Londons Most Noteworthy Afternoon Teas From Unique To Luxurious
Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more
By
The Sybarite Team
on
11th December 2024
Londons afternoon tea scene is a delightful blend of tradition, innovation, and elegance, offering something for every taste and occasion.
Whether you're a fan of classic scones with clotted cream and jam or looking for a themed tea experience, the city's top spots cater to all preferences. From the luxurious settings of renowned hotels to quirky, themed venues, London's afternoon tea offerings are as diverse as they are delicious. Join us as we explore the best places in London to enjoy this British tradition this year.
Luxury Afternoon Teas in London
The Ritz Afternoon Tea
The Ritz is an iconic destination for afternoon tea, served in the opulent Palm Court by a pianist who provides a serene musical backdrop. This quintessential British experience offers an exquisite selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves, and a variety of pastries and teacakes that are replenished upon request.
Amenities:
Wide selection of 20 types of loose-leaf tea, including the exclusive Ritz Royal Blend.
Freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve.
An array of finely cut sandwiches and seasonal pastries are replenished on request.
Live musical performances featuring a pianist or harpist.
Specialized children's menu is available.
Catering to dietary restrictions upon request.
A champagne option is available for a better experience.
Afternoon tea at The Ritz starts from £76 per adult and £55 per child. For an added touch of luxury, champagne afternoon tea is available from £94 per person.
It’s available Monday to Sunday at 11.30 am, 1.30 pm, 3.30 pm, 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm.
Contact Details: To book your experience, visit their website or call +44 (0) 20 7300 2345
The Savoy Afternoon Tea
Located in the heart of London, The Savoy offers a classic afternoon tea experience in the stunning Thames Foyer. The setting features a beautiful glass dome that fills the room with natural light, accompanied by live piano music.
Amenities:
Extensive selection of teas, including The Savoy's own blend.
Freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate pastries.
Live piano music to enhance the ambiance.
Champagne option available.
Catering to dietary restrictions upon request.
The Savoy's afternoon tea is priced at £75 per person, with options to upgrade to champagne tea. Serving times are Monday to Sunday from 12.30 pm – 7.00 pm (last seating at 5.15 pm)
The menus can change, and reservations are available three months in advance. The dress code is smart casual.
Contact Details: Reservations can be made through their website or by calling +44 (0) 20 7836 4343
Great Scotland Yard Afternoon Tea
Great Scotland Yard Hotel is a 5-star treasure, tucked away in lively Covent Garden. As the former home of the Metropolitan Police, the building oozes history and grandeur. The venue's refined offering pays homage to its historical roots, with a curated menu offering and tongue-in-cheek creations — the detective moustache is a fan favourite!
The hotels' festive afternoon tea offering is available from now until Jan 5. Dine on a delicious assortment of seasonal bites, including a flavoursome finger sandwich of turkey, celeriac remoulade and cranberry sauce and sumptuous a mini chestnut and Montgomery cheddar Yorkshire pudding. On the sweet side, a slice of Buche de Noel cake appears in a bold red, reminiscent of Santa, and a miniature Christmas tree tart is piled high with green icing. There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit!
Amenities:
Selection of miniature savoury items, scones, cakes and pastries.
Extensive tea menu, including a festive offering at Christmas.
Champagne option available.
A pet-friendly, dog afternoon tea offering every Sunday
Catering to dietary restrictions upon request.
An upscale setting within the 5-star hotel.
Afternoon tea at Great Scotland Yard starts at £65 per person. The option to add champagne is available for an additional cost.
The tea is held every day from 12 pm to 7 pm.
Contact Details: To book, visit their website or call +44 020 7925 4700
The Goring Afternoon Tea
The Goring, located in the upscale neighborhood of Belgravia, offers a luxurious and intimate afternoon tea experience in its elegant Lounge Bar. The focus here is on traditional British flavors served in a refined setting.
Amenities:
Selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries.
Extensive tea menu, including The Goring’s own blend.
Champagne option available.
Catering to dietary restrictions upon request.
Luxurious and intimate setting in Belgravia.
Afternoon tea at The Goring starts at £75 per person. The option to add champagne is available for an additional cost.
The tea is held Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm. On Saturdays, you can also serve tea in the dining room.
Contact Details: To book, visit their website or call +44 (0)20 7769 4485
Unique Themed Afternoon Teas
Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard
Aqua Shard offers a whimsical and fun afternoon tea experience inspired by the classic tale of Peter Pan. Set on the 31st floor of The Shard, this afternoon tea combines imaginative treats with stunning views of London.
Amenities:
Custom-made tea stand inspired by Captain Hook’s Pirate Ship.
Savory treats such as ‘Lost Boys’ chicken and bacon sandwich and ‘Codfish’ Captain Hook brandade croquette.
Sweet delights like Tinker Bell Cookie, Peter Pan’s Secret Hollow Tree Entrance chocolate cake, and Tick-Tock the Crocodile jelly.
Bespoke teas, including the floral Darling Tea and the adventurous Adventure Tea.
Special Fairy Dust cocktail and Never Grow Up punch.
£2 donation from each tea to Great Ormond Street Hospital
Vegetarian, vegan, and pescetarian options are available.
The price falls around £70 per person, £81 with a glass of Champagne, and £90 with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Rose.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website or call +44 (0) 20 3011 1256.
Wizard Afternoon Tea at Georgian House Hotel
The Georgian House Hotel offers a magical and immersive afternoon tea experience inspired by the wizarding world. This enchanting tea is perfect for fans of magic and mystery, set in a charming, themed environment.
Amenities:
Themed decorations and immersive setting.
Selection of magical sweet and savory treats.
Bespoke Wizard blend tea.
Served in a setting that evokes the magical world.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website.
One Aldwych Charlie & the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea
One Aldwych offers a sweet and indulgent afternoon tea experience inspired by the classic tale of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. This tea is a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds, served in a stylish setting.
Amenities:
Chocolate-inspired treats, including a chocolate fountain.
Selection of sweet and savory treats.
Bespoke Charlie blend tea.
It has a fun and indulgent setting, perfect for fans of the classic story.
If you want to experience drinking tea in the chocolate factory, you need to spend around £70 per person. Children (12 and under) can enjoy the tea for £50 per child.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website or call +44 (0)20 7300 0400.
Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard
Afternoon Teas with a Twist
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square Afternoon Tea
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square offers a unique and innovative afternoon tea experience with a Japanese twist. This stylish and contemporary hotel in Marylebone combines traditional British afternoon tea elements with Japanese influences, creating a distinctive and memorable experience.
Amenities:
Selection of Japanese-inspired dishes and classic British afternoon tea favorites.
Bespoke tea blends, including the Byredo Renaissance Tea with vegetal and umami notes.
Unique sweet treats such as the Mojave Ghost Raindrop Cake, inspired by Byredo's fragrance.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
Complimentary glass of Gusbourne Brut Reserve during Afternoon Tea Week (1st - 31st August).
Served in the chic Nobu Lounge.
The price to serve tea in this location is £70 per person and £63 for the vegan option. You can enjoy this experience weekly from Monday to Sunday at 1 pm and 1:45 pm, 3:15 pm and 3:45 pm.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website.
Sushisamba Covent Garden Afternoon Tea
Sushisamba Covent Garden offers a unique and exotic afternoon tea experience with a Japanese-Brazilian twist. Located in the vibrant Covent Garden, this venue is known for its lively atmosphere and fusion cuisine.
Amenities:
Fusion of Japanese and Brazilian flavors in both sweet and savory treats.
Bespoke Sushisamba tea blend.
Selection of sushi, sashimi, and other innovative dishes.
Energetic and colorful setting, perfect for a fun afternoon.
The signature afternoon tea experience costs £65 per person. If you want champagne included, the price is £80 per person. Reservations are required, and same-day reservations can be made until 11 am.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website.
Ting at the Shangri-La Hotel Afternoon Tea
Ting at the Shangri-La Hotel offers a luxurious and exotic afternoon tea experience with an Asian twist. Located within The Shard, this elegant venue provides stunning views of London alongside its sophisticated tea offerings.
Amenities:
Range of Asian-inspired sweet and savory treats, including dim sum and pastries.
London-inspired pastries such as the Lady in Pearls, Big Ben at Ten and London Calling
Bespoke Ting tea blend.
Luxurious setting with panoramic views of London.
Focus on elegance and high-quality service.
The price for the whole experience is £78 per person, or £88 with a glass of Champagne. The tea is available Monday to Thursday from 12:30 to 15:30 and Friday to Sunday from 12:30 to 16:00.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website or call 0207 234 8108.
Sushisamba Covent Garden Afternoon Tea
Traditional Afternoon Teas in London
The Stafford Afternoon Tea
The Stafford offers a classic and traditional afternoon tea experience in the elegant surroundings of The Game Bird restaurant. This five-star hotel in St. James's provides a tranquil and luxurious setting for a quintessential British afternoon tea.
Amenities:
A selection of finger sandwiches, including smoked salmon, coronation chicken, and Montgomery cheddar.
Homemade sweet and savory scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
Seasonal cakes and pastries served from a bespoke handcrafted trolley.
A fine selection of teas from Camellia’s Tea House.
Gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and nut-free options available upon request.
Prices are from £70 per person to £87 with a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website or call +44 (0) 20 7493 0111.
The Landmark London Afternoon Tea
The Landmark London offers a luxurious and traditional afternoon tea experience in the stunning Winter Garden. Known for its elegance and sophistication, the Landmark provides a beautiful setting for a memorable afternoon.
Amenities:
Various finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries.
A wide range of teas, including the Landmark’s blend.
Option to enjoy a glass of champagne with your tea.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website or call +44 (0) 20 7631 8000.
The Beaumont Hotel Afternoon Tea
The Beaumont Hotel provides a classic and traditional afternoon tea experience focusing on British flavors. This elegant Mayfair hotel offers a serene and refined atmosphere for a delightful afternoon tea.
Amenities:
Served in the Art Deco-inspired Colony Grill Room.
Traditional finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and various pastries.
A range of teas, including the Beaumont’s own blend.
Champagne options are available.
Catering to dietary restrictions upon request.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website or call +44 (0) 20 7499 1001.
Afternoon Teas in Unusual Locations
Ochre at the National Gallery Afternoon Tea
Ochre at the National Gallery offers an afternoon tea experience inspired by the gallery’s rich history. Located in Trafalgar Square, this contemporary British restaurant provides a unique setting amidst some of the world's greatest artworks.
Amenities:
Inspired by the National Gallery’s 200th birthday, featuring a special Bicentenary Afternoon Tea.
A selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries crafted by Head Pastry Chef Rebecca Morrison.
Options to elevate the experience with a glass of champagne or the 'Bicentenary Brush Cocktail.'
Served in a modern, elegant space within the National Gallery.
The prices for this tea experience are £55 per person for the Bicentenary afternoon tea and £65 per person with a glass of champagne or cocktail.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website.
The Stage at The Londoner Afternoon Tea
The Stage at The Londoner Hotel provides a luxurious afternoon tea experience in the heart of Leicester Square. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, The Stage offers a modern twist on traditional afternoon tea.
Amenities:
Selection of premium teas ( up to 16 different types) and exquisite pastries.
Options for Champagne Afternoon Tea.
Served in a stylish and contemporary setting, it is perfect for an indulgent afternoon.
Live performances by London talent
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website or call +44 20 7451 0139.
The Grand Saloon, Theatre Royal Drury Lane Afternoon Tea
The Grand Saloon at Theatre Royal Drury Lane offers an afternoon tea experience steeped in theatrical history. This iconic venue combines the theatre's elegance with the tradition of afternoon tea.
Amenities:
Selection of finely crafted sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
Wide range of teas and options to add champagne.
Menu for children available.
They cater to different dietary requirements.
If you want to enjoy this tea experience, the prices are £59 for adults and £20 for children. The tea is served daily, and the dwell time is approximately 90 minutes.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website.
Special Mentions
The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, opened by Queen Elizabeth II, offers an iconic afternoon tea experience. Set in the elegant surroundings of this historic venue, it is renowned for its impeccable service and classic British offerings.
Amenities:
A selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries.
Extensive tea menu, including Fortnum's own blends.
Live pianist enhancing the afternoon tea experience from Monday to Saturday.
Gluten-free options available upon request.
The traditional afternoon tea costs £75 per person. If you want extra features, such as champagne, you can choose a more expensive option.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website.
Pan Pacific London Afternoon Tea
Pan Pacific London offers an elegant afternoon tea in the city's heart, combining traditional British elements with subtle Asian influences.
Amenities:
Served in the Orchid Lounge, known for its serene and sophisticated ambiance.
A selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and unique pastries blending British and Asian flavors.
Wide range of premium teas, including exclusive blends.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available upon request.
Contact Details: For bookings, visit their website.
The Petersham Afternoon Tea
The Petersham in Richmond offers a classic afternoon tea experience with stunning views of the Thames and surrounding meadows. Known for its beautiful setting and elegant service, it is a perfect escape from the city.
Amenities:
A selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an assortment of pastries.
Extensive tea menu featuring Petersham’s own blends.
Gluten-free and vegetarian options available.
The traditional tea is £45 per person, and you can add champagne for £58 per person.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website.
Rosewood London, Art Afternoon Tea
Rosewood London offers an "Art Afternoon Tea" inspired by the works of famous artists. This creative and luxurious tea is served in the elegant Mirror Room, known for its sophisticated décor and exceptional service.
Amenities:
A selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and artistic pastries inspired by contemporary artists.
Extensive tea menu, including Rosewood’s own blends.
Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options available.
The traditional tea is £65 per person, and you can add champagne for £75 per person.
Contact Details: For bookings and more information, visit their website.
Rosewood London, Art Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Tea Essentials: What to Expect from an Afternoon Tea Experience
An afternoon tea experience typically begins with being seated in an elegantly decorated setting with fine china and plush seating. You’ll start with a pot of freshly brewed tea, choosing from a wide selection, including classic and specialty blends.
The food service begins with finger sandwiches filled with classics like cucumber, smoked salmon, and egg and cress. These are followed by warm scones, served with clotted cream and strawberry jam.
The final course features a variety of beautifully presented pastries and cakes, often displayed on a tiered stand. Many venues also offer the option of adding a glass of champagne or a specialty cocktail for an extra touch of indulgence.
Tips for Booking the Best Afternoon Tea in London
When planning to enjoy afternoon tea in London, it’s best to secure your spot by making early reservations, particularly for weekends and holidays. Popular venues tend to fill up quickly, and booking ahead ensures you get your preferred time and date.
Look out for special offers or themed teas, which can add a unique twist to your experience. Checking the venue’s website or subscribing to their newsletter can inform you about promotions and seasonal themes. Take the time to review the menus online, as each venue offers its unique selection. Make sure the options available align with your tastes and dietary needs, such as vegan or gluten-free choices.
Dress codes vary by venue, so verify what’s appropriate to wear. While smart casual is generally acceptable, some places may require more formal attire. Additionally, understanding the venue’s cancellation policy can save you from unexpected charges if your plans change. And if you’re bringing children, check if the venue offers a kid-friendly menu and any age restrictions to ensure everyone enjoys the experience.
FAQs:
What is the best time to have afternoon tea in London?
The best time to have afternoon tea in London is typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Many venues offer afternoon tea services from around noon until late afternoon.
How much does afternoon tea cost in London?
Afternoon tea prices in London can vary widely depending on the venue. On average, you can expect to pay between £40 and £75 per person. Luxury options with champagne can cost upwards of £90 per person.
Do I need to make a reservation for afternoon tea?
Yes, it is highly recommended to make a reservation for afternoon tea, especially at popular venues, to ensure availability and secure your preferred time slot.
What is included in a traditional afternoon tea?
A traditional afternoon tea typically includes finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. A pot of tea from a wide selection of blends usually accompanies it.
Are there vegan or gluten-free afternoon tea options available?
Yes, many afternoon tea venues in London offer vegan and gluten-free options. It is best to check with the venue in advance and inform them of any dietary requirements when making a reservation.
What is the dress code for afternoon tea in London?
The dress code for afternoon tea in London can vary by venue. Generally, smart casual attire is recommended. Some upscale venues may have a more formal dress code, so you should check the specific requirements of the venue you plan to visit.
Can children attend afternoon tea?
Yes, children are welcome to attend afternoon tea at many venues. Some places even offer special children's afternoon tea menus. It's best to check with the venue for any age restrictions and to inform them when making a reservation.
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