It all began in 1840 when the Duchess of Bedford, feeling a little peckish between lunch and dinner, decided to indulge in tea and snacks. This simple act sparked a culinary revolution, transforming into a national tradition with its own unique set of etiquette rules. Fast forward to present-day London, and afternoon tea has become a cherished celebration of indulgence.
Gone are the days of simple scones and sandwiches. Today, the Duchess would be surprised by the elaborate spread that defines this iconic experience. Think delicate flutes of Champagne, exquisite pastries, and even exotic nibbles and potent cocktails, offering a modern twist on a classic tradition.
The Best Afternoon Tea Spots in London
We’ve embarked on a delightful journey to discover the very best afternoon tea experiences in London. From time-honored traditions to innovative modern interpretations, we’ve sampled everything from the finest finger sandwiches to the most tempting cakes. We want to ensure you have the most memorable experience, so every venue on this list has been carefully selected and reviewed by Condé Nast Traveler editors and local contributors.
This guide includes both high-end and affordable options, taking into consideration factors like location, service, standout offerings, inclusivity, and sustainability. We’re always on the lookout for new venues and updates, so be sure to check back often for the latest additions to this ever-evolving list.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the best afternoon tea spots in London:
- For a Classic Experience: The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason (from £80, around $105)
- For Royalists and Traditionalists: Afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel (from £70, around $92)
- For a Taste of London: Afternoon tea at The Wolseley (from £44.50, around $58)
- For Fashion Fans: Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley (from £80, around $105)
- For Old-School Glamour: Afternoon tea at The Ritz London (from £75, around $98)
- For Timeless Elegance: Afternoon tea at The Lanesborough (from £80, around $105)
- For Affordable Treats in an Iconic Setting: Afternoon tea at the British Museum (from £35, around $46)
- For Tea Connoisseurs: Afternoon tea at Claridge’s (from £90, around $118)
Bridgerton-Inspired Afternoon Tea: Step Into the World of Regency Romance
Fans of Netflix’s Bridgerton series can now indulge in a truly immersive afternoon tea experience at The Lanesborough. Imagine yourself transported to the grandest ballroom, where sparkling chandeliers illuminate the elegant Regency dining room. As a live pianist performs a selection of the show’s iconic music, you can savor the delights of a classic afternoon tea, with a Bridgerton twist!
Prepare yourself for a feast of delectable sandwiches, including salmon, cucumber and cream cheese, truffled egg mayo, and chicken. And don’t miss the delicious cheese and crispy kale tart, a special creation just for the Bridgerton tea. Two scones—one plain and one fruit—arrive with homemade cream, jam, and lemon curd, making it hard to resist a third.
Save room for the show-stopping cakes, each inspired by the beloved characters. There’s the rich, chocolate ‘Social Butterfly’, the tart, raspberry ‘Colin’s Travels’, the blueberry ‘Book of Eloise’, and the shared ‘Lady Whistledown’, a delectable pistachio mousse on a biscuit base. To top it all off, enjoy the ‘Friends to Lovers’ cocktail, a refreshing twist on a margarita with coconut tequila, cherries, cranberry juice, honey, and lime. It’s the perfect pairing for a truly unforgettable Bridgerton-themed afternoon tea.
Address: The Lanesborough, Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA
Website: oetkercollection.com
Price: from £85 per person (around $111)
An Artistic Afternoon Tea: Where Food Meets Art
At the Rosewood London, the Art Afternoon Tea isn’t just about delicious food, it’s a celebration of iconic art pieces transformed into edible masterpieces. This unique experience is led by executive pastry chef Mark Perkins, who has skillfully translated some of the most celebrated art pieces into culinary delights.
Step into the hotel’s stunning Mirror Room, with its glittering wall of glass and fragrant centerpiece, and prepare to be amazed. The Art Afternoon Tea kicks off with a glass of sparkling wine, setting the stage for a delectable journey. After receiving recommendations for the best tea pairings for each course, you’ll be treated to a traditional start with exquisitely crafted finger sandwiches, including delicately truffled egg mayo, roast beef, and smoked salmon.
The highlight of the experience arrives with the artfully crafted cakes. These aren’t mere replicas, but rather exquisite homages to the world’s most iconic artworks. Imagine a jammy Black Forest-flavored patisserie shaped like Andy Warhol’s soup can, adorned with a fiery red glaze. Or Yayoi Kusama’s flower sculptures delicately piped onto a coconut mousse cake. Banksy and Van Gogh also make an appearance, their masterpieces reimagined with vanilla cream choux, matcha green tea sponge, and almond blossom. It’s a delightful celebration of art and culinary creativity, making for a truly unforgettable afternoon tea.
