We've rounded up some of the very best afternoon teas in London for you to indulge in – so why not try some of them before they're scone? Oh darling!
Samuel Hopkins - Staff Writer•
Who doesn’t love an afternoon tea? From scones and sarnies to breakfast tea and bubbly; we like to think we’ve got the whole afternoon tea thing down in our beloved capital city. So, whether you’re after a quirky theme, a casual affair, or a flamboyantly fancy day out, there’s something here for everyone. Without further ado, here’s our rundown of some of the best afternoon teas in London.
1. Afternoon Tea Experience at L’oscar London
L’oscar London, a luxurious five-star hotel right in the heart of Holborn, offers an exceptional afternoon tea inspired by the historical grade II*-building that was once the headquarters of the Baptist Church. In true tradition, guests can expect delicious savoury sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and chapel-shaped cakes, all of which are accompanied by the ‘world’s most awarded’luxury tea brand, Newby.
The afternoon tea features a selection of savoury sandwiches including roast beef and caramelised onion, truffle egg and mustard cress, and smoked salmon roulade. Throw in some freshly baked scones (served with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam, of course) and a flute of champers, and you’ve got yourself a real winner here.
When: Mondays to Sundays (2.30-5pm)
Where: L’oscar, 2-6 Southampton Row, London, WC1B 4AA.
Price: Starts at £59.
Reservations:Book here.
2. MasterfulArt Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London
Over at the Rosewood London, executive pastry chef Mark Perkins – well known for his exceptional portfolio of intricate afternoon teas – is showcasing an afternoon tea inspired by internationally renowned artists and their London exhibitions. The expertly designed cakes feature mini replicas of some of the most recognisable artworks in the world. Expect cakes inspired by Andy Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Can, Van Gogh’s Almond Blossom,and Yayoi Kusama’s Flowers that bloom at Midnight, among others. This is definitely one you want to check out…
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where:Rosewood London, 252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN.
Price: Starts at £68.
Reservations: Book here.
3. Sherlock’s Mind Palace Afternoon Tea & Mini Mystery
“Elementary, my dear Watson!” Dive head-first into your own mini-mystery as you enjoy freshly made savoury delights and sweet treats in this Sherlock Holmes-inspired hideaway in West London! Just like the detective and his accomplice, you’ll need to work together as a team to crack a puzzle and solve a mystery – all whilst indulging in an indulgent Afternoon Tea of course. You’ll get to indulge in sandwiches, scones, sweet treats and tea or coffee. Fancy making it all the more exciting? Opt for the boozy option with 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco. The game is afoot…
When: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Where: Doyle’s Opticians, West 12 Shopping Centre, Shepherd’s Bush, London, W12 8PP.
Price: Starts at £78 for two, or £98 for the boozy option.
Reservations:Book here for the standard experience or book here for the boozy afternoon tea.
4. Afternoon Tea at the Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
This sumptuous experience blends the essentials of a traditional afternoon tea with elements of Japanese culture for a Nobu take on the British pasttime. The tea is served in The Lounge where guests can choose from a selection of teas, including a berry and hibiscus blend, a choice of green teas, or honey orchid tea from the imposing Wudong Mountain.
The food selection is seasonal, but typically includes their world-renowned sushi dishes and their much-loved crispy chicken kara-ge. These are joined by the traditional scones, served with raspberry mint jam and clotted cream, and other sweet treats that have been given the Nobu treatment. ThinkMiso Chocolate Tart, Wakamomo Peach Umeboshi Yuzu Mousse, and much more.A vegetarian option is also available and a glass of Champagne can be added to add some razzmatazz to your afternoon!
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, 22 Portman Square, London, W1H 7BG.
Price: Starts at £68.
Reservations: Book here.
5.Afternoon Tea Cruise
Experience London in a whole new way with this Afternoon Tea Cruise! Sail along the iconic riverside landmarks and indulge in a delightful assortment of sandwiches, pastries, and scones, all while enjoying stunning 360˚ viewsof the city. Book your tickets now for an unforgettable journey!
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: Tower Millenium Pier, Lower Thames Street, EC3N 4DT
Price: Starts at £45.
Reservations: Book here.
6.Afternoon Tea at the Hotel Café Royal
With its unparalleled location just off Regents Street and Piccadilly Circus, and an afternoon tea set within theHotel Café Royal’s Grade II-listed Grill Room, this glitzy afternoon tea is really one to remember and one that’ll well and truly satisfy a sweet tooth.
Guests can expect gilded features that decorate the mirrored room and artistic ceilings, combined with delightful delicacies and sumptuous sweets, courtesy of Executive Pastry Chef Loic Carbonett and his pâtisserie team. Add in cups of tea or an optional glass of N.V. Veuve Clicquot Brut, and this remarkable yet intimate setting will transport you back to the days of a time gone by. This charming spot also used to be a favourite of the Irish poet and playwright Oscar Wilde, so you’re in good company at this one.
When:Wednesdays to Sundays.
Where: Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent Street, London, W1B 4DY.
Price: Starts at £75.
Reservations: Book here.
7. FraternitéAfternoon Tea at Westminster Abbey
Did you know you can have afternoon tea right inside Westminster Abbey?! Hidden away within its walls you’ll find The Cellarium Café and Terrace, which is currently serving up a special afternoon tea to honour the fellowship between the UK and France.
Paying homage to the Notre Dame in Paris, guests can expect a mix of sweet and savoury treats crafted by Benugo pastry chefs to pay tribute to the iconic Parisian cathedral, and of course, the French capital’s world-renowned patisserie. Think pan bagnat, a French sandwich that’s a speciality in Nice, macarons, crème patisserie tart with fresh fruit, mini chocolate orange tart, and mini opera cake. All that – inside Westminster Abbey. Talk about a special afternoon tea!
When: Mondays – Saturdays.
Where: The Cellarium Café and Terrace, Westminster Abbey, Dean’s Yard, SW1P 3PA.
Price: Starts at £35.50.
Reservations: Book here.
8. Afternoon Tea at The Wolseley
Afternoon tea at The Wolseley is exactly what we need for an anytime treat. And because you should be able to treat yourself without worrying too much about the wallet, they’ve got a few options to choose from. The Cream Tea allows you to enjoy the fruit scones with homemade jam and clotted cream along with a choice of our teas, while the Classic Afternoon Tea adds finger sandwiches and cakes to the affair. And, of course, there’s an option to add Champagne too! Time to raise a glass?
When: Mondaysto Sundays.
Where: The Wolseley, 160 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9EB.
Price: Starts at £19.50 for the Cream Tea, £44.5o for the Classic Afternoon Tea.
Reservations: Book here.
9. Afternoon Tea at The Savoy
The Savoy’s afternoon tea offering is world-renowned, with a focus on tradition and opulence that dates back to the hotel’s opening in 1889. Within the Thames Foyer, at the heart of The Savoy, guests can enjoy classic elegance with just the subtlest of modern twists. Scoff yourself (as fast as manners and decorum will allow) on a selection of fine finger sandwiches and handmade pastries and cakes. Or you could opt for the fancy high tea with an extra main dish on the menu. There are also vegetarian and vegan versions available, and of course, you have the option of adding Champagne. But of course.
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: The Savoy, The Strand, London, WC2R 0EZ.
Price: Starts at £80.
Reservations: Book here.
10. The Gallery at Sketch’s Seasonal Afternoon Tea
Inside this 18th-century townhouse, you’ll find the ever-famous Gallery. Once a pink haven, and now a gilded glam-filled spot, this is where Sketch’s renowned afternoon tea is held. As well as being easy on the eye, the delightful seasonal treats are sure to please your tastebuds with one step in tradition and one in modernity. Pictured above is their ever-popular Valentine’s Day Afternoon Tea that arrives every year – isn’t it dreamy looking?
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 2XG.
Price: Tends to vary based on seasonal offers, but starts at £90.
Reservations: Book here.
11. National Gallery Highlights Tour and Afternoon Tea
Embark on a captivating journey through centuries of Western European art at the National Gallery, featuring a mesmerising array of masterpieces by acclaimed artists such as Leonardo, Monet, and Van Gogh. Join our expert-led tour to delve into the rich history and beauty of these timeless creations. Afterwards, treat yourself to a delightful afternoon tea experience at Ochre, the gallery’s charming in-house restaurant, where you’ll savour savoury sandwiches, freshly baked scones, seasonal pastries, and a selection of coffee and tea. Don’t miss this chance to indulge in culture and culinary delights all in one extraordinary outing!
When: Various dates, the tour begins at 2:00pm and the serving of afternoon tea starts at 3:30pm
Where: The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN
Price: £49.
Reservations: Book here.
12. Peter Pan-themed Tea at Aqua Shard
Aqua Shard’s Peter Pan-themed afternoon tea brings a touch of magic to the 31st-floor restaurant housed inside The Shard. Take a trip to the enchanting world of Neverland and enjoy panoramic views of the London skyline while you nibble on sweet and savoury treats served on a tea-stand resembling Captain Hook’s infamous ship.
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where:Aqua Shard, Level 31, The Shard, St. Thomas Street, London, SE1 9RY.
Price: Starts at £70.
Reservations: Book here
13. Fortnum & Mason’s Afternoon Tea
With a rich history of over 300 years of producing and selling tea, there’s arguably no better place for a classic and elegant brew. Afternoon tea is served in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon – which, we’ll have you know, was opened by the late Queen herself! Everywhere you look, you’ll spot Fortnum & Mason’s famous pale blue accents, and the selection of finger sandwiches and cakes is traditional (as expected). Choose from the traditional menu, or opt for the vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free versions. They’ve even got a children’s version here.
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: 181 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London, W1A 1ER.
Price: Starts at £80.
Reservations: Book here.
14. Jurassic Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel
The Ampersand Hotel’s highly revered afternoon teas draw inspiration from their proximity to the cultural powerhouses of the Exhibition Road museums. This can be seen in the Science- and Jurassic-themed afternoon teas. At the Jurassic-themed option T-Rex cheese straws, dinosaur jam sandwiches, and homemade scones, are joined by a raspberry and lemon crémeux volcano eruption, a dark chocolate and caramel dinosaur egg nest and a mini dinosaur biscuit & milk chocolate fossil. Whilst kids can enjoy an accompanying hot chocolate, adults can sit back and indulge in a more grown-up choice. Choose between a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut NV or rosé Champagne, a glass of alcohol-free Wild Idol sparkling rosé, or one of a selection of specially created co*cktails. Yum!
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where:The Ampersand Hotel,10 Harrington Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 3ER.
Price: Starts at £37.50 for children and £54.50 for adults.
Reservations: Bookhere.
15. Afternoon Tea at The Stage
Afternoon tea at The Stage in The Londoner hotel comprises all the best of British high tea favourites. Guests can expect the classic selection of sandwiches, freshly baked artisanal cakes, and fluffy scones, all executed with careful precision. To drink they have only the finest of loose-leaf tea from The East India Company, or plenty of fizz to choose from. The Champagne here ranges from the standard offering (the already impressive Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut) to the extraordinary Dom Pérignon Brut Vintage.
When: Thursdays to Mondays.
Where: 38 Leicester Square, London, WC2H 7DX.
Price: Starts at £55 or £70 with a glass of Champagne. (Psst, they’re offering 20% off through February!)
Reservations: Book here.
16. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych
If we can’t visit Willy Wonka in his chocolate factory to lick the wallpaper and eat everlasting gobstoppers, then this is certainly the next best thing. The menu at One Aldwychis full of scrumdiddlyumptious treats, including cake, homemade candyfloss, marshmallows, and scones with snozzberry jam and clotted cream. There’s also chocolate and caramel tea, and a wacky co*cktail made with whisky, chocolate bitters, cherry, and grapefruit. Don’t knock it till you try it! But that last one’s obviously not for the kids…
When: Wednesdays to Sundays.
Where: One Aldwych, Covent Garden, London, WC2B 4BZ.
Price: Starts at £70 for adults and £50 for children.
Reservations: Book here.
17. Prêt-à-Portea Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley
The Berkeley can always be relied on to have something fresh up their sleeves with the seasonally-changing fashion-fabulous ‘Prêt-À-Portea’ afternoon tea. Featured on ‘The Couture Cakewalk’ are seven designers, with biscuits, cakes, and teas all dressed in the finest Kenzo and Moschino. The current spread features couture cakes inspired by a range of designers from Victoria Beckham to Nina Ricci.
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where:Collins Room at The Berkeley,Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7RL.
Price: Starts at £85.
Reservations: Book here.
18. Asian-inspired Afternoon Tea at Lucy Wong
Located inside the dimly-lit, oozing-with-sophistication, underground bar, Lucy Wong, this Asian twist on the classic afternoon tea is like no other in London.
Inspired by the memories of spending afternoons sipping tea and tucking into Dim Sum and sweet treats with her mother; Lucy’s unique offering is served from 3-5pm every Saturday and will include a variety of traditional Dim Sum, Cantonese delicacies and hand-finished patisseries. A free-flowing teapot of Chinese tea will help wash everything down nicely, and you can even add on a glass of champers or some of their signature co*cktails if you want to make the afternoon extra special.
When: Saturdays.
Where: 33-34 Rathbone Place, Fitzrovia, London, W1T 1JN.
Price: Starts at £45.
Reservations: Book here.
19. Mr Simm’s Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield
The Chesterfield’s offering surely takes the ‘sweetest afternoon tea in London‘ title. Taking place in the hotel’s beautiful conservatory, filled with pick ‘n’ mix and jars of old-fashioned sweets, the experience has a real retro vibe. Feast on finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and cakes, all inspired by a retro sweetshop. Think Coca-Cola slices, chocolate chip scones, peanut butter cups, drumstick macaroons, and strawberry Liquorice Allsorts cheesecake. It’s a truly nostalgic affair.
On top of it all, you’ll also be greeted with a magical welcome drink of homemade pink lemonade, floating within a cloud of dry ice and flying saucers. You can also opt for a halal-friendly version here too, and the hotel is dog-friendly so no need to leave the pooch behind for this one! They also recently received an Award of Excellence at the prestigious Afternoon Tea Awards 2023, so this is one not to miss out on!
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where:35 Charles Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 5EB.
Price: Starts at £45 for children and £75 for adults.
Reservations: Book here.
20. The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea at Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences
This hotel’s award-winning restaurant Kona offers up The Secret Garden Afternoon Tea, which transports diners to a stunning Yorkshire garden with every bite. The beautifully designed pastries and delectable savoury treats have been inspired by the timeless children’s classic tale of The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. The food is complemented by a selection of teas from Bird & Blend Tea Company and gins from The Secret Garden Gin Distillery. Flavours include lemon verbena, apothecary rose, and lavender and echinacea.
When:Fridays to Sundays.
Where: 51 Buckingham Gate, Westminster, London, SW1E 6AF.
Price:Starts at £75 with a 50% discount forchildren aged 4-11.
Reservations: Book here.
21. Nyetimber Sparkling Wine Afternoon Tea at RAILS
The luxurious, Grade II-listed Great Northern Hotel in King’s Cross has a charming offering for afternoon-tea-ers at its RAILS Restaurant. The chic and stylish brasserie is a lovely spot to while away a few hours and tuck into savoury delicacies including classic finger sandwiches, cranberry and sausage rolls, or a vegetarian wild mushroom tartlet featuring freshly baked flaky pastry. Sweet treats include a zesty mango and passionfruit cheesecake, a decadent chocolate mousse, a fluffy Victoria Sponge, and more. All that comes alongside the requisite classic and fruity scones, too. Let’s not forget the loose-leaf teas and Nyetimber sparkling wine on the roster too. If you’re looking to go above and beyond, you can even go for a glass of Perrier Jouët Champagne – oh darrrrrling!
When: Saturdays to Mondays.
Where:RAILS Restaurant, Great Northern Hotel, King’s Cross St. Pancras Station, Pancras Road, London, N1C 4TB.
Price:Starts at £35.
Reservations: Book here.
22. Elizabethan Royal Tea at InterContinental London Park Lane
Right in the centre of London, there’s a hotel afternoon tea that transports diners all the way back to the Elizabethan times. InterContinental London Park Lane’s Wellington Lounge has created a luxurious afternoon tea inspired by the legacies of the late Queen Elizabeth I and II, who both had a love for decadent tea and confectionary. Afternoon tea like a true royal with this delectable array of treats.
When:Mondays – Sundays.
Where: Wellington Lounge at InterContinental London Park Lane, 1 Hamilton Place, London W1J 7QY.
Price: Starts at £74
Reservations: Book here.
23. Classic, Rosé and Champagne Afternoon Tea at Oblix At The Shard
Another Shard-based afternoon tea here – this time at Oblix on the 32nd floor. Enjoy panoramic views and some of the tastiest cakes in town with a selection of three different afternoon teas. The Classic Afternoon Tea includes a selection of sandwiches such as the smoked salmon, cream cheese, and rye, and the free-range egg and truffle, an array of scones with seasonal jam, fresh honeycomb and clotted cream. Add in pastries, a wide selection of eclectic teas and a chance to upgrade to one including bottomless rosé and selected co*cktails or free-flowing Champagne, and you’ve got yourself a real afternoon to remember!
When:Thursdays to Sundays.
Where:The Shard, 31 St Thomas Street, London, SE1 9RY.
Price: Starts at £61.
Reservations:Book here.
24. Luxury Afternoon Tea at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences
This independent five-star hotel in the heart of Mayfair serves up a quintessentially British afternoon tea – with a twist. TheTraditional Afternoon Tea includes properly classic sandwiches (from egg mayo to coronation chicken, and beyond), homemade cakes, cream teas, pastries and all manner of sweet treats inspired by flowers and gardens. Of course, no traditional afternoon tea would be complete without plain and raisin scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream, too. There are also bottomless, vegan, and gluten-free options here too.
When: Daily.
Where:The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, 116 Piccadilly, London, W1J 7BJ.
Price:Starts at £45 per person.
Reservations: Book here.
25. Afternoon Tea at The Stafford
The Stafford London is renowned for its timeless elegance and exceptional hospitality, so of course their afternoon tea is stunning. Served from a bespoke cake trolley, the afternoon tea oozes theatrics and allows guests to choose their preferred cakes and pastries. And with Michelin-starred talent behind the food, you know you’re in for a good time. It’s not just about cakes, though, with sandwiches, scones, coffee or fine tea, and more. And, of course, a Champers add-on if you wish. (Which, let’s be real, you do wish!)
When: Mondays – Sundays.
Where: 16-18 St James’s Place, St. James’s, London, SW1A 1NJ.
Price:Starts at £70.
Reservations: Book here.
26. Afternoon Tea At the Rubens At the Palace
Prepare for a sumptuous tea experience at The Rubens, Palace Hotel, featuring breathtaking views of the Royal Mews. Delight in an array of bite-sized sandwiches, delightful pastries, and scones paired with rich clotted cream and homemade preserves.
Elevate your tea experience with a diverse selection of teas from P.M. David Silva & Sons. Immerse yourself in luxury as you soak in the opulent surroundings and savour each exquisite bite. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tea adventure – reserve your table now for an afternoon of pure indulgence!
When: Various dates and times.
Where: The Rubens at the Palace Hotel, 39 Buckingham Palace Rd, London, SW1W 0PS
Price: Starts at £30 for children and £82 for adults.
Reservations: Book here.
27. Al Fresco Afternoon Tea at The Orangery at Number Sixteen
Nestled away in South Kensington is this peaceful garden at Number Sixteen. As an extension of The Orangery restaurant, guests can enjoy afternoon tea surrounded by mulberry trees, blooming hydrangeas and koi pond. Within this beautiful setting, a contemporary afternoon tea is served – think finger sandwiches of smoked salmon and cream cheese and goat’s cheese and sundried tomatoes, as well as freshly baked treats including a pineapple rum baba and a saffron and coffee opera cake. Sign us up! (Oh, and don’t worry about the weather – it doesn’t have to be outdoors!)
When: Daily.
Where:The Orangery and Garden, 16 Sumner Place,London,SW7 3EG.
Price:Starts at £45.
Reservations: Book here.
28. The Wizard Afternoon Tea at the Georgian House Hotel
The perfect match to an overnight stay in The Wizard Chambers at The Georgian Hotel is a spellbinding afternoon tea. The Wizard Afternoon Tea offers a range of tantalising treats across three-courses of sweet and savoury delights. Oh, and it’s only £20 to add bottomless bubbles to the experience. A positively un-spooky price!
When: Saturdays and Sundays.
Where: 35 – 39 St. George’s Drive, Pimlico, London, SW1V 4DG.
Price: Starts at £40 for adult wizards and £20 for mini wizards (children).
Reservations: Book here.
29. Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont
The Beaumont Hotel’s afternoon tea is served in the art-deco elegance environs of Gatsby’s Room, hearkening back to the building’s 1926 origins. As one might expect from The Beaumont, the British tradition is served up with respect – but also with a light springling of an American accent. Finger sandwiches are followed by decadent scones and pastries – and a wide choice of loose-leaf teas from JING.The hotel also won an Award of Excellence at the Afternoon Tea Awards in 2023. Winner, winner.
When: Daily.
Where:The Beaumont, Brown Hart Gardens,Mayfair London,W1K 6TF.
Price: Starts at £77.
Reservations: Book here.
30. Afternoon Tea At The Milestone Hotel
Immerse yourself in luxury at the iconic Milestone Hotel for an Afternoon Tea experience like no other! Renowned for its delectable treats and impeccable service, this award-winning venue promises an unforgettable indulgence. Savour a delightful selection of teas, sandwiches, scones, and desserts while basking in the elegant ambience that earned it accolades at the 2019 Afternoon Tea Awards. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your afternoon to new heights of sophistication and taste. Secure your reservation now for a truly memorable occasion!
When: Mondays to Sundays.
Where: The Milestone Hotel and Residences, 1-3 Kensington Court, London, W8 5DL
Price: Starts at £35.00.
Reservations: Book here.
So there you have it – a roundup of some of the best places offering afternoon tea in London. So put on your best garb, bring along a companion and get ready to eat your body weight in cake and scones!
Read more: The Best And Booziest Bottomless Brunches In London
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