The best afternoon teas in London for the perfect tier of treats
Where to indulge in all the mini sandwiches, scones, cakes, and delicate brews.
Afternoon tea is a British tradition steeped in history. In the 1800s, the Duchess of Bedford, a close friend of Queen Victoria, needed something to satisfy her hunger between lunch and dinner. She settled on a ritual of small bites and sweet treats, and let’s just say, it really caught on. Today, the best afternoon teas in London offer something for all budgets at every corner of the city, including within the best five-star hotels.
The best afternoon teas in London for all budgets
1. Café Royal | Soho
If you want to dine in a lavish royal setting, look no further than Café Royal. The gilded golden salon was once Oscar Wilde’s regular retreat, amongst many other notable figures in history. Afternoon tea is crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Loic Carbonnet, where every sweet delicacy is a work of art. Not to mention the fluffy traditional scones and luxury tea sandwiches (the egg and truffle will steal the show). Add a glass of Veuve Clicquot and the melodic sounds of a live pianist, and you’re transported to another time and place.
Find out more about Hotel Café Royal
2. The Lanesborough | Hyde Park Corner
One of London’s luxurious fab five, The Lanesborough is a remarkable destination, not just for overnights but for any single F&B visit. Afternoon tea pays homage to Bridgerton, giving guests the elegant Regency-era touch. It’s served within the ornate dining room, illuminated by a domed glass roof by day or a chandelier sparkle come evening. Under it, your tiers include fresh truffled sandwiches, warm scones just baked, and sweet concepts inspired by the series, including Colin’s Travels, a Colin Bridgerton chocolate treat encased in a travel trunk. Bridgerton devotee or not, you’ll be charmed by the whole thing, and the service is Michelin-grade.
Find out more about The Lanesborough
3. The Rubens at the Palace | Buckingham Palace Road, Victoria
Mark any Buckingham Palace occasion with royal afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace, an all-round quintessential English experience with panoramic views of the Royal Mews. Guests may be positioned to take full advantage, thanks to prime window-facing tables.
Television’s Sarah Houghting helms the pastry kitchen, where a sweet coffee crown, hazelnut roche, and citrus pistachio tart masterfully top tiers. Below them, scones and sandwiches harnessing all that’s seasonal and local. The smoked salmon and chive cream cheese was our favourite, and the team are more than happy to refill. Add sparkle on The King’s Swan, a gin cocktail with Lanson Le Black Réserve, or just go all-in with a glass of Lanson itself. Teas are courtesy of PMD, a family-run tea company, and there are plentiful dietary modifications, including vegetarian, vegan, halal and even a kids’ menu. A triumph of a high tea.
Find out more about The Rubens at the Palace
4. Lucky Cat at 22 Bishopsgate | Liverpool Street
What’s better than afternoon tea in The Shard? Afternoon tea with a view OF The Shard. Gordon Ramsay’s sparkly Lucky Cat is officially London’s highest restaurant, perched up on the 60th floor of the Bishopsgate skyscraper.
Your cloud high tea isn’t the usual run-of-the-mill either. But rather, tiers reflect the restaurants’ Asian-inspired menu. Items include a nigiri selection for the table, adorable sandos you just want to Bento, and sweets dusted with matcha, yuzu and miso. At £50 per person, coming for the views alone is a steal, let alone the tasties, so you might as well upgrade with Perrier-Jouët or Akashi-Tai sparkling sake, too.
Find out more about Lucky Cat at 22 Bishopsgate
5. TING at Shangri-La The Shard | London Bridge
With a menu that changes seasonally, an afternoon tea experience at TING is a wonderful idea whenever you’re visiting London. The views from this spot on Level 35 at the iconic Shard are unbeatable (you can see the Tower of London, London Bridge and even the London Eye from this vantage), whatever the weather and the whole affair feels very luxe.
No matter the season, you’re assured a delicate selection of sweet and savoury treats, with vegetarian and vegan options available, and the scone course is always a highlight. Pair your three-tier with a selection of teas and bubbles if you’re celebrating, and we promise you’ll be happy.
Read our full review of afternoon tea at TING at Shangri-La The Shard.
Find out more about TING at Shangri-La The Shard
6. Theatre Royal Drury Lane | Covent Garden
Fancy a showstopper? Strut your stuff over to Covent Garden for The Lane’s delightfully theatrical afternoon tea. Act one ‘treads the boards’ with a serving board of three savouries, crafted from the original 101-year-old stage floor removed during the building’s restoration; act two is all the sweets (scones included) concealed beneath ‘red velvet curtain’ reveal; and for the finale, a seasonal layered cake that deserves a standing ovation. A fabulous take on British tradition, served within the stunning Grand Saloon. Acts are served alongside hot drinks, with the option to upgrade to Champagne upon arrival. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available. Tip: Have your last drink out on the terrace if the weather’s on side.
Find out more about The Lane
7. The Landmark London | Marylebone
The Landmark’s afternoon tea is an escape from the city within the city, served under sweeping high palms of a magnificent Victorian atrium, guests indulge in a light and serene setting soundtracked by classical piano. Begin with delicate finger sandwiches, that are generously refilled, before moving onto the tiers. They comprise freshly baked scones with rich Cornish clotted cream and Valrhona chocolate & caramel spread, and crafted cakes and pastries designed by award-winning pastry chef Matteo Sargentelli. Served alongside Palmer & Co or Tattinger bubbles, and hot brews
Find out more about The Landmark London
8. NoMad London | Covent Garden
Located in the former Bow Street Magistrates Court and Police Station, afternoon tea at the NoMad is served within a recently revamped atrium, Twenty8 NoMad. Guests start with a glass of Gusbourne Blanc de Blancs, followed by open sandwiches like a pretty Cucumber & Herbed Cream Cheese and a protein-packed Smoked Salmon on an Everything Bagel. Delightfully, a lighter way to sandwich. More space is then left to enjoy savoury and sweet scones, before a grand finish of sweets. Rare Teas supply the brews, and afterwards we recommend popping up to The Library for a post-tea cocktail when day spills into dusk.
Find out more about NoMad London
9. The Wolseley | Mayfair and City of London
A favourite of Londoners, The Wolseley in Mayfair is an afternoon tea institution, but did you know there’s another outpost in city? Offering a similar signature tea experience, this one’s a stunner on King William Street by Monument Square. Whichever you visit, expect assorted finger sandwiches, fruit scones, and cakes, on a classic Wolseley silver tier. Canton teas and bubbles complete the occasion, all at exceptional price points. No wonder city locals keep on coming back.
Find out more about The Wolseley
10. The Langham | Marylebone
Served in the elegant Palm Court, you’ll be seated in an iconic dining room soundtracked by a live pianist. Fancies are delivered on beautiful bespoke chinaware designed by William Edwards, including classic finger sandwiches and savouries, and jewel-like cakes and pastries. Interestingly, you end with scones at The Langham; a warm and fluffy quartet with clotted cream and homemade seasonal preserves. Children’s, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free modifications can be made.
Find out more about The Langham
11. Raffles London at The OWO | Whitehall
Everyone from history buffs to Bond fans will enjoy the afternoon tea experience at Raffles London at The OWO. Housed inside the former Old War Office, where the nation’s Military Intelligence Service was born, the hotel’s Secrets & Spies offering pays homage to some lesser-known females who each had unique roles in winning the war.
What makes this a standout, apart from the ‘if these walls could speak’ vibes, is the exquisite service. Our server told us stories about the spies, what inspired the different sweet treats, and even shared some personal encounters with former agents.
The pianist was a knockout, jazzing up classic tunes and sprinkling in a few modern ones, and this made it feel like a real event. Tea aficionados will love the extensive selection, including a few one-of-a-kind brews crafted especially for the hotel (the smoky ode to Churchill was our favourite). Add a glass of bubbles, either with or without alcohol, and you’re set for the perfect afternoon.
Discover more about Secrets & Spies at Raffles London at The OWO
12. Brown’s Hotel | Mayfair
A favourite afternoon tea destination of Queen Victoria’s, Brown’s today continues a royal tradition within its irresistible Drawing Room. Warm wooden panelling, a grand fireplace, and an inspiring art collection make for an elegant and cosy respite away from all Mayfair traffic. Let a golden masala chai soothe (or an Exton Park sparkling from Hampshire) and commence a very British brewtime journey. Your tier features the beloved greats: coronation chicken and smoked salmon sandwiches, plain and fruit scones, and a delightful Kipling cake to finish.
Find out more about Brown’s Hotel
13. Fortnum & Mason | Mayfair and City of London
When it comes to the best afternoon teas in London, Fortnum’s has to be on the list. Whilst the Piccadilly flagship’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon often takes the spotlight (and rightly so, it’s incredible), we also appreciate the outpost at The Royal Exchange. Expect a menu of seasonal and contemporary offerings, including perfect sandwiches, scones, and cake. Plus, what Fortnum & Mason is unparalleled in crafting: tea. Our pick is the dark and flavourful Royal Exchange Blend, which can also be picked up from the store within the building.
Find out more about Fortnum & Mason
14. The Stafford | Mayfair
The Stafford’s an oasis of tranquillity despite being in the heart of West End London. In The Game Bird, their award-winning restaurant, guests savour luxurious tiers of treats comprised of dainty finger sandwiches, homemade sweet (plain and raisin) and savoury (Paxton and Whitfield Westcome cheddar) scones, and a seasonal selection of cakes and pastries. They’re wheeled over in bespoke trolleys for a theatrical effect too. Teas are locally blended from Camellia’s Tea House (must try: the Stafford English Breakfast), and your meal can also be accompanied by champagnes and wines.
Find out more about The Stafford
15. Ham Yard Hotel | Soho
Be served savouries and sweets in company of the chic spaces of Ham Yard, within their floral drawing room that basks in natural light no matter how gloomy the weather. This Piccadilly hotel is from the folks behind Firmdale’s Soho and Covent Garden Hotels, and you’ll notice that signature boutique meets members club essence, dressed in distinctly British fashion. The tea courses echo that fancy, spinning miniature sausage rolls and roast chicken sandwiches, then with scones and jams, and a delicate array of mini pastries to finish. Bubbles are brought in from the UK and France, and extra scones and sandwiches may be ordered for a small supplement.
Find out more about Ham Yard Hotel
16. The Londoner | Leicester Square
Afternoon tea at The Londoner is one you can sink into for hours, held at The Stage, the hotel’s cosy champagne bar strewn in gold decor, mirrored ceilings and plush couches. It’s called the stage for three spotlight offerings; Champagne breakfast, Champagne afternoon tea, and a Champagne finale of cheese and charcuterie. Afternoon tea partners with Ruinart, beginning with a freshly prepared Amuse-Bouche Du Jour, followed by seasonal sandwiches like the Ruinart Brut poached corn-fed chicken with caramelised onion and truffle tarragon. There’s also a Patisserie Trolley with sweets for selection. Champagnes span from non-alcoholic to Dom Pérignon.
Find out more about The Londoner
17. The Clermont | Charing Cross
Attached to Charing Cross train station, it’s no wonder The Clermont’s tea has partnered with Hidden London tube tours, but this is worth a standalone visit too and one of our favourite (semi) hidden gems in London. Though situated in one of the capital’s busiest zones, the restaurant is a calming respite, and guests can sip on warm brews for hours in peace on a plush velvet armchair or sofa. Tea is joined by classic British savoury sandwiches, warm scones, and sweets like the Eton mess and chocolate & orange tart. Bubbles like the Chapel Down and afternoon tea cocktails like the gin-based Fizzy Journey are also available.
Find out more about The Clermont
18. JW Marriott Grosvenor House | Mayfair
Every season, the iconic JW Marriott Grosvenor House hotel welcomes a new afternoon tea theme to its exceptional location on Park Lane. Step inside The Park Room, and you’ll be embraced by the world-class hospitality that this 5-star property is renowned for. Until November 2025, guests can indulge in the Pas de Deux afternoon tea, an ode to the annual performance given by the prestigious Imperial Society of Dance Teachers that took place in the hotel’s Great Room in 1932.
We can confirm that the whole experience is on point(e). From the watercolour illustrations on the menu by Anna Jayne Designs to the refreshing welcome granita laced with English Sparkling Wine to the perfectly crafted sweet treats, each inspired by classical ballet to the brilliant live pianist, an afternoon here is an unforgettable one.
We opted for the vegetarian afternoon tea set and were impressed by the flavourful finger sandwiches (esp the artichoke offering) and the selection of jams with scones – go for the rose petal and the rhubarb & ginger varieties along with classic strawberry for a taste sensation.
Learn more about The Park Room at JW Marriott Grosvenor House
19. Cutter & Squidge | Soho
If you’re a fan of London’s independent bakeries, chances are, Cutter & Squidge tops the sweet spot. The sister-owned bakery’s Soho cafe serves a delightful afternoon tea, nicely priced at just £32.50 per person. It comes with classic sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, and what they’re most famous for: dream cakes, biskies, and macarons. A pot of specially blended tea is included, but you can also upgrade with bubbles. Cutter & Squidge is London’s only all-natural bakery, delivering all over the UK, and let’s just say, once you take a bite, there’s no going back. Expect to level up birthdays and all other celebratory occasions requiring cake.
Find out more about Cutter and Squidge
20. The Savoy | Covent Garden
The Savoy’s afternoon tea has been a bucket list endeavor for centuries: served within the iconic hotel since 1889. Today, guests sip and savour in the Thames Foyer, a chandelier-strewn atrium basking in natural light. Start with the classic British sandwiches with a twist, served alongside savoury bites like the parsnip and parmesan cake, then sweeten up with a freshly baked plain or raisin scone and cake selection including blueberry tartlet and a creamy gianduja. There are over 30 JING teas to choose from, including Darjeeling varieties and a sparkling tea as a non-alcoholic alternative to champagne.
Read our full review of a stay at The Savoy.
Find out more about The Savoy
21. The Berkeley | Knightsbridge
The Berkeley may best be known for its iconic Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea, but this season famed French pastry chef Cedric Grolet enters the catwalk to put his signature spin on the occasion. In his first pâtisserie outside Paris, guests are treated to a Goûtea meets British selection of treats, including savoury bites like the Fogaggia and the salmon avocado tart, and tree of sweets spanning sculpted fruits, mini tartlets, and his signature cookies. All in the hotel’s cosy yet chic café surrounds.
Find out more about The Berkeley
22. Brigit’s Bakery | Central London
For a classic afternoon tea with a twist, Brigit’s Bakery offers an exceptional experience for both tourists and those playing tourist in their own backyard. Hop aboard a vintage-style red double-decker bus and sample exquisite sweet and savoury treats as you get up-close-and-personal with sights including The Thames, Big Ben, and Royal Albert Hall.
This 90-minute journey has a soundtrack that tells you about the different places you’re passing and the team will keep you from getting dehydrated thanks to their selection of teas, coffees, and drinks. Of course, scones make an appearance with lashings of jam and clotted cream.
Find out more about Brigit’s Afternoon Tea Bus London Sightseeing Tour
23. Swan London | Bankside
If you’re seeing a show at Shakespeare’s Globe, then make a meal of it at the venue’s neighbourhood restaurant, The Swan. Here you’ll find a delectable afternoon tea, served weekdays from 12-5 pm, which includes a signature Love Potion cocktail, plus classic savouries, warm scones, and sweets. Best of all, they’re themed to a timeless Shakespeare story to really get you in the spirit of the production. A huge array of teas is available too, and the full cocktail list is fantastic. Try the Lady Macbeth (Sipsmith sloe gin, Martini Rubino, Campari, and lemon) if you like them gin-based.
Find out more about Swan London
24. Oblix | London Bridge
If you’re looking for a sugar high as well as an elevation high, then Oblix has just the booking. Situated on floor 32 on the East side of the venue, guests are treated to British classics with a twist against the London skyline. Sandwiches include coronation chicken with mango chutney & coriander for a delightful tang, fresh scones that come with whipped clotted cream and honeycomb or raspberry preserve, and Madeleines are made with warm honey and dipped with chocolate sauce. Guests can upgrade with cocktails, wines, and Champagne (including bottomless) for an additional fee.
Find out more about Oblix
25. Haymarket Hotel | Haymarket
Nothing quite says London better than the Haymarket’s afternoon tea. The five-star hotel’s ‘London Calling’ tier pays tribute to the city’s most iconic sights, including the Dark chocolate & orange Big Ben, Cinnamon & cream cheese London Eye and a creamy Trafalgar Square Victoria Sponge. Served in the quaint Brumus brasserie, the experience comes with teas (obvs), and a glass of Langham Estate’s Culver Classic Cuvée or a ‘London Buzz’ cocktail. We love that the savouries include a mini scotch egg and pie in addition to classic sandwiches.
Find out more about Haymarket Hotel
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