The Best Afternoon Tea in London: 6 Top Spots to Indulge

Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition, an elegant and relaxing experience that combines delicate tea blends, finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and an assortment of pastries. While the ritual of afternoon tea in London dates back to the early 19th century, London has long been at the heart of this indulgent tradition. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s no better way to experience the city’s charm than by indulging in one of its finest afternoon tea offerings.

In this guide, we will take you through the best places for afternoon tea in London, from luxurious hotel lounges to hidden gems that offer a unique twist on the classic experience.

1. Claridge’s – Mayfair

Claridge’s is the epitome of timeless elegance and sophistication, making it one of the top destinations for afternoon tea in London. Located in the heart of Mayfair, this iconic hotel has been serving afternoon tea since the 1850s, offering a traditional yet refined experience.

What to Expect:

• Ambience: The beautiful Art Deco-style surroundings and impeccable service make Claridge’s an unforgettable experience. The grand lobby is decorated with marble, silver, and plush furniture, creating a regal atmosphere perfect for an afternoon of indulgence.
• Tea Selection: With over 40 different blends to choose from, Claridge’s offers a curated selection of teas, including the rare “Claridge’s Blend,” a delicate mixture of black and green tea.
• Food: The food is simply exquisite, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, fresh scones with homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream, and a selection of pastries that change seasonally. For those with a sweet tooth, Claridge’s signature fruitcake is a must-try.
• Cost: Afternoon tea at Claridge’s is on the luxurious side, with prices starting around £65 per person.

Why It’s Special:

Claridge’s remains one of the most famous spots for afternoon tea in London because it manages to combine traditional elements with an air of modern refinement. Its expert service and beautiful setting make it a must-visit for any tea lover.

2. The Ritz London – Piccadilly

The Ritz is perhaps the most famous afternoon tea venue in London, thanks to its status as a symbol of luxury and elegance. Set in a grand, opulent room with chandeliers and marble columns, The Ritz promises a truly lavish experience.

What to Expect:

• Ambience: The opulent Palm Court is the main venue for afternoon tea, where guests can enjoy a glamorous, classic environment, complete with live piano music.
• Tea Selection: The Ritz boasts an extensive selection of teas from around the world, offering everything from classic black tea to green and herbal infusions. Their signature “The Ritz Blend” is a popular choice.
• Food: The selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and delectable pastries are simply divine. The pastries often include a variety of seasonal treats like fruit tarts, éclairs, and petits fours.
• Cost: Afternoon tea at The Ritz starts at £65 per person, with additional options for champagne and a more extensive selection of treats.

Why It’s Special:

The Ritz is iconic for a reason. It offers a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience in one of the most luxurious settings imaginable. The impeccable service and glamorous surroundings ensure that you feel like royalty while indulging in their delicious offerings.

3. Fortnum & Mason – Piccadilly

Fortnum & Mason, a prestigious department store, is not just famous for its luxurious goods and gourmet food, but also for its exceptional afternoon tea. Located in the heart of Piccadilly, this is where the tradition of afternoon tea began, and they’ve perfected it ever since.

What to Expect:

• Ambience: The elegant Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is an absolute treat, with its soft pastel tones, fresh flowers, and polished wood. The space is both intimate and grand, providing the perfect atmosphere for a leisurely afternoon tea.
• Tea Selection: Fortnum & Mason is known for its wide range of high-quality teas, including their signature blends. Their Afternoon Blend, a smooth, aromatic tea, is especially popular.
• Food: The selection of sandwiches is beautifully crafted, including mouthwatering choices like smoked salmon, cucumber, and egg & cress. The freshly baked scones are served warm with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and the pastry selection includes everything from delicate éclairs to lemon meringue tarts.
• Cost: Afternoon tea starts at £60 per person, with a Champagne Afternoon Tea option available for £85 per person.

Why It’s Special:

Fortnum & Mason offers a traditional yet refined afternoon tea in a setting that’s as charming as it is historic. As one of the first places to serve afternoon tea in London, it has a rich legacy, which is reflected in both the quality of its food and the attention to detail.

4. The Savoy – Strand

The Savoy is another iconic hotel in London that serves an exceptional afternoon tea. Known for its historic glamour and the legendary service, The Savoy offers one of the most luxurious tea experiences in the city.

What to Expect:

• Ambience: The Thames Foyer, with its stunning glass dome and beautiful décor, provides the perfect setting for afternoon tea. The atmosphere is both relaxed and sophisticated, offering a sense of grandeur without being stuffy.
• Tea Selection: The tea menu at The Savoy is impressive, offering blends like the Royalty Tea and the signature Savoy Afternoon Tea. Each tea is carefully selected to complement the food offerings.
• Food: The food is refined, with a range of exquisite sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, and a selection of delicious pastries. The Savoy even offers a vegan afternoon tea, ensuring that all dietary preferences are catered to.
• Cost: Afternoon tea at The Savoy starts at £64 per person.

Why It’s Special:

The Savoy’s afternoon tea is legendary for its impeccable service, luxurious setting, and refined atmosphere. For a truly classic experience, it’s hard to beat the combination of elegance and history that The Savoy offers.

5. Sketch – Mayfair

Sketch is one of London’s most stylish and quirky venues, known for its contemporary art and avant-garde design. Located in the heart of Mayfair, it offers a unique and fun twist on the traditional afternoon tea experience.

What to Expect:

• Ambience: The afternoon tea at Sketch is served in the glamorous, pink-hued Lecture Room & Library, which is adorned with modern art and quirky design. It’s a playful yet luxurious setting that stands out from more traditional afternoon tea venues.
• Tea Selection: Sketch offers a wide variety of loose-leaf teas, including rare and unique blends, many of which are curated by the team of tea experts. The variety ranges from classic black teas to herbal and green blends.
• Food: The food at Sketch is as imaginative as the venue itself. The afternoon tea menu features an array of finger sandwiches, delicate pastries, and freshly baked scones. The presentation is particularly artistic, with each dish presented in a whimsical and creative manner.
• Cost: Afternoon tea at Sketch starts at £60 per person, with options for a more elaborate experience at £75 per person.

Why It’s Special:

Sketch takes afternoon tea to a whole new level, combining contemporary design with traditional elements in a playful and creative way. The food is equally imaginative, making it a perfect spot for those looking for something a little different.

6. The Dorchester – Mayfair

Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Dorchester is one of London’s finest hotels, known for its luxurious setting and world-class service. Afternoon tea here is a truly lavish affair, offering a top-tier experience for those who appreciate elegance and sophistication.

What to Expect | Afternoon Tea in London:

• Ambience: The beautiful and tranquil setting of The Promenade at The Dorchester provides the ideal space for a relaxing afternoon tea. With its plush décor and refined atmosphere, The Dorchester offers a classic afternoon tea experience.
• Tea Selection: The tea list at The Dorchester is extensive, with a carefully curated selection of blends from around the world. Guests can enjoy the signature Dorchester Blend or choose from a wide variety of herbal and floral teas.
• Food: The selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries is divine. The Dorchester’s version of the traditional afternoon tea includes freshly made finger sandwiches, warm scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries that change seasonally.
• Cost: Afternoon tea at The Dorchester starts at £60 per person.

Why It’s Special:

The Dorchester offers an opulent and serene afternoon tea experience that perfectly encapsulates luxury and sophistication. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and impeccable service, it’s a place where you can truly unwind and indulge in style.

Conclusion | Afternoon Tea in London

London is home to some of the world’s finest afternoon tea in London venues, each offering a unique take on this beloved tradition. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of Claridge’s or the modern flair of Sketch, there is a place for everyone to enjoy an indulgent and memorable afternoon. From luxurious hotels to quirky tea salons, these top spots ensure that your experience will be as delightful as the tea itself. So, when in London, make sure to carve out time for a quintessential afternoon tea in London– a perfect way to relax and indulge in the heart of British culture.