Palm Court at The Langham

Step back in time to the very birthplace of afternoon tea, where Victorian nobility first enjoyed this tradition 160 years ago. At The Langham, expect impeccable service, Champagne toasts, and a spread of featherlight scones and dainty finger sandwiches. This October, renowned chefs Michel Roux Jr. and Andrew Gravett will unveil a winter pastry collection—highlighted by a mulled cider and apple crème fraîche tart that’s sure to steal the show.

The Ritz

Afternoon tea at The Ritz is more than just an event—it’s an institution. Held in the glittering Palm Court, with golden statues and chandeliers overhead, this tea service includes all the essentials: cucumber sandwiches, scones, and a selection of 20 loose-leaf teas. Don’t miss out on the slices of cake served from a traditional guéridon trolley, accompanied by live piano music.

JOIA Bar at art’otel

Perched high above London, JOIA offers a modern twist on afternoon tea, with cinnamon custard tarts and salmon sandwiches, all served against the backdrop of the city’s iconic skyline. Whether you opt for a classic tea or raise a toast with Champagne, this experience pairs culinary flair with unbeatable views.

The Dorchester

A longtime favourite of royals and film stars, The Dorchester offers an afternoon tea experience as legendary as its guests. With award-winning pastry chef Michael Kwan at the helm, expect refined classics like strawberry roulades and pistachio choux, served in a setting of timeless elegance.

Fortnum & Mason

For over a century, Fortnum & Mason has been synonymous with British afternoon tea. Since 2012, its Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon has served an iconic spread of sandwiches, scones, and sweets. If savoury’s more your style, their alternative menu offers inventive bites like minted pea scones and duck mousse melba.

Colonel Saab

Colonel Saab gives the classic British tea an exotic Indian twist. Traditional sandwiches are swapped for spicy samosas and crispy chakli, while desserts like coconut and rose laddu add an extra layer of indulgence. You’ll still find familiar favourites like scones, but with an intriguing dash of spice.

Claridge’s

For the ultimate in tradition, look no further than Claridge’s. Here, every detail is carefully considered, from the precision of the sandwich cuts to the recommended tea pairings. Dine from beautifully crafted plates while live piano music fills the air in one of London’s most iconic hotels.

sketch

Eccentric and elegant, sketch’s afternoon tea takes a playful French twist on the British tradition. Indulge in quirky creations like salmon lollipops and apricot lavender Battenburg, all served in the restaurant’s famously whimsical surroundings.

Pavyllon London

Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, Pavyllon’s afternoon tea is a fusion of British tradition and French sophistication. Enjoy “so British” scones alongside refined pastries like Fuji apple tartlets and mini religieuse chocolat in an atmosphere of sheer luxury.

Ochre at the National Gallery

Afternoon tea becomes a work of art at Ochre, set within the National Gallery. Celebrate the gallery’s 200th anniversary with treats like chocolate and raspberry mousse and a lemon choux “paintbrush.” A must-visit for art lovers and tea enthusiasts alike.

One Aldwych

For something a little more whimsical, One Aldwych’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-inspired tea is a fantastical journey through snozberry jam, fizzy lifting drinks (read: Champagne), and savoury macarons. A magical treat for children and adults alike.

The Lane

For an afternoon tea with a touch of drama, head to The Lane, served within the beautifully restored Theatre Royal Drury Lane. With plates inspired by the theatre’s heritage and cakes crafted by artisan baker Lily Vanilli, this tea has its own sense of theatrical flair.

Each of these venues offers a unique spin on the time-honoured tradition, making London a haven for tea lovers everywhere.