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8 best places for afternoon tea in London
London, United Kingdom (UK)
Last updated: 05 November, 2022
An aristocratic habit started by the Duchess of Bedford in 1840, pausing for tea, cakes and sandwiches at three or four in the afternoon is a good old-fashioned English treat.
Although there are afternoon teas offered across the city (and just about everywhere and anywhere these days), for the authentic, traditional afternoon tea – as the Duchess would have expected it – you need to attend one of London’s historic, grand dame hotels.
The great and the good have been flocking to the grand salons of Claridges, the Savoy and the Ritz (among others) for over a century. Settle in among the glamorous surroundings for miniature sandwiches and cakes served on gleaming silver stands, with tea poured by elegantly-livered waiters. In most cases, you can up the ante just a little further by adding a glass of champagne to the package.
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Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Duration: 1-3 hours
Experience
Claridge’s
London, United Kingdom (UK)
This royal-favourite Mayfair hotel has one of the most traditionally British afternoon tea menus, available with a champagne option and served on its signature striped china.
Best for ages: 8+ | £50 | 1-3 hours
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Fortnum & Mason
London, United Kingdom (UK)
Official Grocers to the Queen, F&M have been offering afternoon tea for 314 years. Tuck into exquisite sandwiches and pastries in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, named in 2012 after having been officially opened by the Queen.
Best for ages: 8+ | £30 | 1-3 hours
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The Corinthia
London, United Kingdom (UK)
Under a chandelier sparkling with a thousand Baccarat crystals, the Corinthia Hotel’s upmarket afternoon tea comes with a large choice of champagnes or teas, or in festive themed versions.
Best for ages: 8+ | £45 | 1-3 hours
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The Goring
London, United Kingdom (UK)
This hundred-year-old Belgravia hotel has its afternoon tea down pat: traditional finger sandwiches, cream-slathered scones and prim cakes, served with or without champagne.
Best for ages: 8+ | £30 | 1-3 hours
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