Places to Take Afternoon Tea in London

Afternoon Tea

If visiting London, then consider a visit to one of London’s top hotels such as Claridges or the Savoy for an afternoon tea. Not only is the experience a relaxing one, it is also a way experiencing a true British tradition in a non-touristy way.

What is High Tea?

High tea is an afternoon “pick me up” traditionally taken between lunch and dinner and fills the role of both a source of energy, as well as a social event. Whilst the event is called high tea or afternoon tea, the drink forms only a part of the event.

If taking afternoon tea in one of London’s luxury hotels, then expect to be offered a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, cakes and scones with clotted cream. In short, an afternoon tea can be quite an undertaking in itself, almost constituting a whole meal in constitution.

Of course, the real upside of afternoon tea is the social and cultural experience. Taking high tea is one way in which the traveller can spend an hour or so watching the world go by and chatting in some of London’s finest buildings. High tea is a chance to slow down a gear and experience a true British tradition in a non-tourist like way.

Places to take Afternoon Tea in London

There are many places to take afternoon tea in London and not all are confined to the luxury hotel. Despite this, the best examples are found in the stated hotels, here are some of the best locations:

Afternoon tea at Claridges Hotel – Claridges Hotel is one of London’s finest hotels. The hotel is in the heart of the Mayfair district and is well known for its Art Deco period features and décor. A standard afternoon tea at Claridges will cost £35 and includes a selection of over 30 teas to choose from. Sittings are available at 15:00, 15:30, 17:00 and 17:30.

Afternoon tea at The Ritz – The Ritz is located in the Piccadilly area or London and is one of the city’s finest hotels. Taking afternoon tea at the Ritz is a historical experience, the original hotel having opened its doors over 100 years ago, back in 1906. Today at traditional afternoon tea at the Ritz will set the patron back £39 and includes a selection of sandwiches, scones, pastries and of course a tea. Five sittings are available at 11:30, 13:30, 15:30, 17:30 and 19:30.

Afternoon tea at The Savoy – The Savoy hotel dates back to 1889 and is located in the Strand of London. The hotel is famous for its mixture of Art Deco and English Edwardian period features. Afternoon tea at the Savoy is served in the Thames Foyer between 14:00 and 18:30. In addition, the hotel has also opened a boutique style shop inspired by the traditional of afternoon tea. The store sells a range of related products and gifts as one might expect. The store is simply named “The Savoy Tea” and is open between 10:00 and 20:00.

Afternoon tea at The Dorchester – The Dorchester is another of London’s luxury hotels located again in the Mayfair district. Afternoon tea is served in two locations at the Dorchester hotel, in the Promenade and the Spatisserie. The promenade sees five services a day at 13:15, 14:30, 15:15, 16:15 and 17:15. Whilst afternoon tea can be taken at the Spatisserie at 15:30, 16:45 and 18:45.