Embedded Files
The Great "High Tea" Misunderstanding
The Great "High Tea" Misunderstanding
Before you book anything, you need to know a very common American misconception! When Americans want a fancy experience with finger sandwiches, scones, and tiered cake stands, they usually call it "High Tea." However, in the UK, that elegant experience is actually called Afternoon Tea.
Afternoon Tea: Created by the aristocracy in the 1840s to bridge the gap between lunch and a late dinner. Served around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM on low lounge tables, featuring delicate crustless sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and pastries.
High Tea: Historically a hearty, heavy working-class meal (meat, potatoes, baked beans) served around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM sitting on high-backed chairs at a proper, high dining table after a long day of manual labor.
The Anatomy of Afternoon Tea (Click to Expand)
The Anatomy of Afternoon Tea (Click to Expand)
The Sandwiches: Crustless and delicate. Classics include cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon, and egg mayonnaise.
The Scones: Served warm with strawberry jam and clotted cream (a thick, rich spread that tastes like a mix between butter and whipped cream).
The Great Debate: Do you spread the jam first or the cream first? In Cornwall, they spread jam first, then cream. In Devon, it’s cream first, then jam. Try it both ways!
Cream Tea: If you don't want the massive meal, many cafes offer a simple "Cream Tea," which is just a pot of tea and a couple of scones for a fraction of the price.
Champagne Tea: A standard Afternoon Tea, but served with a glass of champagne!
Top 10 Afternoon Teas in London
Top 10 Afternoon Teas in London
London is the undisputed capital of Afternoon Tea. Because these experiences are legendary, you must book these months in advance.
(Note: Most of these establishments have strict, smart-casual dress codes—no sportswear, no shorts, and often men must wear collared shirts or jackets).
The Iconic Classics (The "Bucket List" Spots) (Click to Expand)
The Iconic Classics (The "Bucket List" Spots) (Click to Expand)
1. The Ritz: The most famous Afternoon Tea in the world, served in the spectacular Palm Court with a live pianist. It is as formal and traditional as it gets. (Jacket and tie required for men).
2. Claridge’s: The epitome of Art Deco luxury. Renowned for their impeccable service and incredible pastries. It feels incredibly glamorous.
3. The Savoy: Served in the Thames Foyer underneath a stunning glass dome. A London institution that blends traditional elegance with old Hollywood glamour.
4. Fortnum & Mason (The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon): Opened by the late Queen herself. Fortnum & Mason is the Royal Family's official grocer, and this bright, beautiful salon is the perfect place for a classic tea after shopping.
The Modern & Unique Experiences (Click to Expand)
The Modern & Unique Experiences (Click to Expand)
5. Sketch (The Gallery): Famous on Instagram! You drink tea in an incredibly quirky, highly designed room (previously all pink, now a warm sunshine yellow) with live string music and the most unique bathrooms in London (they look like alien egg pods).
6. The Berkeley (Prêt-à-Portea): The ultimate spot for fashion lovers. Their pastries and cakes are meticulously designed to look like the latest seasonal catwalk trends from designers like Dior, Prada, and Chanel.
7. Aqua Shard (or Ting at the Shangri-La): Located high up inside The Shard, this is where you go for a modern Afternoon Tea with absolutely breathtaking, panoramic views of the London skyline.
The Grand & Historic (Click to Expand)
The Grand & Historic (Click to Expand)
8. The Langham: Historically recognized as the very first hotel in London to serve Afternoon Tea back in 1865! Served in the stunning Palm Court.
9. The Goring: A long-time favorite of the Royal Family (Kate Middleton stayed here the night before her wedding). It offers a deeply traditional, intimate, and flawless tea experience just steps from Buckingham Palace.
10. The Wolseley: Located on Piccadilly, this grand café offers a slightly more affordable and accessible, yet deeply atmospheric and classy, Afternoon Tea. (It’s also one of the easiest to pop in for just a "Cream Tea").
Looking for Family-Friendly Tea?
Looking for Family-Friendly Tea?
While the locations listed above are incredible for adults, date nights, or when parents visit from the States, they can be incredibly stuffy and very expensive for young children.
Luckily, London has an entirely separate world of Afternoon Teas designed specifically for kids (think Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Peppa Pig, and Science themes!).
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse