Top Places for Afternoon Tea in London
If you crave something less fussy but equally delicious, try Sketch in Mayfair. The Gallery room is a pink, futuristic fairyland with egg-shaped chairs and avant-garde art. The afternoon tea here is playful; think bright blue macarons and a menu that changes with the seasons.
Another modern gem is The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington. They offer a science-themed tea with telescopic sandwiches and a chocolate globe that melts to reveal a little cake. It’s perfect for nerdy romantics and families who want a conversation starter.
Hidden Gems and Budget-Friendly Finds
You don’t need to mortgage a flat to enjoy a good cuppa. M. Manze in Bermondsey serves a working-class “tea” with pie and mash, but it’s a classic London experience. For a more traditional budget option, Café in the Crypt at St Martin-in-the-Fields offers a simple, affordable afternoon tea underneath a 18th-century church.
10 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in London – Dutch Girl in London
Another secret: The Wolseley on Piccadilly is not a hotel, but it feels like one. Their afternoon tea is a power move for people-watching—you’ll see tourists and CEOs alike. Book a late slot for a quieter, candlelit experience.