’s dream.
If those aren’t your sips of choice, experience a British pub where bartenders are stirring drinks featuring classic English gin, Beefeater 24. Whiskey lovers will enjoy the drink at the Arrivals Lounge, which is made with Chivas Regal.
Beyond the food, Britain is known for its nightlife and music scene. Music aficionados can listen to a collection of tunes from new and older UK artists thanks to King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, a legendary live music venue in Glasgow, Scotland. And, if you’re ready to move, throw on a pair of headphones and rock out at the Silent Disco Rave.
Before exiting to find a mouth-watering candy sculpture resembling historic British landmarks and buildings, stop at the nail bar powered by WAH Nails. Owned by Sharmadean Reid, it is East London’s first style-centric nail bar, bookstore, gallery and boutique. Wah’s designers can paint funky designs on your nails such as Big Ben or the British flag.
British Airways is promoting a special offer. If you book a flight to London by March 31 for travel through May 31, you’ll receive two free hotel nights.