London is renowned for its vibrant afternoon tea culture, where tradition meets creativity in a series of delightful culinary experiences.
From the opulence of Regency-era themes to the charm of literary heritage, each afternoon tea offers a unique twist on this quintessentially British pastime.
Whether you’re a fan of popular TV series, a lover of maritime history, or simply seeking a refined experience, London’s themed afternoon teas provide an exquisite blend of flavours, settings, and stories.
Embark on a journey through the city’s finest offerings and indulge in a taste of British elegance and innovation.
A Regency Affair: The Lanesborough’s Bridgerton Afternoon Tea
The Lanesborough has introduced a new Bridgerton-themed afternoon tea, celebrating the third season of the popular Netflix series. This exquisite event is a collaboration between The Lanesborough, Netflix, and Shondaland, meticulously designed by Head Pastry Chef Pierre Morvan-Benezet.
The menu honours the prominent families featured in Bridgerton Season 3 and pays homage to Lanesborough House, constructed in 1825 in the classical Regency style by William Wilkins.
The tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, pastry tartlets, and scones with cream and jam. Guests can also enjoy the ‘Friend to Lovers’ cocktail, inspired by Lady Whistledown’s character. This refreshing margarita features 1800 Coconut Tequila, cherries, cranberry juice, honey, and fresh lime juice.
Morvan-Benezet’s signature cakes and sweet treats include The Social Butterfly, a jewelled pistachio and mandarin mousse with an emerald-green glaze, biscuit base, gold leaf sprinkles, and an edible gold butterfly tuile.
Colin’s Travels is a dark chocolate sponge with caramel and dark chocolate mousse, encased in a travel trunk and adorned with chocolate decorations. The Book of Eloise is a cheesecake vanilla mousse with whipped vanilla Chantilly and blueberry gel, finished with white chocolate and blue edible flowers.
The Lady Whistledown is an elegant grapefruit and raspberry mousse, encased in whipped Chantilly with white chocolate décor and a grapefruit glaze.
Avant-Garde Elegance: Afternoon Tea at Sketch, Mayfair
In the heart of Mayfair, sketch offers an exquisitely reimagined afternoon tea experience that pushes the boundaries of tradition. This avant-garde destination has become renowned for its innovative approach to the classic British ritual, presenting tweaks, twists, and creative adaptations of traditional favourites.
The iconic sketch afternoon tea is served in the Gallery, a vibrant gastro-brasserie that doubles as an immersive art space. The setting itself is a feast for the eyes, surrounded by captivating artworks by British artist Yinka Shonibare. This unique environment creates a backdrop that is both chic and playful, perfectly complementing the innovative tea service.
Guests embarking on this culinary journey can expect a menu that pays homage to tradition while embracing modern creativity. The experience begins with a selection of delicate sandwiches, their fillings likely given a contemporary twist in true sketch style. Freshly baked scones are served with clotted cream and homemade preserves, offering a comforting nod to classic afternoon tea elements.
The true stars of the show, however, are the artfully crafted pastries. These sweet creations are where Sketch’s culinary team truly shines, presenting an array of desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Each pastry is a miniature work of art, designed to surprise and delight both the palate and the eye.
Complementing the food is a carefully curated selection of fine teas, allowing guests to pair their preferred brew with the innovative treats. For those looking to add an extra touch of luxury to their experience, sketch offers the option to include Champagne or one of their signature cocktails, elevating the afternoon tea into a truly celebratory affair.
The sketch afternoon tea experience goes beyond mere sustenance, offering a complete sensory journey. It’s an ideal choice for those celebrating special occasions, treating loved ones, or simply seeking an extraordinary departure from the ordinary. In the eclectic and artistic environment of sketch, afternoon tea becomes a memorable adventure that engages all the senses.
This avant-garde take on afternoon tea at Sketch exemplifies London’s ability to honour tradition while pushing culinary and aesthetic boundaries, resulting in an experience that is quintessentially British yet thoroughly modern.
Timeless Elegance at The Beaumont Mayfair
Experience the transformed elegance of Gatsby’s Room at The Beaumont Mayfair. Renowned architect and designer Thierry Despont has reimagined this space into a relaxed and intimate lounge, perfect for a leisurely afternoon tea.
Reflecting The Beaumont’s transatlantic heritage, the afternoon tea blends English traditions with an American twist. Guests can enjoy homemade finger sandwiches like Hendrick’s Cured Lox, Heirloom Tomatoes, and Buffalo Mozzarella, alongside sweet treats such as Peach, Verbena and Raspberry Mousse, Cherry Bakewell Pie, and coconut and chocolate mounds, complemented by freshly baked scones.
To add a touch of glamour, guests can enjoy a glass of NV Thiénot Brut from the extensive Champagne list. The Beaumont has partnered with artisan tea producers JING Teas to curate a bespoke tea and infusion list, featuring selections like Organic Darjeeling 2nd Flush from the Himalayan foothills, soft and creamy Vanilla Black, and Ruhuana from Sri Lanka.
Located moments from the boutiques, museums, and galleries of Mayfair, St James’s, and the West End, Gatsby’s Room is the vibrant heart of The Beaumont. Its comfortable and elegant interior, inspired by the building’s 1926 origins, features walnut-framed sofas, mahogany tub chairs, and an impressive collection of art.
Afternoon Tea is served in Gatsby’s Room between 12.30 pm and 5.00 pm, Monday to Sunday, priced from £80 per adult (£95 with a glass of NV Thiénot Brut). Vegan, Gluten Free, and Children’s menus are available.
Floral Champagne Dream: Perrier-Jouët Jardin Fleuri at AllBright, Mayfair
In the heart of Mayfair, a botanical paradise awaits tea enthusiasts and champagne lovers alike. The Perrier-Jouët Jardin Fleuri at AllBright offers a unique al-fresco champagne afternoon tea experience that transports guests into a world of floral splendour and refined indulgence.
This summer-long partnership between Perrier-Jouët Champagne and AllBright Women’s Members’ Club has transformed the terrace into an elegant oasis. Inspired by Perrier-Jouët’s art and nature focus, the Jardin Fleuri is adorned with the champagne house’s signature floral motifs, lush greenery, and vibrant blooms. It’s a tranquil escape from the bustle of London life, inviting guests to pause and savour the moment.
As visitors settle into this enchanting setting, they’re presented with a carefully curated menu that pays homage to traditional afternoon tea while adding a touch of luxury. Delicate sandwiches filled with smoked salmon, crème fraiche and dill, or coronation chicken offer a savoury start. For those with a sweet tooth, the experience continues with delightful treats such as blueberry and pistachio tarts, ricotta and raspberry tarts, and an assortment of macarons. Each morsel is crafted to pair perfectly with the star of the show – Perrier-Jouët Champagne.
The experience is designed to cater to various preferences, with three tiers of indulgence available. Guests can opt for a classic tea or coffee service, elevate their experience with a glass of Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV, or go all out with half a bottle of this exquisite champagne. This flexibility allows visitors to tailor their afternoon tea to the occasion, whether it’s a casual catch-up with friends or a special celebration.
What sets this afternoon tea apart is not just its setting or menu, but the inclusivity of the experience. Both members and non-members of AllBright are welcome to partake in this floral fantasy, making it an accessible luxury for all who wish to indulge. It’s a testament to AllBright’s ethos of supporting and celebrating women, offering a space where everyone can feel welcome and pampered.
As the summer sun casts a golden glow over the Jardin Fleuri, guests find themselves immersed in a world where every detail has been thoughtfully curated. From the gentle clink of champagne flutes to the delicate aroma of freshly brewed tea, every sense is engaged in this afternoon ritual. It’s more than just tea and champagne; it’s a celebration of art, nature, and the finer things in life, all set against the backdrop of one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods.
The Perrier-Jouët Jardin Fleuri at AllBright isn’t just an afternoon tea; it’s a journey into a world of elegance and refinement, where the boundaries between indoor luxury and outdoor beauty blur. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest luxuries in life are the moments we take to pause, indulge, and appreciate the beauty around us.
Nature’s Palette: The Dorchester Garden with Wild Idol
In a bold move that reimagines the traditional afternoon tea experience, The Dorchester has partnered with Wild Idol to create a nature-inspired indulgence that caters to both the eyes and the palate. From May 1st to September 30th, 2024, The Dorchester Garden transforms into a haven of sophisticated non-alcoholic revelry, proving that luxury and abstinence can indeed go hand in hand.
As guests approach The Dorchester Garden, they’re greeted by a living arch that mirrors Wild Idol’s brand colours, setting the stage for an experience that’s as visually stunning as it is gastronomically delightful. The garden itself becomes a canvas, with a specially designed Wild Idol Sparkling Bar Cart taking centre stage, its presence a testament to the innovative spirit of this collaboration.
At the heart of this unique afternoon tea is a menu that celebrates the art of non-alcoholic indulgence. The star of the show is undoubtedly “The Wild Idol” cake, a confectionery masterpiece designed by The Dorchester’s pastry chefs. Inspired by the tasting notes of Wild Idol’s non-alcoholic sparkling wine, this cake is a symphony of flavours that captures the essence of the partnership.
But the innovation doesn’t stop there. Guests can delight in a Wild Idol Sgroppino, served with flair from The Dorchester’s iconic ice cream trolley. This refreshing concoction, blending elderflower sorbet with Wild Idol, offers a playful twist on the classic Italian palate cleanser. It’s a perfect example of how The Dorchester and Wild Idol have come together to create something truly unique.
The beverage selection is where this afternoon tea truly shines. Both Wild Idol White and Rosé are available by the glass and bottle, offering guests the opportunity to explore the nuanced flavours of these sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives. For those looking for something more adventurous, the Wild Idol Spritz and Sgroppino cocktails provide a creative spin on traditional mixed drinks.
What makes this experience truly special is its ability to cater to a diverse range of preferences and dietary requirements. The partnership acknowledges the growing demand for high-quality, non-alcoholic options, making it an ideal choice for those abstaining from alcohol, whether for personal, health, or religious reasons. The thoughtful inclusion of special packages for celebrations like Ramadan and Eid demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity that goes beyond mere lip service.
For those wishing to take a piece of the experience home, the Cake & Flowers Boutique offers an array of Wild Idol products and specially curated gift packages. It’s a thoughtful touch that allows guests to extend the magic of their afternoon tea long after they’ve left the garden.
As the sun dapples through the leaves and the gentle buzz of conversation fills the air, guests at The Dorchester Garden find themselves part of something truly special. This isn’t just an afternoon tea; it’s a celebration of nature, innovation, and the joy of shared experiences. It’s a reminder that luxury isn’t about excess, but about quality, thoughtfulness, and the ability to create moments of pure pleasure.
In partnering with Wild Idol, The Dorchester has not only created a unique afternoon tea experience but has also made a statement about the future of luxury hospitality. It’s an experience that proves that abstaining from alcohol doesn’t mean abstaining from sophistication or indulgence. As summer unfolds in the heart of London, The Dorchester Garden stands as a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when tradition meets innovation, and when nature becomes the muse for culinary artistry.
Nautical Delights at Harbour Hotel Southampton
Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week at Harbour Hotel Southampton with their nautically inspired ‘Afternoon Sea’.
Created by acclaimed chef Alex Aitken, The Jetty offers a fresh twist on traditional afternoon tea. Guests can enjoy local produce with sea-inspired treats such as haddock and crab quiche, seaweed and parmesan scones, salmon sausage rolls, and salted cod & XO doughnuts. These delights are paired with Veuve Clicquot champagne or local teas.
For a unique experience, guests can enjoy their tea in the Jetty Pods, offering privacy and closer proximity to the picturesque Southampton Harbour. The hotel’s design mirrors a super yacht, featuring 119 rooms, 10 suites, and stunning marina views.
Celebrating a Century at Gleneagles
Starting in January, Glendevon at Gleneagles will host a Centenary Afternoon Tea, taking diners on a journey through 100 years of culinary history.
The menu includes dishes inspired by the roaring ’20s, recipes from the 1989 ‘Taste of Gleneagles’ cookbook, and Scottish dishes enjoyed by the late Queen Elizabeth II. Highlights include a classic Gleneagles terrine with caviar and a smoked lobster sandwich inspired by Restaurant Andrew Fairlie’s signature dish.
Guests will also receive a Centenary Tea Tin filled with Gleneagles‘ special Centenary Blend as a keepsake.
Literary Elegance at Parker’s Tavern, University Arms
University Arms in Cambridge introduces the ‘Colleges of Cambridge’ afternoon tea at Parker’s Tavern, inspired by the city’s academic heritage. This new tea celebrates Cambridge’s history and renowned authors and academics.
Guests can enjoy traditional British sandwiches with a modern twist, such as smoked salmon tacos and red onion chutney quiche. Sweet treats include chocolate and almond delice, rhubarb and strawberry choux bun, and raspberry and rose roulade.
Guests can enjoy their tea in the hotel’s elegant interiors or opt for a tea-to-go, perfect for a picnic by the River Cam.
Wellness-Inspired: Shambhala Summer Afternoon Tea at COMO The Halkin
COMO Hotel’s flagship property, COMO The Halkin, has launched an exclusive afternoon tea inspired by the hotel group’s signature cuisine, COMO Shambala Kitchen. Served in the classic Halkin Bar, this wellness-focused experience brings a summer twist to the cherished British tradition.
Chef Melchor Baltasar has meticulously curated a guilt-free menu that blends savoury and sweet delicacies. The tea is accompanied by refreshing COMO Shambhala juices, shots, and a selection of hot or cold teas, offering a health-conscious alternative to traditional afternoon teas.
The Halkin Afternoon Tea starts at £55 per person, and a two-hour booking notice is required. This experience is perfect for those seeking a lighter, more health-conscious afternoon tea without compromising on taste or elegance.
Fragrant Fusion: Byredo x Nobu Afternoon Tea at Nobu Portman Square
Nobu Portman Square offers a unique collaboration with luxury beauty brand Byredo, creating a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea experience in ‘The Lounge’. Executive Chef Michael Pail and his team have crafted a bespoke menu inspired by Byredo’s iconic Mojave Ghost fragrance.
The menu features an exquisite selection of teas and herbal infusions designed to complement the Japanese-inspired afternoon tea offerings. The experience blends the sophistication of Nobu’s culinary expertise with the aromatic world of Byredo, resulting in a sensory journey for guests.
To celebrate Afternoon Tea Week, all bookings made in August receive a complimentary glass of Gusbourne Brut Reserve per person. The Byredo x Nobu Afternoon Tea starts from £70 per person, with a vegan option available at £63 per person.
Spice Route: Indian-Inspired Afternoon Tea at InterContinental London – The O2
InterContinental London – The O2 has introduced a unique Indian Inspired Afternoon Tea called ‘Chai By The Shore’. Designed by this year’s Bake Off: The Professionals winners, this unique experience combines traditional Western techniques with the rich, aromatic flavours of Indian cuisine.
Served at the hotel’s in-house restaurant, Kinaara, guests can enjoy this exclusive afternoon tea while taking in breathtaking views of the River Thames and Canary Wharf. The fusion of Indian spices and flavours with classic afternoon tea elements promises a culinary adventure that sets it apart from traditional offerings.
The Chai By The Shore Afternoon Tea starts from £55, with a Champagne option available at £70.
Family Affair: Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath
Set within Bath’s most exclusive address, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa caters to families with a dedicated children’s menu alongside the full afternoon tea experience. The kids’ menu includes a simple sandwich selection and creative sweet treats such as fruit ice cream lollies and watermelon pizza.
Parents can indulge in the full afternoon tea menu, which features an extensive selection of hand-blended teas from Brighton-based brand Hoogly Tea. The experience can be enjoyed in the stylish Montagu’s Mews restaurant or on the picturesque outdoor terrace amidst the property’s vast English gardens.
The Royal Crescent’s Afternoon Tea is priced at £22 for the Children’s Tea and £42 for adults, offering a delightful experience for the whole family.
Floral Elegance: Floral Forest at Fairmont Windsor Park, Berkshire
Fairmont Windsor Park, located on the edge of Windsor Great Park, offers a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience. Set against the backdrop of 40 acres of open gardens and a tranquil lake, the hotel’s new Flora Forest afternoon tea is served in the Orchid Tea Room, a calming yet opulent lounge.
The tea is presented on bespoke floral crockery and features handmade creations from the expert Pâtisserie and Chocolatier team. Guests can savour a world-class tea selection, fine Champagne, and a varied selection of sandwiches including Scottish smoked salmon and St Ewe egg. The experience is completed with a range of sweet treats and scones.
Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Windsor Park starts from £55, with a Champagne option available at £70.
Traditional Charm: An English Afternoon Tea at Whatley Manor, Cotswolds
Nestled in 12 acres of gardens in the heart of the Cotswolds, Whatley Manor offers a traditional English afternoon tea experience. Served daily, guests can enjoy their tea in The Garden Room, which offers views of the property’s gardens, or in the cosy Drawing Room with its oak wood panelling.
The menu includes a selection of delicious savouries, classic finger sandwiches, scones, and an elegant array of cakes and sweet treats. This experience embodies the essence of a traditional English afternoon tea in a picturesque Cotswolds setting.
Whatley Manor’s Afternoon Tea is priced from £39.50 per person, with an option to add a glass of Gusbourne Sparkling Wine for £55.50 per person.
French Flair: Afternoon Tea at The Cadogan, Chelsea
In the heart of Chelsea, The Cadogan offers a unique twist on the quintessential British afternoon tea, blending French culinary expertise with an extensive selection of fine teas. This experience showcases the hotel’s commitment to both tradition and innovation in the world of afternoon tea.
Celebrity chef Benoît Blin has carefully curated a menu that infuses French flair into the classic British tea time ritual. Guests can indulge in a variety of delectable treats that showcase Blin’s culinary expertise and creative approach to afternoon tea.
The tea selection is a highlight of the experience, featuring over 20 fine teas from luxury tea company Newby London. The Tea Collection includes some of Newby’s classic award-winning blends, such as Assam and Darjeeling. Adding to the exclusivity of the experience, guests can also enjoy The Cadogan Blend, a unique house tea created especially for the hotel.
This afternoon tea experience offers a perfect balance of British tradition and French culinary artistry, all set in the elegant surroundings of The Cadogan. It’s an ideal choice for tea enthusiasts and those looking to explore innovative takes on classic afternoon tea fare.
The Cadogan’s Afternoon Tea starts from £50 per person, offering a luxurious yet accessible experience in one of London’s most fashionable neighbourhoods.
Seaside Splendor: Afternoon Tea at The Grand Brighton
The Grand Brighton offers a delightful afternoon tea experience that combines traditional elements with a touch of seaside charm. Hosted in the magnificent Victoria Terrace & Lounge, guests can enjoy panoramic views of Brighton’s famous seafront while indulging in a range of vibrant flavours.
The menu features a carefully curated selection of savoury and sweet treats. Guests begin their culinary journey with savoury staples such as a pork & leek sausage roll wrapped in buttery pastry and a caramelized red onion and goats’ cheese quiche. The selection of freshly made sandwiches includes classic fillings like Scottish smoked salmon with dill crème fraiche and Burford brown egg mayonnaise & cress.
The sweet course is a highlight of the experience, presenting rich flavours and creamy textures. Diners can indulge in a dark chocolate delice, a mini sherry & strawberry trifle, and freshly baked Shipton Mill scones served with clotted cream and Tiptree Strawberry preserve. For those with room for more, a cake trolley offering the chef’s favourites makes its way around the room, adding an extra touch of indulgence to the experience.
The Grand Brighton takes pride in its tea selection, offering its own blended-leaf tea alongside world-renowned blends and infusions. Guests can choose from options like the Napoleon blend and spearmint herbal loose tea. For those looking to elevate their experience, the hotel offers the option to add a Brighton Gin G&T, a glass of iconic Moët champagne, Ridgeway Cavendish wine, or a Chambord Spritz to their tea from £11 per person.
Catering to diverse dietary needs, The Grand Brighton also offers a vegan afternoon tea featuring items like guacamole & heirloom tomato sandwiches, red velvet cake, and macarons. A gluten-free option is available as well, including treats such as leek, potato and cheese tortilla, chocolate and caramel loaf cake, and honey roast ham sandwiches.
This afternoon tea experience at The Grand Brighton offers a perfect blend of traditional elegance and seaside charm, making it an ideal choice for both special celebrations and casual weekend indulgences.
Conclusion
As London’s afternoon tea scene continues to flourish, it offers an array of experiences that cater to diverse tastes and interests, each promising a blend of traditional charm and modern flair.
From the Regency-inspired indulgence at The Lanesborough, celebrating the elegance of Bridgerton, to the American-infused sophistication at The Beaumont Mayfair, these teas offer not just a meal but a moment of cultural immersion.
Harbour Hotel Southampton’s nautical twist adds a refreshing maritime touch, while Gleneagles‘ Centenary Afternoon Tea invites guests to savour a century of culinary heritage. At Parker’s Tavern, the ‘Colleges of Cambridge’ afternoon tea brings the city’s storied academic past to life through its savoury and sweet delights.
Each venue not only serves beautifully crafted food but also provides a setting where history, design, and flavour converge to create memorable experiences. Whether you’re a connoisseur of classic tea traditions or eager to explore innovative takes on this beloved ritual, London’s afternoon teas stand as a testament to the city’s ability to honour its past while embracing the present.
Take the time to revel in these exceptional offerings and savour a quintessentially British experience with a modern twist.
