12 Spots for the Best Afternoon Tea in London
The best afternoon tea in London serves up British tradition with a generous side of indulgence.
The competition for the city’s best spread is fierce, but that just means more excuses to sample delicate cakes and sip endless pots of tea!
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1. Afternoon Tea at The Savoy – Gallery
The Savoy’s Gallery is a domed, dramatic space that’s both grand and surprisingly relaxed. The vibe is a little theatrical, a little classic London—perfect for a splurge or a celebration.
Pastry chefs here whip up 30+ teas and creative sandwiches, plus scones with clotted cream, jam, and lemon curd.
The pastries are almost too pretty to eat. Afternoon tea became a Savoy staple, and the tradition’s only grown since then.
There are traditional, high tea, gluten-free (72-hour notice) options. If you’re celebrating, add a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne or Nyetimber sparkling wine.
Location: Strand, London WC2R 0EY, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
2. The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
Brown’s Drawing Room has been pouring tea since the 1800s. Royals and celebrities have lounged in the original wood-paneled room.
There’s an impressive library of blends, which pairs beautifully with dainty sandwiches, pastries, and warm scones.
Right in the heart of Mayfair, it’s perfect for a posh day out. Dress smart-casual to blend in.
Location: Ground Floor, 33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
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3. Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London
The Crystal Moon Lounge at Corinthia feels regal under its Baccarat-crystal chandelier. Pastry Chef Yago Doamo’s seasonal creations, like Milk Chocolate & Pecan Gâteau, are almost too tempting to resist.
Located on Whitehall Place, the lounge is both sleek and steeped in tradition. The menu shifts with the seasons, so you’re always getting the best flavors.
Scones, sandwiches, and bespoke tea blends round out the experience.
Location: Whitehall Pl, London SW1A 2BD, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
4. Afternoon Tea at The Goring
Afternoon tea at the Michelin-starred Goring dining room is filled with playful monkey art and a touch of royal history.
Executive Chef Graham Squire sources ingredients from British farms, crafting a menu that’s earned this family-run spot a devoted following. The Goring scones and pastries are standouts.
Location: 15 Beeston Pl, London SW1W 0JW, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
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5. Afternoon Tea at The Rubens
Right across from Buckingham Palace, The Rubens serves afternoon tea with a royal view.
The Palace Lounge and English Grill are both elegant, and the Royal Mews outside the window is a fun bonus.
Pastry chef Sarah Houghting crafts pastries daily—her signature crown dessert (Blackberry Confit, Vanilla Sponge, Opalys White Mousse) is a highlight.
The Royal Afternoon Tea includes finger sandwiches, scones, and delicate pastries for £70. Go all out with bottomless Champagne for £115 if you’re feeling celebratory.
Location: 39 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0PS
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6. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
Queen Elizabeth II opened Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in 2012, and it still oozes royal flair.
Up on the fourth floor, surrounded by Edwardian décor, you’re smack in the middle of Piccadilly’s bustle.
The vibe is refined and a little bit regal. Expect top-notch teas, elegant treats, and the chance to browse the store’s legendary tea selection after your meal.
Location: 4th Floor, Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER, United Kingdom
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7. Afternoon Tea at The Milestone Hotel
The Milestone Hotel, right across from Kensington Palace, takes afternoon tea seriously.
The grand Victorian setting has scooped up Afternoon Tea Awards, and it’s easy to see why.
There’s a long list of loose-leaf teas, plus Champagne Lanson if you want to treat yourself.
Expect finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, and French pastries. Prices start at £85, with a special menu for kids under 12.
Location: 1-3 Kensington Ct, London W8 5DL, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
8. Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont Mayfair
The Beaumont Mayfair is all about old-school comfort and understated luxury. Sink into deep sofas, sip your tea, and enjoy classic finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries.
JING Tea is the house favorite, but you can upgrade with champagne if you’re feeling fancy.
The vibe is relaxed—no strict dress code, just smart attire if you want to blend in with the Mayfair crowd.
Location: The Beaumont Mayfair, 8 Balderton St, Brown Hart Gardens, London W1K 6TF, United Kingdom
Website: Visit Website
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9. The Rose Lounge
Tucked inside Sofitel St James, The Rose Lounge brings a bit of drama to afternoon tea.
The floral decor is almost as memorable as the pastries, which change themes with the seasons and keep things fresh.
Dietary needs aren’t a problem here—gluten-free, plant-based, and vegetarian options are all on hand.
Sip premium Camellia’s Tea House brews from their signature teapots or opt for a glass of Laurent-Perrier Brut champagne.
Location: 6 Waterloo Pl, London SW1Y 4AN, United Kingdom
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10. Palm Court At The Langham
Palm Court at The Langham claims bragging rights as the birthplace of afternoon tea—no small thing in London.
The art deco dining room feels like a time capsule, and you get a real sense of history sipping tea here.
They’re serving up a 160th Commemorative Afternoon Tea, blending classic treats from the 19th and 20th centuries with a few clever modern updates.
JING single garden British teas bring some unexpected flavors to the table, which keeps things interesting.
Location: 1C Portland Pl, London W1B 1JA, United Kingdom
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11. Afternoon Tea At The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel
The Chesterfield Mayfair is a proper afternoon tea in a sunlit, intimate spot tucked away on Charles Street. There’s a classic British vibe here that feels both timeless and a little bit playful.
Expect tiered stands loaded with finger sandwiches, just-baked scones, dainty pastries, and cakes that look like they belong in a storybook.
The staff are friendly without hovering, and there’s a sense of occasion without any stuffiness.
Location: 35 Charles St, London W1J 5EB, United Kingdom
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12. Mirror Room
Afternoon tea here comes with a generous dose of style, tucked away inside Rosewood London in Holborn. The mirrored wall and plush decor set a scene that’s both chic and a bit dramatic.
The menu keeps things interesting with British classics and a few seasonal surprises, all served up from noon to early evening. There’s an extensive champagne list too, if you’re feeling a little celebratory.
Right in central London, Mirror Room is a polished escape steps from Covent Garden’s buzz. The vibe is smart casual—dress up a little, but there’s no need to overthink it.
Location: 252 Rosewood, High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN, United Kingdom
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