The best afternoon tea in London for celebrating special occasions

Afternoon tea is a rite of passage in London. The elegant national tradition began in 1840, when Anna Maria, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford, filled the lull between lunch and dinner with a soothing refreshment ritual. Today, London’s renowned afternoon tea landscape includes homages to the traditional spread, edgier takes, and everything in between. From fine dining gems to fun, transportative experiences and stunning dining destinations, the best afternoon teas in London await.

A Knightsbridge institution celebrates the best names in fashion with a Bridgerton-style tea menu. Expect the luxurious treatment at a China-inspired Mayfair service featuring cake stands piled high with bao, among other exquisite treats. Add a glass of champagne to your tea lineup at one of the best afternoon teas in London with scenic views over Big Ben, and go all-in with a party-like afternoon tea with bottomless cocktails in trendy Hackney.

Pinky up in style at these elegant British escapes. Read on for a guide to London’s best afternoon teas to book now on OpenTable.

The best afternoon teas in London for celebrating right now – read on for a guide

For one of the best afternoon teas in London for all dietary requirements – book Afternoon Tea at Roast in London Bridge

Reminiscent of an upper-class Britain of old, Afternoon Tea at Roast has all the elements you would expect of a traditional afternoon tea in London. Finger sandwiches, savoury pastries, scones with cream and jam, and of course a selection of sweet treats, all served alongside one of the best ranges of tea in the city. Dietary requirements are no issue, with vegetarian, vegan, halal and gluten-free menus available. Gaze over the hustle and bustle of Borough marketplace as you dine – largely unchanged for centuries, this is an iconic London must-see. The menu changes with the seasons, but you can always expect a wide range of classics. Think pork sausage rolls with red pepper and egg, smoked salmon sandwiches with cream cheese and dill, and fresh fruit tarts with lemon verbena mousseline.

For one of the best themed afternoon teas in London – try Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych in Aldwych

Take the kids, or just indulge your inner child, with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych, one of the best children-friendly afternoon teas in London that will delight adults and little ones alike. Grab some fizzy lifting drinks and experience the magic of one of beloved author Roald Dahl’s best-loved stories in edible form. Dive into the mysterious workings of Willy Wonka’s factory and immerse yourself in one of the tastiest tales from the past century of literature. This is one of the best afternoon teas in London for families with kids, and with themes and characters that will stay with you for years. Available Wednesday to Sunday from noon until 3 pm, or until 4:30 pm on weekends. The children’s menu starts with a selection of egg, cheese and ham sandwiches, while the adults can sample coronation chicken alongside salmon and dill quiche and spinach roly-poly.

For one of the best afternoon tea in London with a view – head on up to Afternoon Tea at Ting, Shangri-La The Shard in London Bridge

Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Afternoon Tea at Ting, Shangri-La The Shard. This Chinese-inspired affair offers exciting Asian delicacies honouring the traditions of the season, with themed crafted pastries of Chinese emblems. From the Red Serpent chocolate mousse with yuzu and Sichuan pepper, to the Sakura made with chai tea, pear and cardamom, this adventurous and transportative afternoon tea elevates British tradition through an Oriental lens. All of this and more is paired with breathtaking views of the London skyline, in dynamic indoor surroundings on the 35th floor of The Shard. Add exceptional service and an award-winning wine list, and you have yourself a venue that simply must be checked out.

For one of the best afternoon teas in London your furry friend will love – try The Parlour in Westminster

Bamboo furniture, plump cushions and wallpaper featuring Indian landscapes make for a relaxed yet distinctive setting in which to enjoy a light lunch, dinner or afternoon tea at The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel in Westminster. The afternoon tea is particularly special, having been designed in collaboration with royally appointed perfumery, Floris London. Enjoy delicate dishes from the seasonal menu, including savoury sandwiches, assorted cakes and freshly baked warm scones, all complimented with a cup of tea or glass of champagne. The Parlour is home to the famous dog afternoon tea, with a dedicated doggie menu featuring gourmet organic food and sweet treats formulated by an expert canine nutritionist. During the holiday season, don’t miss The Parlour’s festive afternoon tea, featuring picture-perfect pastries, delicate finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones. For an extra-special celebration, upgrade to free-flowing champagne – the perfect indulgence for celebrating the festive season in style.

For one of the most beautiful afternoon teas in London – visit Gallery at the Savoy in Covent Garden

The Savoy Hotel’s opulent glass-domed atrium Gallery has hosted its iconic afternoon tea honouring the traditional version of the service for more than a century. The storied room pulses with natural light, while a theatrical gazebo takes centre stage, graced by musicians who add to the buzzy atmosphere. More than 30 teas complement an array of sandwiches and a selection of pastries such as the signature Savoy sandwich (sweet honey sponge prepared with clementine marmalade and chamomile). Bonus points for the thoughtful children’s menu, filled with imaginative snacks including a chocolate pot topped with cereal “pearls.”

For champagne and luxurious vibes – book at Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont in Mayfair

Afternoon tea has a slight American accent at Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont, an elegant, award-winning venue nestled in an iconic London hotel, thanks to themed cocktails and transatlantic dishes. Unwind in the luxurious Gatsby Room and enjoy drinks with names such as Airmail (rum, honey, lime, and champagne) and Platinum punch (gin) before tucking into oak-smoked lox and salt beef Reuben sandwiches. Round things out with fresh scones, salt water taffy, and a zesty yuzu cream pie. Winner of the Afternoon Tea Awards 2024 for ‘Best Traditional Afternoon Tea’, this must-visit destination is perfect for a special occasion to remember.

For celebrating a birthday – try Fait Maison, Salon de Thé in South Kensington, Mayfair and Earls Court

Afternoon tea at chef Om Waleed’s restaurants Fait Maison, Salon de Thé is an Instagrammer’s dream with its flower-covered frontage and delicate porcelain tableware. Teas such as lavender Earl Grey and Spring Blossom, infused with orange, roses, and mint, echo the floral theme. The menu is a sweet affair, focused on cakes and various photogenic desserts. Go for the classic cream tea or, if you’re flying solo, try the delicious afternoon tea for one. Both options offer scones, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats. Splurge by adding on desserts including the Fougie, a sumptuous chocolate brownie blanketed by Turkish cotton candy and topped with gelato, hazelnut sauce, and crushed pistachios. 

📍 South Kensington — Check availability

📍 Mayfair — Check availability

📍 Earls Court — Check availability

For a transportative afternoon – don’t miss The Chinese Whispers Afternoon Tea at Kai in Mayfair

Expect the MICHELIN-star treatment at The Chinese Whispers Afternoon Tea at Kai, where afternoon tea is inspired by Chinese flavours. The theme is “whispers and secrets,” which explains beverage names such as the Truth Potion, a flight of three drinks including sparkling ginger ale, hibiscus green tea, and slightly boozy lemongrass white tea to whet the appetite. The trio sets the stage for specialty teas and cake stands piled high with bao, gilded cages filled with clotted cream macarons, and jars of tea and vanilla sablé Breton sweets. 

For one of the best themed afternoon teas in London – try Mad Hatters Tea at Sanderson London in Soho

Channel the legendary party from Alice in Wonderland at the Mad Hatters Tea at Sanderson London. Diners can gaze at the green lawns of the Sanderson and imagine they’re in the beloved Lewis Carroll story. Bespoke tea flavours include the Mad Hatter, green tea infused with passion fruit, guava, and mango, and the Queen Of Hearts, a rose tea with hints of vanilla and chocolate. Whimsical snacks—such as the Caterpillar Swirl, or brown shrimp, cheese, and herbs on dark bread, and the White Rabbit Carrot and Plant Pot, made of chocolate “soil,” carrot cake, and a gin tear sphere—are highlights. A vegan menu is also available. 

For a Mother’s Day afternoon tea at one of the best hotels in London – visit Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough in Knightsbridge

The stunning blue and gold neoclassical rooms at The Lanesborough provide an ideal backdrop for a stylish afternoon tea. Sip on champagne as you consider which black, green, white, or herbal teas to order. Accompanying sandwiches include poached corn-fed chicken with chives and sour cream, and the iconic cucumber and cream cheese combo, perked up here with garlic cream cheese. The Bridgerton afternoon tea is the star of the season, featuring a delightful selection of sweet and savoury treats that will transport you straight into an episode of the hit Netflix show. Expect picture-perfect cakes and pastries inspired by your favourite characters, served alongside a themed cocktail and an exclusive Bridgerton blend of black tea infused with notes of red fruits and roses. For Mother’s Day, treat your mum to a special afternoon tea service with champagne, hosted in the grand Belgravia Room overlooking Hyde Park.

For one of the best budget-friendly afternoon teas in London – try Bbar and Restaurant in Victoria

Explore South African flavours at Bbar and Restaurant, a vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in the heart of Victoria. Mini bunny chows (hollowed-out loaves of white bread filled with curry), Amarula-infused scones, and flavoured rooibos tea pay homage to South Africa’s multicultural roots. Savour it all in a playful setting of giraffe-print sofas, colourful botanical paintings, and black-and-white wildlife shots. For a more traditional British take, book the Chip Shop Fish and Chips experience via OpenTable, featuring classic battered fish served with mushy peas and pickled egg, plus cakes and scones. 

For one of the best kids’ afternoon teas in London the whole family will love – try Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London in Holborn

Creatives and art lovers will swoon over the colourful afternoon tea by executive pastry chef Mark Perkins at Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London. His latest menu is inspired by iconic British artist David Hockney and his exhibition at Lightroom. Tea is served in the hotel’s ambient and light-filled Mirror Room, where diners can sample rare brews recommended by tea sommelier and restaurant manager Shane Cox. Pastries including The Splash (Earl Grey chocolate bavarois with chocolate sponge and passionfruit) complement Hockney’s paintings. A dedicated children’s menu means tea can be a family affair. Try the Valentine’s Day art afternoon tea menu for something romantic and a little bit special – art and romance-inspired dishes such as the Painter’s Palette – a sweet treat finished with a strawberry chocolate heart.

For one of the best English afternoon teas in London with a view – explore The Library at County Hall in Waterloo

Escape London’s hustle and bustle at The Library at County Hall, a relaxing Southbank tea spot with sweeping views over Big Ben, the River Thames, London Eye, and Houses of Parliament. The restaurant was once the members’ library of London’s County Council, which explains the original oak bookcases and a statement fireplace. Taste a variety of teas while grazing on sandwiches filled with devilled egg and mayonnaise or cucumber and cured salmon on beetroot bread. And for an extra-special celebration, don’t miss the luxury champagne afternoon tea or the free-flowing afternoon tea with British sparkling.

For French pâtisseries and macarons – look no further than Afternoon Tea at Flemings Mayfair in Piccadilly

The Drawing Room at Flemings Mayfair reflects sophistication and refinement, paying tribute to the hotel’s 18th-century heritage. Step into an Indian-inspired tea room completed with hand-painted wall panels and an original marble fireplace and get ready for a stellar traditional afternoon tea designed by executive chef Sofian Msetfi. The selection includes homemade scones with Fleming’s signature strawberry jam, homemade sandwiches (vegetarian options available) and an assortment of delicious French pâtisseries and macarons. Pair lemon meringue tarts, Mont Blancs and chocolate éclairs with a glass of champagne for the most elegant afternoon tea.

For one of the best value afternoon teas in London with unlimited cocktails – don’t miss MAP Maison in Hackney

A tapas-style afternoon tea in Hackney puts the spotlight on Spanish flavours and makes MAP Maison one of the best affordable afternoon teas in London for a budget-friendly celebration. Settle into plush couches and velvet chairs while browsing the tea menu, where highlights include a high-end oolong and a chocolatey blend of vanilla pods and Peruvian cocoa nibs. Then feast on mini sourdough baguettes with Ibérico ham, mozzarella, avocado mash, and black olive tapenade. There are Ibérico burgers for heftier appetites, plus desserts such as the mini banoffee pie, cheesecake shots, and red velvet cake. MAP Maison’s trendy location and dynamic atmosphere make it well-suited for groups—and there’s the option to make it a livelier party with unlimited cocktails for 90 minutes.

For one of the best Indian afternoon teas in London with a vegetarian menu – visit The Cardamom Club in Stanmore

The Cardamom Club’s design-forward space, with bright pops of pink, yellow, and blue, is a cool and contemporary spot to experience afternoon tea. Indian-inspired small plates get the spotlight at this “high chai”, Spread fruity strawberry jam on cardamom and chai scones and relish the mango chile cheesecake. For savoury accompaniments, get the vada pav, a deep-fried potato dumpling inside a soft bun, or the Bombay sandwich, toasted white bread topped with a vibrant herb chutney, chaat masala, and layers of cucumber, onion, and tomato. Don’t miss the signature cardamom masala chai to cap off the meal.       

Afternoon tea, that most quintessential of British customs, has been an iconic part of the culture since the mid-1800s. Originally something for the upper classes, afternoon tea is now an institution we can all get on board with. And with the capital packed with stellar venues offering everything from classic finger sandwiches, pastries and bubbly, to oriental takes on afternoon tea, and much more, you’re spoilt for choice.

Book your next culinary adventure and the best afternoon teas in London on OpenTable.

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