Afternoon tea in London is a delightful escape from the ordinary. Imagine indulging in tiers of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and fancy cakes, all served in a luxurious setting with genteel music. It’s a chance to slow down, savor the flavors, and connect with loved ones over conversation. This tradition, steeped in history, offers a taste of British culture and a luxurious break for any visitor. Let’s explore our favorite spots to grab the best afternoon tea in London.
Quick Jumplinks
- Artsy Afternoon Tea in London
- Intimate Afternoon Tea in London
- Exquisite Afternoon Tea in London
- Asian-Inspired Afternoon Tea in London
- Traditional Afternoon Tea in London
- Classic Afternoon Tea in London
- Frequently Asked Questions
Mirror Room at Rosewood London
Rosewood London is known for its Masterful Art Afternoon Tea experience, which features pastries inspired by famous artworks of renowned artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, Banksy, and David Hockney. Featuring floor-to-ceiling mirrors and plush seating, it creates a jewel box feel with a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
They offer a wide selection of loose-leaf teas, including Mariage Frères, a renowned French tea brand. Expect savory finger sandwiches with various fillings, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jams, pastries, and cakes, all with an artistic flair.
Afternoon Tea Timings: 12 PM-5:45 PM, daily
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The Grill Room at Hotel Café Royal
The Grill Room, a stunning Grade II listed venue, was favored by Oscar Wilde himself. The space boasts gilded interiors and artistic ceilings. Their lavish afternoon tea features a live piano in an intimate setting alongside an extensive tea menu that will tantalize your taste buds.
Expect roast beef and smoked salmon sandwiches, a refreshing blood orange sorbet with cocoa nibs crumble, fresh plain scones, and sweet treats like pistachio praline with cocoa sablé and buttermilk mousse with rhubarb confit. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
Afternoon Tea Timings: 12 PM-5:30 PM, daily
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Straits Kitchen at Pan Pacific London
While the Pan Pacific Afternoon Tea might be a newcomer to London’s tea scene, its offering is nothing short of exquisite. Straits Kitchen offers a unique afternoon tea vibe with a Singaporean twist unlike anything else in London.
Their menu changes seasonally but you can expect to indulge in seasonal interpretations of finger sandwiches, steamed dumplings, light and fluffy scones, sweet and savory treats, and a selection from their ever-changing loose-leaf tea menu featuring classic favorites and obscure blends.
Afternoon Tea Timings: 12:30 PM-4 PM, daily
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The Rosebery at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London
The Rosebery Lounge offers a sophisticated ambiance featuring high ceilings, a stylish bar, modern art, and antique mirrors coupled with rose-ginger-scented air. The limited-edition afternoon tea menu features finger foods inspired by British royalty, with ingredients including Clarence Court egg truffle sandwiches, King’s coronation chicken, and Highgrove’s organic strawberry jam preserves.
Complement your meal with a selection of teas, including Earl Grey Tea, English Breakfast Tea, moonlight white, and mango black. Beer, sake, English sparkling wine, and champagne tea are available if you prefer something different.
Afternoon Tea Timings: 12 PM-6:30 PM, daily
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Thames Foyer at The Savoy
For over a century, guests have flocked to Thames Foyer to savor The Savoy Afternoon Tea, a cherished tradition since the hotel’s opening in 1889. It boasts a stunning glass-domed atrium and an impressive gazebo where a pianist serenades guests.
The menu features a delightful selection of classic Afternoon Tea and High Tea favorites alongside delectable twists on traditional finger sandwiches, warm scones with classic clotted cream and lemon curd, and a tempting array of pastries. In addition to the traditional afternoon tea, The Savoy offers vegan and vegetarian afternoon tea menus as well.
Afternoon Tea Timings: 12:30 PM-7 PM, daily
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Bonus: The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
Fortnum & Mason, a London landmark since 1707, offers an unforgettable Afternoon Tea experience. Renowned for their expertise in sourcing the finest ingredients, they boast over 100 rare teas from various regions like India, China, and Japan, alongside their signature blends and new green tea selections.
Sink into plush sofas or settle at a table, and soak in the calming piano music and panoramic Piccadilly views. Even little ones can join the fun with a dedicated Children’s Afternoon Tea featuring traditional afternoon tea classics like light sandwiches, scones, homemade jams, and cakes.
Afternoon Tea Timings: Monday to Saturday from 11:30 AM to 7 PM and 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday.
Also Read: Kid-Friendly Things to Do in London
Frequently Asked Questions
Which places serve the best afternoon tea in London?
Ham Yard Hotel, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, Fortnum & Mason, The Savoy, and Mirror Room at Rosewood London offer classic British flavors of afternoon teas alongside a generous spread of sandwiches and sweet treats like vanilla pudding, yuzu cream pie, as well as freshly baked scones with cornish clotted cream, homemade strawberry jam, tonka bean jam, passion fruit, and the likes.
What is the difference between afternoon tea and high tea?
Afternoon tea is a lighter meal typically enjoyed between 12 PM and 5 PM, featuring afternoon tea recipes, open and closed sandwiches, fruit scones, and pastries. High tea, on the other hand, is more akin to an early dinner with more substantial offerings.
How much does afternoon tea in London cost?
Prices vary depending on the venue but expect to pay anywhere from £30 to £70 per person for a traditional afternoon tea. More luxurious experiences can reach even higher prices.
Do I need to dress up for afternoon tea in London?
Dress codes can vary. Some hotels might have a smart casual dress code while others are more relaxed. It’s always best to check with the specific venue beforehand.
What is the proper way to enjoy afternoon tea in London?
There’s a specific order to enjoying afternoon teas. Traditionally, afternoon tea kicks off with the savories (finger sandwiches), then moves on to the scones with jam and clotted cream, and finally finishes with the pastries. When it comes to scones, break them in half horizontally, spread clotted cream on one half, then top it with jam.
What kind of sandwiches are typically served during afternoon tea in London?
A variety of finger sandwiches are common, often featuring classic fillings like smoked salmon with cream cheese, cucumber with cream cheese, devilled egg mayonnaise, and roast beef with horseradish. Some places might offer more unique options as well.
Can I choose my sandwiches and pastries for afternoon tea in London?
Some venues allow you to choose your preferred finger sandwiches and pastries from a selection, while others offer a set menu.
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