Scones, Sandwiches & Tradition: Where to Experience Real British Afternoon Tea in London
Afternoon tea in London isn’t just a touristy treat — when done right, it’s a full-blown ritual. Tiny sandwiches. Fluffy scones. Clotted cream that deserves its own award. And of course, endless pots of tea served in china so fine you’re scared to blink.
But here's the thing: not all afternoon teas are created equal.
If you want the real deal — not just overpriced cupcakes and Instagrammable crockery — here’s where locals and well-informed visitors go for authentic British afternoon tea in London.
1. Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly)
Let’s start with the royalty of tea — quite literally. Fortnum & Mason has been supplying the Royal Household for centuries, and its Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is the go-to for a quintessentially British experience. Think finger sandwiches, warm scones, and elegant patisserie served with flawless service.
📍 181 Piccadilly, W1A 1ER
From £75 per person
Vegan and gluten-free menus available
2. The Orangery at Kensington Palace
If you're dreaming of sipping tea in a historic royal setting, The Orangery is your spot. Nestled within Kensington Gardens, it offers a light, classic afternoon tea with views that feel lifted from a period drama.
📍 Kensington Gardens, W8 4PX
Around £50 per person
Great for a sunny afternoon with a palace stroll after
3. Claridge’s (Mayfair)
This one is all about timeless elegance. Claridge’s doesn’t mess around — they stick to tradition, from the delicate sandwich layers to the perfectly risen scones. The tea selection is vast and curated by in-house experts.
📍 Brook Street, W1K 4HR
£85–£105 per person
Champagne options available
4. The Wolseley (Piccadilly)
Elegant but relaxed, The Wolseley is beloved by locals who want the real thing without too much fluff. The setting feels grand, the menu is traditional, and the service is quietly impeccable.
📍 160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB
From £39.75 per person
Smart-casual vibes
5. Afternoon Tea at The Goring (Belgravia)
Family-owned and fabulously British, The Goring offers afternoon tea in its garden in summer or in its plush Lounge in winter. Bonus points: it's a favourite of the Royal Family.
📍 15 Beeston Place, SW1W 0JW
£60–£80 per person
Garden views and peaceful atmosphere
6. Sketch (Mayfair)
Yes, the pink room. But here's the twist — Sketch isn’t just about aesthetics. The afternoon tea here is inventive yet grounded in tradition, with a curated tea menu and playful patisserie.
📍 9 Conduit Street, W1S 2XG
£80–£95 per person
An arty twist on the classic, without losing its British soul
7. Brigit’s Bakery (Covent Garden or on the Afternoon Tea Bus Tour)
If you want fun with your tea, this is it. Brigit’s Bakery offers traditional teas at their Covent Garden cafe or on their iconic red bus — yes, a moving vintage Routemaster serving you scones while driving past Big Ben.
📍 6-7 Chandos Place, WC2N 4HU or aboard the B Bus
From £45 per person
Yes, it’s gimmicky. But the food? Solid. The vibe? Unbeatable.
8. The Ritz (St. James’s)
We saved the most iconic for last. The Ritz is probably the most famous afternoon tea spot in London. It’s ultra-formal, extremely traditional, and possibly the closest you’ll get to the Downton Abbey experience.
📍 150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR
£72–£95 per person
Dress code strictly enforced
Tips for Booking Afternoon Tea in London:
Always book in advance. The popular ones fill up fast, especially on weekends.
Dietary requirements? Many places offer vegan, vegetarian, halal, or gluten-free menus, but let them know ahead of time.
Dress appropriately. Some of the high-end places like The Ritz and Claridge’s require smart attire. No trainers or ripped jeans.
Save room. It’s more food than you think. Seriously.
Final Sips
Whether you want a proper royal spread or a playful twist on the tradition, London has no shortage of places to sip, snack, and celebrate the timeless ritual of afternoon tea. Forget the tourist traps — these are the spots that locals and savvy visitors actually rate.
So go ahead, raise that pinky, and enjoy a tradition that’s equal parts indulgent and delightful.
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