From bespoke blends in luxury hotels to unusual pairings with a twist, here we share the best places to enjoy the wonderful English tradition of afternoon tea.
The Stafford, SW1A
A decadent afternoon tea inspired by some of St James’s oldest boutiques: Lock & Co, Floris, James J. Fox, Henry Poole & Co and Foster & Son. The Stafford takes you on a historic journey around St James’s and its secluded streets. Celebrate this British feast of fizz and cakes in style with a chilled glass of champagne from the extensive wine list.
16-18 St James’s Place, SW1A 1NJ
The Orchard Room, SW1H
Take traditional afternoon tea in the relaxed ambience offered at The Orchard Room surrounded by floral decorations and an impressive glass roof that lets in light and enhances the space’s sophisticated contemporary design. Revel in fruit and plain scones served with lemon curd, strawberry compote and Devonshire clotted cream.
22-28 Broadway, SW1H 0BH
The Royal Albert Hall, SW7
The Royal Albert Hall has been serving afternoon tea for over 100 years with a whimsical mix of musically-inspired cakes to celebrate the iconic performances that have taken to the stage. Enjoy a medley of sweet treats and freshly cut sandwiches served with the choice of several blends of tea, this afternoon tea is sure to hit all the right notes.
Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP
Bafarat, W1B
Opening their London cafe in 2019, Bafarat offers the ultimate experience for chocolate aficionados in the capital including a perfectly executed chocolate tree and a wide range of patisseries from tarts and cheesecakes to éclairs and macarons.
6 Warwick Street, W1B 5LU
Image above: The Stafford
Harrods Tea Rooms, SW1X
Harrods is renowned worldwide for its shopping experience but try their quintessentially English tea room worthy of all manner of special occasions. Offering a selection of mouthwatering treats from delicate finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones to perfect patisseries, accompanied by a classic blend as well as fruit and herb teas.
87-135 Brompton Road, SW1X 7XL
Corinthia Hotel, SW1A
Home to a selection of bespoke teas blended exclusively for Corinthia London, indulge in sweet delicacies inspired by the seasons in a light drenched lounge illuminated by the warming glow of 1,001 Baccarat crystals while listening to their resident pianist play.
Whitehall Place, SW1A 2BD
Four Seasons, W1J
Escape the fast pace of city life and retreat for a classic English tea break. The herbal tea uses freshly picked and dried whole herbs, flowers or fruits packed with flavour and aroma from around the world accompanied by elegant pastries, cakes, sandwiches and scones.
Hamilton Place, W1K 7DR
The Kensington, SW7
Taking inspiration from London’s most recognisable and historic landmarks, The Kensington’s London Landmarks afternoon tea leads diners on a tour of the capital's architectural feats and culinary traditions all with teas and cocktails, paying tribute to the city’s most famed structures. The menu is a presented on a London Eye inspired tea stand.
109-113 Queen's Gate, SW7 5LP
Image above: Hive
116 Pall Mall, SW1Y
Experience a taste of indulgence with a side of live music as the Grade I Listed Pall Mall welcomes the public to enjoy The Confectioner’s afternoon tea and a selection of JING teas. Explore the history of one of Pall Mall’s most prestigious venues while tucking into passion fruit éclair or a chocolate, cherry and pistachio delice. This afternoon tea is hard to beat.
116 Pall Mall, SW1Y 5ED
Hive, W1A
Nestled on the third floor of the iconic Selfridges department store with beehives on the rooftop, Hive serves a unique cheese and honey pairing afternoon tea. Dive into an immersive honey-inspired environment with an educational experience on the tasting notes of honey, a selection of French cheeses and matched with lemon and raspberry éclairs.
400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB
The Ampersand Hotel, SW7
A science afternoon tea that will take diners on a journey of discovery where physics, chemistry and gastronomy meet in a curious alchemy to create an out-of-this-world dining experience. This afternoon tea takes a traditional pastime and serves it with an interactive spin. Located in the Drawing Room restaurant for both adults and children.
10 Harington Road, SW7 3ER
The Rubens At The Palace, SW1W
A ritual fit for royalty, this afternoon tea is influenced by the House of Windsor and inspired by Her Majesty the Queen. It includes a selection of pastries that are firm favourites of the Royal Family. You can enjoy this traditional English occasion overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace whilst sipping on champagne, port or a cocktail.
39 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0PS
