7 Best Afternoon Teas in London: A Newby Guide

Afternoon Tea Week is the perfect time to enjoy one of Britain's favourite traditions. From grand hotels and historic landmarks to modern tea rooms, London offers an afternoon tea for every taste.

So, where should you go for afternoon tea in London this Afternoon Tea Week? We have selected seven distinctive experiences, each with its own take on this much-loved ritual.

What is Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon tea is a classic British tradition served between lunch and dinner. It usually includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, pastries and, of course, a pot of tea.

The tradition began in 19th-century Britain. Afternoon tea offered a light meal between lunch and dinner and soon became a fashionable social occasion.

Today, afternoon tea in London brings together this tradition with modern luxury. Hotels and restaurants offer themed menus, creative pastries and beautiful settings, with tea at the heart of the experience.

From classic black and green teas to fragrant white teas and premium loose leaf blends, the perfect cup can make all the difference.

What Makes a Great Afternoon Tea in London?

A great afternoon tea is about more than sandwiches and cakes. The setting, service, tea selection and presentation all help create the experience.

London's best afternoon teas combine classic traditions with their own personality. Some celebrate British heritage, while others take inspiration from art, fashion, history or international flavours.

Whether you are looking for a luxury afternoon tea in London, a classic experience or something more creative, these seven places have something for everyone.

1. Raffles London at The OWO

Set inside the historic Old War Office, Raffles London at The OWO brings a sense of intrigue and glamour to afternoon tea.

Its Secrets & Spies Afternoon Tea takes inspiration from the building's fascinating past. The Old War Office was once home to Britain's military and intelligence operations.

Enjoy refined savouries and exquisite pastries alongside a selection of curated loose leaf teas. The result is an elegant experience with a story behind it.

Best for: History, storytelling and an unforgettable setting.
Price: From £87 per person.

2. Jacqueline at The Chancery Rosewood

At Jacqueline at The Chancery Rosewood, Executive Pastry Chef Marius Dufay gives the traditional British tea ritual a creative twist.

The menu combines delicate sandwiches and freshly baked scones with intricate pâtisserie inspired by botanical and perfumery flavours.

Tea takes centre stage here, with more than 100 teas from around the world to discover. Jacqueline was also named the World's Best Afternoon Tea 2026 by LA LISTE.

Best for: Artistry, tea discovery and botanical flavours.
Price: From £95 per person.

3. Goûtea at The Berkeley

For a fashionable take on afternoon tea, head to Goûtea at The Berkeley.

Served at The Berkeley Café, the experience combines the British afternoon tea tradition with French pâtisserie. Expect refined savouries and beautifully crafted pastries in a relaxed, contemporary setting.

With its focus on pâtisserie, presentation and modern French techniques, Goûtea offers a stylish alternative to a classic afternoon tea.

Best for: Fashion, contemporary design and pâtisserie.
Price: From £85 per person.

4. L’oscar London

Step into the dramatic world of L'oscar London, where afternoon tea comes with plenty of character.

The hotel's ornate interiors create an intimate setting for a classic afternoon tea. Enjoy savouries, freshly baked scones and pastries alongside a selection of Newby Teas.

The combination of elegant food and richly decorated surroundings makes L'oscar a memorable choice for a special occasion.

Best for: Theatrical interiors and intimate luxury.
Price: From £59 per person.

5. Pan Pacific London

At Pan Pacific London's Ginger Lily Lounge, British afternoon tea meets contemporary Asian-inspired hospitality.

Enjoy freshly baked scones, delicate pastries and savouries alongside a curated selection of Newby Teas. You can also add Champagne for an extra touch of indulgence.

The elegant surroundings and modern approach make Pan Pacific a great choice for a contemporary afternoon tea in London.

Best for: Contemporary design and modern luxury.
Price: From £58 per person.

6. The Dorchester

Afternoon tea at The Dorchester is all about timeless Mayfair elegance.

Served in The Promenade, the afternoon tea includes sandwiches, freshly baked scones, pastries and cakes, along with a wide selection of teas.

Elegant surroundings and attentive service complete the experience. Its classic approach makes The Dorchester a natural choice for anyone looking for a traditional yet luxurious afternoon tea.

Located on Park Lane, it is also perfectly placed for exploring Mayfair and Hyde Park before or after tea.

Best for: Classic British tradition and Mayfair glamour.
Price: From £95 per person.

7. The Park Room at Grosvenor House

Overlooking Hyde Park, The Park Room at JW Marriott Grosvenor House London offers a modern take on the traditional British afternoon tea.

The current Tales of Beatrix Potter Afternoon Tea celebrates 160 years since the author's birth. It brings beloved characters and stories to life through playful pastries and seasonal treats.

A selection of Newby Teas accompanies the experience, while live piano adds to the atmosphere.

Best for: British heritage, seasonal creativity and classic elegance.
Price: From £75 per person.

Which London Afternoon Tea Is Right for You?

With so many afternoon teas across the capital, the best choice depends on what you are looking for.

For a traditional afternoon tea, The Dorchester offers timeless Mayfair elegance. The Park Room at Grosvenor House adds a playful British theme to the classic experience.

If you prefer something more creative, Jacqueline at The Chancery Rosewood and Goûtea at The Berkeley put artistry and pâtisserie at the centre of the experience.

For history and atmosphere, Raffles London at The OWO offers a setting unlike any other. L'oscar is ideal for those who enjoy dramatic interiors and intimate surroundings. Pan Pacific, meanwhile, brings a contemporary Asian influence to the traditional ritual.

And for tea lovers, the tea menu can be just as important as the food. From carefully selected loose leaf teas to premium black, green and white teas, the right cup completes the experience.

Make Time for Afternoon Tea Week

Afternoon tea has changed since its beginnings in 19th-century Britain, but its appeal remains the same: taking time to pause, enjoy good food and share a pot of tea.

This Afternoon Tea Week, discover London's diverse tea scene and experience this much-loved tradition in a new way.

Whether you are planning a special occasion, meeting friends or simply looking for a memorable afternoon in London, there is always another tea experience to discover.