The Ultimate Guide to London’s Best Afternoon Tea (Tested by Our Editors)

Afternoon tea is the most British of rituals. For centuries, Londoners have paused their afternoons to enjoy a spread of savory bites and sweet treats. It starts with dainty finger sandwiches—smoked salmon with cream cheese, Coronation chicken, or cheese and mustard tucked into soft bread. Then come scones, served warm with clotted cream and thick raspberry or strawberry jam. From there, the menu depends on where you’re sitting. Some places offer classic lemon tarts; others serve elaborate cherry-chocolate creations from award-winning pastry chefs. The tea itself ranges from traditional Earl Grey to bright green varieties or rich rooibos, often with an optional glass of Champagne for something fizzy.

Where did this tradition come from? Most credit Anna, the Seventh Duchess of Bedford. The story goes that she got hungry between lunch and a late Victorian dinner, so she asked for sandwiches and a sweet treat. The elite quickly adopted the habit, and by the late 1800s, afternoon tea was a fixture of high society. Hotels like Claridge’s and The Savoy turned it into an art form with tiered stands and fine china, while tearooms made it accessible to the growing middle class.

What should you wear? Most places ask for smart-casual, but The Ritz requires gentlemen to wear a jacket and tie. Our UK editors spent the year testing every top spot—from watching the glitterati at Claridge’s to enjoying themed treats at Raffles at the OWO or the garden views at The Goring. Menus change with the seasons, so check the latest details online. Here are the best afternoon teas in London for 2026, all tried and approved.