Afternoon Tea in London is one of the best activities to try out when you’re visiting one of the crown jewels of Europe (ha, get it?). It can be hard to know where the best afternoon tea in London is though, especially if you’re a first time visiter.
Find the best afternoon tea spots in London in this post, including what makes each experience unique, afternoon tea pricing information and location tips and tricks to determine which afternoon tea is best for your upcoming trip to London!
When you’re looking for an afternoon tea spot, I think it’s important to know that this will likely feel like a full meal for you. The portions are a lot larger than they look at most places! As Americans, we usually go at the earliest time possible for the afternoon tea, as we like to use it as a lunch. Sometimes we aren’t able to go until 1 p.m., so we eat a medium-sized breakfast, skip lunch and save all our room for afternoon tea.
My husband eats a lot, and he still gets full from most of the afternoon teas we have been to.
Keep reading for the best afternoon tea in London!
Best Afternoon Tea Spots in London
1. B Bakery Tea Bus
Starting with the most unique, how cool is this Afternoon Tea Bus Tour?! I don’t think it gets much more “London” than having afternoon tea, on a double decker bus, while being chauffeured around the city’s most iconic sites.
The tour and tea service lasts 90 minutes and includes your tour and the afternoon tea starting at £45, which sounds like a steal to me! There are seats on the top and bottom decks, so just know the price goes up slightly for the premium sports for sightseeing! I think this is more than worth it though, considering you get a tour and the tea- two things that can be pricey on their own.
2. St. Ermin’s
Conveniently located near Westminster Abbey, St. Ermin’s Afternoon tea is delightful. This is your traditional afternoon tea, and the hotel it’s located in is stunning. You also just cannot beat the location if you’re spending the morning near Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and more.
Starting at £34 per person, this more affordable and imaginative afternoon tea is definitely worth a visit.
3. The Savoy
The Savoy is classic London, and their tea service is no different. This tea service has been in operation since 1889, that’s more than 130 years!
This historic afternoon tea does come at a price, with the service starting at £65 per person. The Savoy’s world-famous Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed in the Thames Foyer, the heart of The Savoy, where a stunning glass-domed atrium, radiates natural light and sociable warmth. An impressive gazebo takes centre stage where a pianist plays during the day, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
4. Sketch
Outside the likes of Big Ben, the London Eye and Buckingham Palace, Sketch is perhaps one of London’s most-photographed spots. You will want to check out “the Gallery” room specifically, as each room has a little bit of a different theme and offering!
This restaurant is extremely whimsical and very insta-worthy. A full photoshoot is a must when you’re visiting. Sketch is also conveniently located to Covent Garden and Piccadilly Circus. Starting at £70 per person. P.s. Make sure you don’t miss a visit to their iconic bathrooms… trust me!
5. The Academy
The Academy Hotel boasts a quaint afternoon tea experience near the British Museum. This afternoon tea is inspired by the tale of Mr Ma & Son, by Lao She – Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea
artfully combines Chinese sweet treats with classic British fare.
• Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea – £25 per person (includes complimentary glass of Prosecco)
• Mr Ma’s Bloomsbury Afternoon Tea – £35 per person (includes glass of Bloomsbury Sparkling Wine)
• Mr Ma’s Gin Afternoon Tea – £35 per person (includes Gin & Tonic cocktail)
6. Themed tea at the Shard
Ting London, located in the iconic Shard building, switches up their afternoon tea theme every now and then, so definitely make sure to check and see what they have planned for when you will be there! Each theme is incredibly imaginative and unique, and the view from your table is sure impress.
7. Claridge’s
Claridge’s Afternoon Tea is always a good choice! Their iconic blue and white serving ware really elevates the entire experience. Claridge’s features a classic afternoon tea and introduces special feature teas regularly.
If you’re new to afternoon tea, I think it’s important to know a few of the basics before you get started. This is a little bit of a unique dining experience, so it’s nice to know a little bit of what you’re getting yourself into.
If you want to read more about taking a trip to London, make sure to check out My U.K. part 1 and part 2 posts and my extremely informational guide to Platform 9 3/4.
