Best Places for Luxury Tea and Scones in London
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One of the most popular culinary experiences in London is afternoon tea, a tradition that has been enjoyed for centuries but with so many eateries offering tea and scones in London, it can be hard to know where to go.
Keep reading as we review our hot spots, and let you know how to spot a quality tea experience!
Luxury Tea and Scones | Key Summary
- • Always check that you are choosing an afternoon tea spot that bakes its scones freshly and offers a wide range of teas.
- • From cosy to luxury, there is a venue for you, so think about the vibe you want when sipping on a hot brew.
- • Venues range from five-star hotels like Claridges to quaint, casual eateries like the Waterside Cafe in Little Venice.
- • Avoid overcrowded venues that will ruin the atmosphere and might limit the level of customer service you receive.
How to pick the best spot for tea and scones in London?
Tea and scones are the best of British, and you’ll want to pick the best spot to try them.
Venue
First, think about what you are looking for from your venue. All 5-star, famous hotels will offer afternoon tea, but this is usually a luxurious, opulent experience, and you may prefer the intimacy of a cosy tea room.
Menu
Of course, one of the most important parts is the menu, so you’ll want to look at the selection of teas and food on offer. Look for a venue that offers freshly baked produce and a wide range of teas, which can elevate your tea and scone experience.
Location
Don’t forget to consider the location and accessibility of the venue, if you are looking for somewhere quaint and quiet, you may want to look a little further out of Central London, such as the canal views of Little Venice. Of course, plenty of locations may be located in the hubbub, but they will soon transport you far away from that once inside!
7 Best Places for afternoon tea in London
Claridge's
Claridge’s is an iconic London hotel that offers an exceptional traditional afternoon tea experience. Set in the elegant Foyer & Reading Room, this traditional afternoon tea serves up some of London’s best scones and is made fresh every day. Their afternoon tea menu also includes a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries, all served with your choice of tea. Located a short distance from Oxford Street and Regent’s Park, this luxury is at its finest.
Our rating: 8.5/10- beautiful experience for those wanting a more formal setting but can be overwhelming for those wanting a casual cup of tea!
The Wolseley
The Wolseley’s afternoon tea experience is a unique take on traditional afternoon tea, making it perfect for those looking for something a little different. The afternoon tea menu includes freshly prepared scones served with silky smooth clotted cream and a selection of homemade jams. This grand cafe in Piccadilly is the perfect spot to drop in for afternoon tea after a busy day of shopping at nearby Soho or Oxford Street.
Our rating: 7/10- elegant, art deco cafe that adds glamour to your tea break!
Sketch
Sketch is a unique destination in London that offers a fun take on afternoon tea. Set in The Gallery, the backdrop for your scones is a stunning pink room with quirky furniture and art installations. The afternoon tea is served creatively, with sandwiches, scones, and pastries on a whimsical cake stand. To complete this experience, you can choose from various teas or champagne to accompany your meal.
Our rating: 7/10- pretty in pink; Sketch is ideal for those wanting a unique experience.
The Orangery at Kensington Palace
The Orangery is a restaurant on the grounds of Kensington Palace that offers an elegant setting for a King! The afternoon tea serves up finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. You can also choose from a wide range of teas, including their exclusive Palace Blend, but the stunning Kensington Gardens setting sets this location apart from the rest!
Our rating: 10/10- because nothing quite says tea and scones like a palace of The Royal Family!
Fortnum & Mason
Renowned for its food hall, Fortnum & Mason is a luxury department store in Piccadilly serving tea since the 1700s. They offer one of the most revered afternoon tea experiences in London with freshly-baked scones that are served alongside the infamous Fortnum’s Strawberry Preserve and, of course, clotted cream.
Our rating: 9/10- the perfect balance between afternoon tea formalities and a relaxing atmosphere.
Peggy Porschen
Peggy Porschen is a famous cake shop with locations in Belgravia and Chelsea. Famed for its beautiful floral decor and delicious cakes, it also offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience. The shop’s pretty, unique atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for light refreshments.
Our rating: 6/10- excellent for those who want the perfect Instagram snap!
The Waterside Cafe - Little Venice
Located in the picturesque Little Venice neighbourhood, right by the canal, The Waterside Cafe offers a tranquil and cosy setting for a luxurious tea and scone experience. With freshly baked scones, other baked goods and a selection of loose-leaf teas, this is the perfect setting for those exploring the charming neighbourhood of Little Venice.
Our rating: 8/10- take in stunning scenery in this beautiful part of London, with wonderfully brewed tea and perfectly baked scones on offer!
What to avoid when looking for tea and scones in London
When searching for the best place for tea and scones in London, there are a few things to avoid to ensure a high-quality experience. These include:
Frozen or pre-packaged scones- freshly baked scones are an integral part of a quality tea and scone experience, and using pre-packaged or frozen scones can compromise the taste and texture of the scones.
Limited tea selection- a quality tea and scone experience should offer a wide variety of teas and high-quality tea blends that are freshly brewed and served with care.
Overcrowded venues- afternoon tea is an experience that should be enjoyed at a leisurely pace, and overcrowded venues or rushed service can detract from the luxury and relaxation of the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is traditional afternoon tea?
In British tradition, afternoon tea typically consists of a selection of tea served with finger sandwiches, scones, clotted cream, jam, and other sweet and savoury treats.
What is the dress code for afternoon tea in London?
Dress codes will vary, depending on the location, but it’s best to dress smart-casual for afternoon tea in London. If you are heading to a luxury hotel, you will want to avoid overly casual looks such as shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops and opt for more dressy attire such as a dress or a button-up shirt.
Is it necessary to make reservations for afternoon tea in London?
We highly recommend making afternoon tea reservations in London, especially at popular venues. Many places will require a booking, especially on weekends, and often limited seating is available. We recommend checking with your chosen venue beforehand so you don’t miss out!
Are there vegetarian and gluten-free options available for afternoon tea in London?
Most eateries will offer vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives for their afternoon tea menu. Check with your venue before arrival and inform them of your dietary requirements for peace of mind.
Conclusion
London is home to some of the best places for luxury tea and scones in the world, and if you are planning afternoon tea as part of a trip away to the city, you’ll want some accommodation that you can call home.
Our Serviced Apartments, are located conveniently in the city’s heart, provide all the amenities you need for the perfect stay in the UK capital. Book your stay today and start planning your ultimate London getaway.
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