Welcome to the delightful tradition of Afternoon Tea in England, United Kingdom!
This charming ritual has been a quintessential part of British culture for centuries, offering a perfect blend of elegance and indulgence.
Originating in the 19th century, Afternoon Tea was introduced as a light meal to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner.
Today, it has evolved into a social affair celebrated with friends and family, featuring an array of delectable treats like finger sandwiches, scones, and an assortment of sweets.
Join us as we explore the history, etiquette, and the sheer joy that comes with savoring a cup of tea and delectable bites in the midst of a leisurely afternoon.
Also see
Best Afternoon Tea in Buckinghamshire
1. Afternoon Tea at The Parlour
The charming ambiance at The Parlour, nestled at 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, makes it a must-visit for afternoon tea enthusiasts.
With an option for a traditional cream tea or a multi-sensory experience in collaboration with Floris London, the iconic perfumery, the atmosphere is both inviting and unique.
The attentive staff ensures an exceptional service that adds to the overall delightful experience.
However, be mindful of the sweet treats, as some might find the cakes a tad too sugary.
2. Afternoon Tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel
Despite a hiccup with our booking, their attentive staff made it right by offering us a complementary tea on another day.
From exquisite scones to a delightful selection of teas and juices, every bite and sip at The Bloomsbury is a treat.
The food quality is top-notch, complemented by a charming ambiance that sets the perfect backdrop for a memorable tea time in London.
3. Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens
The Montague on The Gardens is a hidden gem near Dominion Theatre, offering a classic tea service in a quaint and chic setting.
The staff treats you like royalty, creating a welcoming and important atmosphere.
The vintage decor in the lobby and segregated tearoom area adds a tasteful touch, making the experience feel special and personalized.
Indulge in the delightful Afternoon Tea experience with fresh and top-notch Earl Grey tea that stands out as the best ever tasted.
The food is served in regular intervals, featuring tasty cucumber sandwiches and a variety of cakes that are both delicious and plentiful.
The selection is extensive, leaving you satisfied and even with some treats to take home.
The relaxed vibe, combined with a view of the gardens through the windows, ensures a pleasant and memorable afternoon.
The Montague on The Gardens truly exceeds expectations with its impeccable service, making it a must-visit spot for an enjoyable Afternoon Tea.
4. Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel
Nestled in the heart of London at 35 Charles St, The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel offers an intimate and light-filled setting for afternoon tea enthusiasts.
The spacious and private ambiance creates the perfect environment to indulge in delightful finger sandwiches, delectable cakes, scones, and pastries.
Indulge in a delectable array of treats, from savory finger sandwiches to mouthwatering scones and pastries.
The egg and crest sandwich comes highly recommended, earning the approval even of younger guests.
The standout feature for families is the charming tradition of taking home candies.
Don’t miss the chance to explore their diverse tea selection, and if you find a favorite, you can even bring some home.
The attentive servers and the delightful ambiance make every visit a thorough delight, with a special mention to Carmen, who went above and beyond to elevate our experience to a six-star level.
The warm hospitality from doormen to kitchen staff ensures a memorable and relaxing experience, making The Chesterfield a place to return to.
5. Afternoon Tea at The Egerton
Nestled in the heart of London, The Egerton House Hotel offers a cozy and elegant drawing room for afternoon tea enthusiasts.
The warmth of the staff and the charming atmosphere create a delightful setting for tea lovers.
However, it’s important to note that reservations need to be made 24 hours in advance.
Despite these considerations, The Egerton House Hotel offers a unique afternoon tea experience worth trying.
6. Afternoon Tea at The Rubens
The Rubens offers an unforgettable afternoon tea experience just steps from Buckingham Palace.
With its prime location and exquisite service, it’s perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat.
The ambiance, especially if you manage to snag one of the street-facing sofas, adds to the charm of the experience.
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey with a selection of savory sandwiches featuring premium fillings like salmon, chicken, turkey, roast beef, and cheddar with tomato.
The desserts steal the show, boasting a variety of sweet treats, with the pistachio log standing out as a personal favorite.
Don’t forget to indulge in the cheese scones, a unique twist on the traditional fare.
Overall, expect a feast for both the palate and the eyes, accompanied by impeccable service that enhances the entire afternoon tea affair.
7. Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea
If you’re seeking a whimsical and memorable afternoon tea experience, look no further than Mad Hatters.
Nestled in London’s bustling Berners Street, this venue offers a delightful Alice in Wonderland-themed ambiance that’s perfect for a unique outing with friends or family.
From the charming decor to the inventive bites, every detail exudes creativity and care.
Indulge in an array of delectable treats served on tiered trays, each inspired by the beloved characters and whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland.
From savory delights to sweet surprises, the menu boasts a delightful selection that caters to every palate.
Don’t miss out on the quality teas and impeccable service, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience.
8. Tea and Tattle
Tea and Tattle is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of London, offering a charming escape in the basement of a bookshop.
The traditional tearoom boasts Chinese wallpaper, leaf tea, and delicate bone china, providing a unique and cozy atmosphere.
With its proximity to the British Museum, it serves as an ideal retreat after a morning of exploration.
The assortment includes scrumptious sandwiches, heavenly scones, and delectable cakes.
To complement the experience, the tea parlour serves a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade and offers a variety of jams.
For an affordable and charming afternoon tea in London, Tea and Tattle is a must-visit, promising a delightful culinary journey in a cozy and literary ambiance.
9. Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London
Nestled in the heart of London at Whitehall Place, Crystal Moon Lounge at Corinthia is a must-visit for a delightful afternoon tea experience.
The chic hotel lounge boasts a bright and airy ambiance, courtesy of its stunning domed glass ceiling, creating the perfect setting for a cozy get-together.
The attentive and friendly service, exemplified by staff members Marco and Bassam, adds a personal touch that enhances the overall experience.
Indulge in a scrumptious array of sandwiches, with highlights including the truffle-infused and egg in mayonnaise sauce creations that are simply divine.
The scones and cakes, in line with the hotel’s 5-star reputation, meet expectations with their delectable taste.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the outstanding service – a standout moment was when Marco went above and beyond by arranging a takeaway box filled with fresh truffles and egg sandwiches, ensuring a sweet ending to a delightful afternoon tea affair.
10. Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
The charm of Claridge’s afternoon tea lies not just in its opulent setting, but in the impeccable service.
The staff’s attentiveness, especially catering to pregnancy-friendly options, sets it apart.
The inviting atmosphere amidst Mayfair’s elegance makes it a must-visit for a special afternoon tea experience.
Indulge in a delightful array of savory sandwiches; the turkey and egg options stand out.
Savor the champagne, excellent scones, and a selection of sweet desserts and petite pastries.
While the desserts steal the show, the overall experience is elevated by the fantastic service and beautiful ambience, creating a truly fabulous outing.
11. Afternoon Tea at The Goring
If you’re in London and craving a classic afternoon tea experience, The Goring is a must-visit.
Nestled in a luxurious setting, the ambiance exudes elegance and charm, making it perfect for a special outing or a leisurely afternoon.
Indulge in a delightful array of sandwiches, scones, and desserts that make up the quintessential afternoon tea spread.
Don’t miss the chance to customize your experience by choosing your favorite sandwiches and opting for non-alcoholic beverages if preferred.
Overall, The Goring offers a pleasant afternoon tea experience with attentive service and a lovely atmosphere, ensuring a memorable time for guests seeking a traditional taste of British indulgence.
12. Afternoon Tea at Café Royal
Nestled on Regent Street, Café Royal offers a must-try afternoon tea experience in London.
The opulent and elegant setting, accompanied by friendly and attentive service, sets the stage for a delightful visit.
The live pianist adds a charming touch to the overall ambiance, making it a unique and memorable experience.
While the teas are enjoyable, the unlimited option comes with a slight drawback – the waiters automatically top up your initial tea choice, limiting the opportunity to try different varieties.
Despite the dessert letdown, the overall experience, with its lovely ambiance, makes Café Royal worth a visit, especially for a special occasion.
13. Afternoon Tea at The Savoy – Thames Foyer
Indulging in Afternoon Tea at The Savoy’s Thames Foyer is a must for those seeking elegance and attentive service.
The stunning domed atrium, especially during winter, creates a magical ambiance.
The staff’s friendliness and thoughtful gestures, like cakes and juices, add a personal touch to the experience, making it memorable.
Delight in a delicious array of sandwiches and a relaxing atmosphere complemented by a background piano melody.
While the high tea is generally impressive, some found the main course (fish) to be well-presented but lacking in flavor.
Despite the high cost, the overall experience might leave you expecting a more unique culinary adventure for the price.
14. Science Afternoon Tea at The Drawing Rooms (at The Ampersand Hotel)
The service was exceptional, with accommodating staff who graciously tailored our experience to our dietary preferences.
The vibrant and bold ambiance of The Drawing Rooms adds a touch of elegance to the entire affair.
From light fare to an array of delectable snacks, the menu caters to diverse tastes, offering standard, and children’s options.
The generous portions, complemented by a selection of delicious teas, made for a truly enjoyable afternoon.
Overall, a perfect spot to unwind after exploring South Kensington’s museums, combining fun and elegance seamlessly.
15. The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel offers an exquisite afternoon tea experience in London’s heart.
From its wood-paneled ambiance to the attentive service, it creates an intimate and welcoming atmosphere perfect for indulging in tea delights.
Special touches, like personalized service for occasions, make it truly memorable.
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful array of sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all of exceptional quality and taste.
The sandwiches are generously filled, the scones are heavenly, and the patisseries are a feast for the eyes and palate.
And yes, be ready for seconds—they keep replenishing your favorites, ensuring you leave satisfied and content.
16. The Rose Lounge
Nestled in the heart of London’s St. James’s district, The Rose Lounge offers a convenient spot for last-minute tea bookings.
Situated within the Sofitel hotel and just steps away from Regent Street, it provides easy access for tea enthusiasts.
Indulge in their set menu, featuring a selection of savory treats including salmon tart and assorted sandwiches, followed by a sweet course boasting five desserts.
Though the tea is basic, the offerings are decent but not particularly memorable.
Overall, while the service is efficient, the lack of ambiance and the small size of the lounge may leave guests wanting more.
17. Afternoon Tea at Flemings Mayfair London Hotel
Flemings Mayfair is a hidden gem in London’s tea scene, where the welcoming staff turns even a rainy entrance into a warm experience.
Indulge in a delectable afternoon tea service featuring divine sandwiches and heavenly scones.
The Georgian & Indian-inspired tea room offers light refreshments all day, while the bar serves up a delightful selection of wine and champagne.
Though the price matches expectations, the experience is priceless, making it well worth the visit.
18. Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel
The Milestone Hotel offers an opulent afternoon tea experience in the heart of Kensington.
The elegant Victorian-style lounge provides a luxurious setting, and the staff’s exceptional service makes you feel like royalty.
The knowledgeable staff enrich the experience with insights into the local area and hotel history, creating a truly unforgettable ambiance.
Indulge in a delightful array of treats on the tiered stand, including freshly made sandwiches with highlights like the signature chicken mayonnaise and toasted almonds.
The sweet tier features irresistible options like hazelnut creme choux pastry and toffee apple tart.
Don’t miss the warm, perfectly baked scones served with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam.
The extensive tea menu offers a global selection, ensuring the perfect accompaniment to your culinary journey.
Overall, The Milestone Hotel provides a quintessentially British experience with delicious food, perfect tea, and outstanding service, making it a top choice for those seeking a lavish afternoon tea adventure.
19. Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont
020 7499 1001
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The daily Afternoon Tea is a must for those seeking a fancy and unique experience.
The welcoming ambiance, inspired by the era, adds a touch of class to your tea time.
The accommodating staff and professional service make it a delightful escape in the heart of London.
Indulge in a selection of savory and sweet treats during your 1 hour 45-minute rendezvous.
The varied tea options, with each person choosing two varieties, complement the delectable food choices.
From delightful pastries to savory sandwiches, The Beaumont offers a taste of sophistication that’s quintessentially British.
Though the experience leans towards the expensive side, it’s a worthwhile and memorable date for those craving a classy afternoon tea affair.
20. candy lane afternoon tea delivery
07946 201240
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From start to finish, they prioritize customer satisfaction, even going the extra mile to rectify mistakes.
Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience with Candy Lane’s delectable offerings.
From perfectly brewed teas to exquisite sandwiches and pastries, each item is crafted with precision and care.
Expect generous portions of high-quality food that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your heart full.
20 Best Afternoon Tea in England, United Kingdom for 2024
- Afternoon Tea at The Parlour
- Afternoon Tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens
- Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at The Egerton
- Afternoon Tea at The Rubens
- Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea
- Tea and Tattle
- Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London
- Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
- Afternoon Tea at The Goring
- Afternoon Tea at Café Royal
- Afternoon Tea at The Savoy – Thames Foyer
- Science Afternoon Tea at The Drawing Rooms (at The Ampersand Hotel)
- The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
- The Rose Lounge
- Afternoon Tea at Flemings Mayfair London Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont
- candy lane afternoon tea delivery