The best afternoon teas in London

From tiny sandwiches to towers of pastries

London takes its afternoon tea game seriously, and we’ve done the legwork to find the best spots for you. Expect delicate finger sandwiches, mouth-watering pastries and some twists on the classics. Whether you’re a tea connoisseur or just here for the cake, these hotels are home to the best afternoon teas in London. But the question remains – cream or jam first?

The Carlton Tower Jumeirah

If you like your sweets guilt-free, the Carlton Tower Jumeirah's afternoon tea is for you. The cakes are made without added sugar, but don’t worry—they’re still bursting with flavour. You’ll start with a choice of tea (plus bubbly if you’re feeling fancy), and then dive into a line-up of savoury treats, including truffle-packed canapés and cheese crème brûlée. The dessert round features innovative creations like apple tamarind and low-calorie chocolate delice. You’ll leave happy and without the sugar coma.

The Beaumont

Step into The Beaumont’s Gatsby Room and you’re in for a jazz-age treat. While the baby grand piano plays softly, you’ll be served classic American sandwiches like Reubens alongside warm scones. The real stars are the pastries – think peanut butter and jelly macarons and key lime and matcha religieuse. It’s a slice of 1920s glamour with a side of tea – a winning combo in our book.

The Mandrake

At The Mandrake Hotel, you can cleanse your chakras while munching on a blueberry and lemon financier. The Seven Chakra Afternoon Tea promises a "soul-enriching" experience, though you’ll probably leave more stuffed than spiritually awakened. With a menu that includes yellowtail tostadas and blue cheese tarts, it’s far from your average tea. Paired with teas from Kate Moss’s Cosmoss line, the experience toes the line between health trends and pure indulgence.

Claridge's

At Claridge’s, afternoon tea feels like an event. Fresh roses, soothing piano music and the occasional A-lister appearance set the tone. The sandwiches steal the show, with creative specials like goat’s cheese with pumpkin. The scones come with clotted cream and their own tea-infused jelly, which is well worth trying. When it comes to cake, the pineapple passion fruit creation is the crème de la crème. It’s easy to see why this place is a classic.

The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel

Refined doesn’t even begin to cover it. Afternoon tea at The Cadogan is curated by Michelin-starred pastry chef Benoît Blin, so the treats are as artful as they are delicious. Highlights include the Wagyu beef on corn bread and the stunning pastry selection, of course. Don’t miss the dessert trolley – a pistachio and rose cake may just steal your heart. With service as polished as the cakes, this spot near Sloane Square is perfect for a fancy afternoon.

The Langham

This is where afternoon tea was born, or so they say, and The Langham keeps the tradition alive in the most beautiful way. Pastries here are inspired by classic British biscuits, with a custard cream reimagined as a delicate chocolate-filled treat. Scones and finger sandwiches round out the experience, but it’s the nostalgia-filled pastries that’ll make you want to come back. All this takes place in the beautiful Palm Court – what more could you ask for?

Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge

Channel your inner royal at the Four Seasons with a crown-jewel-inspired afternoon tea. Sitting under the impressive domed ceiling, you’ll start with an optional glass of bubbly, but it’s the finger sandwiches and pastries that’ll get you fizzing. Expect treats like yuzu and rhubarb desserts, plus a line-up of classic sandwiches. It’s got just the right amount of pomp, but hey, when in London.

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

This Victorian-inspired tearoom at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park is the picture of elegance, with fine teas and live violinists creating a serene atmosphere. The menu is a transatlantic treat, featuring prawn cocktail and lobster rolls alongside classic scones. The pastry selection is tip-top, with a spiced apple profiterole and a New York cheesecake that’ll make you forget any diet plans. If you’re after a bit of old-school glamour with a modern twist, you’ve found your spot.

The Ritz London

Afternoon tea at The Ritz is as traditional as it gets, served in the opulent Palm Court. The sandwich selection is a cut above, with options like smoked salmon on sourdough and ham on brioche. Scones are served warm with all the trimmings, and the pastries are almost too pretty to eat (but you’ll eat them anyway). With a live pianist setting the scene, it’s easy to see why this is a bucket-list destination for tea lovers.