Introduction: Why Afternoon Tea Defines London
There are few traditions more quintessentially British than afternoon tea. Originating in the 1840s with the Duchess of Bedford, it quickly became a fashionable ritual, combining elegance, indulgence, and social connection.
In London today, afternoon tea is not just about scones and finger sandwiches – it’s a full experience. From five-star hotels with silver service to quirky themed venues, there’s something for everyone. This guide takes you through the best afternoon tea experiences in London for 2025, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, entertaining visitors, or simply treating yourself.
The History of Afternoon Tea
• 1840s: Anna Russell, Duchess of Bedford, popularised the ritual to bridge the gap between lunch and late dinner.
• Victorian Era: Afternoon tea became a high-society event with elaborate dress codes.
• 20th Century: Hotels and tearooms began serving afternoon tea to the wider public.
• Today: Afternoon tea is a global symbol of British hospitality, with modern twists.
Best Luxury Afternoon Teas in London (2025)
The Ritz London
• Price: ~£75 per person
• Why go: The most iconic setting, served in the Palm Court. Dress code strictly formal.
• Highlights: 18 varieties of tea, freshly baked scones, live piano music.
Claridge’s
• Price: ~£85 per person
• Why go: Timeless Art Deco elegance. A favourite for celebrities.
• Highlights: Seasonal pastries, elegant service, impeccable wine list.
The Savoy
• Price: ~£75 per person
• Why go: Classic riverside luxury. Tea is served in the Thames Foyer beneath a glass dome.
• Highlights: Champagne options, piano accompaniment.
The Dorchester
• Price: ~£80 per person
• Why go: Prestigious Park Lane setting.
• Highlights: Classic finger sandwiches, extensive tea menu, impeccable service.
Quirky & Themed Afternoon Teas
1.Mad Hatter’s Tea Party (Sanderson Hotel)
• Alice in Wonderland-inspired. Cakes shaped like clocks and potions.
2.Science Afternoon Tea (Ampersand Hotel)
• Test tubes, petri dishes, and science-themed pastries. Great for kids.
3.Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Tea (One Aldwych)
• Chocolate galore with themed desserts inspired by Roald Dahl.
4.Harry Potter-Inspired Tea (Various Venues)
• Wizard-themed menus, butterbeer lattes, enchanted décor.
Family-Friendly & Kids’ Afternoon Teas
• The Langham London: “Children’s Afternoon Tea with Hamleys” – interactive experience.
• St. Ermin’s Hotel: Family-friendly menus and bee-themed honey treats.
Budget-Friendly Afternoon Teas in London
Not every afternoon tea requires a five-star budget. Great value options include:
• Kensington Palace Pavilion Café – Royal setting at affordable prices.
• Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon – Classic but slightly cheaper than luxury hotels.
• Cutter & Squidge Soho – Quirky bakery with indulgent yet affordable menus.
Champagne & Special Occasion Teas
For celebrations, many hotels offer Champagne upgrades:
• Ritz (+£20pp for Champagne).
• Claridge’s “Celebration Afternoon Tea”.
• Sketch London – artistic décor and Michelin-starred tea.
Afternoon Tea Etiquette – Do’s and Don’ts
• Do: Stir tea gently without clinking.
• Do: Break scones by hand, don’t cut them with a knife.
• Don’t: Raise your little finger (a myth!).
• Do: Eat savouries before sweets.
How to Book Afternoon Tea in London
• Direct Booking: Hotels often provide priority seats for direct reservations.
• Voucher Sites: Platforms like WonderDays, Buyagift, Virgin Experiences – good for gifting.
• Walk-ins: Possible at smaller cafés, but not at top hotels.
Afternoon Tea Price Guide (2025)
• Budget cafés: £25–35 per person
• Mid-range hotels: £45–60 per person
• Luxury hotels: £70–95 per person
• Champagne upgrades: +£15–25
Afternoon Tea with a View
• Aqua Shard: Sky-high tea with London skyline views.
• Oxo Tower: Riverside dining.
• Sky Garden: Modern twist in London’s famous “Walkie Talkie” building.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
1. Book well in advance – weekends sell out months ahead.
2. Check dress codes – luxury hotels may require jackets.
3. Dietary options – most venues now offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menus.
4. Go off-peak – weekday afternoons often cheaper and less crowded.
FAQs – Afternoon Tea in London
Q1. What is the best afternoon tea in London?
The Ritz and Claridge’s are the most iconic, while quirky fans love Sanderson’s Mad Hatter Tea.
Q2. How much does afternoon tea cost in London?
Anywhere from £25 in a café to £95 in luxury hotels.
Q3. Do you need to book afternoon tea in advance?
Yes – especially at the Ritz, Claridge’s, and Savoy.
Q4. Is afternoon tea suitable for children?
Yes – many hotels have family-friendly menus, like Langham’s Hamleys tea.
Q5. What is included in afternoon tea?
Traditionally: finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, cakes, pastries, and unlimited tea.
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