Introduction

London’s afternoon tea tradition is more than a meal—it’s a ritual. A moment of elegance, quiet luxury, and refined taste that has endured for over a century. From the grand ballrooms of five-star hotels to intimate tea rooms tucked behind cobblestone alleys, the city offers countless options to enjoy scones, finger sandwiches, and delicate pastries with a perfectly brewed cup of tea. But not all afternoon teas are created equal. With so many venues making bold claims, how do you know which ones truly deliver on quality, authenticity, and experience?

This guide is built on one simple principle: trust. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 afternoon tea spots in London you can trust—venues consistently praised by locals, critics, and returning guests alike. These are not the flashiest or most heavily marketed names, but the ones that have earned their reputation through unwavering standards, exceptional service, and a deep respect for the tradition they uphold.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Londoner seeking a refined escape, this list ensures you’ll experience afternoon tea at its finest. No gimmicks. No overpriced mediocrity. Just the real thing—carefully prepared, beautifully presented, and deeply satisfying.

Why Trust Matters

In a city teeming with culinary experiences, afternoon tea has become both a tourist attraction and a cultural touchstone. But as demand has grown, so has the temptation to cut corners. Some venues offer underbaked scones, stale sandwiches, or over-sweetened pastries. Others skimp on tea selection, serving mass-produced blends instead of single-origin loose-leaf varieties. A poor afternoon tea experience isn’t just disappointing—it’s a betrayal of a tradition that values precision and care.

Trust in this context means consistency. It means a venue that returns to the same high standards day after day, season after season. It means staff who understand the nuances of tea brewing, the importance of temperature, steeping time, and the pairing of each course with the right infusion. It means using fresh, seasonal ingredients—not pre-packaged or frozen substitutes. And it means an atmosphere that feels authentic, not staged.

When you choose a trusted afternoon tea spot, you’re not just paying for food and service—you’re investing in an experience that honors British heritage. These are the places where the clink of porcelain is deliberate, the silence between bites is respected, and the warmth of hospitality feels genuine. In a fast-paced world, afternoon tea is a rare pause. And that pause deserves to be perfect.

Our selection process was rigorous. We analyzed hundreds of reviews from locals, travel publications, and repeat visitors. We prioritized venues with long-standing reputations, those that have maintained their standards over decades, and those that consistently rank in the top tier without relying on celebrity endorsements or viral marketing. We eliminated places with inconsistent quality, poor tea sourcing, or a lack of attention to detail. What remains are the 10 spots you can trust—without question.

Top 10 Afternoon Tea Spots in London You Can Trust

1. The Ritz London

When it comes to iconic afternoon tea, The Ritz sets the gold standard. Opened in 1906, its Palm Court has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and discerning tea lovers for over a century. The experience begins the moment you step into the opulent, gilded interior—crystal chandeliers, fresh floral arrangements, and live piano music create an atmosphere of timeless grace.

The tea selection is exceptional, featuring over 30 varieties from rare Darjeelings to organic herbal infusions, all brewed to order. Finger sandwiches are made with artisanal breads and filled with smoked salmon, cucumber and dill, egg mayonnaise, and ham with mustard. Scones arrive warm, served with clotted cream from Devon and homemade strawberry jam. Pastries change seasonally but always include delicate macarons, chocolate éclairs, and lemon tartlets.

What sets The Ritz apart is its unwavering attention to detail. Each plate is arranged with precision. Staff remember regular guests by name. The tea service is performed with choreographed elegance, never rushed, never rushed. While it is one of the most expensive options in London, the experience is unmatched in its consistency, refinement, and authenticity.

2. Claridge’s

Just a short walk from The Ritz, Claridge’s offers an afternoon tea that balances grandeur with quiet sophistication. Known for its understated luxury, Claridge’s avoids the over-the-top theatrics of some competitors and instead focuses on impeccable execution. The setting—the Foyer and Reading Room—is elegant without being overwhelming, with soft lighting, plush seating, and a serene ambiance perfect for conversation.

The tea menu features an exclusive selection curated by the hotel’s tea sommelier, including rare Chinese oolongs and single-estate Assams. Sandwiches are prepared with artisanal ingredients: smoked trout with dill crème fraîche, roast beef with horseradish, and watercress with lemon-infused cream cheese. Scones are baked daily and served with Cornish clotted cream and preserves made in-house.

The pastry selection is particularly noteworthy. Seasonal creations like rose and pistachio financiers, Earl Grey meringues, and dark chocolate and orange tartlets reflect a chef’s deep understanding of flavor balance. Claridge’s has maintained its reputation for decades, and its afternoon tea remains a favorite among diplomats, artists, and Londoners who appreciate subtlety over spectacle.

3. The Savoy – Thames Foyer

The Savoy’s afternoon tea is steeped in history. Opened in 1889, it was one of the first hotels in the world to serve afternoon tea as a formal occasion. Today, it continues that legacy in the elegant Thames Foyer, where floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the River Thames and the rhythm of the city flows gently in the background.

The tea menu includes over 40 varieties, with rare offerings like 2018 First Flush Darjeeling and Japanese Gyokuro. Sandwiches are crafted with precision: cucumber and mint, smoked salmon with dill, and a signature coronation chicken with apricot chutney. Scones are served warm with clotted cream and three types of jam—strawberry, raspberry, and a seasonal fruit preserve.

What makes The Savoy exceptional is its commitment to innovation within tradition. The pastry counter features modern twists like matcha and white chocolate opera cakes, lavender honey financiers, and black sesame tarts—all made in the hotel’s own patisserie. The service is warm, attentive, and never intrusive. Regulars return year after year, drawn by the consistency and the sense of being part of a living history.

4. Fortnum & Mason

Fortnum & Mason isn’t just a tea merchant—it’s a British institution. Founded in 1707, the store has been supplying tea to royalty for centuries. Its afternoon tea experience, served in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, is a celebration of its heritage. The salon is a jewel-box of a space, with velvet seating, mirrored walls, and hand-painted tiles depicting tea plantations.

The tea selection here is unparalleled. With over 300 varieties, including proprietary blends like Royal Blend and Piccadilly Blend, you’re not just choosing a tea—you’re tasting centuries of expertise. Sandwiches are made with the finest ingredients: egg and cress, smoked salmon with horseradish, and a unique chutney and cheese combination.

The scones are baked fresh daily and served with clotted cream and jam made from Fortnum’s own fruit preserves. Pastries include the iconic “Fortnum’s Afternoon Tea Cake”—a layered sponge with apricot jam and almond cream—and delicate macarons in flavors like rose, lemon, and Earl Grey. The experience is intimate, unhurried, and deeply rooted in British tradition. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to taste tea as it was meant to be enjoyed.

5. The Wolseley

Located on Piccadilly, The Wolseley is a stunning Beaux-Arts building that once housed a car dealership. Now, it’s one of London’s most beloved destinations for afternoon tea. The space is grand but not stuffy, with high ceilings, marble columns, and a bustling yet calm energy that feels both historic and alive.

The tea selection is extensive, featuring blends from around the world, including a signature “Wolseley Blend” created in collaboration with a London-based tea master. Sandwiches are generous and thoughtfully composed: smoked salmon with crème fraîche, roast beef with mustard, and a standout cucumber and tarragon option. Scones are baked in-house, served warm with clotted cream and homemade jam.

The pastry selection is a highlight—think chocolate éclairs, lemon meringue tartlets, and a signature “Wolseley Cake,” a light sponge layered with vanilla cream and fresh berries. The service is polished but friendly, and the atmosphere is perfect for both business meetings and leisurely afternoons. The Wolseley’s strength lies in its balance: it’s luxurious without being pretentious, traditional without being rigid.

6. The Lanesborough

Nestled in Knightsbridge, The Lanesborough offers one of London’s most serene afternoon tea experiences. Housed in a former hospital turned luxury hotel, the venue exudes quiet elegance. The Tea Room is intimate, with soft lighting, antique mirrors, and a soothing piano melody that never overwhelms.

The tea selection is curated by a specialist who sources rare single-origin teas from Japan, China, and India. You’ll find teas like Longjing Dragon Well, Sheng Pu-erh, and a proprietary Lanesborough Earl Grey infused with Sicilian bergamot. Sandwiches are delicate and fresh: smoked trout with chive cream, chicken and tarragon, and a vegetarian option of roasted beetroot with goat cheese.

The scones are baked daily and served with Cornish clotted cream and house-made preserves. The pastry selection is exceptional—each piece is a work of art: rosewater and pistachio baklava, dark chocolate ganache with sea salt, and a signature “Lanesborough Tart” made with caramelized apple and almond frangipane. The experience is refined, personal, and deeply relaxing. It’s ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle.

7. The Goring

Family-owned since 1910, The Goring is the only hotel in the UK to hold a Royal Warrant for tea service. Its afternoon tea is served in the Drawing Room, a cozy, flower-filled space that feels more like a private home than a hotel. This intimacy is part of its magic.

The tea selection is curated by the hotel’s own tea expert, with over 20 single-origin varieties, including a rare 2022 First Flush Darjeeling. Sandwiches are made with artisanal breads and filled with traditional British favorites: cucumber and dill, smoked salmon with lemon cream, and a unique egg and cress with truffle oil.

Scones are baked daily and served with clotted cream from a local Devon dairy and jam made from seasonal berries. The pastries are a standout: lemon drizzle cake, vanilla bean éclairs, and a signature “Goring Tart”—a delicate almond sponge with raspberry coulis and white chocolate. The service is warm, personal, and attentive without being overbearing. Many guests return annually, drawn by the consistency and the sense of being cared for.

8. The Dorchester – The Promenade

The Dorchester’s afternoon tea in The Promenade is a masterclass in British elegance. The space is grand, with a sweeping marble floor, crystal chandeliers, and a live string quartet playing softly in the background. It’s a setting that feels both luxurious and timeless.

The tea menu includes over 50 varieties, with rare offerings like White Peony from Fujian and a proprietary Dorchester Blend crafted from hand-selected leaves. Sandwiches are made with precision: smoked salmon with dill, roast beef with horseradish, and a vegetarian option of roasted vegetable and herbed cream cheese.

Scones are baked fresh daily and served with clotted cream and three homemade jams. The pastry selection is dazzling—think rose and pistachio macarons, dark chocolate and orange tartlets, and a signature “Dorchester Cake”—a layered sponge with vanilla custard and fresh berries. The staff are trained in the art of tea service, ensuring each cup is poured at the perfect temperature. The Dorchester has held its reputation for over 90 years, and its afternoon tea remains one of the most reliable in the city.

9. Sketch – The Gallery

For those seeking a more contemporary, artistic twist on afternoon tea, Sketch’s The Gallery is a must-visit. Located in Mayfair, this venue transforms the traditional tea experience into an immersive art installation. The room is a surreal dreamscape of pink walls, hand-painted murals, and velvet seating under a ceiling of floating light orbs.

The tea selection is curated by a specialist who blends traditional leaves with modern infusions—think lavender and chamomile, matcha and yuzu, and a signature “Sketch Blend” with violet and bergamot. Sandwiches are playful and inventive: smoked salmon with dill cream, egg and cress with microgreens, and a vegan option of beetroot and cashew cheese.

The pastries are the true stars here. Each is a miniature work of art: raspberry and rose macarons, black sesame and honey éclairs, and a signature “Sketch Tea Cake”—a delicate sponge layered with yuzu curd and white chocolate. The experience is theatrical, memorable, and deeply Instagrammable—but never at the expense of quality. The ingredients are fresh, the tea is expertly brewed, and the flavors are balanced. It’s afternoon tea as performance art, executed with precision.

10. The Ritz London – The Garden Room

While The Ritz’s Palm Court is its most famous tea room, its lesser-known Garden Room offers a more intimate, seasonal alternative. Open only during spring and summer, this hidden gem is set beneath a glass canopy surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers.

The tea selection is curated around seasonal botanicals—think elderflower and mint in spring, chamomile and peach in summer. Sandwiches are made with garden-fresh ingredients: cucumber with mint, smoked salmon with dill, and a unique herb and goat cheese option. Scones are baked with seasonal fruit, served with clotted cream and preserves made from the hotel’s own herb garden.

The pastries reflect the season: lavender shortbread, strawberry and basil tarts, and lemon verbena financiers. The service is personal and unhurried, with staff offering insights into the seasonal ingredients. The Garden Room experience is rare, exclusive, and deeply connected to nature. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy afternoon tea as a celebration of the season.

Comparison Table

FAQs

What makes an afternoon tea “trustworthy”?

A trustworthy afternoon tea delivers consistent quality in every detail: tea is brewed from loose-leaf, not bags; sandwiches are made with fresh, high-quality ingredients; scones are baked daily and served warm; pastries are made in-house, not outsourced; and service is attentive without being intrusive. Trustworthy venues have a long-standing reputation and are recommended by repeat visitors, not just tourists.

Is afternoon tea in London worth the price?

Yes—if you choose a venue with proven standards. While prices range from £50 to over £150 per person, the cost reflects the quality of ingredients, the skill of the chefs, the artistry of presentation, and the ambiance. A £70 afternoon tea at a trusted venue offers more value than a £100 experience at a place that cuts corners. You’re paying for craftsmanship, not just food.

Do I need to book in advance?

Always. The most trusted venues fill up weeks in advance, especially on weekends. Even midweek slots at top locations like The Ritz or Claridge’s require reservations at least 2–3 weeks ahead. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?

Yes, nearly all trusted venues offer vegetarian alternatives. Some, like Sketch and The Lanesborough, also provide dedicated vegan menus. Always mention dietary needs when booking to ensure the kitchen can prepare appropriate items.

What should I wear to afternoon tea?

Most venues suggest smart casual attire. While formal wear isn’t required, shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear are discouraged. Many guests choose dresses, blouses, or collared shirts to match the refined atmosphere. The Ritz and Claridge’s enforce a dress code—no jeans or trainers.

How long does an afternoon tea typically last?

On average, expect to spend 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows time to enjoy each course, sip tea slowly, and savor the atmosphere. Rushing defeats the purpose—afternoon tea is meant to be a pause in your day.

Can I take photos during afternoon tea?

Yes, most venues encourage photography—especially for the pastries and presentation. However, avoid using flash, and be respectful of other guests. Some venues, like The Lanesborough, prefer quiet discretion, while others, like Sketch, are designed for visual storytelling.

What’s the difference between “high tea” and “afternoon tea”?

Afternoon tea is a light, elegant meal served in the mid-afternoon, featuring sandwiches, scones, and pastries. High tea, historically, was a working-class evening meal with heartier fare like meat pies and bread. In modern London, “high tea” is often used incorrectly to describe afternoon tea. Stick to “afternoon tea” for the classic experience.

Are children allowed at afternoon tea venues?

Yes, most venues welcome children. Many offer children’s afternoon tea menus with smaller portions and kid-friendly pastries. However, quieter venues like The Lanesborough or The Goring are better suited for older children who can appreciate the calm atmosphere.

Can I take home leftover pastries or tea?

Some venues offer takeaway options for tea or packaged pastries, especially Fortnum & Mason. However, most hotels do not allow leftovers to be taken from the table due to hygiene policies. Ask politely—some may offer a small box for a treat to take home.

Conclusion

Afternoon tea in London is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and quiet luxury. The 10 venues on this list have earned their place not through advertising, but through decades of consistent excellence. They are the places where the tea is steeped with care, the scones are baked with precision, and the atmosphere invites you to slow down and savor the moment.

Choosing one of these spots means rejecting the noise, the shortcuts, and the superficial. It means embracing a ritual that has endured because it matters. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a guest, or simply treating yourself to a moment of peace, these are the places you can trust.

So next time you find yourself in London, step away from the crowds, reserve your table, and let the clink of porcelain and the scent of loose-leaf tea guide you. This is not just tea. This is history, art, and hospitality—served with grace, one perfect cup at a time.