Afternoon tea is one of Britain’s most loved rituals, and London does it better than anywhere. Drawing on the Afternoon Tea Awards 2026, critic picks and thousands of reviewer opinions, here are the seven teas actually worth your money.
1. TING at Shangri-La, The Shard
Best for: the most dramatic setting in London
Thirty-five floors up with uninterrupted views across the Thames, St Paul’s and Tower Bridge, TING is the splurge pick. The current St-Germain Afternoon Tea runs through November 2026, with delicate sandwiches, fresh scones and elderflower-inspired pastries. From 78 pounds per person.
2. Covent Garden Hotel, Afternoon Cheese
Best for: savoury lovers
Time Out’s current favourite throws out the rulebook: no scones with jam, just British cheese in every course, from cheddar scones with goat’s curd to a stilton eclair and a Welsh rarebit doughnut. From 56 pounds per person, served daily 1pm to 4.45pm.
3. Jumeirah Carlton Tower
Best for: award-winning contemporary tea
Crowned Best Contemporary Afternoon Tea at the Afternoon Tea Awards 2026, held at Raffles London. A polished, modern take on the tradition in Knightsbridge.
4. Raffles London at The OWO
Best for: themed occasion tea
Winner of Best Themed Afternoon Tea 2026. Set in the former Old War Office on Whitehall, this is the pick for a special occasion with serious wow factor.
5. The Ritz
Best for: the timeless classic
No list is complete without it. The Ritz remains the benchmark traditional afternoon tea, all chandeliers, palm court elegance and impeccable service. Book well ahead.
6. Claridge’s
Best for: old-school Mayfair glamour
Claridge’s art deco foyer and flawless patisserie keep it among the most reviewed and most loved teas in the capital, a favourite for celebrations.
7. Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
Best for: something completely different
Afternoon tea aboard a vintage 1960s Routemaster bus, touring Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Hyde Park in 90 minutes. Unlimited tea and coffee, freshly baked treats, and sightseeing in one. Ideal for first-time visitors.
Booking tips
The big-hotel teas sell out days ahead, especially at weekends, so reserve early. Most venues cater for dietary requirements with notice, and dress codes usually ask for smart casual. Prices typically run from around 56 to 90 pounds per person before Champagne upgrades.
