If you’re planning a trip to London, afternoon tea is one of those quintessential experiences you just can’t miss. But with dozens of venues across the city (and price tags that aren’t always budget-friendly), how do you know which ones are truly worth it?
The team and I at Love and London have tried a lot of them, so I’ve rounded up the best afternoon teas in London, from traditional to themed, luxury to budget-friendly. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur, travelling with kids or just here for the cakes, I can guarantee there will be something on this list for you.
*Some of the links in this article will earn a small commission if you click them and then purchase something. Thanks in advance for your support!
(WA = Wheelchair Accessible)
Image Courtesy of Claridge’s
Best for Tea Snobs: Claridge’s Afternoon Tea
Claridge’s is world-famous, and for good reason. Their tea menu is unrivalled, featuring rare blends, including one that’s only available at Claridge’s and Michelin-starred Noma in Copenhagen. You can try as many teas as you’d like, so this is heaven for anyone who loves experimenting. The setting is ultra-traditional, in one of London’s most iconic hotels. You might even spot a celebrity while sipping your Waikato oolong tea.
While they’ll never overcrowd the tea salon, if you do prefer a more relaxed pace, I’d aim for a mid-week or early afternoon seating rather than peak times as it will be much calmer then. BTW, this experience is also featured in day 2 of our London Itineraries so we’ve already worked out for you how to add this into your trip plan.
Claridge’s Afternoon Tea | Mayfair | ££££ | WA
Image Courtesy of The Sanderson
Best for Kids: The Sanderson
Some afternoon teas aren’t kid-friendly, but the Mad Hatter’s Tea at The Sanderson welcomes children and adults alike. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, the whimsical menu and décor is definitely unique, but there are plenty of traditional elements that make the whole experience magical enough to keep both parents and kids happy. You need to book at least three days in advance to get a table, but if it were up to me I’d book as soon as possible because these sittings tend to get snapped up well in advance.
Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at The Sanderson | Fitzrovia | £££ | WA
Image Courtesy of Take Walks
Best for Royals Fans: Kensington Palace & Royal London Tour with Guard Change & Afternoon Tea
This royal day out with Walks Tours isn’t just about sipping tea (though that part’s pretty fabulous). You’ll kick things off with pre-reserved access to Buckingham Palace and score a prime spot to watch the famous Changing of the Guard–no elbowing through the crowds needed. After guided strolls through Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, the cherry on top is a traditional afternoon tea at Kensington Palace’s Orangery. Picture delicate sandwiches, fluffy scones and dainty cakes served in a setting fit for royalty. Since it’s part tour, part tea, just make sure you allow enough time to enjoy this in your schedule.
Kensington Palace & Royal London Tour with Guard Change & Afternoon Tea | Kensington | ££££
Best on a Budget: Cream tea at The Ivy Garden Chelsea
If you’d prefer something simpler, cream tea is a lighter (and cheaper) alternative to the full afternoon tea. At The Ivy Garden Chelsea, you can enjoy tea, scones, clotted cream and jam without ruining your dinner! It’s understated compared to its other afternoon tea counterparts, but it’s still a lovely way to get in on the British tradition. If you’re here in the summer, make sure you try to get seated in their beautiful garden, provided the weather plays along.
The Ivy Garden Cream Tea | Chelsea | £ | WA
Image Courtesy of Fortnum & Mason
Best for Heritage: Fortnum & Mason
For the ultimate classic afternoon tea, head to the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon inside Fortnum & Mason. Think elegant décor, finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delicate pastries, all accompanied by live piano music. Oh and hot tip: don’t be afraid to ask for a take-home box if you can’t finish your treats.. I’d also recommend ordering a glass of champagne for a slightly tipsy shopping spree afterwards. What can I say? It’s tradition.
If you’ve got one of our London Itineraries, you’ll find this afternoon tea featured in day 2.
Fortnum & Mason Afternoon Tea | Piccadilly | £££ | WA
Image Courtesy of sketch via Facebook
Best Luxury Experience: sketch
sketch has become an Instagram icon, and yes, the hype is justified, which is why we have made videos about our experience there (see below) and have it included in Day 2 of our London Itinerary. The décor is surreal and artistic (don’t skip a bathroom break in the famous egg-shaped pods), the service is impeccable, and the food is refined yet indulgent. It’s pricey, but worth it for the luxury experience. Most afternoon teas have a dress code which require you to look quite smart, but for sketch I’d even step it up a notch as it’s a more of a high-end establishment. Plus, what’s better than an excuse to dress up?
sketch Afternoon Tea | Mayfair | £££
Image Courtesy of The Ritz via Facebook
Best for Sweet Tooths: The Ritz
If you love sweets, The Ritz is the place to be. Tea is served in the legendary Palm Court, which features marble columns, mirrored panels, decorative French-style architecture and large windows overlooking Green Park. If that isn’t already enough to convince you to book in here, expect delicate pastries, a cake trolley that makes the rounds, AND if it’s your birthday, expect another cake to arrive at your table. Everything is refillable, too. Book well in advance (3+ months if possible), as this is one of the most sought-after afternoon teas in London.
The Ritz Afternoon Tea | Piccadilly | £££ | WA
Image Courtesy of City Cruises
Best for Sightseeing: City Cruises Afternoon Tea on the Thames
For a sightseeing twist on tradition, enjoy your scones and sandwiches while cruising along the River Thames. City Cruises’ Afternoon Tea lets you take in some of London’s most iconic landmarks — including Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and St. Paul’s Cathedral — all from the comfort of your table. The menu includes classic finger sandwiches, pastries and unlimited tea or coffee, with the option to upgrade to Prosecco if you fancy a celebratory sip. If I were you, I’d try to book a window seat as the views are so much better, especially for photography. Don’t forget to dress in layers, too. The upper deck can get windy, although you are welcome to just stay on the ground level which is warm and dry.
City Cruises Afternoon Tea | Westminster | ££ | WA*
*See more about City Cruises’s accessibility information here.
Image Courtesy of JW Marriott Grosvenor House via Facebook
Best All-Around Experience: JW Marriott Grosvenor House
The Park Room at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House offers afternoon teas that feel elegant, welcoming, and just, honestly, excellent. With live piano music and seasonal themes (including a beautiful Christmas version), it’s an all-around winner for couples, families, or first-timers to the afternoon tea game. Plus, the service is some of the BEST you’ll experience in the city. They also often feature creative seasonal themes. The current Champagne Afternoon Tea, Pas de Deux, is inspired by the ballet and includes five pastries plus an amuse-bouche by Head Pastry Chef Anthony Hurst. In winter, the hotel also goes all out with festive teas, so it’s fair to say, I’d check the Grosvenor House website for the latest offerings.
JW Marriott Grosvenor House Afternoon Tea | Kensington | £££ | WA
Need more inspiration for other things to do and places to stay while visiting London? Read more:
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