Known as a common British tradition, afternoon tea can take place at someone’s home, in a cafe or at a fancier establishment. At afternoon tea, guests typically select their tea of choice, which comes accompanied by a variety of finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and concludes with pastries and cake. Splurge with a glass of champagne to start off the experience. Check this guide out for upscale afternoon tea options.
Found in Mayfair, Claridges provides a traditional and elegant afternoon tea experience. The large tea room sits right on the main floor of the hotel with beautiful decor. This is a must visit when looking for a classic British Afternoon Tea option.
One of the most well‑known spots for tea, Fortnum & Mason offers the full experience. While the tea room sits upstairs, other floors are a tea lover’s paradise with endless options on tea, afternoon tea snacks, tea sets, gift boxes, and more. If visiting in December, the exterior is often turned into an advent calendar for the upcoming holidays
The tea room at this beautiful hotel is set in a large room with high ceilings. Guests can enjoy music from a live pianist and can choose from a menu with an excellent assortment of teas
In the heart of Mayfair and just off Berkley Square, the Connaught serves afternoon tea with tables nicely spread out along the perimeter of the room providing most tables with views of the surrounding neighborhood
Found on Hyde Park Corner, the Lanesborough has a gorgeous tea room often nicely decorated with floral arrangements
Classy afternoon tea with beautiful decor in a central London location
Bringing a twist to your afternoon tea experience, Sketch is known for its yellow (previously pink) tea room, unique wall art, and colorful stained glass ceiling above individual egg‑like bathroom stalls.
Located right near Piccadilly Circus, the Ham Yard Hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea experience without an overly strict dress code
One of the fanciest and upscale locations to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea with a strict dress code requiring visitors to dress classy for the occasion
Inside the well‑known British department store, beautifully lit up in the evenings, Harrods has a dedicated area for shoppers and visitors to enjoy afternoon tea