Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries. From aristocratic salons to trendy cafes, London is home to some of the best teahouses in the world. In 2023, we went on a quest to find the best places for afternoon tea in London, and we’re excited to share our discoveries with you. Here are our top picks:
Biscuiteers
Located in the trendy neighborhood of Notting Hill, Biscuiteers is a charming teahouse that specializes in handmade biscuits and cakes. Their afternoon tea menu features a selection of savory sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all served on a delightful three-tiered stand. The standout dish on their menu is the lavender scone, which is served with clotted cream and jam. Their signature tea blend is a blend of Darjeeling and Assam tea, which pairs perfectly with their sweet and savory offerings.
Hotel Cafe Royal
For a luxurious afternoon tea experience, head to the Hotel Cafe Royal in Piccadilly. This iconic hotel has been a London landmark since 1865, and their afternoon tea is just as impressive as their storied history. The menu features a selection of savory sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all made with the finest ingredients. The standout dish on their menu is the truffle sandwich, which is made with truffle mayonnaise and roasted beef. Their signature tea blend is a blend of black tea and rose petals, which adds a floral note to the afternoon tea experience.
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
If you’re looking for an afternoon tea experience with a touch of theatrical flair, head to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. This historic theatre has been entertaining audiences since the 17th century, and their afternoon tea is a showstopper in its own right. The menu features a selection of savory sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all inspired by the theatre’s rich history. The standout dish on their menu is the Shakespearean strawberry tart, which is made with fresh strawberries and cream. Their signature tea blend is a blend of black tea and elderflower, which adds a delicate sweetness to the afternoon tea experience.
Rosewood London
For a modern twist on the classic afternoon tea, head to the Rosewood London in Holborn. This contemporary hotel has a chic and stylish tea room that serves an inventive and playful menu. The menu features a selection of savory sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all with unexpected flavors and textures. The standout dish on their menu is the salmon mi-cuit, which is served with wasabi cream and avocado mousse. Their signature tea blend is a blend of black tea, vanilla, and bergamot, which adds a rich and complex flavor to the afternoon tea experience.
Mariage Freres Restaurant & Tea Salon
For a taste of Parisian elegance in London, head to the Mariage Freres Restaurant & Tea Salon in Covent Garden. This stunning teahouse serves a menu inspired by the French tea traditions, with a selection of savory and sweet treats. The standout dish on their menu is the croque monsieur, which is served with black truffle and emmental cheese. Their signature tea blend is the Marco Polo, a blend of black tea and fruit that has been a Mariage Freres classic for over 30 years.
The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
For a truly British afternoon tea experience, head to the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason in Piccadilly. This historic department store has been a purveyor of fine foods and tea since 18th century, and their tea salon is a testament to their expertise. The menu features a selection of classic savory sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats, all made with the finest ingredients. The standout dish on their menu is the smoked salmon blini, which is served with crème fraîche and caviar. Their signature tea blend is the Fortnum’s Classic Assam, a strong and malty black tea that pairs perfectly with their sweet and savory offerings.
London is home to some of the best teahouses in the world, each offering a unique and unforgettable afternoon tea experience. From the charming and cozy Biscuiteers to the grand and luxurious Hotel Cafe Royal, there’s a teahouse for every taste and budget. So the next time you’re in London, be sure to indulge in this timeless tradition and savor the flavors of the city’s best teahouses.