Afternoon Tea in London: A Delightful Tradition with a Modern Twist

Let’s be honest—when you think of London, one of the first things that probably comes to mind (right after red buses and Big Ben) is afternoon tea. That elegant spread of finger sandwiches, warm scones, clotted cream, and the ever-important pot of tea. It’s not just a snack—it’s a ritual.

Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or just curious about this quintessential British tradition, afternoon tea in London is an experience you have to try at least once. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the history, the best spots to indulge, some handy tips, and how to enjoy it all in luxury with a bit of help from chauffeurz.london.

What Exactly Is Afternoon Tea?

Let’s clear something up: afternoon tea isn’t the same as “high tea.”

Afternoon tea is a light, elegant meal served between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. It usually includes:

• A selection of finger sandwiches (think cucumber, smoked salmon, egg & cress)
  
• Scones with clotted cream and jam (yes, it’s a hot debate—cream first or jam?)
  
• Cakes and pastries
  
• And of course, a pot of tea—Earl Grey, English Breakfast, or something a bit floral
  

“High tea” was traditionally a more substantial evening meal for the working class. Afternoon tea, on the other hand, started with the aristocracy.

A (Very) Brief History of Afternoon Tea

It all started with Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, in the 1840s. She complained of getting “a sinking feeling” between lunch and dinner (don’t we all?). So she started having a small meal with tea in the afternoon. Soon, she began inviting her posh friends over. Before long, afternoon tea became the social event among London’s upper class.

And lucky for us, it’s stuck around.

Best Places for Afternoon Tea in London 🍰

Here’s where things get really fun. London is packed with gorgeous tearooms, luxury hotels, and quirky spots that serve afternoon tea with serious flair. Whether you’re going full glam or hunting for something a little more offbeat, there’s a perfect tea experience waiting for you.

1. Claridge’s – Mayfair Elegance

This is classic afternoon tea at its finest. Served in the Foyer & Reading Room with Art Deco glamour, Claridge’s is known for its attention to detail. The service is flawless, the pastries are pieces of art, and the setting? Utterly iconic.

2. The Ritz – Royal Vibes

Afternoon tea at The Ritz is so traditional it actually has a dress code (yes, jackets required). Served in the opulent Palm Court, this is one for those who want the real-deal British experience.

3. Sketch – Quirky and Instagrammable

Want something a bit funkier? Sketch in Mayfair is famous for its pink velvet dining room and artsy presentation. It’s a favourite among fashionistas and Instagrammers. Even the loos are worth a visit.

4. Fortnum & Mason – The Queen’s Grocer

Established in 1707, Fortnum’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is everything you’d expect from a place that supplies the royal household. It’s elegant, refined, and packed with tradition.

5. The Savoy – Thames-Side Tradition

Settle in at the Thames Foyer under the beautiful glass dome. The Savoy’s afternoon tea comes with a live pianist and some of the best patisserie in town. It’s luxurious without being stuffy.

6. The Shard – Ting Restaurant – Afternoon Tea with a View

Want your scone with a view? Head to Ting, on the 35th floor of The Shard. You’ll enjoy an Asian-inspired twist on the classic menu while overlooking London’s skyline.

Top Tips for Afternoon Tea in London

Here are a few things to know before you book:

• Book ahead – Popular spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
  
• Dietary needs? – Many places offer vegan, gluten-free, or halal options. Just ask in advance.
  
• Timing is key – A 3:00 p.m. booking means you won’t need dinner!
  
• Dress the part – Smart casual is acceptable in most places, but some do have stricter codes (looking at you, Ritz).
  
• Take your time – Afternoon tea is meant to be savoured. It’s a slow, luxurious way to spend a couple of hours.
  

Afternoon Tea the Easy Way: Use a Premium Chauffeur Service

Let’s be real. You’re wearing your best outfit, ready to sip Earl Grey in Mayfair, but the last thing you want is to show up sweaty and windblown from the Tube—or worse, stuck in traffic on a red double-decker.

This is where Premium Chauffeur Service becomes your best friend.

Why Travel with Chauffeurz London?

• Arrive in style – You’re heading to Claridge’s, not the pub. Show up in a luxury vehicle that matches the vibe.
  
• Stress-free experience – No need to wrestle with maps, parking, or rainy walks.
  
• Perfect for groups – Travelling with friends or family? A chauffeur service keeps everyone together and on time.
  
• Custom itinerary – Want to squeeze in a museum, a quick shopping trip at Harrods, and afternoon tea? Done.
  
• Safe and reliable – Your driver waits while you enjoy your tea, ready when you are.
  

Afternoon Tea Itinerary Idea (With Chauffeur Option!)

12:00 p.m. – Pick-up from hotel via Premium Chauffeur Service
12:30 p.m. – Explore Covent Garden or do some light shopping in Mayfair
2:30 p.m. – Arrive at Sketch for afternoon tea
4:30 p.m. – Quick visit to the nearby Royal Academy of Arts or Bond Street stroll
6:00 p.m. – Chauffeur takes you back to your hotel or out for evening plans

No stress. No Tube delays. Just pure London luxury.

Fun Facts About Afternoon Tea ☕

Here’s some trivia to impress your fellow tea-drinkers:

• The term “afternoon tea” was first used in the 1840s, thanks to the Duchess of Bedford.
  
• The scone was invented in Scotland, not England.
  
• Queen Victoria popularised the Victoria sponge cake, often served with tea.
  
• There’s a proper etiquette: stir your tea gently back and forth, not in circles (who knew?!)
  
• At Fortnum & Mason, the clotted cream is delivered fresh daily from Cornwall.
  

Alternatives: Afternoon Tea with a Twist

If you’ve done the traditional version or want something a bit different, try one of these:

• Afternoon Tea Bus Tour – Enjoy tea aboard a vintage Routemaster while driving past London landmarks.
  
• Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel – Beakers, dry ice, and dinosaur-shaped treats make this one fun for kids (and adults).
  
• Vegan Afternoon Tea at Farmacy – A plant-based twist in trendy Notting Hill.
  
• Indian-Inspired Afternoon Tea at Cinnamon Bazaar – Spiced scones, masala chai, and mango chaat sandwiches.
  

Make It Memorable with a Touch of Luxury

Afternoon tea in London is one of those experiences you’ll remember forever. It’s part food, part theatre, and all charm. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just ticking off the London bucket list, don’t leave it to chance.

Why not elevate the experience even more with a chauffeur? Imagine gliding through the streets of London in a luxury car, stepping out at a five-star hotel, and walking straight into a tea room like royalty. It’s a storybook afternoon.

Let chauffeurz.london take care of the journey so that you can focus on the clotted cream.

Afternoon tea in London is more than just a meal—it’s a slow, stylish escape from the hustle. It’s about beautiful surroundings, warm scones, endless cups of tea, and maybe a cheeky glass of Champagne. Whether you go full five-star at The Ritz or quirky and fun at Sketch, one thing’s for sure: you’ll leave feeling fancy, full, and just a little bit more British.

So go ahead, treat yourself. Book the tea, book the chauffeur, and have your very own Downton Abbey moment—right in the heart of London.