Ah, afternoon tea! Is there anything more quintessentially British than this delightful tradition? Picture this: You’re seated comfortably, a fine bone china cup in hand, surrounded by an array of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones still warm from the oven, and an assortment of delightful sweets that tantalize the taste buds. It’s not just a meal; it’s an event, a cherished ritual steeped in luxury and grace.
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London, with its bustling streets and historic charm, hosts a myriad of spots where you can indulge in this decadent treat. But be warned, some of these experiences can lighten your wallet considerably, with prices soaring to £150 for two. Fear not, though! For those on a quest for a more wallet-friendly option, there’s no need to despair. We’ve scoured the city to bring you the best spots for afternoon tea, whatever your budget may allow. Just remember, when it comes to scones, it’s clotted cream first, then jam—always!
Most Affordable Afternoon Tea in London
For the budget-conscious, the old cabman’s shelters are your hidden gems. Scattered around London, these 13 shelters serve up hearty fare such as bacon butties or fried egg sandwiches, along with a classic cup of tea—all for a song. Though you might miss out on the patisseries and finger sandwiches, your wallet will thank you.
M&S Cafe
Nothing beats the £10 afternoon tea at M&S Cafe. Enjoy a range of sandwiches, a fruit scone with clotted cream and jam, fresh strawberries, a selection of cakes, and a pot of tea. For a splash of luxury, add a glass of fizz for just an extra fiver.
Cafe Rouge
A dash of French elegance meets British tradition at Cafe Rouge, where afternoon tea includes three tiers of Parisian delights for £17.99 per person. It’s a chic yet affordable way to spend an afternoon.
Candella Tea Room, Kensington Church Street
Step into this enchanting Kensington cafe for a whimsical afternoon tea at £24.95 per person. Choose from an array of tea blends and enjoy sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and handmade patisseries.
The English Rose Cafe and Tea Room, Victoria
Just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, this family-run cafe offers a traditional afternoon tea on a tiered cake stand for £25 per person, served in charming floral cups and saucers.
Mid-Range Afternoon Tea
For those willing to splurge a bit more, London offers an array of unique and memorable afternoon tea experiences.
The Wallace Collection, Marylebone
Set in an exquisite museum, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in a stunning courtyard for £45 per person, surrounded by incredible art and history.
The Great Court Restaurant, Bloomsbury
After exploring the British Museum, relax with afternoon tea for £35 per person in this atmospheric cafe.
Roast, Borough Market
Overlooking the vibrant Borough Market, Roast offers a traditional yet unique afternoon tea for £45 per person, featuring delicious savouries and scrumptious cakes.
The Wolseley, Piccadilly
Experience the grandeur of The Wolseley with their afternoon tea at £44.50 per person. Enjoy handmade pastries, finger sandwiches, and a selection of teas in an iconic setting.
High-End Afternoon Tea
For those special occasions or just to treat yourself, these establishments offer the pinnacle of afternoon tea luxury.
The Ritz, The Strand
Immerse yourself in the opulence of The Ritz for a traditional afternoon tea at £75 per person. Enjoy a selection of fine teas, sandwiches, scones, and exquisite pastries in a setting that’s nothing short of spectacular.
Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly
Sip tea amidst elegance at Fortnum & Mason for £80 per person. Indulge in extraordinary cakes and freshly prepared sandwiches in this historic venue that exudes luxury.
So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to enjoying afternoon tea in London, whether you’re watching your budget or splashing out. It’s time to decide, jam or cream first?
Ting Bar at The Shard, Level 35
Elevate your afternoon tea experience—literally and figuratively—at the Ting Bar, located on Level 35 of The Shard*. Offering breathtaking views over London, Ting combines traditional British fare with a hint of Asian flavour. Their afternoon tea includes a selection of exquisitely crafted pastries, scones, and sandwiches for £85 per person. The sophisticated decor and panoramic cityscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a truly memorable high tea experience.
Did you know? History of Afternoon Tea
At the end, let’s time travel back to the 1800s. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford and a close friend of Queen Victoria, found herself peckish during the long gap between lunch and dinner. Thus, the concept of afternoon tea was born, initially as a private affair in her boudoir. Fast forward a few decades, and this quaint custom had become a fashionable activity among the upper class, with ladies donning gloves and gowns to enjoy their tea and treats between 4 and 5 pm. Today, afternoon tea isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebrated British tradition, especially popular on special occasions like Mother’s Day or birthdays.