Afternoon tea is an English institution dating back to the 19th century, when it was introduced by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford. The relatable inspiration for her idea was the feeling of needing a little mid-afternoon ‘pick me up’ to satisfy her hunger until dinner time.
Others in British high society quickly adopted the idea, serving up sandwiches with the delicacy of tea in their finest China teacups and saucers in their drawing room or gardens, and dressing up for the occasion. Over the years, afternoon tea also became more popular with the wider public.
Today, afternoon tea is more of an occasional pleasure for most people than an everyday occurrence. The good news for visitors to London wanting to try afternoon tea is that it has become increasingly luxurious, with some establishments making the process something of an art form. Lucky visitors can enjoy increasingly indulgent nibbles served alongside a varied selection of drinks, as well as the traditional pot of tea.
Those looking for a truly memorable experience should try a themed afternoon in London. These take an even more imaginative approach to this very British tradition, so you can be sure you’ll be served much more than just simple sandwiches.
We’ve rounded up a few worth trying below.
Royal Afternoon Tea
Head to The Rubens at The Palace for a Royal Afternoon Tea. This is your chance to sample an experience that befits the most esteemed diners. The venue even offers incredible views of Buckingham Palace. The delicious pastries and cakes served are made by renowned pastry chef Sarah Houghting, who has previously appeared on popular British TV show Bake Off: The Professionals.
Available all week long, this afternoon tea takes classic elements, like sandwiches, scones and cakes, and elevates them to a new level of sophistication. Visitors can expect delicious sweets, like a chocolate orange choux, fig and hazelnut layer cake, and fruit scones served with homemade seasonal preserve, lemon curd, and clotted cream. Savoury options include smoked salmon, caviar and chive cream cheese on cape seed loaf, and roasted beef sirloin, caramelised onion mayonnaise and watercress on beetroot bread.
Peter Pan Afternoon Tea
A trip to one of London’s tallest buildings is a breathtaking experience at any time, but it’s sure to be even more spectacular with the Peter Pan afternoon tea at The Shard. Guests can enjoy remarkable views of the city while sampling savoury and sweet items served on a Jolly Roger-inspired tea stand.
Fans of J.M. Barrie’s classic novel, or the various cinematic interpretations, will love the playful nods to the famous fictional characters and the world he created. From British scones hidden inside a treasure chest to mushroom-shaped bread inspired by Neverland’s mushroom stools, it’s as creative as it is tasty. This afternoon tea is available Monday to Sunday from 12pm to 3.15pm.
Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea
You don’t need to be a fan of Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland to enjoy the Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea at the Sanderson Hotel in Fitzrovia, but it’s sure to thrill those of you who are. The presentation is as magical and eccentric as the story itself, with King of Hearts parmesan croque monsieur stacks, teapots featuring kings and queens, and Mad March Hare vanilla pocket watch macaroons.
Travelling with children? The Little Hatters Tea is the perfect choice, with a menu tailored to match the appetites of little ones. Served Monday to Sunday from 12pm to 7pm, the Mad Hatter’s afternoon tea is well worth taking a trip down the rabbit hole for.
Indian-inspired Afternoon Tea
Ready for an afternoon tea with a difference? Head to Cinnamon Bazaar in Covent Garden for Bazaar High Chai, an incredible afternoon tea featuring a range of traditional Indian-inspired delicacies. The impressive menu was put together by chef Vivek Singh and is inspired by his heritage in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Tea is on the menu of course and visitors can choose from a selection of the finest Jing Teas, like assam, Indian masala chai and Earl Grey. Chaats are the first nibble on the agenda, including tangy sweet and sour pani puri and a Punjabi vegetable samosa with tangy tamarind rice. You can also tuck into a masala fish finger sandwich, or vegetarian-friendly options like a Kolkata sandwich featuring beets, raisin, potato, and kasundi ketchup. Be sure to leave room for some creative sweets, like saffron and pistachio macarons, and serradura – a Goan sawdust pudding.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea
The famous Roald Dahl story Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is brought to life at One Aldwych. Visitors can immerse themselves in this imaginative children’s book with mouthwatering treats served Wednesday to Sunday afternoons. This afternoon tea is suitable for both adults and children, serving up a mix of savoury and sweet nibbles. Expect Coronation chicken sandwiches, fluffy candy floss, and a box full of cakes, including scones topped with ‘snozzberry’ jam. Decadent drinks, such as lemon sherbet tea, chocolate tea, and water pistol punch cocktails are also included to make sure this is one afternoon that will live long in the memory.
We hope this guide to some of the best themed afternoon teas in London has inspired you to try one yourself. With their combination of tradition, luxury, and fun, they are sure to be one of the most memorable moments of any trip to London.
