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.
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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
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
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
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
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
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
