As the clock strikes four in the afternoon, the customary British tradition of afternoon tea comes alive in the heart of London. This time-honored ritual, often characterized by a selection of teas, cream scones, finger sandwiches, and at times, even a glass of champagne, is a quintessential London experience for locals and tourists alike. In this detailed guide, we will explore some of the best hotels and venues in London where you can immerse yourself in a traditional English tea ceremony.
The Ritz: A Royal Experience
The Ritz hotel in London has been serving afternoon tea since its inception in 1906 and is now synonymous with this iconic British tradition. Upon entering the Palm Court, the room where the afternoon tea is served, you are greeted by the sounds of a pianist or a harpist creating a serene ambiance. The lavish decor, beautiful china, and the meticulously dressed waiting staff add to the royal experience.
The Ritz’s menu offers a selection of 18 different types of loose-leaf teas. The traditional afternoon tea features classic favourites like freshly-baked scones served with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve, a selection of finely cut sandwiches, and a variety of delicate pastries. For those looking to celebrate, the ‘Champagne Afternoon Tea’ comes with a glass of Ritz champagne. The hotel even caters to dietary preferences with a gluten-free and a vegan afternoon tea menu.
Booking in advance is highly recommended as the afternoon tea at the Ritz is a popular affair. Many forums and posts on the internet also suggest dressing in smart casuals for this experience.
Fortnum and Mason: A Foodie’s Paradise
Located in the heart of Piccadilly, Fortnum and Mason is a department store known for its high-quality British goods and its remarkable afternoon tea service. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where the tea is served, is a beautiful room with elegant turquoise decor and a calm, relaxed atmosphere.
The afternoon tea menu at Fortnum and Mason is a food lover’s delight, served with an array of hand-crafted sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and Fortnum’s preserve, and a selection of Fortnum’s famous blends of teas. The experience gets better with the ‘High Tea’ menu, which also includes a range of savoury pies, smoked salmon, and oysters. For a special occasion, opt for the ‘Afternoon Tea with Champagne’ which comes with a glass of Fortnum’s Blanc de Blancs Champagne.
The tea salon is often busy, so it is best to book your table in advance. Forums and online posts suggest that the dress code is smart-casual.
Brown’s Hotel: A Historical Retreat
Located in the tranquil Mayfair neighborhood, Brown’s Hotel, a part of the Rocco Forte Hotels, offers one of the best afternoon teas in London. Established in 1837, Brown’s Hotel boasts a rich history and has been a preferred location for many famous personalities, including writers, politicians, and royals.
The English Tea Room at Brown’s serves a traditional afternoon tea along with a selection of seasonal teas. The menu includes finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and a selection of cakes and pastries. Brown’s also offers a ‘Tea-Tox’, a healthy alternative with low-calorie options, and a ‘Champagne Afternoon Tea’ with a glass of Moët & Chandon.
Ensure to book your table in advance to secure a spot in this historical location. While there is no strict dress code, most guests opt for smart-casual attire.
The Dorchester: A Luxurious Affair
Located on Park Lane, The Dorchester is one of London’s most luxurious hotels and a fantastic venue for afternoon tea. The Promenade, where the afternoon tea is served, is a grand room with ornate ceilings, plush seating, and live piano music, setting a regal atmosphere.
The Dorchester offers a selection of traditional and specialty afternoon teas. The traditional afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, warm scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam, and a selection of pastries. They also offer a champagne afternoon tea and a special ‘Afternoon Tea for Children’.
Bookings are recommended, and the dress code is smart-casual.
Claridge’s: An Art Deco Delight
Founded in the 19th century, Claridge’s is often referred to as an "extension of Buckingham Palace". The afternoon tea is served in the Foyer & Reading Room, a magnificent art deco room with large chandeliers and a live pianist.
Claridge’s afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones with Marco Polo gelée and Cornish clotted cream, and a variety of pastries. They also offer a ‘Children’s Afternoon Tea’ and a ‘Champagne Afternoon Tea’ with a glass of Laurent-Perrier champagne.
It is advisable to book in advance and the dress code is smart-casual.
Immersing yourself in a traditional English tea ceremony is more than just drinking tea. It’s about indulging in a piece of British history, a cultural experience that is steeped in tradition and elegance. Whether you choose the royal experience at The Ritz, the food lover’s paradise at Fortnum and Mason, the historical retreat at Brown’s Hotel, the luxurious affair at The Dorchester, or the art deco delight at Claridge’s, you are guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Sketchley Grange Hotel and Spa: A Relaxing Retreat
Situated in the serene countryside, Sketchley Grange Hotel and Spa is a perfect getaway for a traditional afternoon tea experience amidst lush greenery and tranquil settings. The hotel’s Garden Bar and Lounge, with its chic interiors and panoramic views of the garden, set an inviting atmosphere for a relaxing afternoon tea.
Sketchley Grange’s afternoon tea menu is a well-curated selection of traditional and contemporary treats. The traditional tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade fruit scones served with clotted cream and mixed berry preserve, and an array of dainty pastries and cakes. Alongside this, they offer a choice of fine teas sourced from across the globe. For those looking for a touch of luxury, the ‘Champagne Afternoon Tea’ includes a glass of chilled champagne.
The hotel also caters to various dietary requirements and offers a vegan and gluten-free afternoon tea menu. To enjoy this relaxing retreat, it is recommended to book in advance. The dress code here is casual, promoting a relaxed and comfortable experience.
The Savoy: An Iconic Tradition
Perched on the banks of the River Thames, The Savoy offers one of the grandest afternoon tea experiences in London. The tea is served in the Thames Foyer, a stunning Edwardian-style atrium filled with natural light, a beautiful gazebo, and a grand piano echoing soothing tunes.
The Savoy’s afternoon tea menu is a homage to the tradition, offering a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and homemade preserves, and a variety of pastries inspired by the hotel’s heritage. The experience is further elevated by a selection of rare and exceptional teas sourced globally. They also offer a ‘High Tea’ menu featuring a range of savoury dishes and a ‘Champagne Afternoon Tea’ for those looking to celebrate.
It is advised to book in advance as the Savoy’s afternoon tea is highly sought after. The dress code is smart-casual, keeping in line with the hotel’s elegant setting.
Participating in a traditional English tea ceremony in London is an experience that allows you to step back in time and enjoy an age-old tradition in a contemporary setting. It’s not just about the tea or the accompanying treats, but the ambiance, the service, and the overall experience that make it truly memorable. Choosing from The Ritz’s royal experience, Fortnum and Mason’s foodie paradise, Brown’s Hotel’s historical retreat, The Dorchester’s luxurious affair, Claridge’s art deco delight, Sketchley Grange’s relaxing retreat, or The Savoy’s iconic tradition, you are guaranteed an afternoon of elegance, delight, and unforgettable memories. Remember to book in advance, dress smart-casual, and most importantly, savour the moment.
