London is a beautiful, ultramodern city which manages to hold onto its old traditions and heritage. It is the perfect mix of modernity and old-world charm, never failing to mesmerize those who visit. It is known for its iconic landmarks such as London Eye and Westminster Abbey, as well as red double-decker buses and phone booths. If you want to spend your time shopping, checking out historical sites, or visiting museums, London will leave you spoiled for choices! Head to Oxford Street which holds more than 300 shops or visit Buckingham Palace to have a tour of the residence of a living monarch. London has also left a huge impression in popular culture: head to Warner Bros. Studio if you are a Harry Potter fan or head to Abbey Road Crossing if you love The Beatles. If you want to spend an afternoon relaxing, what better way to do so than by having some tea! Check out this list to find the best places for afternoon tea in London, the UK.
1. The Landmark London
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you are looking to pamper yourself The Landmark London is exactly the place you should be heading to! Established in 1899, this luxurious hotel near Oxford Street is the best place to treat yourself or celebrate special occasions. The Victorian Winter Garden atrium serves as the gorgeous setting. The enchanting surroundings with sunlight wafting in and calming piano tunes create an experience that no one should miss out on. It was awarded in 2019 for being one of the best afternoon tea experiences you can have in London. They have delicious finger sandwiches, fresh scones, and other baked goods. It boasts an amazing collection of tea, of course, and great service. Do remember to dress in smart casual attire if you are heading there!
The Landmark London
Address: 222 Marylebone Road, London NW1 6JQ, United Kingdom
Website: The Landmark London
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 3pm - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 1.30pm - 5pm
2. Claridge's
This luxurious five-star hotel located in Mayfair is an amazing place to experience this tradition. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options and friendly staff, this is a highly rated spot by customers. Their menu mixes together sweet and savoury delicacies, using special ingredients. With a beautiful atmosphere you will get to have a wonderful experience. They have a huge assortment of teas that will complement your meal as well as a special Claridge’s Blend. They have been awarded the certificate of excellence for a few years in a row and their amazing food will be bound to leave you wanting more!
Claridge's
Address: Claridge’s, Brook Street, Mayfair London W1K 4HR
Website: Claridge’s
Opening hours: 2:45pm - 5:30pm (daily)
3. sketch
For those who want a unique afternoon tea experience, sketch located in Mayfair might be the place to go! This unconventional tea room established a long time ago serves exceptional food and has amazing service. This vibrant and almost eccentric restaurant hosts the artwork of the famed artist, David Shrigley. It also has some highly Instagrammable spots for photography lovers. Bringing fresh twists to the classic dishes and having a wonderful assortment of tea, this restaurant gives everyone a wholly new experience.
sketch
Address: 9 Conduit Street, London, W1S 2XG
Website: sketch
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 2pm; Sat: 8am - 2am; Sun: 8am - 12am
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4. Dominique Ansel Bakery London
Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed
Located in a gorgeous garden terrace on Elizabeth Street is Dominique Ansel Bakery London. Dominique Ansel’s unique take on afternoon tea has been commended by many. It is only five minutes away from the Victoria Station and has amazing food from a renowned chef. The afternoon tea is only available from Thursday to Sunday. Dominique Ansel is a famous pastry chef and also the inventor of the cronut. A floral-inspired afternoon tea experience awaits you at this bakery. With the freshest ingredients used to whip up both the desserts and the savoury delicacies, the elegant dishes look almost too good to eat! The whimsical atmosphere, the great dishes, and good service make this a must-try.
Dominique Ansel Bakery London
Address: 17-21 Elizabeth Street , Belgravia/Victoria London, SW1W 9RP
Website: Dominique Ansel Bakery London
Opening hours: Thu - Sun: 2pm - 4:15pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
London Tour Guide
Robert Woolf
I am a London tour guide and my tours include talking about people who have shaped the city plus the many connected places such as Hampton Court Palace, The Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, the commercial centre of the city: the City of London, and London’s world class museums and galleries. I have been guiding for 12 years. I am a licenced London Blue Badge Tour Guide, a City of London Guide, and a Westminster Guide. The reviews I receive from clients speak of their enjoyment from the local knowledge and the humour I bring to my tours. Born within sight of Hampton Court Palace, I am a Londoner and apart from 2 years in the Middle East, I have worked in this capital city all my business and tour guiding careers. I have travelled widely and I appreciate what appeals to visitors coming to London. I can tailor my tours to interest children. I guide couples, families and larger tour groups. I particularly enjoy visits to Westminster Abbey, where I also volunteer guiding students and children through its wonderful interior – on my tours you will hear about monarchs, why scientists and poets are remembered, the architecture and religious history. The Abbey is the story of England. Come on an engaging and fun tour with me. There is so much to show you !
Tours by Robert
5. Hotel Café Royal
If you want to have a luxurious experience and have afternoon tea at a place that is often raved about and also has famous patrons, Hotel Cafe Royal is right for you. The afternoon tea available in the Oscar Wilde Lounge during the weekends but in Cakes & Bubbles during the weekdays. Located in a gorgeous building that was established in 1865 with elegant decor, Hotel Cafe Royal has won many awards. With its selection of cakes, scones, and sandwiches, customers can indulge in the food while taking in the beautiful atmosphere. The Oscar Wilde Lounge where the afternoon tea is held has been graced by the presence of Oscar Wilde, David Bowie, and Mick Jagger to name a few. Hotel Cafe Royal will transport you back in time and give you an experience worth remembering!
Hotel Café Royal
Address: Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent Street , London, W1B 4DY UK
Website: Hotel Café Royal
6. Prêt-à-Portea: The Berkeley
For the fashion lovers, Prêt-à-Portea is definitely a must-visit! Blending together fashion and this age-old English tradition, this place will give you a unique experience. Located in an elegant setting in The Berkeley hotel with chic decor, this place serves up food that is inspired by haute couture. Many a time, the head pastry chef collaborates with pioneers in the fashion industry to create a unique dining experience for other customers and fellow fashion fanatics. There are vegetarian-friendly options available as well. With incredible food and service, this place gives everyone that visits a fun experience.
Prêt-à-Portea: The Berkeley
Address: The Berkeley, Wilton Pl, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7RL, United Kingdom
Website: Prêt-à-Portea: The Berkeley
Opening hours: 1pm - 5:30pm (daily)
7. Zetter Townhouse Marylebone
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Located on Seymour Street, this unconventional and quirky parlour serves up a traditional afternoon tea experience. Decorated with eye-catching antique objects, this parlour has an ambiance that brings you back in time. With a warm welcoming and quiet atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the streets, this is a great place to relax with friends and family. You can opt for either Aunt Wilhemina or Uncle Seymour’s menu and experience a different dining experience with each. The food is exquisite and the tea selections have been included in Vogue’s list of the best afternoon teas in London.
Zetter Townhouse Marylebone
Address: 28-30 Seymour St, Marylebone, London W1H 7JB, United Kingdom
Website: Zetter Townhouse Marylebone
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12pm - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
8. The Chesterfield Mayfair
If you want to go somewhere that is recognised for its exceptional quality and service then head to The Chesterfield Mayfair. They have received many accolades and are also a member of the Tea Guild that is an organisation committed to serve tea of the highest standards. They take the traditional afternoon tea dishes and put a unique spin on it. With amazing homemade cakes, scones, and pastries, this is a great place to go if you want to celebrate special occasions with loved ones. This is a few minutes’ walk from the Green Park underground station and has a smart casual dress code. The attentive staff and great food make this an excellent experience.
Chesterfield Mayfair
Address: 35 Charles St, Mayfair, London W1J 5EB, United Kingdom
Website: Chesterfield Mayfair
Opening hours: 12:30pm - 5:30pm (daily)
9. The Drawing Rooms - The Ampersand Hotel
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With a vibrant and bold atmosphere, The Drawing Rooms in the Ampersand Hotel is a great place to go with your friends and family. Located on Harrington Road, this hotel was built in 1888. The beautiful lounge and sophisticated decor gives it an elegant yet intimate atmosphere. There are artworks as well that are inspired by the museums and galleries located in Kensington. Their afternoon tea has a science theme which gives this afternoon tea experience a unique twist. They have an extensive collection of tea and they have won Best Themed Afternoon Tea at the Afternoon Tea Awards 2018. With good food and service as well as a serene atmosphere, this is a great place to relax with friends.
The Drawing Rooms - The Ampersand Hotel
Address: 10 Harrington Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3ER, United Kingdom
Website: The Drawing Rooms
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12:30pm - 9pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 7pm
10. Royal Garden Hotel
This five-star luxury hotel located in Kensington gives its visitors the traditional English afternoon tea experience. It is also situated very close to Kensington Palace, the birthplace of Queen Victoria. The menu there is heavily inspired by the eating habits of Queen Victoria and it changes from time to time to reflect the seasons and the fresh ingredients that are available. They have a good collection of tea and their fresh scones, savoury dishes, and sandwiches are highly praised. The service is amazing and the atmosphere is elevated because of the lovely live music and the view of Kensington Gardens.
Royal Garden Hotel
Address: 2-24 Kensington High St, Kensington, London W8 4PT, United Kingdom
Website: Royal Garden Hotel
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm; Fri - Sun: 1pm - 5:30pm
Enjoy afternoon tea in London
London has some amazing places to try out their traditional afternoon tea – an essential experience for your trip! You can use this list to find one that’s perfect for you!
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