Cake, sandwiches and fun children’s book characters – the new afternoon teas in London inspired to suit the tiny tribe are the perfect way to keep the entire family happy. Here are some of the best child-friendly afternoon teas in the capital.
The first children’s afternoon tea at The Savoy features mouth-watering treats inspired by Judith Kerr’s famous children’s book “The Tiger Who Came to Tea”, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The iconic picture book has been transformed into a feast of teatime treats that draw inspiration from the tea that Sophie and her mum shared with a visiting tiger in the story. Expect stripy scones, blue and pink Battenberg, and marzipan tigers. What can we say? Simply a purr-fect afternoon tea for little ones.
The Langham, winner of ‘Best Tea Service’ at last year’s Afternoon Tea Awards, has teamed up with Daunt Books to create a special treat for little literary lovers. Before indulging in culinary treats like jigsaw puzzle sandwiches, a chocolate whale, and salted toffee popcorn, children can select their own new book from a specially curated library.
At Aqua Shard, families are taken on a fun-filled journey down memory lane, with a playful range of nostalgic and creative sweets and savouries inspired by P.L. Travers’ books. Mary Poppins comes alive in this special afternoon tea, putting a smile on the little one’s faces whilst they enjoy delicious crumpets, dainty sandwiches and scones with clotted cream. So, what are you waiting for? Take a trip back to your childhood – you won’t be disappointed!
Tumble down the rabbit hole and discover one of the most creative tea parties you have ever seen. Fans of Alice in Wonderland will love the vanilla macaroon shaped like the Mad March Hare’s pocket watch and the fruity ‘Drink Me’ potion. Prepare yourself for a truly whimsical afternoon tea.
Fancy boosting your children’s interest in the great outdoors? Why not give the Mini Gardener Afternoon Tea at St. Ermin’s Tea Lounge a try? Your little foodie can indulge in milk chocolate lollipop shortbread and scones with jam and cream, and they will also receive a special herb garden growing pack. Delicious and educational at the same time and hopefully turning sticky fingers into green ones in no time.
Dine like royalty in the hotel’s Palace Lounge, overlooking Buckingham Palace’s Royal Mews. Here, little ones can enjoy bite-size sandwiches, delicious pastries, and a milkshake or hot chocolate if they’re not into tea.
Situated in Covent Garden, Monmouth Kitchen offers an Italian twist on the quintessentially British afternoon tea experience. The ‘El Dolce Nino’ tea is designed for little foodies and includes a mini Margherita pizza, cherry tomato bruschetta, Sicilian lemon scones and churros with chocolate sauce. A must-try for any family looking for a treat with added Mediterranean flair.
The Peter Rabbit-themed tea at the Terrace on Piccadilly brings the story to life with chamomile chocolate flower pots, vegetable patch sandwiches, and – every bunny’s favourite – carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. While the grown-ups enjoy their tea, the little ones can choose from hot chocolate, Peter’s Springtime Lemonade, or Flopsy’s Strawberry Surprise.
The Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-inspired tea at One Aldwych is sure to make little chocolate lovers’ hearts beat a little faster. Executive chef Dominic Teague has created the most delicious spread of savouries and sweets, including Loompaland lemon floss, Wonka-worthy cakes, and scones with snozzberry jam!
Inspired by traditional sweet shops, tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair offers a playful twist on traditional British afternoon tea. Surrounded by an array of old-fashioned sweet jars, guests can enjoy cakes and pastries based on our favourite retro confectionery – Coca-Cola slices, cherry bonbon cupcakes and lots more. Kids will love filling their takeaway pick ‘n’ mix bag from The Chesterfield’s sweet shop cart.
This is a guest post from freelance journalist Beatrice Clark. She has written for Vogue, Glamour and Vanity Fair, among others, and has spent the past 15 years living in France, England and Scotland. She is currently based in Berlin and is always on the hunt for the perfect Eggs Benedict.
