As a tour guide in London, I am constantly getting asked for my opinion on Afternoon Tea...and I always tell people to go for it!
But just because it can be see as a special or fancy occasion, doesn't mean it has to cost a fortune.
Sometimes called ‘High Tea’, Afternoon Tea refers to the experience of attending a hotel or restaurant ( often in one’s finery), sipping tea, and indulging in scones, sandwiches, and pastries and/or cakes.
Here are some of my favourite locations to enjoy this traditional experience on the cheap:
In addition to these details, the rest of this post will explain what this meal is all about and what you can expect to eat and drink.
I'll also address common questions such as whether or not there is a dress code, unique types of tea such as cream teas and other specialty options, and more.
I always try to remain unbiased, which is why this post also includes a selection of tips and suggestions from locals and travelers who have enjoyed Afternoon Tea during their time in London.
WHAT IS AFTERNOON TEA?
While it originated as a selection of goodies to tide one over between lunch and dinner, this meal has become more of a tradition over time. For more on the origins, see below.
I honestly look at Afternoon Tea as meal in it's own right, and if you factor in how much food is often included, it's not difficult to see why!
I always go hungry because the vast majority of places I've gone to for Afternoon Tea, the servers are tripping over themselves to refill my teapot and my plates.
I have, on occasion, been to places where additional servings were charged extra (Reubens at the Palace, I'm looking at you), but this is definitely the minority in my experience.
My friends and I usually go for double the sandwiches and scones, and occasionally ask for an extra sweet treat if there was something we really enjoyed.
The whole experience is meant to be leisurely so I always think of it as an opportunity to take a break and do a lot of snacking on delicious treats!
The Food at Afternoon Tea
While different establishments will include specialty items, there are a few items that you will find at nearly every Afternoon Tea.
Tea: Every place where I have ever had Afternoon Tea have a MINIMUM of 5 different types to choose from. A few places actually have dozens!
I always see the usuals like English Breakfast, Assam, and Darjeeling.
Some places make their own specialty tea blends (like Fortnum & Mason - my favourite), and you'll also find unique options.
I like smokey teas like Lapsang Soughing and have experimented with 'gunpowder' tea as well as rose tea which I was surprised to enjoy.
In addition to the copious amounts to eat, you'll be given plenty of refills as well.
I will sometimes ask for a different tea when ordering my second pot - most places are happy to oblige!
Scones with Jam and Clotted Cream: No Afternoon Tea can be considered complete without scones served with preserves and clotted cream.
I find that strawberry is the most prevalent flavour of jam but I have seen all sorts - including things like lemon curd.
If you've never had clotted cream, you are in for a treat.
When I go to Afternoon Tea with my friends we order double pots of clotted cream straight away because it's our favourite part and we can never settle for just one!
Sandwiches: Delicate sandwiches will be served on your tiered platter, cut into triangles small pieces, and often with the crusts removed.
The sandwich flavours I see the most are definitely cucumber and cream cheese, coronation chicken (like a curried chicken salad), egg and cress/mayonnaise, and smoked salmon.
But every location has their specialties - I've seen cashew chicken, salt beef on tiny bagels, roasted aubergine and once an incredible artichoke and hummus one.
Take note that I am a vegetarian and am always easily accommodated!
Cakes and petit fours: Usually on the top tier of the Afternoon Tea tower, or occasionally brought by on a special rolling cart, comes the final part of the experience.
There's almost always four or five different types of cakes or pastries for you to enjoy.
I find that this is where different venues tend to get the most creative.
For example, the Science Afternoon Tea I had at the Ampersand had edible planets and tiny pots of chocolate 'dirt' to dig for dinosaur bones made of sweet biscuit!
What Price Range Can You Expect?
There are hundreds of restaurants, tea shops, museum cafes, and hotels across London that serve Afternoon Tea at all different price ranges.
I've seen simple tea shops selling a stripped back Afternoon Tea (a sandwich, a scone with cream and jam and a pastry) for as little as £20.00 per person.
I've also had luck on Groupon offers so make sure to check those, too!
These days, a "nice" and traditional Afternoon Tea usually costs about £60 - £80. (Although I fondly look back on the days when £50 seemed a lot!
Costs have definitely gone up since the pandemic)
But for special occasions like birthdays or bridal showers sometimes my friends and I will really splash out.
Big-name hotels like Claridges, The Savoy, The Ritz, and the Mandarin Oriental have Afternoon Teas priced around £100.00 - and then extra for the glass of champagne I know I will end up ordering!
These are once or twice a year occasions, though.
Do You Tip For Afternoon Tea?
Especially post-2020 I am finding service charges added to the bill at many London hotels and restaurants.
'Silver service' is part of the experience and I have only twice encountered waitstaff who I felt hadn't earned the charge at the end!
Of course, what you may wish to tip beyond that is entirely up to you.
It is not expected for you to tip more but it is also not considered an insult if you do!
My American friends always insist on leaving more, and the staff are always appreciative.
When Does Afternoon Tea Take Place?
As the name suggests, Afternoon Tea is typically enjoyed in the afternoon, usually between 14:00 - 16:00 (2:00pm - 4:00pm) though earlier and later sittings are always available.
As I said above, I treat it as a meal in its' own right so oftentimes I will go around 13:00 (1:00pm) or even as late as 19:00 (7:00pm).
Afternoon Tea can take place any day but note that Friday, Saturday, and Sunday tend to be the most popular days.
I like to go on Thursdays when possible as it tends to be quieter but the weekend vibe of the city is starting to thrum.
Also, there are a finite number of tables at all the venues, so book in advance.
I have never once turned up for Afternoon Tea without a booking and I have seen PLENTY of people turned away without one.
IS THERE A DRESS CODE FOR AFTERNOON TEA?
The short answer is: No.
Personally, I love to dress up for Afternoon Tea! Many of my friends do and we treat it as an occasion to wear something a little fancy.
I'd say, though, that the majority of people I see dress smartly/nicely for afternoon tea - but never formally.
I have noticed that different locations have different requirements, so make sure you check the details before arriving.
For example, in finer hotels I've seen rules against trainers and/or jeans (although this is rare).
BEST VALUE AFTERNOON TEAS IN LONDON
As a local London tour guide, I feel like it's part of my job description to know the best places to get an Afternoon Tea experience in the city!
I've based our recommendations on my extensive experiences at dozens of hotels and restaurants throughout the city.
In truth, it's not easy living in an expensive city like London on a tour guide's income, so knowing where to get an affordable afternoon tea is vital.
All of these Afternoon Teas I will list here are all under £50.00 per person and they are excellent as well!
For those of you who can spend twice as much for a dressed-up tea at one of London’s historic hotels, see below.
Roast at Borough Market
The Floral Hall, Stoney St, SE1 1TL – Closest Underground: London Bridge
Most people go to Roast for the meat but I love to go for the Afternoon Tea!
Located in the iconic Borough Market, this is one of the best options on my list for location, history, a picture-perfect setting - and their innovative menu.
The sandwiches here are totally unique: pulled pork with apple puree, tofu mayo on an onion roll, falafel...I could go on.
And don't overlook the cocktail menu (the Equinox will change your life!).
Make reservations for Afternoon Tea at Roast.
Brigit's Bakery
6-7 Chandos Pl, London WC2N 4HU - Nearest Underground Station: Leicester Square
These days, Brigit's is more famous for their Afternoon Tea Bus but their original bakery in Covent Garden is a charming spot worth visiting in its' own right!
Think clean and bright with pastel colours and a mouth-watering array of pastries, sandwiches and scones!
My favourite is their vanilla and blueberry cupcake.
They also have a to-go counter which I love as I can take something sweet home with me to enjoy the next day.
Afternoon Tea here costs just £40.00.
There are also options to add Prosecco, champagne or cocktails.
Or even bottomless cocktails which I absolutely have taken advantage of once or twice in my time!
You could then burn off the calories by exploring the City of London.
Both our guided tour, as well as our GPS-led audio tour, begin very nearby.
The English Rose
4 Lower Grosvenor Pl, London SW1W 0EJ - Nearest Underground Station: Victoria
The word "cute" does not do this place justice!
The English Rose is a charming little cafe near Buckingham Palace that you would never find on your own.
All the cakes, scones and sandwiches are made in-house and honestly, it's like having tea at your grandma's house!
There's nothing fancy here, just straight-up delicious food with incredibly generous portions.
You can also add extra cake or even one of their pan au chocolat (my favourite) if you still want more.
Also, their Afternoon Tea is a bargain at £30.00!
This is some of the best value for money I have seen when it comes to Afternoon Tea.
The Wolseley
160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB - Nearest Underground Station: Green Park
I am a frequent visitor to The Wolseley in Piccadilly, although I most often come for their incredible breakfast.
However, I've been known to indulge in their Afternoon Tea now and again!
First off, the location is absolutely stunning.
It takes my breath away every time I walk in - the floors are impeccably tiled and always shining, the high ceilings supported by columns are so dramatic and the tables are always dressed beautifully.
It's one of my favourite places to take people to "impress" them, so to speak.
The food is, of course, delicious.
The sandwiches are freshly made, the scones are served warm and fresh and the cakes are just as incredible as they look.
One of the things I like the most is that the Afternoon Tea menu is always changing.
The ingredients change with the seasons, so every time I come I am treated to something new.
If I had to give one criticism, it would be that the tea menu is not very vast but with solid standards like Earl Grey, Assam, English Breakfast and Green Tea, I've never been left wanting.
And the surprising thing about it all is that it doesn't cost a fortune! Afternoon tea here will only set you back £44.50.
CREAM TEAS IN LONDON
I know a lot of my guests are travelling on the strictest of budgets so I always make sure to suggest the idea of a Cream Tea.
This is the cheapest way to enjoy the next best thing to a proper Afternoon tea.
As you've seen, I enjoy the indulgence of a full Afternoon Tea, but sometimes I want something a little more low-key but still traditional and tasty.
A Cream Tea fits the brief: it's usually a pot of tea, served with two scones, jam - and my favourite - clotted cream.
This is a great option for visitors because it allows you to indulge in a truly British tradition in a less formal (and less expensive) way!
Places with Cream Tea that I would recommend:
- Bread Ahead (also my favourite stall in Borough Market)
- Patisserie Valerie
- The Muffin Man
- Dulwich Picture Gallery (with an incredible museum and nearby gardens to explore - I like to make a day of it)
SPECIALTY AFTERNOON TEAS
I mentioned above that I am vegetarian and I don't have any trouble finding delicious afternoon teas.
This is true for my vegan friends, too! I've also noticed an increase of gluten-free versions lately.
I usually go for Afternoon Tea with my friends, but maybe you're travelling with your children and you want something suitable for them.
Or sometimes - like me - you are a person who has done 'traditional' Afternoon Tea already and you're looking for something new.
No matter what your dietary requirement or your interests, you can find an Afternoon Tea suited to your needs - check out my list below for some personal suggestions.
Vegan Afternoon Teas
Cutter & Squidge in Soho is good full stop (and a regular haunt of mine) but it truly shines when it comes to dietary restrictions!
I find that sometimes vegetarian or vegan options seem like an afterthought but here they really shine.
With fudgy cakes, vegan roast dinner sandwiches, and indulgent vegan creams, vegans are treated to a feast!
You could then burn off the calories by exploring Soho. Our guided Rock N Roll Soho Tour, as well as our GPS-led audio tour, begins nearby.
The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at The Sanderson Hotel has lately gained some notoriety on social media and there is a good reason for that!
It's one of the most creative Afternoon Teas I have experienced and their vegan menu is stellar.
Gluten-Free Afternoon Teas
Cutter & Squidge also offers a fully gluten-free Afternoon Tea menu, even offering wheat-free scones and sandwiches.
And, again, these are treated with the same care and flavour as the standard menu and is the go-to for my gluten-free sister.
The Ampersand Hotel features a science-themed Afternoon Tea in reference to their close location to the Science Museum.
I went with a friend who eats gluten-free and was able to compare our two menus and found they were nearly identical (which almost never happens!).
The Royal Horseguards Hotel has a prime position overlooking the River Thames.
This is a place I choose for special occasions only as it is quite pricey, but for those eating gluten-free, it is well worth the money.
You could then burn off the calories by Westminster. Our guided Royal Westminster Tour, as well as our GPS-led audio tour, begins nearby.
Kid-friendly Afternoon Teas
I initially came here strictly for the cats but I was then surprised to find how lovely their afternoon tea was!
If your little one loves cats (and is of an age that they can also treat them gently), then Lady Dinah’s is one of the best options out there.
Charlie and the Chesterfield Afternoon Tea
This is a truly one-of-a-kind magical experience for the whole family, based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, served up at the ultra-posh Chesterfield Hotel.
(I have to confess that the first time I did this tea, I didn't have any children with me...)
But going back with my nephew was a real treat.
He loved his Oompa Loompa Afternoon Tea, featuring peanut butter and jam, a milkshake, and yummy pastries.
This is always my choice for Afternoon Tea with friends who have children, primarily because the Children's Menu is like a scaled-down version of the adult menu so kids feel like they are getting the same experience.
They won the award for the Best Family Afternoon Tea in London in 2016.
And, it is no wonder why, with kids enjoying mini sandwiches and a Grover stuffed toy to take home.
(Sadly for the kids only, although I did ask!)
AFTERNOON TEA BUS TOUR OR CRUISE
Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Within the last two years, the Brigit's Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour has really taken off!
I see them constantly when I'm out giving my tours. And they are popular for a good reason!
Combining a bus tour in an iconic double-decker routetmaster bus with a delectable selection of baked goodies, guests can take in some of the most famous sights in London while sipping a freshly brewed cup of tea.
I struggle with motion sickness so did not enjoy this experience as much as the two friends of mine who came with me - they could not stop raving about it!
The tour we took lasted around 90 minutes, and even though I'm a tour guide, I enjoyed being a passenger (literally) for a while!
We paid £45.00 each and there was also the option to add cocktails.
Find out about other London bus tours here.
Afternoon Tea Cruise
The Afternoon Tea Cruise is much more my style than the bus tour!
It also took about 90 minutes and was a relatively smooth journey along the river, watching the sights glide by.
The ticket was £32.00 which is a real bargain and the children's version was £10 less.
Of course, I added a glass of champagne to mine for an extra £10.00 which I thought was well worth it!
For other cruise and boat rides in London, read our post here.
Tips From Locals and Travelers
One of the nice things about having a popular travel site is that there's usually a lot of people who follow our social media pages, and they're always offering a lot of helpful advice.
The Tours by Foot London Travel Tips group on Facebook has over 170,000 members as of 2025, and there are a lot of different comments about the best places to get afternoon tea in London...
This post includes several great recommendations for a good quality afternoon tea for less than £30.
Here are some of the more noteworthy and/or frequently mentioned spots:
- Candella Tea Room
- English Rose Cafe (One of my favourites, as listed above!)
- The Claremont
- Huffkins Cafe
Travelers also noted that there are reasonably priced afternoon tea options at both the Crypt of St. Martin in the Fields and Westminster Abbey.
Between the two, I'd suggest St. Martin in the Fields for then unique experience of dining in the crypt.
It sounds creepy but is actually quite charming once you are there!
OFFERS AND DEALS
There are a few ways to save money on an Afternoon Tea service.
With a concession, you can experience a fancy tea at the same cost as a cheaper service.
Tourist Concession Passes
Tourist concession passes are one way to save on Afternoon Tea. Tourist passes bundle attractions and activities into one ticket which gets you lowered prices all over the city.
Some passes include concessions to select Afternoon Tea services.
Read our post on the best London Tourist Passes to see which, if any, pass if right for you.
OTHER FOODIE ACTIVITIES IN LONDON
Afternoon Tea is a fantastic experience and a nice indulgence to be enjoyed every now and again.
But what are you going to eat the rest of the time you are in London?!
Below you will see some of my suggestions for other "foodie" things to do while you are visiting our city.
Free East End Food Tasting Tour
The best way to experience London’s storied East End is to taste all of its delicious and unique food.
Book our food tour to really immerse yourself in the culture and flavours of this incredibly interesting area.
This tour showcases the incredible history of this eclectic London neighbourhood as told through its' food.
We've been leading these tours for 10 years now and our passionate guides know exactly where to take you for the best experience.
Self-Guided Walking Tour of Borough Market
Borough Market is simply one of the best foodie experiences on the planet - a food market beloved by locals and tourists alike.
There is nothing I can say here to convey how incredible it is - just go!
Use my handy guide to the market to go on a self-guided walking and tasting tour, or join us on one of our regularly scheduled Borough Market Food Tours.
Self-guided Food Tour of Soho and Chinatown
Soho and Chinatown are some of the most famous and storied parts of London, and this area has a rich and vibrant food culture that can rival any in Europe.
Use our self-guided Food Tour of Soho and Chinatown to get a taste of what this area is all about.
Be sure to check out our other free, self-guided London tours.
SPLURGING ON AN AFTERNOON TEA AT A HOTEL
Afternoon Tea at these hotels will cost over £75, so be warned!
But these hotels are historic and stunning, giving you a luxurious experience.
As I've said, I treat myself to one of these once or twice a year so you should consider doing the same!
The Savoy
Strand, London WC2R 0EU – Nearest Underground: Charing Cross
An absolute institution, The Savoy has been serving tea the traditional way for decades!
My favourite thing about eating here isn't just that the food is delicious (it is), or that the staff are so friendly (they are) but it's how absolutely stunningly beautiful the surroundings are.
When I go here, I'm always seated underneath a massive glass dome that lets in loads of natural light.
The floors are shiny, the art deco theme is stunning, and every time I have gone I've been treated to music by a pianist situated underneath a gazebo in the Foyer. It's honestly iconic!
This is one of the places that I mentioned above which brings you unlimited amounts of food - so make sure to come with an appetite.
Their food is almost too beautiful to eat (but I managed).
The entire experience is also topped off with a slice of cake of your choice from a sweet trolley laden with freshly made cakes and tarts.
You could then burn off the calories by exploring the City of London. Both our guided tour, as well as our GPS-led audio tour, begin very nearby.
Fortnum & Mason
181 Piccadilly, W1A 1ER – Nearest Underground: Piccadilly Circus
Located in Mayfair, Fortnum & Mason is a luxury shop trading in London since 1707 and is my top recommendation for Afternoon Tea in London.
In 2012, their tea rooms were refurbished and are now known as the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
I love this space on top of the shop - it provides lovely views out over Piccadilly and is decorated in light, bright pastels.
I like to dress up for Afternoon Tea anyway but Fortnum & Masons recommendation is that the location "leans more towards elegance" so take that as a cue to get a little dolled up!
This is another place that will routinely replenish my plate until I can't take another bite.
They have, in my opinion, some of the best scones around and their selection of jams and preserves is unmatched,
In addition to all this, a slice of any cake from the cake trolley comes as standard.
It’s worth noting that all items on the cake trolley are made from ingredients grown on King Charles III's Cornwall estate which I think is a fun touch!
Gents Afternoon Tea at the Sanctum Soho Hotel
20 Warwick Street, W1B 5NF – Nearest Underground: Piccadilly Circus or Oxford Circus
Afternoon tea has somewhat of a reputation as being a ladies’ event (and does tend to be something I enjoy with my girlfriends more often than not) but the Sanctum Hotel’s Afternoon Tea is setting out to change all that!
Instead of traditional cakes and sandwiches, this afternoon tea consists of a hearty menu with a focus on food and alcohol.
Seared steaks and mushrooms on toast, miniature smoked fish alongside roast beef and meat pastries are dished up in luxurious surroundings.
For desserts, the tea finishes with a combination of chocolate treats and alcohol, and instead of traditional glasses of bubbly, this gent's tea is served with a side of Jack Daniels.
(I know that this plays into gender stereotypes but I've included it here for anyone who might need a way to convince their boyfriends or husbands to joining them!)
HISTORY OF AFTERNOON TEA
Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, is credited with the invention of ‘afternoon tea’ as we know it today in 1840.
She is said to have mentioned ‘that sinking feeling’ during the late afternoon between meals.
To combat these munchies, Anna tended to enjoy a pot of tea and a sandwich or cake and began inviting her friends to join her.
Such a well-known and fashionable lady, Anna became an inspiration for all of high society and soon afternoon tea spread throughout the country!
