Time for tea
Afternoon tea is the most quintessentially British of indulgences – and there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to luxury offerings.
From traditional sandwiches and scones to themed interpretations with a modern twist, here are 10 of our favourite top-rated afternoon teas that are perfect for an indulgent treat.
The Oxo Tower Restaurant, SE1
Located on the eighth floor of the old Oxo building, this stylish restaurant boasts a world-class vista set against a backdrop of St Paul’s and the Thames. The menu includes a delicious selection of sandwiches, freshly-baked buttermilk scones and quintessentially British sweets – the strawberry posset is particularly mouth-watering.
Shangri-La The Shard, London SE1
If you’re looking for afternoon tea with a view, it doesn’t get much better than Shangri-La – the hotel occupying 18 floors of London’s highest building. The ultimate afternoon tea incorporates a glass of Champagne, delicious seasonal delights and the hotel’s spectacular range of signature teas in TÎNG Restaurant.
The Goring, SW1
This London landmark has been perfecting the art of afternoon tea since it started welcoming guests over a century ago. Served in the luxurious surroundings of The Veranda, expect top-quality pastries, fruity homemade jams and an array of tea blends, all complemented with a glass of Bollinger Champagne if the mood takes you.
The Lanesborough, SW1
Afternoon tea at The Lanesborough is an experience to be treasured. Served daily in either the richly decorated Céleste or the more classic Withdrawing Room, the Scene Stealer Cream Tea – complete with gin cocktail – is particularly special. For something a little different, an exclusive Bridgerton-themed tea is available from the 22 March.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, SW1
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park’s The Rosebery offers a truly fashionable Knightsbridge backdrop for high tea. Choose from an enticing menu compiled by the dedicated Tea Master, all of which complement a range of delicacies created by the in-house team of pastry chefs.
The Townhouse, SW7
Taking inspiration from London’s most iconic structures, The Town House’s London Landmarks Afternoon Tea is a wonderful celebration of the city it calls home. Enjoy a skyline of scones, sandwiches and sweets, presented on a London Eye-inspired tea stand in a grand yet tranquil Kensington setting.
Brown’s Hotel, W1
Brown’s irresistibly elegant Drawing Room is renowned for afternoon teas that are quite literally fit for a queen – Queen Victoria herself was a famed frequenter. Indulge in traditional dainty pastries, crimped sandwiches and pillowy scones or, for a more unique celebration, mark the hotel’s 185th anniversary with the 2022 Travel Through Tea themed experience.
The Ritz London, W1
‘Afternoon tea’ is almost synonymous with The Ritz. Served in the hotel’s spectacular former Ballroom, choose from 18 different blends of loose-leaf tea and savour a selection of sandwiches, scones, and exquisitely presented pastries and teacakes. Champagne is also available for added sparkle.
Sketch (The Gallery), W1
If you’re looking for a more unique afternoon tea experience, Sketch more than fits the bill. All venues within this Georgian townhouse are unusual – high tea is served in The Gallery, where the copper-coloured interiors bring a feeling of effortless glamour. Both English Sparkling and Champagne options are on offer.
The Savoy, WC2
The Savoy’s world-famous afternoon tea has been a feature of the hotel since it opened in 1889. Today it’s enjoyed in the Thames Foyer – a stunning glass-domed atrium in the hotel’s heart which radiates natural light. Expect classic treats with a modern twist, served in an enchanting atmosphere that’s enhanced by a live pianist.
