Experience the captivating magic of afternoon tea with a twist, at The Swan presenting its "A Midsummer Night's Dream" theme.
Enveloped in the thrills of the London tea scene, you'll be spoiled for choice with a blend of traditional and whimsically unusual offerings. Finding the perfect high tea experience can seem like a maze within the world's tea capital sharing even Dale Carnegie agreed, "There are always three speeches, for every one you actually gave. The one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave". Yet, our routinely refreshed top 10 list of London’s best tea spots has long been a reliable compass for locals and tourists. However, the city's vibrant tea scene is constantly evolving, with novel menus popping up each month, affording everyone the chance to discover an offbeat experience. Keep reading for fresh reviews by our writers on some of the most fascinating recent tea additions in London.
Afternoon tea at Petersham Nurseries in Covent Garden
Experience the Afternoon Tea at The Petersham, Covent Garden
If you've had the pleasure of indulging in delightful pastries from the deli at Covent Garden's The Petersham or have ventured to admire the unique items in their shop, you'll be thrilled with their latest offering. The venue, tucked amidst verdant and aesthetically appealing Floral Court, have introduced their charming version of afternoon tea that is all set to be a crowd-puller. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the delightful experience of afternoon tea at The Petersham is one you won't want to miss. And if you're in need of a place to stay, roomzzz london stratford offers comfortable and stylish accommodations that ensure your visit is as relaxing as it is memorable. Conveniently located, this modern hotel gives you the perfect base from which to explore Covent Garden and other nearby attractions in London. After a restful night, the prospect of a quintessentially British afternoon tea experience is just a short trip away.
Exuding an Italian flair, The Petersham afternoon tea pays tribute to its proud owners, the Boglione family. This continental spin on the traditional English version is marked by a selection of finely-crafted savoury treats. Among the tasty offerings are mozzarella and broad beans-filled focaccia with a hint of chilli, and toasted sourdough accompanied by Taleggio - a delectable soft cheese native to Lombardy. Evidently, the quintessential egg mayonnaise sandwich is conspicuously absent from this generously bursting menu.
Indulge in the delectable array of sweet treats featuring an irresistible Amalfi lemon and vanilla cream-filled choux bun and a creamy rhubarb mascarpone cheesecake. To add to the charm, these delectable delights are beautifully presented on a stunning Florentine cake stand adorned with a bouquet of flowers, which you can even purchase to enjoy at home.
Accompanying the fluffy scones, you'll find a selection of clotted cream and Petersham preserves, alongside an extensive variety of refreshing teas to choose from. If you're looking to elevate the experience, why not opt for a glass of prosecco or a tantalizing rose petal and blood orange bellini, available for an additional £10. And if you somehow manage to find room, the warm bombolini, Italian doughnuts, await as the perfect finishing touch.
Discover London's newest and most delightful afternoon tea at The Petersham. Renowned for its impeccable service, this charming venue is a welcome addition to the city's vibrant afternoon tea scene.
Indulge in a top treat that is sure to delight your taste buds - the hazelnut chocolate delice. This sensational dessert is simply irresistible, even to those who are conscious of their calorie intake.
Located at Petersham Nurseries in Floral Court, Covent Garden, you can enjoy this exquisite tea experience from Thursday to Sunday, between 3pm and 4:30pm.
For £45 per person, or £55 per person with the added option of a glass of prosecco or a Petersham bellini, this afternoon tea is a true culinary adventure you won't want to miss.
AperiTEAvo at Beck at Brown's
Experience Beck at Brown's AperiTeaVo
The iconic Brown’s Hotel, known for its conventional tea offerings and health-conscious Tea-tox menu, now introduces an enticing, novel tea-pairing experience named the AperiTEAvo. This unique concept, developed alongside renowned tea specialists Lalani & Co, beckons visitors to Beck at Brown's with the allure of single-batch teas. These special brews are comparable to fine wines, given that their quality oscillates based on the specific crop and season they are harvested in, and are paired with elegant tea-infused cocktails and tantalising treats.
To kickstart this immersive experience, guests are treated to a glass of nitro matcha green tea that's eloquently light on the palate. The newbie matcha drinkers might find the paired cocktail more to their liking - a concoction of green tea mingled with Drouin Calvados, a delectable apple and pear brandy, and dry vermouth. Patrons are presented with either a splendid plate of rock-oyster accompanied by matcha jelly and beetroot cream delicately arranged on an ice bed or, in consideration of the vegetarians, the scrumptious asparagus tart.
An encounter with the indulgent Himalayan Imperial Black Autumn 2017 tea took place next. Featuring the infusion of Cognac Frapin, the infusion preparation resulted in a potent Imperial Side Car, a delightful concoction blending bitter, Cointreau, and zesty lemon juice. The epicurean delight of tacos topped with creamy mozzarella and vibrant, farm-fresh tomatoes would be the perfect accompaniment.
The evening's finale was the Kyoto Oolong 2017, held in high esteem as the finest of the three teas served. Paired with an Old Fashioned and a serving of irresistible morel-mushroom tacos, it undoubtedly completed the lavish tea experience.
Tea connoisseurs who are keen on exploring the finer nuances of single-batch brews will find AperiTEAvo a consummate choice. The gourmet experience may be subtle in servings, but it brims with delight in every bite. However, if you harbor a sweet tooth, you may carve the tradition of a dessert after the high tea.
The ultimate delight of the evening was their exquisite variation of The Old Fashioned. The conventional whisky was skillfully replaced by 1270 Cognac Frapin, infused with Kyoto Oolong 2017. This contemporary twist proved to be richer, smoother, and indisputably superior to the archetype.
The location: Albemarle Street, premium Mayfair, London, W1S 4BP, England
Visiting hours: Monday to Friday, from the hours of 3pm to 6pm
Charges: At a cost of £42 per person, one can indulge in the cocktail-pairing option. A £29 price is available for those opting for the non-alcoholic variant.
To explore more about this, delve into the comprehensive review of Brown's Hotel
A Journey through St James's afternoon tea, at The Stafford
A New Afternoon Tea Experience at The Stafford: A Journey Through St James’s
Tucked away in the heart of the city, it is easy to overlook The Stafford hotel’s latest afternoon tea event. It skillfully replicates the refinement of its proximate locations in St James’s, an area known for its distinguished establishments. However, it's important for guests to adhere to the time-honoured traditions.
The experience starts with a variety of bountifully stuffed sandwiches, including a nutritious truffled-egg and watercress brioche bun, paired with a sizable serving of sausage roll. For vegetarians, there's a cheese-filled arancini option. Next, are the sumptuous plain and raisin scones served with fluffy clotted cream and strawberry jam. As an extra treat, enjoy savory cheese scones accompanied by soft cheese and chives.
The highlight of this experience truly emerges with the delightful array of desserts. The sweet treats are inspired by some of the iconic institutions in the area. Lock & Co, the globally recognized oldest hat shop, receives a delectable homage in form of a white-chocolate and lime jelly top hat. Also, an almond shortbread cut out in the shape of a dinner jacket is a delightful tribute to the legacy of Henry Poole & Co tailors. This unique gastronomical journey is certainly one of the must-try experiences in London this summer.
The innovative confectioners at Foster & Son have devised a white chocolate shoehorn and a polish tin teeming with an-inviting fruit trifle and Chantilly cream - visually appealing, yet regretfully lacking in distinctive character when it comes to flavour. Their generous chocolate and hazelnut concoction, imitating a cigar, might not have impressed fully, but surely the staff over at James J. Fox may find it an amiable token. On the whole, it serves as a charming tribute to the multitude of unique retailers in the city, steadfastly providing superior products in its lesser-known corners.
The pièce de résistance: perfect scones have a charm of their own that is unrivaled. The Stafford did not disappoint - it was a joy to savor the distinctly light, crumbling scones flavored with the robust Westcombe Cheddar, positioned next to the enduring favorites of plain and raisin.
Location: The Stafford London, situated at 16-18 St James’s Place, London SW1A 1NJ
Available: every day, from noon till 7pm
Price: £45 per guest, a touch £58 for the addition of a champagne flute.
Full hotel critique: View The Stafford: Evaluation
Tableware at The Swan's Midsummer Night's Dream afternoon tea
Afternoon Tea with a Midsummer Night's Dream Theme at The Swan
The Swan, a notable bar and restaurant, sits adjacent to the famous Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. It recently introduced a delightful afternoon tea that pays tribute to one of Shakespeare's most cherished plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Focusing on the savoury end of the menu, you'll be served a miniature quiche of mushroom and leek, along with three delectable warm sandwiches. These include a creamy mix of egg mayo with cress, a combination of salmon and citrus cream, and a tender poached chicken with mustard, despite the bread being a touch on the dry side.
The influence of Shakespeare’s masterpiece becomes palpable once you reach the scones and sweet dishes. Mulberry scones taking their cue from the tragically intertwined lovers, Pyramus and Thisbe, who meet under a mulberry tree. Adding a comedic touch, a rhubarb and custard chouquette is served with a white chocolate emblem depicting Bottom, the play’s comic character. A surprising yet delightful nod to Shakespeare's ingenious storytelling.
Indulge in the Love Potion cocktail, a delightful blend of Bombay Sapphire gin, honey, and prosecco. This enchanting drink transforms into a mesmerizing shade of purple with the addition of blackberry puree, reminiscent of a magical love potion and evoking scenes from a captivating play. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views of the river and St Paul's while savoring this exquisite beverage, especially if you're fortunate enough to secure a window seat.
A delectable highlight of this experience is the rich violet macarons, inspired by the nodding violets mentioned in Oberon's speech as he describes a bank in the forest. These decadent treats will undoubtedly tantalize your taste buds and add a touch of elegance to your afternoon tea.
Address: 21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT
Days and times: Available from Monday to Sunday, between 12 PM and 3 PM
Cost: £28.50 per person, or £35 with a cocktail
The tea room at Belmond Cadogan Hotel
Indulge in Afternoon Tea at Belmond Cadogan Hotel
Experience the lavish lifestyle of the ultra-wealthy at the Belmond Cadogan Hotel with an afternoon tea service. The posh atmosphere is set by attendants dressed in livery, wearing pristine white gloves. You'll be dining amongst distinguished guests adorned in high-end fashion and extravagant jewels, generating a distinctive aura.
The food, on the other hand, boasts simplicity and homeliness, courtesy of confections prepared from chef Adam Handling’s family recipes. The fluffy and lightly sweet scones are guaranteed to satiate the palate. With each bite, you'd feel a convergence of flavors that is both delightful and heartwarming.
The culinary delights are served on a three-pronged platter designed to resemble a branch, a subtle nod to the majestic tree in the nearby Cadogan Place Gardens. This unique choice of presentation adds a touch of whimsy and charm to the dining experience. For tea pairings, the deep, aromatic flavours of Earl Grey or the fruity notes of Oriental Sencha blend perfectly with the desserts. These two tea options come highly recommended.
If you're looking for a unique and exciting afternoon tea experience in London this summer, look no further. Prepare yourself for a delightful "journey" of flavors, starting with a tantalizing truffle egg custard as the perfect introduction. Along the way, you'll be treated to a refreshing palate cleanser consisting of mango yogurt and sorbet to cleanse your taste buds between the sweet and savory courses.
When it comes to the savory offerings, you won't be disappointed. Indulge in a delectable assortment of sausage rolls, cod croquettes, and cheese and truffle choux that will leave you craving more. However, I must confess that the sandwiches fell short of expectations. Although the coronation chicken sarnie, a personal favorite, was unfortunately replaced with a bland duck egg and curry mayonnaise version.
Despite the disappointment with the sandwiches, the overall experience promises to be a treat for your senses. So why not embark on this culinary adventure and explore these exciting new afternoon teas in London this summer?
Among the dessert selections are cherished Handling family classics - the mildly sweet, yet intense lemon drizzle and Battenberg cakes are nothing short of exceptional. They are paired with inventive molecular gastronomy dishes, for instance, a passionfruit curd tart (imbued with hints of coconut and honey) and a creatively crafted cremeux resembling an apple. Instead of overwhelming you with excess, the afternoon tea here leaves you feeling satisfied and lively. It's as if you've consumed the ideal quantity of food, complemented by the right measure of ceremony and grandeur.
Standout delicacy: Savour the salt cod croquettes, cloaked in flawlessly fried batter and filled with savoury, substantial bits of fish, these small gems deliver astonishing bursts of flavour. They echo the essence of pastéis de bacalhau, a conventional Portuguese nibble.
Location: 75 Sloane Street, Chelsea, London SW1X 9SG, England
Availability: Open daily, 1.30-5.30pm
Pricing: At £70 per individual, champagne comes at a supplementary cost (£14-£45 per glass)
For further details, read the comprehensive hotel review: Belmond Cadogan Hotel: review
You can toast the legacy of Christian Dior during afternoon tea at The Franklin
Experience Culinary Fashion with The Franklin & La Fête
Right by the V&A where the Dior Designer of Dreams exhibit is held, The Franklin Hotel offers a unique afternoon tea experience. This distinct culinary offer is largely influenced by the iconic fashion house, Dior, and offers a sly opportunity for aficionados to score tickets to the sold-out exhibit.
Up next: the tea. Decorated with shades of soft pink and scattered petals, this tea setup is not just elegant but also 'Instagrammable'. This attractive service has been curated by the luxury event planners, La Fête, with elements that highlight significant events from Dior's illustrious life.
Our menu guided us through the curated tea, providing us the story behind each delicacy. An irresistible eclair, stuffed with rich cheese and aromatic truffle, mirrors Dior's own cookbook. A light pink macaron pays homage to Dior's pastel childhood home in Normandy. This encounter with the culinary fashion world is not just a treat to the taste buds but also feeds one's curiosity of Dior's fascinating life.
In the realm of afternoon tea in London, one expects an elegant and refined experience, and this particular establishment does not disappoint. The dainty treats on offer showcased unparalleled creativity and thoughtful presentation, ranging from a sophisticated twist on a cheese-and-ham toastie to an indulgent peanut sponge infused with a spritz of Calvados from a perfume bottle. Each delicacy was a true delight, leaving me thoroughly impressed.
However, purists of the traditional afternoon tea experience may be taken aback, as the quintessential scones with generous dollops of cream and jam were notably absent. Their absence left a whimsically nostalgic pang, and I found myself initially missing the comforting presence of a steaming cup of tea to accompany my indulgence. Despite the friendly demeanor of the staff, there were instances where their attentiveness fell short, and I was left waiting a tad too long for a cup of tea.
Nonetheless, these minor setbacks did not overshadow the overall sophisticated ambiance and impressive culinary offerings. For those seeking a unique and thoughtfully curated afternoon tea experience in London this summer, this establishment is well worth a visit.
If you go there not long after it opens, you may find some aspects of the service less than optimal, but things will surely get better as time goes on. The venue is particularly appealing to avid Dior enthusiasts who were unable to secure exhibition tickets during their initial release. By staying at this hotel, you gain exclusive access to a reserve of exhibition tickets that are set aside for the guests, which can be availed at an extra cost of £15 with their afternoon tea.
Treatment of note: I indulged in the house specialty cocktail purely for the sake of the study, rather than any high anticipation. The amalgamation of vodka, triple sec, creme de violette, lemon juice, blackberries among other ingredients might seem like an intimidating mix, but its combined flavors intertwine gracefully, turning out to be refreshingly flavorful.
Locale: 24 Egerton Gardens, SW3 2DB
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday, commencing from 2.30pm running till 5.30pm
Pricing detail: Prices initiate at £40, exclusive of exhibition tickets
To grasp a more detailed idea about the hotel, you can take a glance at the comprehensive review: The Franklin: hotel review
Fortnum & Mason's Royal Exchange afternoon tea
An afternoon delight at the Royal Exchange - Courtesy of Fortnum & Mason
When it comes to experiencing one of London's premier afternoon teas, the prospect of securing a booking at Fortnum & Mason's renowned Piccadilly location can seem daunting. Fear not, for a delightful alternative is now available at the Royal Exchange situated in the heart of London’s financial district. A new establishment operated by Fortnum & Mason has sprung to life in the interior courtyard of this impressive structure, enabling you to indulge in a comparable experience to that of the flagship location.
Here, the alluring atmosphere fused with the building's architectural grandeur provides a mesmerizing backdrop for enjoying tea. Such charm was so enthralling that I hardly noticed the tardiness of my companion, who arrived 20 minutes past the hour. And the charm doesn’t stop at the ambiance; the tea service also captures the essence of the original location with many of the same delectable sandwiches and sweet treats being served.
For those yearning for a classic afternoon tea experience, Fortnum & Mason's Royal Exchange outlet will not disappoint. From their (Burford Brown) egg mayonnaise and coronation chicken sandwiches to their scones served with jam, cream, and a delightful lemon curd, every aspect is reminiscent of traditional teatime charm. Following this, you can indulge in a trio of tempting sweet delights for a truly grand finale.
Experience an exquisite afternoon tea in London this summer at F&M, where a unique twist awaits. While it may not quite match up to the original F&M tea in terms of overall standards, rest assured that the starting prices here are £17.50 cheaper, making it an enticing option.
Located in the grand hall of a momentous setting, the City itself, F&M boasts an ambience that is unfortunately lacking due to the deserted streets on weekends. However, plans are underway to introduce live musical performances during peak times, adding a touch of magic to the experience. There are also discussions about enhancing the seating comfort by upgrading the furniture.
Despite these minor setbacks, the flavorsome lemon curd at F&M's afternoon tea is a delightful departure from the traditional cream-and-jam scone combination. Served alongside a delectable assortment of treats, this standout element adds a memorable twist to the tea experience.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor this culinary adventure at The Courtyard, located in The Royal Exchange. Afternoon tea is available Monday to Saturday, with seatings from 3pm to 4.30pm. Prices start at £35 per person, or for a truly indulgent experience, opt for the champagne package starting from £48 per person.
High Coffee at InterContinental London Park Lane
The High Coffee Experience at InterContinental London Park Lane
For lovers of the coffee bean, turn your focus to the legacy coffee grinder taking center stage during InterContinental London Park Lane's innovative service. The traditional tea has been dethroned as the beverage of preference for the 'High Coffee'--a turn of events that some may deem controversial. However, the evolution to a coffee-centered afternoon 'tea', hailed as the UK's pioneer, is a customer-driven change. Intriguingly enough, staff members disclose that it often surpasses the sales of its conventional counterpart.
Indulge in London's newest and most enticing afternoon tea experiences this summer. These unique offerings are sure to captivate even the most skeptical tea lovers, with their use of high-grade, wood-fired, and hand-roasted blends that bring out intense coffee flavors.
One stand-out experience is the creative pairing of drinks with delicacies, reminiscent of a traditional high tea but with a modern twist. Start your afternoon off with a tantalizing salted caramel espresso martini that sets the tone for what's to come. Accompanied by a trio of open sandwiches, each delicately crafted and bursting with vibrant colors, you'll want to enjoy them in the suggested order for the best flavor experience.
First up is the chicken, celeriac, and pepper remoulade sandwich, where the sweetness delicately balances the bitterness of the coffee infusion. Next, delve into the 'Caprese' sandwich, where the creamy mozzarella adds a touch of dairy indulgence to your coffee. And finally, immerse yourself in a surprising highlight: the smoked eel on beetroot brioche. The smokiness and seafood essence are expertly complemented by the last sips of your martini, leaving you craving more.
London's summer afternoon teas are not just about tradition; they are about breaking boundaries and reimagining the classic tea experience. So, venture out and treat yourself to these exciting offerings that will leave you craving for more.
Source: Full article on afternoon teas in London
Indulge in the cool and refreshing caffè freddo, perfect for combating summer heat, while savoring an array of delectable treats at this latest afternoon tea experience. Delight in the flavor of wild mushroom 'tumbleweed' and sun-blushed tomato pastry spirals among the carefully curated selection of savory bites. A new twist on traditional favorites, the warm scones offer a light and airy texture, although the strawberry jam may benefit from a burst of flavor. Nevertheless, the star of the show is the irresistible chocolate-heavy spread, featuring macarons, eclairs, opera cake, black forest gateau, and a velvety creme brulee. Carefully balanced to satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming it, this selection is a delightful treat. For an added touch of indulgence, consider pairing your tea with a shot of Baileys or limoncello, perfectly complementing a robust black coffee for the ultimate boozy denouement.
Experience a delightful journey through flavors and textures, as you savor the unique delights of this summer afternoon tea in London. Immerse yourself in the rich taste of caffè freddo, while enjoying a selection of savory treats such as wild mushroom 'tumbleweed' and sun-blushed tomato pastry spirals. The warm scones, though wonderfully light, are complemented by a strawberry jam that may benefit from an extra burst of flavor. Indulge your senses in a variety of delectable chocolate treats - from macarons to eclairs, opera cake to black forest gateau, and a wonderfully creamy creme brulee. Each bite strikes the perfect balance between saccharine sweetness and indulgent satisfaction. To elevate your experience, consider adding a shot of Baileys or limoncello alongside a rich and robust black coffee, creating a beautifully boozy denouement.
Having had my fill, I found myself slouched comfortably in the plush, silk-lined tub chair, feeling pleasantly buzzed from the intense coffee.
Star of the show: The entire concept of the menu cleverly deviates from the norm, but still managing to honour tradition. The miniature casserole of slow-cooked lamb, crowned with interlaced potato crisps, is a delightful rendition of the classic shepherd's pie. It's a perfect example of comfort food taken to gourmet level.
This unique gastro-experience can be found at: 1 Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London, W1J 7QY.
Opening hours: Every day, serving from 1pm until 5pm
Price: A full experience is priced at £42 per individual
Click her to read an in-depth review of the premises: InterContinental London Park Lane