Afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition, and
London
is a haven for this elegant experience. From classic settings to modern interpretations, the city offers a delightful array of afternoon teas, each with its own unique charm.
A Royal Affair: A Journey Through London’s Finest Afternoon Teas
The Duchess of Bedford’s 1840s habit of enjoying a light repast before dinner sparked a trend that transformed into a national institution. Today, afternoon tea in
London
is a celebration. Champagne, exquisite pastries, and unique savory bites have become commonplace, while creative cocktails offer a modern twist to this classic indulgence.
We’ve curated a list of the best afternoon tea experiences in London, carefully selected by Condé Nast Traveler editors and reviewed by local contributors. Whether you’re looking for a traditional experience or a modern interpretation, we’ve got you covered.
Our list considers a range of factors:
- Quality of the offering: From the tea selection and finger sandwiches to the scones and cakes, we evaluate the taste and presentation of each element.
- Venue atmosphere: We consider the ambience and decor of the location, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience.
- Service: We value attentive and welcoming service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable afternoon.
- Inclusivity and sustainability: We prioritize venues that cater to diverse tastes and prioritize sustainable practices, such as using locally sourced ingredients and minimizing waste.
Top Picks for a Delightful Afternoon Tea
Best for classic afternoon tea: The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason (from £80)
Best for royalists and traditionalists: Afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel (from £70)
Best for a taste of London: Afternoon tea at The Wolseley (from £44.50)
Best for fashion fans: Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley (from £80)
Best for old-school glitz: Afternoon tea at The Ritz
London
(from £75)
Best for timeless elegance: Afternoon tea at The Lanesborough (from £80)
Best for affordable treats in an iconic setting: Afternoon tea at the
British Museum
(from £35)
Best for tea connoisseurs: Afternoon tea at
Claridge’s
(from £90)
Indulge in the World of Bridgerton: A Regal Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough
Step into the glamorous world of Bridgerton with a special afternoon tea at The Lanesborough. This exquisite experience will transport you to the show’s grand balls, complete with live piano music in the hotel’s Regency-era dining room.
Indulge in classic finger sandwiches like smoked salmon, cucumber and cream cheese, and truffled egg mayo, along with a delicious cheese and kale tart created especially for the Bridgerton tea. Scones are served warm with homemade cream, jam, and lemon curd. And, for a grand finale, enjoy a selection of show-inspired cakes:
- The rich, chocolate “Social Butterfly”
- The tart, raspberry “Colin’s Travels”
- The blueberry “Book of Eloise”
- The sharing “Lady Whistledown” (pistachio mousse on a biscuit base)
Don’t miss the “Friends to Lovers” cocktail, a refreshing twist on a margarita with coconut tequila, cherries, cranberry juice, honey, and lime. It’s the perfect complement to this regal afternoon tea.
Artful Delights: The Art Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London
Rosewood London’s Art Afternoon Tea is a feast for the senses. Each cake is a miniature masterpiece, inspired by iconic works of art:
- A chocolate lobster atop a chocolate cake filled with passionfruit jelly (Salvador Dalí’s Lobster Telephone)
- A blueberry-filled madeleine sandwiched between white chocolate (David Hockney’s Bigger and Closer)
- A jammy Black Forest patisserie shaped like an Andy Warhol soup can
- A coconut mousse cake with delicate piped flowers reminiscent of Yayoi Kusama’s sculptures
- Van Gogh and Banksy creations are also represented, with their masterpieces reinterpreted in delicious forms like vanilla cream choux, matcha green tea sponge, and almond blossom.
Enjoy this unique experience in the hotel’s Mirror Room, with its glittering glass walls and opulent decor. You’ll be greeted with a glass of fizz, which will be readily refilled throughout the afternoon.
A Celebration of British Tradition: The Best Afternoon Teas in London
From classic settings to modern interpretations, London’s afternoon teas offer a diverse range of experiences. Whether you seek a traditional setting, a touch of royalty, or a modern artistic twist, you’re sure to find the perfect afternoon tea to satisfy your senses.
