Global Major Cities Guide

A traditional British experience featuring tea, scones, sandwiches, and pastries, often available in cafés and hotels.

Sections

1. The Tradition of Afternoon Tea

Origins: Afternoon Tea dates back to the early 19th century and is credited to Anna, the Duchess of Bedford. She introduced it as a light meal to bridge the gap between lunch and the late evening dinner.
What It Involves: Traditionally, Afternoon Tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. It is served with a pot of tea, often loose-leaf, and sometimes champagne for a more luxurious experience.
Time of Day: Afternoon Tea is typically served between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

2. Popular Venues for Afternoon Tea in London

London offers a wide range of venues, from historic hotels to quirky modern spots. Here are some of the most iconic and popular options:

Luxury and Iconic Venues

The Ritz London (Mayfair)
- Known for its opulence and strict dress code, The Ritz offers one of the most traditional Afternoon Tea experiences in London.
- Price: From £67 per person.
- Booking: Reservations are essential and can be made online via their website.
Claridge’s (Mayfair)
- Famous for its Art Deco interiors and impeccable service, Claridge’s serves a classic Afternoon Tea with a modern twist.
- Price: From £85 per person.
- Booking: Book online or by phone several weeks in advance.
The Savoy (Strand)
- The Thames Foyer at The Savoy is a stunning setting for Afternoon Tea, with a pianist often playing live music.
- Price: From £75 per person.
- Booking: Reservations are highly recommended.

Themed and Unique Venues

Sketch (Mayfair)
- A quirky and artistic venue, Sketch offers a contemporary Afternoon Tea in its famous pink Gallery Room.
- Price: From £72 per person.
- Booking: Online booking is required.
Fortnum & Mason (Piccadilly)
- This historic department store is renowned for its tea selection and elegant Afternoon Tea in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
- Price: From £70 per person.
- Booking: Reserve online or by phone.
The Goring (Belgravia)
- A favorite of the Royal Family, The Goring offers a traditional Afternoon Tea in a refined setting.
- Price: From £65 per person.
- Booking: Advance booking is essential.

Budget-Friendly Options

The Wolseley (Piccadilly)
- A stylish café-restaurant offering a more affordable yet high-quality Afternoon Tea experience.
- Price: From £35 per person.
- Booking: Recommended but not always necessary.
Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
- Combines Afternoon Tea with a sightseeing tour of London aboard a vintage double-decker bus.
- Price: From £45 per person.
- Booking: Book online in advance.

3. Typical Costs

Luxury Venues: £65–£100+ per person.
Mid-Range Venues: £40–£65 per person.
Budget-Friendly Options: £25–£40 per person.
Add-Ons: Champagne or sparkling wine can add £10–£20 per person.

4. How to Book

Online: Most venues have online booking systems on their official websites. Some also use third-party platforms like OpenTable.
Phone: You can call the venue directly to make a reservation.
Advance Booking: For popular venues like The Ritz or Claridge’s, book at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring, summer, and December for Christmas-themed teas).
Dietary Requirements: When booking, inform the venue of any dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free, or vegan options).

5. What to Expect During the Experience

Arrival: Arrive on time for your reservation. Some venues have a dress code (e.g., smart casual or formal attire), so check in advance.
Menu: You’ll typically start by selecting your tea from an extensive menu. Staff are happy to recommend options if you’re unsure.
Service: Food is served in courses, often on a tiered stand:
- Bottom Tier: Savory finger sandwiches (e.g., cucumber, smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise).
- Middle Tier: Scones with clotted cream and jam.
- Top Tier: Sweet pastries and cakes.
Duration: Afternoon Tea usually lasts 1.5–2 hours.

6. Proper Etiquette

Dress Code: Many venues require smart casual or formal attire. Avoid sportswear, flip-flops, or overly casual clothing.
Tea Pouring: Pour tea into your cup before adding milk (if desired). Avoid stirring noisily.
Scones: Split your scone with a knife (don’t cut it in half) and spread clotted cream and jam. The order of cream vs. jam varies by region, but in London, either is acceptable.
Pace Yourself: Eat slowly and enjoy the experience. It’s not a rushed meal.
Tipping: A service charge (usually 12.5%) is often included in the bill. If not, a tip of 10–15% is customary.

7. Local Tips and Considerations

Seasonal Themes: Many venues offer themed Afternoon Teas, such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or Wimbledon-inspired menus. Check for seasonal options.
Children: Some venues offer child-friendly Afternoon Teas with smaller portions and fun themes.
Solo Diners: Afternoon Tea is perfectly enjoyable alone, and many venues welcome solo guests.
Photography: Taking photos of the food and setting is generally acceptable, but avoid using flash or being disruptive.
Timing: If you’re visiting during peak tourist seasons, book well in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

8. Cultural Insights

Afternoon Tea is a leisurely and social experience, so take your time to savor the food and tea.
It’s distinct from High Tea, which is a more substantial meal traditionally served in the evening.
Londoners often enjoy Afternoon Tea as a special treat for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or catching up with friends.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy one of London’s most iconic and delightful traditions. Whether you opt for a luxurious experience at The Ritz or a quirky tea bus tour, Afternoon Tea is sure to be a memorable highlight of your visit!