8 Of The Best Places To Visit For Afternoon Tea in London

When it comes to afternoon tea in London, the options can seem endless, and even though it’s hard to make a bad afternoon tea, there are a select few that stand out from the crowd. From the Ritz to the Shard, there’s an afternoon tea up everyone’s street. Here are some of our favourites… 

1. Mary Poppins Afternoon Tea at The Shard

By far one of the most breathtaking places to have afternoon tea in the city, the Mary Poppins-themed afternoon tea at the Shard gives visitors the chance to enjoy an incredible view while tucking into delicious sweets and savories. Prices vary depending on which package you select, starting from £49 per person, with an option to add a glass of Veuve Clicquot or Veuve Clicquot Rose.

2. Vegan Afternoon Tea at Cake Boy

One of London’s quirkiest food spots, Cake Boy offers possibly the most elite vegan afternoon tea in the capital, giving hungry tourists an array of mouth-watering breads and plant-based fillings, as well as a huge selection of delicious vegan-friendly sweets. Prices begin at £45 per person.

3. Afternoon Tea at Sketch 

One look at the website will tell you all you need to know about the type of experience you’re in for when you walk through the doors at Sketch. The eccentric venue is covered in pink decor, with small drawings lining the walls and plump pink chairs populating the floor space. If you’re looking for a quirky afternoon tea, this is the place for you. Prices start from £59, however you’re looking at spending £73 if you want to add a glass of bubbles.

4. High Tea at Farmacy

If you’re looking for something a bit different from your usual afternoon tea, then the plant-based menu at Farmacy is the one for you. Not only is the menu aimed at giving vegans and veggies the best possible afternoon tea around, it is also the first restaurant to offer CBD-infused chocolates - showing just how progressive this quirky little venue is. Prices start at £42.

5. Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel

Offering one of the most varied menus when it comes to afternoon tea, the Science Tea at The Ampersand Hotel caters to people with an array of dietary requirements, from gluten-free to vegan and vegetarian. On top of this, there’s also a Kid’s Sci Fi afternoon tea, so no one has to miss out. The unorthodox dining is science-themed down to the bone, with mini cakes that look like planets, and dinosaur biscuits. Prices start from £39.50 per head, rising to £49.50 with a glass of champagne.

6. Afternoon Tea at Brown’s Hotel

One of the more traditional afternoon teas on our list, the traditional setting at Brown’s Hotel gives visitors the chance to experience one of the most respected ‘classic’ afternoon tea experiences in London. From macarons and bagels, to coronation chicken - there’s something for everyone in Browns’ comprehensive menu. Prices start from £55 per head.

7. Traditional Afternoon Tea at The Ritz

Whilst we’re on the subject of more traditional afternoon tea experiences, it would be rude not to mention the stupendous dining experience available at The Ritz. The hotel has been serving afternoon tea for more than 100 years - since 1906 to be precise - so if you’re looking for traditional, look no further. Prices start from £52, however it goes without saying that add-ons are available.

8. Afternoon Tea at The Lyaness

Renowned for its beautifully crafted cocktails, The Lyaness also offers an incredible afternoon tea. Finishing eighth on our list shouldn’t take anything away from the incredible menu and overall experience on offer at this unique venue. From the classic scones, pastries and sandwiches, all the way to the ground-breaking cocktails available, it’s fair to say that if you do choose to dine here, you won’t be disappointed. Prices start from £38 for a boozeless tea, going up to £48 or £58, depending on whether you want to add bubbles or cocktails.

In a city as big as London, there are literally hundreds of places where you can find a good afternoon tea. However if you’re looking for the tastiest afternoon tea around, The Plum Guide’s list is hard to beat. If you need somewhere to stay while exploring London, check out The Plum Guide’s top tips on accommodation here.

Fancy cooking up an afternoon tea yourself? Check out some of our favourite recipes for the occasion!