During your trip to London, you must experience afternoon tea. I mean, is there anything more English than having afternoon tea in London? Here is a handy guide for you to prepare you for an afternoon tea experience in London. Some locations have dress codes so we have included this information so you don’t look silly when walking into a formal dress-code environment in yoga pants.
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea typically consists of a tray of appetizers that offers savory and sweet treats as well as a pot of hot tea to sip on. If you want something different, you can also order a glass of prosecco or champagne for a change of pace. Afternoon tea is best ordered between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.
The Ritz
Arguably the most classic afternoon tea destination in London is the Ritz hotel. You will be served tea in the Palm Court with a live pianist and amazing hospitality in a lavish setting. Choose from numerous types of loose leaf teas, warm scones, finger cut sandwiches and a selection of gorgeous cakes and fine pastries. Men should wear a jacket and tie. Sportswear is not permitted for men or women, nor are jeans.
Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at The Sanderson
Many of the afternoon teas in the capital have themes. You can experience the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea theme at the Sanderson hotel, a trendy location with thematic touches. Here you will find cakes that are shaped like ladybirds, a music box holding sugar and little bottles that read “drink me”. Dress smart causal, as it's not too fancy here.
Bea’s
Bea’s is a café that can be found in five locations across London, but only three serve afternoon tea, which are located in Farringdon, Bloomsbury and Marylebone. Exquisite meringues, cupcakes, brownies and fruity marshmallows are exciting treats you can try as well as scones, which are baked to perfection. This is a more casual experience so no need to dress fancy.
Prêt-à-Portea at the Berkeley
The Prêt-à-Portea is the most stylish tea in London. It can be found at the famous Berkeley hotel and is quite an impressive experience. The chef re-interprets some of the most recent catwalk fashions into fabulous pastries and desserts every six months. You will be blown away by the attention to detail. Even the to-go boxes come in the shape of little handbags!
B Bakery Bus
This is a great family tea experience. Beginning at Trafalgar Square or Victoria, hop on the bus and take a tour of some of the tourist sights while enjoying cakes and tea in little booths. This is a great option for your first visit to London or for entertaining older kids. There is no dress code here.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Tea at One Aldwych
Whether you have kids in tow or not, the themed Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tea located at One Aldwych is quite entertaining. Here you can find delicious cake pops, candy floss puffs and cheesecake in a golden egg. Sip on the Charlie Cocktail, which comes in “adult” and non-alcoholic versions. This is a stylish hotel. You don’t need to dress up, but we recommend opting for smart casual attire.
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