Taking Bookings
With a proud royal heritage brought to life with warm British hospitality and theatrical dining experiences, The 5-Star Rubens at the Palace has a reputation as one of the best Afternoon Tea venues in London
Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel offers a quintessentially English experience.
A short walk from Victoria Station and the Palace Theatre showing Hamilton, the afternoon tea experience at The Rubens is steeped in royal connections and positions guests directly opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. With a rich interior, large windows and 5* service, guests are made to feel like royalty themselves.
Situated within the hotel, the Royal Afternoon Tea can be accompanied by a fully serviced bar offering Champagne or cocktails. The pastry kitchen at The Rubens is led by the talented pastry chef Sarah Houghting (recently featured on Bake Off: The Professionals) producing the freshest pastries and cakes for guests to enjoy. The Rubens pays respect to the tradition of Afternoon Tea whilst incorporating fresh twists along the way. The menu features mouth-watering pastries that are influenced by Royal events and dining trends throughout the centuries.
Kindly note that, unfortunately, we cannot cater to dietaries that require both gluten-free and dairy-free options for the same person.
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Royal Afternoon Tea
Savour this classic Royal Afternoon Tea: a delectable assortment of freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches and delicate pastries. Pastries include The Rubens signature crown, made with vanilla cheesecake, mango, passionfruit curd, and coconut sponge.
Prices per person:
Royal Afternoon Tea: £70 (including Vegetarian, Vegan,
Gluten-Free and Halal variations)
Champagne Afternoon Tea: £90
Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea: £115
Halal Sparkling Afternoon Tea: £87
Vegan Champagne Afternoon Tea: £90
Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea: £45
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Special Offers and Events
VE Day 80 celebrations at The Rubens at the Palace 5th - 11th of May
The Rubens at the Palace is offering guests a week of celebrations with a dedicated Afternoon Tea created by the team to mark this momentous milestone.
The Rubens are honoured to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with this special Afternoon Tea menu. The 8th of May 1945 marked the end of World War II in Europe and was met with jubilant street parties and gatherings across the United Kingdom. To honour this historic occasion, The Rubens are delighted to introduce a new menu creation for a limited period – the Poppy Cake. This elegant pastry features Almond Amatika Mousse, Lemon Jaconde, Lemon Marmalade, and a delicate Poppy Seed Sablé, all beautifully glazed in black and adorned with a handcrafted chocolate poppy. A symbol of remembrance, peace and resilience, this special addition pays tribute to the spirit of the time.
VE Day Royal Afternoon Tea: £78 per person
Traditional, Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal and Gluten-Free options are all available.
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In addition, The Rubens at the Palace will be hosting a unique Royal Victory in Europe Day Afternoon Tea on 8th of May 2025
Join the team on 8th May, the anniversary itself, for an elevated experience: a beautifully curated tea served in six delicious courses, with a glass of champagne to toast the day. Delight in a specially crafted amuse-bouche and palate cleanser designed to make the occasion feel even more special.
8th of May VE Day Royal Afternoon Tea: £110 per person
Bookings are now open
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Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea
Price: £115 per person
Enjoy an exceptional Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea in our
Palace Lounge, overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
Maximum seating time: 90 mins
Vegan Afternoon Tea/ Vegan Champagne Afternoon Tea
Vegan Royal Afternoon Tea £70 per person/ accompanied by a glass of Lanson Le Green Label £90 per person.
Lanson Le Green Label Organic Brut Champagne is the first-ever entirely organic Champagne. Predominantly Pinot Noir, aged on lees for three years, it's pure and fresh with fine notes of citrus and berry fruits weaving through its complex mousse. This is perfectly paired with The Rubens Vegan Royal Afternoon Tea.
Halal Afternoon Tea
The pastry kitchen at The Rubens is led by their talented pastry chef Sarah Houghting who has crafted the Royal Afternoon Tea inspired by Royal events and dining trends throughout the centuries. The team is excited to release a brand new addition to their menu – a Halal Afternoon Tea that has been expertly paired with Wild Idol to offer guests a Sparkling Afternoon Tea experience. This sparkling wine is a refreshing and delicious non-alcoholic drink made from premium quality concentrated grape. £70 per person or £87 per person including the Sparkling option
Afternoon Tea Takeaway
Enjoy The Rubens Hotel afternoon tea experience wherever you are in London with a delivery and takeaway option. Perfect for family get-togethers, parties, weekend treats, and birthday or anniversary gifts.
The Rubens Hotel can also prepare afternoon tea for an office location - perfect for team get-togethers.
Pre-order by 8 pm for collection the next day. £70 per person
Family Friendly
The Rubens also welcomes children and offers a 'Little Prince and Princess Tea' for those under 12.
The Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea includes bite-size sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries, and a choice of milkshake, hot chocolate, tea or soft drink.
£45 per child
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The Rubens Golden Tips Experience: The ultimate in luxury Afternoon Tea.
This rare tea is produced in the highlands of Sri Lanka and is fully handcrafted and skillfully handpicked by expert tea pluckers at sunset in Sri Lanka. The velvety, silvery tips are then carefully turned into gold and sundried on a velvet cloth. With white-glove service, this delicate tea is weighed with precision at The Rubens using golden scales with each tip placed into a silver teapot individually using golden tweezers. The tea which is showcased in a locked mahogany box lined with velvet is specially infused to produce an extraordinary liquor and a smooth, light and mellow texture with fruity notes.
This truly unique experience includes a Royal Afternoon Tea Stand for two people and a bottle of Lanson Champagne (750ml) which will be sabred at your table.
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A Special Occasion? Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Rubens
Special Group Offers for April - June 2025
Please book or enquire online to secure your booking at The Rubens at the Palace
The Rubens Hotel are pleased to welcome groups of between 8 to 120 guests to enjoy an Afternoon Tea experience; an ideal way to celebrate a birthday, hen party, baby shower or investiture. A variety of menus are on offer including Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal alongside a Little Prince and Princess Tea for our younger guests. Drink packages can also be organised along with any decorations you may require.
Groups of up to 8 guests can dine in the Palace Lounge (subject to availability), alternatively, The Rubens Hotel can offer several private rooms including the English Grill which can accommodate up to 120 people. The experienced events team would be happy to discuss your requirements to make this a memorable occasion.
Prices from £70 per person
BABY SHOWER AFTERNOON TEA
Celebrate your baby shower at The Rubens with a unique and
memorable Baby Shower Afternoon Tea. Share this joyous occasion
with your loved ones and enjoy baby shower-themed biscuits
alongside our classic Royal Afternoon Tea offering.
BRIDAL AFTERNOON TEA
Celebrate your upcoming wedding with an enchanting Bridal Afternoon
Tea. Delight in the elegant atmosphere as you savour bridal-themed
delicacies, creating unforgettable memories as you toast to the
bride-to-be amidst the refined ambience of our distinguished
venue.
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Experiences at The Rubens at the Palace
*New* Gourmet Chef Experience: The Rubens Pastry Kitchen
Enjoy an interactive pastry experience curated by Chef Sarah Houghting at The Rubens. Alongside one of the chefs, you’ll learn to create pastry delicacies while picking up invaluable tips and tricks. Choose a morning session, followed by a Royal Afternoon Tea in The Palace Lounge, or an afternoon session, culminating in an evening meal in The English Grill.
Time: Start at either 10 am or 2 pm; each session lasts approximately four hours
Price: £1,200 for two people
Enquiries are open
Gift Vouchers are also available for this experience
Bespoke Portrait Experience at The
Rubens
The Rubens are delighted to introduce Shelley Levy, also known as
ShelleyTheArtist, as Resident Artist. Indulge in an unforgettable
Afternoon Tea experience as you pose for a captivating portrait.
This unique opportunity offers our guests bespoke personal or
family portraits, crafting a truly unique memento. By appointment
only.
Price: Two people £350, three people £450, four people £550, or two people with traditional Afternoon Tea £520
Afternoon Tea with Shelley is available throughout the week by appointment only and is subject to availability.
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Christmas Bookings at The Rubens at the Palace
Enquiries are now open for Christmas 2025/ 2026. Be sure to secure your favoured date by booking early.
Christmas Early Bird offer: Guests can secure a 20% discount for bookings confirmed before 31st June 2025
| Day | Open | Close | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
| Tuesday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
| Wednesday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
| Thursday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
| Friday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
| Saturday | 10:00 | 19:30 | Last dining time is 6pm |
| Sunday | 10:00 | 19:00 | Last dining time is 5pm |
Address
Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel, 39 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0PS
Area
Westminster
Nearest Station
Victoria (Tube)
| Offer | Availability |
|---|---|
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VE Day celebrations at The Rubens
Celebrate VE Day with a classic Afternoon Tea with an exclusive twist, the perfect way to honour this momentous occasion. Price: £78 |
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday |
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Afternoon Tea Party Offer: Group Price
Afternoon Tea bookings for 10+ guests can enjoy an exclusive price of £60 per person (usually £70). Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or gift voucher. |
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday |
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Complimentary Birthday Cake + Prosecco
Celebratory bookings for 10+ will include a complimentary bespoke birthday cake (with a choice of flavour) and a glass of prosecco. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or gift voucher. |
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday |
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Afternoon Tea Party Offer: Complimentary Prosecco
The Rubens would like to offer a complimentary glass of Prosecco per person for afternoon tea party bookings for 20+ guests. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or gift voucher. |
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday |
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Christmas Early Bird Offer
Guests can secure a 20% discount for bookings confirmed before 31st June 2025 for parties of 10 or more guests. |
Monday
Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday |
| Name | Type | Capacity Seated |
Capacity Standing |
Cost | Min spend Midweek* |
Min spend Weekend* |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Leopard Room | Private Room | 29 | 40 | - | £1500 -£8.000 | £1500 - £8.000 | |
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Set in the heart of London Victoria, just opposite Buckingham Palace's Royal Mews, The Leopard Room boasts its own private entrance and facilities, bringing a new level of sophistication and elegance to your next event. The Leopard Room offers an indulgent experience, serving mouthwatering canapés, finger foods, and a diverse selection of creative cocktails and beverages. It's also possible to elevate your occasion with optional live music, performed on a permanent stage. Whether it's a birthday party, corporate function, private meeting, anniversary celebration, or engagement party, The Leopard Room provides the ideal setting for a memorable event. With a maximum standing capacity of 40 people or 29 people seated, The Leopard Room offers an intimate yet vibrant space for your private event, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. AFTERNOON TEA PARTIES
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| Da Vinci | Private Room | 10 | 20 | - | £850 - £5.000 | £850 - £5.000 | |
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The Da Vinci room is situated on the ground floor with simulated lighting as well as natural lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. Event facilities include: Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| Rembrandt Suite | Private Room | 36 | 80 | - | £850 - £8,000 | £850 - £8.000 | |
|
The Rembrandt Suite offers abundant natural daylight and a fireplace. It is fully air-conditioned and has adjustable lighting. The suite is situated on the ground floor of the hotel and is ideal for parties up to 80 guests. Event facilities include:
Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| The Rubens Room | Private Room | 10 | 20 | - | £850 - £5,000 | £850 - £5,000 | |
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The Rubens Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting as well as natural lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. Event facilities include: Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| The Rubens Suite | Private Room | 20 | 50 | - | £850 - £8,000 | £850 - £8.000 | |
|
The Rubens Suite is situated on the ground floor with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. It has an extra exit door through to the English Grill. Décor is of a traditional style. Maximum of 60 guests based on reception style layout. Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| Van Dyke Room | Private Room | 27 | 60 | - | £850 - £8,000 | £850 - £8.000 | |
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The Van Dyke Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| The Van Dyke Suite | Private Room | 70 | 150 | - | £850 - £8,000 | £850 - £8,000 | |
|
The Van Dyke Suite is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. The Van Dyke Suite can accommodate up to 130 guests in a reception style layout. The Suite is a combination of the Van Dyke Room, the Buckingham Room and the Van Gogh Room so it can be adjusted into smaller rooms if required. Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. |
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| The Van Gogh Room | Private Room | 18 | 60 | - | £850 - £8,000 | £850 - £8.000 | |
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The Van Gogh Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. The Van Gogh Room can accommodate a maximum of 60 guests in a reception-style layout. Private Hire fees: £150 for one and a half hours DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply) Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years) ADDITIONAL EXTRAS: Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with: Flower requests Personalised celebration cake Uplighters Organising supply of music
Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130) Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne. Prices are available on request. |
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* The minimum spends are a guideline only and vary according to the day and time of the year.
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Golden Tips Tea Experience for Two
Experience
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Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea For Two
Experience
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Monetary Gift Voucher
£10 - £500
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Royal Afternoon Tea For Two
Experience
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Princes & Princess Royal Afternoon Tea
Experience
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Fri, 15th Nov 2024 - Sat, 31st Jan 2026
More info
Fri, 15th Nov 2024 - Sat, 31st Jan 2026
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Mon, 18th Nov 2024 - Sun, 4th Jan 2026
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Mon, 18th Nov 2024 - Sun, 4th Jan 2026
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Mon, 18th Nov 2024 - Sun, 4th Jan 2026
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Mon, 18th Nov 2024 - Sun, 4th Jan 2026
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Mon, 5th May 2025 - Sun, 11th May 2025
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