Top 10 Best Afternoon Teas in London to Celebrate International Tea Day
- Aarefa | Earth Angel HQ
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
There’s no better way to celebrate International Tea Day (21st May) than by indulging in one of London’s most iconic traditions — Afternoon Tea. But this isn’t just about tea and scones anymore. From immersive Bridgerton experiences to scenic river cruises and vintage red buses, London’s afternoon teas are as diverse as they are delightful.
Whether you’re a local or a traveler on a tea pilgrimage, here’s our curated guide to 10 unforgettable afternoon teas in London, with all the details you need to book your perfect tea moment.
1. London Sightseeing River Cruise with Afternoon Tea
Why it’s special: Afternoon tea meets panoramic river views. Enjoy classic treats while cruising past Big Ben, the London Eye, and Tower Bridge.
Experience: Classic sandwiches, warm scones, sweet pastries — all while gliding down the Thames.
Price: From £47 per person
Address: Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London WC2N 6NU
Contact: +44 20 7740 0400 | citycruises.com
2. Sherlock Holmes Afternoon Tea
Why it’s special: Solve a mystery while sipping tea. This theatrical experience comes with unlimited bubbles and a tabletop crime to crack.
Experience: Perfect for lovers of puzzles, performances, and indulgent treats.
Price: From £65 per person
Address: The Mind Palace, 79-85 Old Brompton Rd, London SW7 3LD
Contact: +44 20 8130 0021 | thegameisnow.com
3. Afternoon Tea Bus Tour London
Why it’s special: A moving feast on a vintage Routemaster bus. Choose from themed teas like Paddington or gin-infused options.
Experience: Traditional high tea with changing city views — a playful twist on a London classic.
Price: From £45 per person
Address: Departs from 8 Northumberland Avenue, London WC2N 5BY
Contact: +44 20 3026 1188 | b-bakery.com
4. Afternoon Tea at the British Museum
Why it’s special: Dine beneath the spectacular glass roof of the Great Court. A culture-lover’s dream.
Experience: British classics in an elegant, historic setting.
Price: From £35 per person
Address: Great Russell St, London WC1B 3DG
Contact: +44 20 7323 8000 | britishmuseum.org
5. Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
Why it’s special: The holy grail of afternoon tea. Regal, refined, and relentlessly delicious.
Experience: Endless tea options, perfect pastries, flawless service — a time-honoured tradition.
Price: From £75 per person
Address: 181 Piccadilly, St. James's, London W1A 1ER
Contact: +44 20 7734 8040 | fortnumandmason.com
6. Brigit’s Afternoon Tea at Covent Garden
Why it’s special: High Tea meets central London charm. Great for a girly day out or casual luxury.
Experience: A mix of British favourites with colourful presentation. Bonus: options for gluten-free and veggie.
Price: From £40 per person
Address: 24-26 The Market, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8RD
Contact: +44 20 3026 1188 | b-bakery.com
7. The Bridgerton Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough
Why it’s special: Bridgerton meets afternoon tea — with chandeliers, string quartets, and show-themed cakes.
Experience: A Regency-era fantasy brought to life. Elegant finger sandwiches, decadent cakes, and themed cocktails.
Price: From £85 per person
Address: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA
Contact: +44 20 7259 5599 | lanesborough.com
8. Afternoon Tea at The Ritz
Why it’s special: The gold standard. Served in The Palm Court with live piano and 20 types of tea.
Experience: Luxury, tradition, and formality. Dress to impress — jackets and ties for gents are a must.
Price: From £72 per person
Address: 150 Piccadilly, St. James’s, London W1J 9BR
Contact: +44 20 7300 2345 | theritzlondon.com
9. Afternoon Tea at The Corinthia
Why it’s special: Instagram-worthy elegance beneath a Baccarat chandelier. Refined and feminine.
Experience: Delicate pastries, seasonal menus, and tea in a sunlit, high-ceilinged salon.
Price: From £70 per person
Address: Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2BD
Contact: +44 20 7321 3000 | corinthia.com
10. Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
Why it’s special: 150 years of legacy, opulence, and perfectly cut sandwiches.
Experience: An Art Deco masterpiece with live music and immaculate service.
Price: From £85 per person
Address: Brook Street, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR
Contact: +44 20 7107 8862 | claridges.co.uk
From classic hotel salons to quirky immersive journeys, London’s afternoon tea scene offers something for every kind of tea lover. So this International Tea Day, why not raise a pinky and treat yourself to a tradition that’s as timeless as it is delicious?
Love,
Bloomtine | Earth Angel HQ
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