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Best afternoon tea in London: Hotels with the perfect setting for Mother’s Day

<p>There’s something for everyone – including a few themed options</p>

If you're looking for the best afternoon tea experience in London, you're in luck! We have painstakingly tried and tested countless venues to bring you a curated list of the absolute finest options. Say goodbye to disappointing cucumber sandwiches and prepare to be dazzled by delightful finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of decadent pastries and cakes. This experience is best savoured in the cozy confines of luxury which is why we highly recommend these hotels-of-london.com.

Whether you prefer a breathtaking view of the city, an elegant setting to luxuriate in for hours, or a budget-friendly yet delightful tea experience, we have you covered. Each of the five-star hotels we've selected not only offer excellent afternoon tea services, but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in opulence. When it comes to dining, these spaces are perfect for themed teas and traditional classics, hence offering something to suit every taste.

So, get ready to indulge in a feast that would impress even the great Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood themselves. Enjoy your afternoon tea in London and remember, it's not just about the tea and cakes, but the unforgettable ambiance these top-rated hotels provide. Cheers!

Top London Hotels for a Memorable Afternoon Tea:

Best for elegance: The Langham

Locale: Marylebone

History refreshes at The Langham, the pioneer London hotel in serving afternoon tea

Palm Court achieves the commendable ability to intertwine timeless tradition and modern flair. Acting as the heart of this premium hotel – that was declared as the inaugural London hotel to offer afternoon tea upon its establishment in 1865 – it captivates guests with its impeccable service and atmosphere. The afternoon tea selection features elegant finger sandwiches and the perfect harmony of plain and golden raisin scones. Among delightful cakes and pastries, the raspberry sponge with raspberry confit and jasmine cream stands out. Space is never a concern, thanks to the petite layered plates (Wedgwood, obviously) displayed on standing silver structures. Plus, if you're too full to finish, your pick of the cake can be packed for home. Take a moment to explore the variety of teas – nearly 20 types, hand-picked by a professional tea sommelier. The selection also includes vegetarian and vegan afternoon tea options.

Cost: Starting at £70 per person

Best for a special day out: Brown’s Hotel

Mayfair: A Quintessential London Experience

Experience the charm of historic London at Brown's Hotel, the city's very first hotel. This iconic establishment effortlessly blends old-world elegance with modern sophistication. From original wood paneling and exquisite Jacobean ceilings to cozy fireplaces, every detail transports you to a bygone era.

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience, reminiscent of a warm embrace from a beloved relative. The pianist sets the perfect ambiance, playing a mix of timeless classics and contemporary tunes. Prepare for a feast of delectable treats, with sandwiches served on fresh-out-of-the-oven bread, including mouthwatering options like smoked salmon with lemon butter on malted loaf and coronation chicken on onion bread. Savor the soft and buttery scones and indulge in a tantalizing array of cakes and pastries, including apple and caramel choux, blood orange drizzle cake, and lemon meringue pie.

If you're following a plant-based diet, worry not! Brown's Hotel offers an entire plant-based menu, ensuring everyone can enjoy the afternoon tea experience. Treat your taste buds to exquisite vegan delights.

Price: Starting from £75 per person

Brown's Hotel

Best for old-school class: The Savoy

Discover the Charm of The Strand

Indulge in an enchanting afternoon tea experience at The Savoy, nestled in the heart of The Strand. As you descend the elegant black and white marble stairs into the Thames Foyer, you'll understand why reservations must be made well in advance. The light-filled room exudes grandeur with its gazebo centerpiece and gracefully positioned tables. Accompanied by the soothing melodies of a grand piano, the atmosphere at The Savoy is unparalleled.

What truly sets this afternoon tea apart is the perfect blend of sophistication and warmth. Impeccable service, exquisite tableware, and culinary delights await you. Savor the array of finger sandwiches, featuring delightful combinations such as pickled cucumber with chive and lemon cream cheese, eggs with watercress, and Dorset beef with celeriac remoulade. Meanwhile, the open sandwiches boast enticing options like smoked salmon with seaweed butter.

No afternoon tea would be complete without the quintessential scones, and at The Savoy, they are served with an assortment of tempting accompaniments: jam, lemon curd, and clotted cream. Don't forget to save room for the seasonal pastries that will delight your taste buds. A unique touch at this splendid establishment is the pianist's rendition of "Happy Birthday," accompanied by waiters who present individual celebration cakes to the respective tables - a slightly formal tradition, yet one that adds to the overall charm.

If you have dietary preferences, fear not! The Savoy offers vegetarian and vegan menus, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Price: Starting from £65 per person

Best for views of London: Shangri-La at the Shard

Discover London's Stunning Views at Shangri-La

Indulge in an exquisite afternoon tea experience with breathtaking panoramic views of London's iconic skyline at Shangri-La, located in the vibrant London Bridge neighborhood. Nestled on the 35th floor of the distinctive Shard building, Ting offers an awe-inspiring setting that will captivate you from the moment you enter.

Prepare to be enchanted as you take in the sweeping vistas, perfectly complemented by the thoughtfully arranged low tables and plush armchairs, all designed to ensure you make the most of this spectacular backdrop. Take your time and immerse yourself in the beauty that surrounds you.

Unveiling an afternoon tea like no other, Ting provides a warm welcome with a unique base tray that blankets your table with mesmerizing billows of dry ice, creating an enchanting atmosphere that is as captivating as it is photo-worthy. The array of delectable treats includes classic sandwiches like smoked salmon and cucumber, as well as indulgent truffle egg and cress. Don't miss out on the freshly baked scones generously accompanied by delectable lashings of jam and cream. The melt-in-the-mouth sweets are a delightful assortment, featuring pistachio profiteroles and velvety white chocolate mousse. Impeccable service and a variety of intriguing tea options only enhance the overall experience. And for those seeking a vegan alternative, a dedicated menu is also available.

Price: Starting from £71 per person

Experience a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea that seamlessly combines London's stunning skyline with exquisite culinary delights at Shangri-La's Ting. Make unforgettable memories with loved ones as you savor delectable treats and bask in the beauty of this unique setting

Best for impressing: Claridge’s

Neighbourhood: Mayfair

If you're looking for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience in London, be sure to book your table well in advance at Claridge's. This iconic Art Deco hotel has been serving up their renowned afternoon tea for over 150 years, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Once you step into the elegant surroundings, you'll be transported to a world of luxury and sophistication. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the stunning tableware to the soft lighting that sets the perfect ambiance. As you enjoy your tea, you'll be serenaded by classical musicians playing enchanting tunes in the background, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Indulge in a delectable selection of savories, including tempting sandwiches such as chicken with gem lettuce and tarragon, and smoked salmon with crème fraîche on rye bread. The quality of these savory treats alone is reason enough to visit. And let's not forget about the scones - they are incredibly soft and light, a true delight for your taste buds.

But the journey doesn't end there. Prepare to be amazed by the beautiful array of pastries that awaits you. From fruity pavlovas to almond and pear tarts, each pastry is crafted with meticulous care and bursting with flavor.

Reserve your table today and immerse yourself in an afternoon tea experience that combines tradition, luxury, and culinary excellence. It's no wonder people from all walks of life, including celebrities, are eager to experience the magic of Claridge's.

Price: From £75 per person (from 1 April 2023 the price will increase, starting from £85 per person)

Best for tradition: The Ritz

Neighbourhood: Mayfair

Indulge in classic service at The Ritz tearoom, located in the heart of Mayfair. With a capacity to serve 450 afternoon teas daily, this establishment runs like a well-coordinated machine, ensuring a seamless experience for every guest. Step into Palm Court, and you'll be transported to a world of opulence and sophistication, with doormen in top hats and an impressive stage setup.

Experience the traditional charm of London as you savor a delightful selection of fresh finger sandwiches, including smoked salmon, egg mayo, cucumber and cream cheese, ham and mustard. Accompanied by an array of exquisite cakes and warm, freshly baked raisin and plain scones, every bite is a treat for the senses. The Ritz Royal English tea, chosen from a menu of 18 options, offers a pleasant and refreshing blend to savor halfway through your meal.

Embrace the grandeur as a cake trolley proceeds around the room, offering tempting choices like the moist and flavorful orange cake. If you're celebrating a special occasion, the pianist will announce your birthday, and you'll be presented with a delightful individual cake. However, it's worth noting that despite all the glamour, The Ritz's afternoon tea might feel less personal due to the strict 90-minute time slot and the closely arranged tables.

Price: From £70 per person

Best for laid-back luxury: The Connaught

Experience Mayfair's Sweet Delights at The Connaught

If you're looking for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience in London, The Connaught in Mayfair is the perfect destination. Led by pastry chef Nicolas Rouzaud, their afternoon tea is a sensory feast that combines exquisite flavors with a chic and relaxed ambiance.

Before diving into the tea, it's worth mentioning the Jean-Georges restaurant, which boasts a stylish conservatory setting and a laid-back London atmosphere. This delightful combination creates an enjoyable and special occasion without any need for formality.

Prepare your taste buds for an array of savory delights that change seasonally, such as the tantalizing egg and truffle mayo on white bread and the flavorsome roast ham, sweet potatoes, and coconut with cranberry chutney on beetroot bread. As for the scones, they simply melt in your mouth and are served with an assortment of organic mandarin and vanilla jam, strawberry jam, and clotted cream.

While the savory offerings are impressive, it's the sweet treats that steal the show. Every mouthful of the vanilla mousse and hazelnut praline on shortbread is a burst of indulgence, and the lime gel and coconut mousse with white chocolate are not only delicious but also exceptionally creative.

Make sure to save room for the fondue, a delectable delight that you won't want to leave behind. The only downside is that the tea list could be a bit more expansive, although the overall experience at The Connaught more than makes up for it.

Price: Starting from £75 per person

Best for exuberance: The Landmark

Discover Marylebone's charming afternoon tea experience

Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience within the picturesque surroundings of a 19th-century courtyard. Nestled just moments away from Marylebone station, this esteemed hotel was crafted in the late 1800s, featuring a central courtyard that once catered to horse-drawn carriages, delivering guests to the heart of the property. Today, the courtyard stands as a majestic centerpiece, adorned with a stunning glass roof, providing an enchanting setting for an unforgettable afternoon tea.

Embracing tradition with every bite, our tantalizing selection of finger sandwiches includes smoked salmon, egg mayo, coronation chicken, and classic cucumber. While the flavor was undeniably delicious, the temperature left us longing for a touch more warmth, akin to the fridge-cold Wedgwood plate on which it was served. Next, we were treated to the ultimate indulgence of warm, freshly baked raisin and apple scones, accompanied by an array of delightful jams such as Bergeron apricot. As we marveled at the miniature works of art that adorned our dessert platter, including delicate choux pastries and delectable macarons, our friendly and knowledgeable waitress attended to our every need.

While the experience was undoubtedly delightful, we yearned for a touch of elegance in our serving glasses, which unfortunately lacked the finesse we would expect from crystal glassware. Nevertheless, the overall ambiance, combined with the charming service, made for an unforgettable afternoon of dining in Marylebone.

Price: Starting from £65 per person

The best themed afternoon teas

Best for fashionistas: The Berkeley

Exploring Knightsbridge: A Fashionable Delight

For those with a passion for fashion, The Berkeley hotel in Knightsbridge offers an exquisite afternoon tea experience like no other. Their Prêt-à-Portea tea takes inspiration from London Fashion Week, where the hotel's pastry chefs scout out the latest collections to create delectable sweet treats. Served on beautiful Instagrammable china in the modern and airy Collins Room, this afternoon tea is a feast for the eyes and taste buds.

Prepare to be amazed by the intricate details in each pastry, inspired by renowned fashion brands like Jimmy Choo and Fendi. The knowledgeable staff will guide you through the tantalizing array of finger sandwiches, heritage beetroot tart, and flavorsome savories. However, if you have a craving for scones, it's worth noting that they are only available upon request.

Price: Starting from £75 per person (please note that starting from 12 April 2023, the price will increase to £80 per person).

Make your Mother's Day celebration in 2023 truly special by indulging in this unforgettable afternoon tea experience in the heart of Knightsbridge.

Best for kids: The Ampersand

Explore South Kensington for a Memorable Afternoon Tea

Discover The Ampersand, a hotel that caters to the entire family with its unique and delightful afternoon tea experience. Unlike traditional posh hotel teas where children may feel out of place, this charming venue strikes the perfect balance between child-friendliness and grown-up elegance.

During your visit, you and your little ones can embark on a whimsical adventure inspired by the nearby Science Museum. The kids' science afternoon tea offers a fun and interactive lemonade kit, complete with test tubes, alongside mini dinosaur biscuit 'fossils' hidden beneath delectable chocolate soil. Served on a vibrant rocket stand, the menu features mini hot dogs, buttery scones with a zingy curd in a squeezy tube, and captivating chocolate and berry 'planets' enveloped by gasp-inducing clouds of dry ice.

For the adults, the science tea comes with sublime highlights such as smoked salmon blinis, white chocolate and cranberry scones, and fruity macarons. Indulge in these delectable treats while enjoying the chic drawing room atmosphere, where each table is adorned with little ones excited to be a part of this extraordinary experience.

Make this Mother's Day extra special by visiting The Ampersand in South Kensington, a location that offers a memorable and enchanting afternoon tea experience for the entire family.

Price: Kids’ menu £35.00 per person; adults’ menu £49.50 per person

The best budget afternoon teas

Best for value: Strand Palace Hotel

Discover The Strand: A Budget-Friendly Option

For an affordable afternoon tea experience in the heart of London, consider The Strand Palace Hotel. This charming hotel, located just across the road from The Savoy, offers a delightful alternative without compromising on taste. While the finger sandwiches and scones may not reach the same level of precision as the top hotels, they are nonetheless fresh, flavorful, and offer a variety of options, including vegan and gluten-free choices. Indulge in delectable sweet treats such as a raspberry and milk chocolate éclair, lemon and strawberry macaron, or blood orange caramelized tart. Enhance your experience by adding a glass of prosecco for just £8. The attentive service and the hotel's 1920s-themed afternoon tea salon, adorned with rich reds and Art Deco glitz, create a truly captivating atmosphere. This is undoubtedly a budget-friendly afternoon tea experience in a prime central London location.

Price: Starting from £39 per person

Looking to explore London further? The Strand is a vibrant neighborhood with a wealth of attractions to discover. Take a leisurely stroll along the Thames Embankment or visit the famed Covent Garden for a unique shopping and entertainment experience. Whatever your preferences, The Strand offers a perfect setting for Mother's Day 2023, combining a cost-effective afternoon tea option with the convenience of a central location.

Best for tea with friends: Dean St Townhouse

Located in Soho

If your budget doesn't stretch to pricey options, the Dean St. Townhouse is an ideal choice with appealing costs.

Affordability does not compromise quality at Dean St. Townhouse. Their supplier of afternoon delight is the least expensive in this collection, but it promises to satiate your hunger with its substantial portions. Feast on the delicately arranged sandwiches (flavors include egg mayo, smoked salmon with horseradish kick, and a unique gin-and-tonic cucumber) and warm, fresh scones served with homemade jams and generous scoops of clotted cream. Although the cakes might not quite match the sophistication and creative flair of the comparator grand hotels, both their texture and flavor are commendable. A range of loose leaf teas are available for selection. The experience doesn't cut corners on the visual aspect with the complete tiered display and matching blue-and-white china offering a feast for the eyes. The setting is perfect, an intimate and dimly lit dining hall intricately adorned with velvet chairs, offering sufficient privacy for each dining table. All of these come with a price tag just shy of £30, making it superb value for money.

Cost: Starts at £28 per person

Reserve a table

Best for vintage: 11 Cadogan Gardens

Chelsea District

Situated in the trendy district of Chelsea, the understated elegance of 11 Cadogan Gardens presents an excellent balance of quality and affordability.

Offering an intimate afternoon tea experience, this boutique hotel delivers top-notch service within a home-like charming drawing room or the laid-back ambiance of Hans' Bar & Grill. Attention to detail is noticeable with nuances like the tallest champagne flutes seen to date offered in a nature-inspired decor complete with bone china. The sandwiches might need a small improvement on moistness, but this is quickly forgotten with the delicious, compensatory scones. To rival this, the top rack is laden with exquisite desserts such as orange and cinnamon crème brûlée tarts and macaroons made from pistachio, white chocolate, and cranberry. Those deterred by the extravagance and hefty cost of establishments like The Ritz and Claridge's will find 11 Cadogan Gardens a refreshing alternative. Located remarkably close to Sloane Square, yet incredibly peaceful due to its residential setting.

Pricing: Starting at £45 per individual

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