Where to Have Afternoon Tea in London (For All Budgets)

Devyn
Feb 12, 2019
4 min read

Updated: Jun 30, 2019

Is there anything more iconic than having afternoon tea in London? There’s something about getting all dolled up to nibble on sweet treats and sip from fine china to make you feel like royalty. If a traditional tea is on your London bucket list (and let me tell you, it should be) you’ve come to the right blog post.

High tea originated in the 1840s because a duchess simply got hungry between lunch and dinner and needed a snack – truly a lady who understands me and my stomach. A traditional tea will include savory and sweet elements, like finger sandwiches and scones. Trust me, the tea you'll be served will be much nicer than the cheap tea bag you throw in your mug back in the States – these are expertly prepared, sometimes rare teas that taste as fancy as they sound. However, adding in some bubbly is a delightful twist on your elegant afternoon spread and typically offered at most tea parlors.

If you’re looking for some afternoon tea recommendations, I’ve rounded up my list of all-time favorites that can suit budget travelers and those who want to go all out. Some general notes – reservations are essentially mandatory, so plan ahead. Some of the more popular services open up reservations up to 90 days in advance. You’ll also need to dress accordingly, no jeans please. Some of the high-end options will require something even dressier (jackets for you men) so make sure you’re dressed to impress - see some suggestions at the end!

PS - I'm not affiliated with or associated by any brands and companies noted below

Cake Boy – the portions here are generous, so make sure you don't load up at lunchtime. They offer a vegan afternoon tea option – dairy-free peeps, rejoice. This cozy little bake shop is surrounded by pops of pink and orange and the desserts are truly delightgul. For £40, you’ll get a selection of savory and sweet treats, tea or coffee, and a glass of champagne.

B Bakery – this is a genius way to get your sightseeing in. Aboard a double decker bus, you’ll be treated to a traditional tea while zipping around and taking in London. This high tea is served with savory sandwiches, petit fours, and delicate pastries. They offer a few menu options depending on dietary restrictions and an expansive wine list for an extra charge. A traditional tour (minus any booze) will set you back £45.

Zetter Townhouse Marylebone – this space feels straight out of a period drama novel’s parlor room – the dark and dramatic lounge feels like you’re in a historic home. You can pick between a lighter finger-sandwich offering and a menu with slightly heartier options, depending on your appetite. Scones and cakes and selection of teas are offered with either menu. If you stick with just tea, budget lovers will rejoice at the £35.50 price tag. Adding bubbles or a tea-infused cocktail will bump the price up to £43-45.50.

Town House at Kensington - this bright restaurant makes afternoon tea a true experience. Their tea service is "themed" and switches up from time to time. Currently on offer is a London Landmarks tea, playing homage to the famed sights of the city. You’ll be served up a Big Ben lemon curd tart and a carrot cake Shard on your own mini London Eye serving tray. The prior tea service was a Disney spread. It’s whimsical and truly delightful. Add in a glass of champagne and you’ve got yourself a charming afternoon for £54.50.

Town House at Kensington's London Landmarks tea spread

Hotel Café Royal – if you’re chasing luxury without the high-end price tag, this tea is for you. Flower-draped golden light fixtures sit atop the elegant tablescapes. It feels prim and proper in every sense and Elizabeth Taylor and the Beatles have graced the halls. Your traditional afternoon tea will include an amuse bouche, tea sandwiches, scones, and other delicacies that change seasonally. As for the tea? Expect no less than 15 selections. A booze-free afternoon comes in at £55.

Wellesley – this tea feels truly indulgent, with blush drapes covered in crystals adorning the tea room. Afternoon tea includes the standard fare – sandwiches, pastries, and scones – but options like the chamomile sponge cake and buffalo mozzarella focaccia make this a culinary treat. Tea served with the brut champagne comes in at £50. If you want a truly glam-worthy photo op, take a picture with the hotel’s Rolls Royce, which guests can use in lieu of a taxi during their stays.

I wish I had the $$$ to be a guest at the Wellesley!

The Palm Court at The Ritz – a truly traditional and iconic tea fixture. The service is incredible and your tea will include a pianist and harpist. The Ritz also employs the only certified Tea Sommelier in London – I had no clue such a thing existed. Traditional tea is £58 but you can add a glass of Ritz Champagne for £77-81. If cake is your thing, the Celebration tea starts at £69 and will include a slice that won't disappoint. Plan to dress accordingly – men need to wear a jacket and tie and you will be turned away if you show up in jeans. It's the Ritz, people. It doesn't get swankier than this.

SERIOUSLY the Ritz's afternoon tea is giving me life

Claridge’s – considered one of the poshest and most lavish hotels in London, their tea is just as traditional and elegant as you can imagine. As with many tea offerings, the menu changes seasonally, but you can anticipate British classics. As a bonus, they offer a children’s tea menu (serving up hot chocolate and kid approved treats), making this perfect for your little duke or duchess. Scones are served warm on the finest of china – the raisin with Cornish clotted cream is quintessentially London. Traditional tea starts at £65 (£40 for kids); adding champagne will bring the bill to £75-85. A service charge of 12.5% is automatically tacked on as a fair warning.

The Claridge's high tea spread is the stuff of dreams

The Promenade at The Dorchester – this tea room is downright opulent, with its gilded drapes, elaborate floral arrangements, and cozy couches. You’ll feel every inch an elegant lady here. The pastries look like works of art and taste just as amazing. Stick with their rare tea selections for £60 or add on some Laurent-Perrier starting at £70.