Evolving to be far more than just scones and a cup of tea, there’s nothing quite as enticing as afternoon tea. From top hotels and restaurants to cafes and patisseries, we’ve rounded up the most Instagrammable afternoon teas in London to help brighten up your grid.
Peggy Porschen
Anyone who has done a quick Internet search for “Instagrammable London spots” will almost certainly have come across Peggy Porschen. Not only are there endless photo opportunities thanks to the iconic pink façade, but the menu boasts an extensive array of teas and pastries - think chocolate raspberry and rose cupcakes, peppermint infusions and much, much more.
Shangri-La The Shard
For those Insta-worthy afternoon tea moments, head along to Shangri-La’s TING on Level 35 of The Shard. The spectacular Champagne afternoon tea consists of delicious finger sandwiches, warm baked scones, delicate pastries and an impressive range of Shangri-La signature tea. A chilled glass of Champagne will add all the sparkle you need for your snap.
The Swan at The Globe
Along with resplendent views of the Thames, The Swan at The Globe offers up a pretty venue, complete with a lively atmosphere and elegant décor. With a menu inspired by Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, the themed afternoon tea showcases some of the best English produce from Borough Market and beyond.
Fortnum & Mason
Over the past 300 years, the tradition of taking tea has formed an integral part of life at Fortnum & Mason. The luxurious afternoon tea is served in the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, where guests can enjoy a host of sweet and savoury delights. Expert ‘Tearistas’ are on hand to advise the best tea from the incredible range of signature blends, single-estate and infusion teas. And of course, there’s Champagne for that extra touch of indulgence.
Fortnum & Mason Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two in The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
Since 1707, Fortnum & Mason has grown from an exceptional grocer in the heart of London to one of the world’s preeminent destination stores. Over the past 300 years, the tradition of taking tea has formed an integral part of life at Fortnum & Mason, and now you and a lucky guest can experience this iconic British treat by taking Afternoon Tea in Fortnum’s elegant Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon.
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The Ritz
A London icon: we couldn’t talk about Instagrammable afternoon teas in the capital without mentioning The Ritz. Presented in the hotel’s show-stopping ballroom, the magnificent interior features all gold walls, chandeliers and ivory accents. Replenished on request, delicacies include a selection of sandwiches, freshly baked scones and elaborate desserts.
The Langham
Widely regarded as the birthplace of afternoon tea, Chef Michel Roux Jr and executive pastry chef Andrew Gravett have combined their talents to create The Langham’s mouth-watering afternoon tea. A riff on the nation’s favourite biscuits, think pink wafers infused with rhubarb, custard creams reimagined with a chocolate shell and classic finger sandwiches.
Afternoon Tea for Two at the Famous 5* Langham London
Treat yourselves to one of the UK's finest afternoon teas, and take your seats amidst 5* splendour at The Langham's Palm Court. Offering a modern yet luxurious spin on this quintessential tradition, Chef Michel Roux Jr. and Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett have reimagined the classics, with a menu inspired by the nation's favourite biscuits and baked tarts. The two of you can tuck into sweet and savoury delights, and pair your treats with an extensive selection of JING teas.
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The Berkeley
If it’s afternoon tea for two you’re after, you really can’t go wrong with Belgravia’s The Berkeley as your venue. Perfect for fashionistas with a sweet tooth, the Prêt-à-Portea is nothing short of extraordinary. Expect to find cakes and biscuits inspired by iconic runway creations and teas dressed in the finest Versace.
The Lanesborough
Nestled in Hyde Park Corner, the Lanesborough is a 5* hotel that knows a thing or two about hosting a swish afternoon tea. Soak up the inimitable vibes of the richly decorated dining room, which is naturally illuminated by day with the glass conservatory roof and glittering chandeliers. Treat your taste buds to a selection of sandwiches, scones and an assortment of cakes, made by the skilled in-house pastry team.
Dalloway Terrace
Whatever the season, Londoners can’t seem to get enough of Dalloway Terrace’s seasonally-changing display. Grandiose flowers line the walls in spring and summer, while crisp and frosty decorations set a suitably wintry tone and golden brown leaves add an autumn atmosphere. Inspired by the French countryside, afternoon tea here is unforgettable.
Hotel Café Royal
Hotel Café Royal sure knows how to put on an eye-pleasing spread. Having hosted some of history’s most famous names, including Oscar Wilde, it’s easy to see why the Grade II listed venue is such a hit. Their afternoon tea is the stuff of dreams, featuring a beautifully arranged selection of classic tea sandwiches, homemade scones and pastries with thoughtfully seasonal flavours.
Rosewood
Voted as the best contemporary afternoon tea in the UK, Rosewood is a culinary paradise for art enthusiasts. The hotel’s offering is renowned for its take on the city’s exhibits, with previous themes centred around artists like David Hockney and Yayoi Kusama. The tea itself is served in the sublimely designed Mirror Room, home to floor-to-ceiling decorative mirrors, low lighting and lounge style seating.
sketch
One of London’s most instagrammable restaurants, Mayfair’s sketch is unsurprisingly as visually delicious as the setting of the playfully pink and pretty Gallery. You’ll be hard-pressed to not recognise the egg-shaped toilets, arguably London’s most snapped bathroom. Naturally, their food does not fall short of expectations either. A gorgeous line-up of pretty delights awaits, including Victoria sponge, fruity cheesecake and an imaginative take on the classic Battenberg.
Harrods
There’s no finer location for an exquisite cream tea than Harrods. Bathed in natural light, take a seat on the Terrace to peruse a menu of globally-sourced teas. Your sweet tooth will be equally satisfied by plain and fruit scones with Harrods own homemade preserve.
Cream Tea for Two at Harrods
There’s no finer location to experience the best of British tradition and over 150 years of service than in the Harrods restaurant nestled in Harrods department store, now serving a taste of London with this classic Cream Tea for Two.
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The Wolseley
Situated in a converted car showroom in Piccadilly, The Wolseley has been a crowd favourite since it opened. There’s no shortage of tradition and class here - the silver strainers are engraved with the Wolseley emblem. Revel in the hotel’s beautiful surroundings, whilst sipping Champagne and indulging in delectable bites like finger sandwiches, fruit scones and an ever-changing selection of cakes. .
The Athenaeum
Lacking none of the quintessential charm of the beloved British tradition, vegan afternoon tea at the 5* Athenaeum is an elegant display of plant-based finery. Expect divine sweet and savoury delights, served up with creative finesse in phenomenal surroundings. Take your pick of artisanal teas or top-quality coffee throughout.
The Savoy
Conveniently located on the Strand, The Savoy is a British institution; so it’s only right that its afternoon tea is every bit as traditional. Its pièce de résistance? The stunning glass-domed atrium radiates a natural light and sociable warmth. Luckily, it’s not all style over substance though, with bonne bouches like buttery raisin scones and trays of luscious carrot cakes.
The Stage
Cameras at the ready! The Londoner’s The Stage is the perfect post-shop, post-theatre destination. Comprising all the Best of British teatime treats, indulge in sandwiches, artisanal cakes and fluffy scones to boot. You can also add some fizz to the occasion too if you want something a bit more high-end.
Petersham Nurseries
Revered for its wistfully wild floral displays and effortless blending of nature and elegance, Covent Garden’s The Petersham will certainly add some class to your Instagram. The menu changes seasonally, but never strays far from English classics like milk bun sandwiches and scones, alongside Italian dolci of crisp cannoli and warm bombolone.
Afternoon Tea for Two at The Petersham, Covent Garden
Immerse yourselves in the beauty of Petersham Nurseries Covent Garden with a delightful afternoon tea together. Revered for its wistfully wild floral displays and effortless blending of nature and elegance, The Petersham is a sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
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inamo
What makes a good afternoon tea even better? Making it bottomless, of course. Head to one of London’s two inamo restaurants for a distinctive Pan-Asian twist on tradition. Tuck into the likes of crispy chicken karaage with spicy mayo, soft shell crab tempura, macarons and more. One hour of unlimited bubbles, oriental tea and fully touch-sensitive tables make for unique Instagram companions.
B Bakery
There’s a real passion for food and baking that becomes evident from the moment anyone walks through the door of B Bakery. The fine English tradition of afternoon tea is expertly fused with a delicate French twist - think freshly cut sandwiches, delicious savoury muffins and decadent homemade cakes. As if that wasn’t enough, 90 minutes of bottomless gin cocktails ensures this is an occasion to remember.
Summary
Hopefully by now, you’ve discovered there’s a world of delightful afternoon teas in London. From 5* hotels to teas with free-flowing fizz for all-out indulgence, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to browse our full range of afternoon teas, with exquisite venues up and down the country.
