London is the undisputed capital of afternoon tea – a tradition that blends elegant charm, exquisite bites, and a dose of British heritage. Whether you’re after grandeur, modern flair, or theatrical twists, this list of London’s best afternoon teas highlights must-visit venues that deliver both flavour and finesse.
Our favourite of the lot? The Ritz London – for its iconic legacy, flawless service, and classic menu that consistently ranks top across reviews.
Best Places for Afternoon Tea in London 2025
The Ritz Afternoon Tea
Highlights of Afternoon Tea at The Ritz include perfectly cut cucumber sandwiches, light-as-air scones with clotted cream, and a dessert trolley that’s a feast for the eyes.
Why We Love It: Classic British luxury and timeless elegance.
Menu Highlights: Finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, jam, and 18 types of loose-leaf tea.
Location: 150 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1J 9BR
Insider Tip: Book well in advance – tables are often full weeks ahead.
theritzlondon.com
The Savoy Afternoon Tea
Highlights of Afternoon Tea at The Savoy include delicate finger sandwiches, warm raisin scones with lemon curd, and patisserie inspired by the seasons.
Why We Love It: Sophistication with a Thames view.
Menu Highlights: Traditional afternoon tea with a twist – including seasonal pastries and rare teas.
Location: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Insider Tip: Request a seat in the Thames Foyer for live piano accompaniment.
thesavoylondon.com
Theatre Royal Drury Lane – The Lane
Theatre Royal Drury Lane is the only West End theatre to serve Afternoon Tea and the new Showstopping menu is full of the drama and magic of theatre. It comes in in two acts and an encore – with plentiful tea, champagne and more.
Why We Love It: A theatrical take on the traditional tea.
Menu Highlights: Afternoon Tea served in two acts and an encore; expect champagne and show-stopping presentation.
Location: Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF
Insider Tip: Ideal for pre- or post-theatre indulgence.
lwtheatres.co.uk
The Churchill, Hyatt Regency
The Asian themed afternoon tea at The Churchill features savoury options such as Pork Belly and Kimchi Bao Bun, Duck Bahn Mi and Prawn Paniyaram alongside Chocolate and Miso Lucky Cat, Sakura and Cherry Flower Cake and a Masala Tea Pot.
Why We Love It: Bold Asian flavours in a classic setting.
Menu Highlights: Pork belly bao, duck banh mi, masala tea pot and cherry blossom cakes.
Location: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
Insider Tip: Try pairing with their Asian-inspired cocktails.
hyatt.com
Sketch London
Sketch in Bloom is a floral-themed afternoon tea designed to celebrate Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. The tea is served in a grand neoclassical space transformed into a blooming homage to Austen and her works.
Why We Love It: Instagram-worthy interiors and whimsical presentation.
Menu Highlights: Floral-themed tea celebrating Jane Austen – includes artistic pastries and gourmet teas.
Location: 9 Conduit St, London W1S 2XG
Insider Tip: Dine in the pink Gallery Room for the full Sketch experience.
sketch.com
Royal Ascot Afternoon Tea
Master Pâtissier Benoit Blin brings his culinary finesse to Royal Ascot with an afternoon tea that features a pistachio, raspberry and lychee teacake alongside a menu focusing on British produce.
Why We Love It: A luxurious escape from the city with high-calibre pastries.
Menu Highlights: Pistachio, raspberry & lychee teacake and British produce-focused menu by Benoit Blin.
Location: Ascot Racecourse, Berkshire SL5 7JX (just outside London)
Insider Tip: Best experienced during race season for a truly regal day out.
ascot.com
Dalloway Terrace
Highlights of Afternoon Tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel’s Dalloway Terrace include blueberry and vanilla choux buns, rum punch baba and blackcurrant Madeleines – and they do a great Coronation chicken too.
Why We Love It: A picturesque and floral retreat in the heart of Bloomsbury.
Menu Highlights: Blueberry choux, rum baba, and a standout Coronation chicken sandwich.
Location: 16-22 Great Russell St, London WC1B 3NN
Insider Tip: Great for al fresco afternoon tea, especially in spring/summer.
dallowayterrace.com
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
