From classic experiences to teas with a twist – some even Coronation-themed – these are London’s best afternoon teas to enjoy this spring.
There’s nothing more quintessentially British than afternoon tea, and you can count on London to make this experience truly unforgettable. Let us take you on a tour of our favourite afternoon teas in the capital this spring.
The Coronation Tea: The Goring Hotel
Indulge in a slice of fine royal treatment at The Goring Hotel. This institution, located just a few steps from Buckingham Palace, is dedicating an afternoon tea and dinner menu to celebrate King Charles’s Coronation: ideal for those who want to honour our new monarch with celebratory tea, champagne and, fittingly, delightful coronation chicken sandwiches. Don’t miss this opportunity to treat yourself to a regal affair.
Tea with a twist: Nobu Hotel Portman Square
As well as sushi and ceviche, discover delicious fusion dishes – such as the Crispy Chicken Kara-age – with afternoon tea at the Nobu Hotel in Portman Square. For something sweet, try the small bites of miso chocolate caramel tart, passion fruit mandarin madeleines and a range of tasty scones. Wash it all down with a wide selection of teas; English breakfast, earl grey, or a variety of herbal, green and white tea infusions. Add a glass of Laurent-Perrier for good measure.
The Collaboration: Great Scotland Yard Hotel and Floris
Step into The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Hotel and be immersed in a multi-sensory afternoon tea experience. Luxury hotels are increasingly bottling the scents of their resorts and in a reverse move, Great Scotland Yard Hotel has partnered with luxury fragrance brand Floris, to create a menu inspired by their fragrance Mulberry Fig. Visit between 1 May and 27 June for a bespoke Coronation afternoon tea experience; the special celebratory menu can be enjoyed with or without champagne and includes savoury quiche, sweet scones and a dessert named King Charles III’s Lemon and Strawberry Charlotte.
The Classic: Afternoon Tea at the Ritz London
Afternoon tea is a treasured British tradition, and iconic institutions – such as the Ritz Hotel in London – know how to uphold it well. From the moment you walk into the hotel’s Palm Court you’ll be welcomed into a magical space that guarantees enduring memories. As a bonus, their Children’s Afternoon Tea menu makes for an enjoyable experience to be enjoyed with young ones. With eighteen different types of loose tea to drink in a chic setting, this classic afternoon tea experience should be on everyone’s London list.
Tea with a side of drama: Theatre Royal Drury Lane
If you’ve ever envisaged yourself taking tea as the elegant characters of Bridgerton do, head to the Lane Theatre to discover their Grand Saloon Afternoon Tea. Delight yourself with intricate pastries, high ceilings and wondrous artwork inspired by the charm and opulence of the Regency era, before heading to the evening’s performance. Visit before 10 May to enjoy their special Coronation Afternoon Tea.
The Art of Dining: The Wallace Collection
The Wallace Collection in the heart of London’s Marylebone is an ideal location to while away an afternoon while sipping on tea and indulging in delicious pastries. Located on their tranquil veranda, enjoy a range of savoury and sweet dishes alongside a long list of tea blends and a glass of champagne, Pimms or a Kir Royale. Afterwards, take a stroll through the beautiful rooms and check out their ongoing exhibition: Portraits of Dogs: From Gainsborough to Hockney. If you’re inspired by dining with artistic greats, here are eight more gallery restaurants in London to enjoy.
Shop ’til you Sip: Anya Café
Tea and shopping are a great way to spend a day, and British designer Anya Hindmarch, has it all figured out. Head to Pont Street in Belgravia to visit Anya Village with an array of tasteful shops – including the playful World’s Smallest Department Store, showcasing the best in British craftsmanship – before heading to the café to enjoy homemade sweets and sandwiches. We suggest you pick up a few to take home, too.
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