While in London and thinking of ways to spend your time (as if it was even possible to run out of ideas!), there is one ritual that will most certainly help you to relax, unwind and get your body and soul ready for another adventure – the afternoon tea.
This custom dates back to 1661 when Charles II married Catherine of Bragança, who brought the habit of drinking tea in the afternoon from Portugal. Soon the simple cup of tea (with milk and sugar, of course) evolved and became a meal.
he traditional menu usually includes a variety of sandwiches, clotted scones, cakes and pastries, often served on a tiered stand. And this tiered stand, along with fancy loose leaf tea, is a treat famously served by some of the top London hotels as well as many cafes.
Top 3 Places for Afternoon Tea in London
View our list of the three most lavish and exclusive places to enjoy afternoon tea in London, these places really do have the wow factor.
1. The Ritz
If you’re already equipped with formal attire, you can check out Claridge’s competitors – The Ritz.
A proud member of the Tea Council’s prestigious Tea Guild, this luxurious hotel serves its afternoon tea in the Palm Court, so extraordinary that a weekend reservation is advised even 12 weeks in advance! Sandwiches arrive on a three tier stand and the variety includes Cucumber Sandwich with Cream Cheese, Dill, and Chives on Caraway Seed Bread and Scottish Smoked Salmon with Lemon Butter on Rye Bread.
Freshly baked scones are served with clotted Devonshire cream. There is a Celebration Tea on offer that comes with a special occasional cake, perfect for birthdays.
2. Claridge’s
Probably the most talked about afternoon tea can be found in Claridge’s – recently awarded the title of ‘The Tea Guild’s Top London Afternoon Tea’! Claridge’s not only provides the most elegant art deco interior, but also a choice of 30 teas, finger sandwiches, raisin and apple scones and mouthwatering cakes.
If that wasn’t enough, they offer champagne option as well as seasonal menus (Valentine’s or Mother’s Day). I strongly advice making a booking and checking that you’re dressed accordingly – all the guidelines can be found on their website.
3. Fortnum & Mason
After dining (and drinking) in luxurious hotels, Fortnum & Mason on Piccadilly will be a nice alternative – without losing any of the luxury.
The store has been running since 1707 and holds a Royal Warrant. It’s quintessentially British and sells only the best quality food (so good in fact that calling it ‘food’ seems not to give it enough justice). Out of 5 Fortnum’s restaurants, St James’s is the one most famous for the afternoon tea (although all 5 have it on their menus).
What makes Fortnum’s tea different are the delicious tiny canapés and a tray of miniature cakes and tarts (including a rhubarb tart, mandarin fondant fancies and coffee eclairs) – that means that you get a selection of many little taste explosions.
The menu varies seasonally so depending on the time of your visit you might find themes ranging from Wimbledon tournament to fireworks. Smart dress code is essential.
With this small guide to the best afternoon tea in the capital all you need to do is make sure you get plenty of exercise in between – scones, clotted cream, champagne… indulgence to die for – but preferably without the need to change a clothes size after it all.
There really are hundreds of amazing places to enjoy afternoon tea in London, some affordable, some vintage, whilst others have breathtaking views over places like Hyde Park. Hopefully our list have given you some ideas for lavish places to consider.
If you are planning a break and really want to treat yourself check out our list of the most luxurious hotels in London. And for dinner, check out our suggestions for the tastiest French restaurants in London.
