Whether you’re a local or a visitor, indulging in British culture is a must. From elegant hotels to quirky-themed venues, London offers a diverse range of afternoon tea experiences to suit every palate and preference.
The History of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea was first introduced in England by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, in 1840. At that time, the evening meal was served late at around eight o’clock, causing a long gap between lunch and dinner. To bridge this gap, the Duchess began having a small meal of tea, bread, butter, and cakes.
The idea quickly gained popularity among the upper classes. This new tradition of afternoon tea soon evolved to include more elaborate items such as sandwiches, scones, and various pastries.
Tea as a drink had already been popular in England for a couple of centuries, largely due to the influence of King Charles II and his Portuguese wife, Catherine de Braganza, back in the 1600s. Their fondness for tea introduced it to the British court and eventually to the general public.
By the late 19th century, afternoon tea had become a social occasion. It was common for women to don elegant dresses, gloves, and hats to attend afternoon tea parties. These gatherings often took place in grand settings such as hotels and tea rooms.
Types of Afternoon Tea
There are several types of afternoon tea to enjoy in London. Each offers a unique experience.
- Classic Afternoon Tea: This traditional option features a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of sweet pastries and cakes. It’s often served with a pot of tea of your choice.
- Royal Afternoon Tea: At places like The Goring Hotel, royalists can enjoy a more opulent experience, which includes everything in a classic tea, often with the addition of champagne or unique British desserts.
- Fashion-themed Afternoon Tea: For fashion enthusiasts, the Prêt-à-Portea offers a stylish twist on traditional tea. The menu is inspired by the latest fashion trends, with pastries and cakes designed to look like high-end fashion items.
- Themed Afternoon Tea: Various locations in London offer themed afternoon teas based on books, movies, or seasons. For example, the La Vie en Rose afternoon tea at Pavyllon brings a Parisian twist to the classic tea format.
- Unique Location Afternoon Tea: Some teas are served in unique locations, such as aboard a vintage bus or in historic sites like the St-Martin-in-the-Fields church, offering Afternoon SereniTea.
- Budget-friendly Afternoon Tea: For those looking to enjoy this British tradition without spending too much, options like afternoon tea at The Wolseley start at more affordable prices while still providing a delightful experience.
Iconic Afternoon Tea Locations in London
London is known for its splendid afternoon tea venues. Here are some of the most iconic locations you should consider.
The Ritz
The Palm Court at The Ritz is one of the grandest settings. It features crystal chandeliers, ornate ceilings, and intricate murals. You can enjoy seasonal pastries, warm scones, and delicate finger sandwiches.
Claridge’s
Claridge’s offers a timeless afternoon tea experience. It is famous for its elegant art deco style. Expect classic finger sandwiches, fresh scones, and an array of pastries served in a beautiful setting.
The Goring
The Goring serves afternoon tea in a charming and intimate atmosphere. Known for its traditional approach, you can enjoy a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries in a comfortable setting.
The Shard
For a unique experience, consider afternoon tea with a view at The Shard. Enjoy the stunning skyline of London while indulging in finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets.
The Savoy
Teatime at The Savoy is a luxurious experience. With its grand decor and impeccable service, you can savour fine teas, finger sandwiches, and pastries.
The Dorchester
The Dorchester provides a classic and sophisticated afternoon tea. Served in The Promenade, it features delicious sandwiches, warm scones, and a selection of pastries.
Fortnum & Mason
At Fortnum & Mason, you can have afternoon tea in a quintessential English setting. Expect a refined selection of teas, sandwiches, scones, and cakes in their elegant tea salon.
These iconic locations offer a mix of tradition, elegance, and breathtaking views, making your afternoon tea experience in London memorable.
The Art of Tea Selection
Choosing the right tea can make your afternoon experience delightful. Many places in London, such as The Landmark London Hotel, offer a large variety of teas. Below are some tips on how you can select the perfect brew.
First, consider the type of tea you enjoy:
- Black Tea: Rich and robust. Perfect for a traditional experience.
- Green Tea: Light and refreshing. Often associated with health benefits.
- Herbal Tea: Caffeine-free options like chamomile or peppermint.
Next, think about the occasion:
- For a formal afternoon tea, choose a classic like Earl Grey or Darjeeling.
- For a relaxed gathering, fruit-infused teas add a playful twist.
- Special events might warrant a unique blend, such as jasmine pearls for a floral note.
Consider the season. In winter, you might prefer warming spices like chai. In summer, iced teas can be a refreshing alternative.
Etiquette and Afternoon Tea Culture
Afternoon tea in London is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. Knowing the proper etiquette enhances that experience.
- Dress Code Smart casual attire is usually appropriate. Avoid sportswear, but you don’t need to be overly formal. Think of it as dressing for a nice lunch out.
- Tea Selection Tea is an essential part of the experience. You’ll be offered a variety of teas, from Earl Grey to Darjeeling. Hold your teacup by the handle and never extend your pinky finger.
- Seating and Napkins Sit upright with good posture. Place your napkin on your lap as soon as you’re seated. If you leave the table, place your napkin on your chair, not on the table.
- Pouring Tea When pouring tea, pour your guest’s tea before your own. If someone else is pouring your tea, say “thank you” rather than tapping the table.
- Eating Food is typically served on a three-tiered stand. Start with savoury items on the bottom tier, then move to the scones in the middle, and finish with sweets on the top. Split scones horizontally, spread the jam first, and top with clotted cream.
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do: Use a saucer and a small spoon for stirring.
- Don’t: Dunk biscuits or any food into your tea.
- Do: Take small, polite bites and use your utensils properly.
- Don’t: Use your fingers for anything other than sandwiches or scones.
Following these guidelines helps you enjoy the tradition to its fullest. For more detailed rules, refer to Afternoon Tea Etiquette – Top 10 Dos & Don’ts.
Savoury and Sweet Delights
When enjoying afternoon tea in London, you’ll find a delightful mix of savoury and sweet treats.
Savoury Delights
Your experience usually starts with an array of finger sandwiches. These can include fillings like:
- Cucumber and Cream Cheese
- Smoked Salmon and Dill
- Egg and Cress
- Ham and Mustard
These sandwiches are often served on different types of bread, such as white, wholemeal, and rye, adding variety to each bite.
Sweet Treats
After the sandwiches, you move on to scones. These are always accompanied by clotted cream and jam. The scones can be plain or sometimes feature raisins or currants.
Next come the pastries and cakes. You might find:
- Macarons
- Fruit Tarts
- Chocolate Eclairs
- Victoria Sponge
Each place you visit will offer its own unique twist on these traditional items.
Pairing Tea with Food
Pairing tea with the right food enhances both flavours. When you visit London for afternoon tea, knowing what to pair can make your experience even better.
Black Tea
Black teas like Assam or Darjeeling pair well with rich foods. Think scones with clotted cream and jam, or smoked salmon sandwiches. These teas have strong flavours that complement bold foods.
Green Tea
Green teas are best with lighter foods. Enjoy yours with cucumber sandwiches, grilled vegetables, and salads. The fresh, slightly grassy notes in green tea balance these delicate dishes.
White Tea
White teas are very light and sweet. Pair these with fresh fruit, light pastries, and white chocolate. The subtle flavours in white tea won’t overpower these gentle foods.
Herbal Tea
Herbal teas work with a variety of foods depending on the ingredients. For example, peppermint tea pairs well with chocolate desserts, while chamomile tea is lovely with honey-drizzled scones.
Oolong Tea
Oolong tea has a complex flavour. Enjoy it with dim sum, crispy duck pancakes, or biscuits. It’s a versatile tea that can handle both sweet and savoury flavours.
Rooibos Tea
Rooibos, which is naturally caffeine-free, pairs nicely with spicy foods and savoury snacks. Think cheese platters or spiced nuts. Its slightly nutty profile brings out the best in these foods.
Tea and Cheese
Don’t forget about tea and cheese pairings. For a unique experience, match brie with jasmine tea, or aged cheddar with earl grey. The tea’s tannins balance the cheese’s creaminess.
Seasonal and Themed Afternoon Teas
In London, you can enjoy a wide range of seasonal and themed afternoon teas that offer something a bit different.
- During the summer, you might find a Parisian-themed afternoon tea at selected venues. This typically includes French pastries and décor that bring a touch of Paris to London.
- For those who love stories, the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory afternoon tea is a treat. Available from Wednesday to Sunday at One Aldwych, this tea experience offers playful sweets and imaginative settings.
- If you prefer something unique, you can try an afternoon tea with a twist. For instance, some locations offer a quirky afternoon tea in moving settings, perfect for an adventurous experience.
- For latest additions, new afternoon teas often feature exciting flavours and novel presentations. These are offered with seasonal ingredients, making each visit unique.
💡 Reservations might be necessary, so it’s a good idea to book your spot ahead of time to avoid disappointment. Enjoy the variety that London has to offer with afternoon teas that cater to all tastes and seasons.
