Afternoon tea, a beloved British ritual, has evolved from a simple snack to a celebrated experience. It all started in 1840 when the Duchess of Bedford, craving a mid-afternoon bite, sparked a trend that would become a national obsession. Today, London’s afternoon tea scene is a dazzling display of elegance and creativity, offering a delicious blend of tradition and modern twists.
From Classic to Contemporary: Finding Your Perfect Cuppa
Forget plain scones and predictable sandwiches; London’s afternoon tea venues are pushing the boundaries of what this quintessential experience can be. From traditional spreads to modern interpretations, the city’s finest hotels and restaurants are crafting afternoon tea experiences that are both delightful and innovative. Condé Nast Traveler editors have meticulously curated this list, featuring venues that are independently selected and reviewed by local experts. Whether you’re seeking classic elegance, a taste of London’s history, or a touch of playful creativity, there’s an afternoon tea waiting to enchant you.
Here’s a quick guide to some of London’s best afternoon tea offerings:
- For those who appreciate a timeless classic: The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason offers an authentic afternoon tea experience that embodies the spirit of tradition.
- Royalists and traditionalists alike will delight in the afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel, a luxurious retreat steeped in history.
- To savor a taste of London’s vibrant soul, head to The Wolseley, a classic restaurant with a timeless charm.
- Fashion-forward individuals will be drawn to Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley, a whimsical experience where pastries are inspired by haute couture.
- For a touch of old-school glitz and glamour, there’s The Ritz London, a timeless icon with a refined ambiance.
- Those seeking timeless elegance will adore the afternoon tea at The Lanesborough, a stunning hotel that exudes sophistication.
- Enjoy affordable treats in an iconic setting at the British Museum, where you can delve into history and indulge in a delightful afternoon tea.
- For tea connoisseurs, Claridge’s is a must-visit, offering a curated selection of exquisite teas to elevate your afternoon tea experience.
Bridgerton-Themed Afternoon Tea: A Royal Affair
Step into the world of Netflix’s Bridgerton and experience a truly unforgettable afternoon tea at The Lanesborough. The hotel’s Regency dining room, a stunning space with glittering chandeliers, sets the stage for a truly immersive experience. A live pianist plays enchanting tunes, transporting you to the heart of the Ton. Indulge in traditional sandwiches, including salmon, cucumber and cream cheese, truffled egg mayo, and chicken, plus a delectable cheese and crispy kale tart created especially for the Bridgerton theme. Scones, both plain and fruit, are served with homemade cream, jam, and lemon curd, leaving you wanting more. But save room for the delightful cakes, each inspired by the show: the rich, chocolate ‘Social Butterfly’, the tart, raspberry ‘Colin’s Travels’, the blueberry ‘Book of Eloise’, and the sharing ‘Lady Whistledown’, a pistachio mousse on a biscuit base. And the pièce de résistance? The ‘Friends to Lovers’ cocktail, a twist on a margarita with coconut tequila, cherries, cranberry juice, honey, and lime. A perfect pairing for a truly unforgettable afternoon tea experience.
Artful Afternoon Tea: A Masterpiece of Taste
At Rosewood London, prepare for a truly unique afternoon tea experience that celebrates art in its most delectable form. Art Afternoon Tea, the brainchild of executive pastry chef Mark Perkins, transforms iconic works of art into edible masterpieces. The hotel’s Mirror Room, with its gleaming glass walls and fragrant floral centerpiece, sets the scene for a truly enchanting afternoon.
The Art Afternoon Tea menu is a work of art in itself. From a tiny chocolate lobster perched atop a chocolate cake filled with passionfruit jelly to a madeleine filled with blueberry sauce and adorned with white chocolate, each pastry is a delicate homage to renowned artists. The star of the show, however, is the collection of artful cakes. A Black Forest patisserie shaped like Andy Warhol’s soup can is a playful tribute to pop art. Yayoi Kusama’s vibrant flower sculptures are delicately piped onto a coconut mousse cake. And the masterpieces of Banksy and Van Gogh are reimagined using vanilla cream choux, matcha green tea sponge, and almond blossom.
This artful afternoon tea is a true testament to the creative spirit of London’s culinary scene. It’s an experience that delights not only the palate but also the imagination, leaving you with a lasting impression.
