My favourite afternoon teas in London

In my opinion, one of the best things to do in England’s capital is to sample one of the top afternoon teas in London.

A quintessential British tradition, it’s a wonderful excuse to indulge in mouth-watering food, tea and perhaps even a glass of Champagne if you’re feeling fancy. 

From the impossibly elegant settings of London’s most luxurious hotels to quirky twists on tradition at some of the city’s most innovative dining spots, there is plenty to choose from.

Whether you’re a dedicated tea fanatic like me, or you’re trying the British tradition for the very first time, you can’t go wrong with my pick of the best afternoon teas in London.

At these spots you’ll find scrummy sandwiches, succulent scones and perfect patisseries with the choice of more teas than you even knew existed!

I’ve sipped and savoured my way through the city to bring you my favourite places for afternoon tea in London. 

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1. The Langham

Best for: Afternoon tea heritage

Address: 1C Portland Pl, London W1B 1JA

Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12:30 – 17:00

Cost: £80 per person (£90 with Champagne)

Known as the birthplace of afternoon tea, The Langham holds a special place on London’s tea scene. 

Tea service is held in the elegant Palm Court, which provides a truly sumptuous setting for a spot of this classic British tradition.

The Langham’s signature teas are crafted especially for the hotel and there is ample choice.

Plus, you don’t have to stick to just one tea, so it’s the perfect opportunity to try some new flavours. 

As you’d expect, the finger sandwiches are utterly scrumptious and the scones top-tier. But the real highlight is the exquisitely crafted pastries which are all based on classic British favourites.

For example, The Langham’s newest afternoon tea offering features a sophisticated take on Angel Cake, the Party Ring, the Twix chocolate bar and the Ginger Nut.

As well as its memorable afternoon tea, The Langham is also one of my favourite luxury hotels in London. 

I’d really recommend booking a stay if you want to treat yourself!

2. Sketch

Best for: Tea with a twist

Address: 9 Conduit St, London W1S 2XG

Hours: 11:00 – 16:30

Cost: £95 per person (£110 with Champagne)

If you prefer to step away from tradition and embrace something a little quirky then I know you’re going to love afternoon tea at Sketch.

You’ve probably seen the interior (including its toilets!) plastered all over Instagram and they’ve certainly gained attention for their bold colours and unmistakable vibrancy.

Setting aside, you are in for a treat with the afternoon tea. It’s a truly luxurious experience that features everything from caviar to quail eggs.

If that’s not enough, your afternoon tea will also be elevated with a string trio orchestra for an extra theatrical touch.

Whether you’re visiting for the whimsical decor or the mouth-watering treats, this is undoubtedly one of the best afternoon teas in London.

3. Fortnum & Mason

Best for: Royal seal of approval

Address: The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, 181 Piccadilly, St James’s, London W1A 1ER

Hours:

• Monday – Saturday, 11:00 – 20:00
• Sunday 11:30 – 18:00

Cost: £80 per person 

As well as being my favourite department store in London, the afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason is second to none. 

Served in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, you can expect a classic experience that perfectly captures a quintessentially British culinary heritage. 

Indulge in a scrumptious selection of sandwiches covering all the classics, including cucumber, coronation chicken and egg mayonnaise. 

The scones are served warm and the delicate patisseries are a real showstopper. 

For those who really love their tea, you can even throw in an expert tea tasting with a ‘Tearista’ at your table. 

After you’ve finished your afternoon tea, I’d definitely recommend going for a wander around the store.

Pick up some iconic Fortnum & Mason teas or coffees to take home with you, or seek out your favourite biscuits. It’s a stem ginger biscuit for me!

4. The Ritz

Best for: An opulent setting

Address: 150 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1J 9BR

Hours: Monday to Sunday 11:30 – 19:30

Cost: £75 per person 

An iconic hotel in London, afternoon tea at The Ritz is synonymous with opulence and elegance. 

Served in the Palm Court, you’ll dine underneath sparkling chandeliers and against the backdrop of classical music from the grand piano.

You’ll find a thoroughly traditional afternoon tea here, complete with classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and exquisite patisseries.

There are 20 different loose-leaf teas to choose from – plus, I think such a sumptuous setting demands of glass of Champagne too!

This is also the only hotel in the UK to have a certified Tea Master, so you know you are getting the absolute best of the best here. 

It’s worth noting that there is a formal dress code here: jacket and tie for men, and no jeans or sportswear for both men and women. 

If you fancy an extra special overnight stay then book a room at The Ritz.

5. Kona at Taj 51

Best for: An opulent setting

Address: 150 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1J 9BR

Hours: Friday to Sunday 12:00 – 16:00

Cost: £75 per person 

For a classic afternoon tea in London with a distinctly Indian twist, I know you’ll love Kona at Taj 51. 

The setting is intimate and elegant, but with a more laid-back feel than the overt opulence of The Ritz. 

For an innovative take on British afternoon tea, I’d highly recommend the Indian Jasmine Afternoon Tea. 

Think Indian classics that combine aromatic vegetables, zesty chutneys and warming spices. While the sweets are wonderfully fragrant and flavourful.

If you’d prefer a more traditional afternoon tea that’s more quintessentially British then they also offer the Secret Garden Afternoon Tea. 

With this option you get all the recognisable sandwiches, scones and patisseries. 

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences is also one of my favourite spa hotels in London, so I’d wholeheartedly recommend a stay too.

Let me know any of your favourite afternoon teas in London by getting in touch in the comments below.

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