Best Afternoon Tea in London? Try Theatre Royal Drury Lane for a Royal Experience
Tucked in the heart of the West End—a place known for glittering marquees and buzzing crowds—lies a serene, almost magical experience that feels like stepping into another world. If you’re looking for something different in London, away from the usual queues and tourist chaos, here’s one for your bucket list:
Coffee or Afternoon tea at the stunning Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
A Coffee Date with Centuries of Theatre History
Let’s start with the building itself. Theatre Royal Drury Lane isn’t just a pretty face—it’s the oldest theatre site in London still in use. It’s been standing here, in some form or another, since 1663. That’s over 350 years of drama, ghosts, royalty, and iconic performances.
From performances attended by King Charles II, to being rebuilt multiple times after fires, this place has lived through plagues, wars, revolutions—and yet, it remains one of the most iconic stages in British theatre.
But here’s the twist: you don’t need a ticket to a show to step inside.
You just need a craving for coffee (or cake).
Afternoon Tea at The Grand Saloon: Fit for Royalty
Walk through the gilded entrance and you’ll find yourself in The Grand Saloon—a jaw-dropping room decked out in chandeliers, Corinthian columns, rich pastel tones, and plush velvet seating. This isn’t your average café. This is luxury, drama, and elegance all rolled into one.
It’s here you can enjoy their famous afternoon tea, crafted by none other than baker-to-the-stars, Lily Vanilli.
What’s on the menu?
Fluffy scones with clotted cream & jam (of course)
Delicate sandwiches with seasonal ingredients
Mini pies and savouries that nod to British classics
A parade of whimsical pastries—some inspired by musicals!
Loose-leaf teas or highly Instagrammable lattes
Everything is freshly baked on-site, and the menu changes seasonally. Even the crockery is themed. It’s like eating in a Bridgerton set, but with better lighting and fewer corsets.
Not Into Tea? Just Come for the Coffee
Not a full afternoon tea person? No problem.
The Garden Café on-site offers a more casual—but equally stunning—way to enjoy this iconic building. Order a flat white, settle into a pink velvet chair, and soak in views of the stage curtain mural and sweeping ceilings.
There’s plenty of seating, both intimate corners and communal tables, making it a great pit stop whether you’re solo or with friends.
Insta-Worthy Interiors
Let’s be honest—part of the magic here is how gorgeously photogenic everything is.
If you love aesthetic cafés or old-world glam, you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a movie set.
Every corner is a photo opportunity:
The sweeping staircase
Gilded mirrors and rococo details
Themed pastries that look like mini works of art
Vintage theatre posters and red-carpet vibes
Don’t be surprised if you spot influencers or stylists quietly snapping pics.
You Don’t Have to See a Show (But Maybe You Should)
You can totally visit just for coffee or tea, but while you’re here, why not stay for a show?
Theatre Royal Drury Lane is currently home to “Frozen: The Musical”, a crowd favourite that’s been getting rave reviews for its costumes, sets, and—of course—those powerhouse vocals. The magic of Elsa’s world comes alive even more vividly in a venue this grand.
Even if musicals aren’t your thing, the venue offers behind-the-scenes guided tours, where you can:
Explore secret passageways
Visit dressing rooms and old trapdoors
Hear about the resident ghosts (yes, it’s haunted!)
Opening Hours & Booking Tips
The Grand Saloon Afternoon Tea is open:
Wednesday to Sunday
From 12pm to 5pm
Bookings are highly recommended (especially on weekends)
Coffee at The Garden Café doesn’t always require a reservation, but check online during busy periods.
Prices for full afternoon tea start around £49 per person, which is on par with other luxury teas in London—but you’re paying for the theatre, the food, and the experience.
How to Get There
Address:
Theatre Royal Drury Lane
Catherine Street, London WC2B 5JF
Nearest stations:
Covent Garden (3 mins walk)
Holborn (6 mins walk)
Temple (10 mins walk)
Once you step inside, you’ll instantly feel the rush of old-world glamour and the warmth of good coffee. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger, eavesdrop on someone else’s drama, and soak up the magic.
Why It’s One of London’s Best Hidden Gems
There are tons of places to get coffee in London, but not many where you’re:
Sitting in a palace-like interior
Sipping on theatrical pastries
Surrounded by centuries of history and ghost stories
Literally in a working theatre
Theatre Royal Drury Lane is where West End heritage meets modern-day café culture. It’s romantic, historic, and just the right amount of extra.
Final Thoughts
So whether you’re a die-hard theatre fan, a Londoner in need of a midweek treat, or a visitor looking for a moment of calm and class amidst your city adventure—put this place on your list.
Have coffee like royalty. Stay for the vibes.
And maybe, just maybe, catch a musical on your way out.