The Best Luxury Afternoon Teas in Britain to Book Now

The Langham, London

Best for: Luxury settings and heritage

It would be easy for The Langham to rely on its enduring reputation as one of London’s most revered luxury destinations, but this time-honoured establishment never rests on its laurels. Afternoon tea - served in the resplendent Palm Court - retains all the charm of the classics, with imaginative, modern flair brought to life by Chef Michel Roux Jr. and Executive Pastry Chef Andrew Gravett.

The Lowry, Manchester

Best for: Traditional meets modern at Manchester’s most stylish hotel

It’s safe to say there’s nothing unassuming about Manchester’s first 5* hotel. Its enormous, sweeping glass-fronted exterior makes it an integral part of the city skyline, and inside it’s no less impressive. The Lowry’s afternoon tea, served in the flagship River Restaurant, has been recognised with an Excellence Award by the British Tea Guild, so you can be sure that there’s more to this behemoth than appearances.

The Ritz, London

Best for: Lashings of luxury and glamour

It would be near blasphemy to omit The Ritz from any afternoon tea guide, especially one dedicated to luxury. There’s a reason it reigns supreme across the UK’s tea scene; classics are classics for a reason. 18 types of loose-leaf teas, a veritable feast of dainty, traditional treats, and live music from the resident harpist and pianist set the scene for a truly unmissable afternoon.

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa, Bath

Best for: Outdoor dining and Neoclassical elegance

Much like The Ritz, this Grade I listed landmark is a tourist attraction in its own right - wander through Bath and you’ll inevitably see people making their way there for photo opportunities. Everything about the Royal Crescent exudes splendour, and afternoon tea, served in the hotel’s Dower House Restaurant or in the secluded gardens, is no exception.

Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon

Best for: Regal ambience and British heritage

For more than 300 years, taking tea has been an integral part of life at Fortnum & Mason. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, opened by no other than Her Majesty The Queen, is a celebration of British tradition and heritage; and this year is a great time to visit, with dashes of Platinum Jubilee celebration continuing throughout the summer.

20 Stories Rooftop Restaurant, Manchester

Best for: Sky-high dining and sleek, contemporary style

With only the skies above you and the sprawling streets of Manchester below, 20 Stories is the place to go if you’re after a slice of the high life. Really, it’s the views that set this one apart: floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unrivalled panorama, whilst the decor, cool and contemporary, make 20 Stories feel like an oasis in the heart of the city. That being said, the food here’s nothing to be sniffed at - freshly-baked scones with gooseberry jam, delicate finger sandwiches, and homemade sweet treats come served alongside a generous selection of teas and coffees (and Champagne, if you’re so inclined).

Bovey Castle, Dartmoor

Best for: Delicious dining with bucolic views

Afternoon tea, castle… it’s something of a match made in heaven, and Bovey Castle has run with the idea to spectacular effect. Nestled in the heart of Dartmoor National Park, this is a world away from the urban glitz and glamour of The Ritz and The Langham, but no less splendid. In summer, you can tuck into traditional sweet and savoury treats out in the grounds, or in winter, warm yourselves by the roaring fire.

The Northern Belle

Best for: Occasions that call for something unique

A luxury excursion on Britain’s most elegant steam train: save this one for a milestone celebration, because it promises to mark any occasion in style. It’s a day spent gliding through unspoilt countryside, enjoying the golden age of rail travel and dining in style. There’s entertainment provided in the form of strolling musicians and a table magician, and afternoon tea comes with silver service (as you’d expect), plus Champagne.

The Shangri-La, London

Best for: Sweeping London views and 5* elegance

Views this resplendent deserve food to match. Luckily, The Shard’s 5* Shangri-La pulls out all the stops when it comes to afternoon tea. Served in the hotel’s elegant, Chinoiserie TING restaurant, guests here can expect delicate, hand-crafted treats, chilled Champagne and impeccable service against the iconic backdrop of the capital.

Harrods, London

Best for: A luxury pit-stop at a bucket list shopping destination

Home to more than 5,000 luxury brands, you’d need days to explore everything on offer at Harrods; but if you’re short on time, we recommend heading straight to the Tea Rooms on the 4th floor. Art deco opulence, meticulous attention to detail and picture-perfect patisserie all exemplify the refinement that Harrods is renowned for. The menu changes with the seasons, and they also offer one of London’s finest vegan afternoon teas, with no compromise on the decadence we’ve come to expect.

Crafthouse, Leeds

Best for: Insta-worthy rooftop dining in the heart of Leeds

With industrial decor that pays homage to the city’s heritage, an enormous wrap-around rooftop terrace, and views across Leeds, it comes as no surprise that Crafthouse is a city favourite. Afternoon tea fits in perfectly with the restaurant’s thoroughly Instagrammable vibes: colourful, delicate morsels are served up on a traditional three-tiered stand, while 90 minutes of free-flowing fizz tops things off nicely. 

Can't decide? Check out our full collection of Luxury Afternoon Teas.