There are few rituals as enduring as afternoon tea. This winter at Heirloom within Cape Grace, the familiar ritual takes on a sporting character with the return of A Game of Grace, an afternoon tea inspired by the atmosphere and traditions of Wimbledon.
Running from 18 June to 12 July 2026, the seasonal activation captures the spirit of one of the world’s most celebrated sporting traditions, reimagined through the lens of Cape Town luxury.
While tennis enthusiasts turn their attention to the grass courts of South West London, Cape Grace invites guests to settle in for an afternoon that pays homage to the rituals synonymous with the Championships: strawberries and cream, silver trophies, and the simple pleasure of gathering to watch exceptional sport unfold.
Afternoon tea with a sporting twist
Set against the backdrop of the V&A Waterfront, Heirloom transforms for the occasion with a palette of vibrant greens, crisp whites and subtle touches of yellow and pink, creating a playful nod to the iconic tournament aesthetic.
The experience centres around an indulgent afternoon tea menu inspired by classic English courtside fare. Guests can expect finger sandwiches, coronation chicken, and freshly baked scones served with Chantilly cream, strawberry jam and lemon curd.
For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts are where the creativity truly shines. Returning by popular demand is the hotel’s signature edible tennis ball, a vanilla and peach mousse tartlet cleverly disguised as the sport’s most recognisable accessory. Alongside it, guests will find a chocolate tennis racket and a traditional Battenberg cake, each adding a whimsical touch to the afternoon.
Gin, Pimm’s and Championship traditions
Every guest is welcomed with a signature Cape Grace No. 96 gin cocktail and the hotel’s exclusive tea blend, a fragrant combination of spice, herbs and Cederberg rooibos that is served throughout the experience. Adding to the theatre is a bespoke gin and Pimm’s trolley, where the quintessential summer cup is mixed tableside with a sense of ceremony that feels entirely fitting for the occasion.
Live screenings of the day’s most anticipated matches play throughout the afternoon, and while there’s no strict dress code, guests are encouraged to lean into the theme, whether that means classic tennis whites, preppy tailoring or simply a subtle nod to courtside style.
For those looking to add a touch of British summer elegance to a Cape Town winter, A Game of Grace is served at Heirloom, located within Cape Grace, from 18 June to 12 July 2026, Thursday through Sunday.
