London Afternoon Tea Week: The Best Afternoon Teas with a Twist
A whole week dedicated to the celebration of afternoon tea? We’ll raise a pinky to that. The seasoned, fun-sized sandwich eaters and tea sippers among us never need an excuse, but if you’ve never experienced an afternoon tea, this is your not-so-subtle sign. We have decided to go down the non-quintessential route this year to bring you the most unique afternoon tea offerings in the city, from wonderful wizard themes to an experience revolving around churros (yes, really).
1. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea
For your inner child…
Tea is served at One Aldwych and in an exciting turn of events, it’s inspired by one of the nation’s favourite children’s stories, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Take a trip to the beating heart of theatre in London to unleash your inner child and pure imagination by feasting on some snozzberry jam (it’s yummier than it sounds), chocolate swudge milkshake which has of course been mixed by waterfall, as well as a selection of delectable cakes, sweets, and marshmallows. Drinkswise, expect to wash your treats down with a cocktail of pistol punch, lemon sherbet tea, or an elegant glass of fizzy lifting Champagne.
Location: 1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ
2. Brigit's Bakery Classic Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
For those that love a spot of sightseeing…
All aboard one of the best afternoon tea experiences that London has to offer. Hosted by the one and only Brigit’s Bakery, snatch up the opportunity to soak in the culture and sights of the city on a vintage routemaster bus whilst enjoying a High Tea featuring a variety of freshly prepared sandwiches, fluffy cakes, and buttery pastries. The tour lasts for 90 minutes and will take you past iconic sights including Big Ben, The Royal Albert Hall, and Nelson’s Column - all to be enjoyed with a glass of bubbly in hand, what could be better? If a traditional tea isn’t your cup of tea, choose an alternative with themes such as Paddington Bear, Peppa Pig, Slingsby Gin Lovers, and for a limited time only, their Blamtastic Beano Afternoon Tea. Pinky’s up!
Location: Departing from Victoria Coach Station or Trafalgar Square
3. Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel
For those that love to experiment…
Inspired by their local friends at The Science Museum in South Kensington, The Ampersand Hotel have been cleverly experimenting with sounds, visuals, and special recipes to bring Londoners their very special Science-inspired afternoon tea. Diners will get the chance to taste a concoction of curious delights including chocolate spacemen, colourful planet-shaped pastries, and tasty jams served in petri dishes. If you haven’t already been convinced, this one-of-a-kind dining experience has been awarded the Best Themed Afternoon Tea by the Afternoon Tea Awards in 2018 and it comes as no surprise with the chef’s dedication to expert preparation in weird and wonderful ways.
Location: The Ampersand Hotel, 10 Harrington Road, South Kensington, London SW7 3ER
4. Churros Afternoon Tea at The Knot
For the fried dough lovers…
Drop by one of the floral pink paradises that The Knot has created in London and indulge in the ultimate churros afternoon tea experience. At £30 per person, you and your friends can nibble on a selection of glazed churros of your choice, pink and blue melty candy floss, filled bagels (as a token savoury), and of course, a box of glitter popcorn. We know what you’re thinking, and don’t worry, you’ll also have the option to choose from refreshing teas, sweet lattes, and slushies to quench your thirst.
Location: South Kensington or Knightsbridge
5. Wizard Afternoon Tea
For those that practise a little witchcraft and wizardry…
The Wands & Wizard Exploratorium are well-known in London for being an evening out that is anything but ordinary - but their afternoon tea really takes the cake. Embark on an interactive tea-brewing experience where you will be using all of your senses and experimental mind to concoct a mixture that is best suited to your unique palette. While you’re hard at work, enjoy a feast fit for a witch or wizard consisting of spooky scones, a curated selection of ‘sand-witches’, and a magic array of sweet treats.
Location: 26 Greek Street, London W1D 5DE
6. Prêt-à-Portea: The Couture Cakewalk
For the fashion fanatics…
Transported straight from the Spring/Summer 2023 catwalk, pieces from iconic designers have been lovingly made into delicious cake form all in the name of a unique afternoon tea dining experience. Despite looking way too good to eat, expect to tuck into Loewe’s viral Anthurium dress, a Hermès tasselled bucket bag, and a special homage to the late Vivienne Westwood in the form of a Madagascar vanilla biscuit portrait. A selection of loose-leaf teas from The Berkeley’s incredible collection are also available for sipping, alongside a range of delectable sandwiches and contemporary canapés.
Location: The Berkeley, Wilton Place, London SW1X 7RL
Continue the afternoon tea delights with our Best British Bites Guide... or satisfy your sweet tooth even further with our favourite ice cream parlours in London.
For the best things to do in London:
Discover more about the city!
Whether it's finding a bustling street food market or a delicious international cuisine, head over to our Food & Drink category for a flavour of what London has to offer.
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