Craving a classic afternoon tea experience in London, Ontario? Whether you’re new to the tea scene or an aficionado, this city has a mix of charming spots that make indulging in tea, scones, and finger sandwiches a delightful experience. We’ve rounded up the best 5 places in town where you can enjoy a memorable high tea. So, let’s dive into the world of tea and treats, and find the perfect spot for your next outing!
Top 5 Places for High Tea in London, ON
Now that we’ve got that cleared up, let’s talk about the 5 best places to enjoy a delicious, refined high tea in London, Ontario.
1. The Tea Lounge
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 601-8327
Website: www.tealoungelondon.com
Address: 268 Piccadilly St, London, ON N6A 1S4, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Supports: Curbside Pickup, Delivery, Indoor & Outdoor Seating, Takeout, Reservations
The Tea Lounge offers a cozy, yet stylish atmosphere, perfect for an afternoon tea date. With both indoor and outdoor seating options, you can enjoy your tea in a charming setting. The menu features all the classic afternoon tea items, like freshly baked scones with clotted cream and a variety of finger sandwiches. Their attention to detail makes it a local favorite.
Pro Tip: Call ahead to secure your spot, especially on weekends when it’s bustling!
2. The Tea Haus
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 679-0129
Website: www.theteahaus.com
Address: 130 King St, London, ON N6A 1C3, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Supports: Delivery, Takeout, Wheelchair-Accessible
The Tea Haus offers a unique twist on the traditional high tea experience. With a wide variety of loose-leaf teas and a selection of delicious treats, this tea house gives you the option to sip and snack on something different. They also offer delivery and takeout, so you can enjoy their tasty teas at home.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on their seasonal tea blends — they’re a hit with regulars!
3. Villa Cornelia
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 679-3444
Website: www.villacorneliarestaurant.com
Address: 142 Kent St, London, ON N6A 1L3, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Supports: Indoor & Outdoor Seating, Reservations
If you’re looking for a high tea experience that feels both luxurious and intimate, Villa Cornelia is the place. This upscale restaurant in the heart of London, ON, serves a refined afternoon tea with a range of finger sandwiches, pastries, and of course, a selection of teas. It’s a great spot for a special occasion or a peaceful afternoon with friends.
Pro Tip: Book early to ensure a table — this gem fills up fast!
4. Idlewyld Inn & Spa
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 432-5554
Website: www.idlewyldinn.com
Address: 36 Grand Ave, London, ON N6C 1K8, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: Expensive
Supports: Wheelchair-Accessible
For a posh afternoon tea in a historic setting, the Idlewyld Inn & Spa delivers the charm and elegance you’re looking for. Set inside a Queen Anne-style mansion, the Inn offers a spa experience along with fine dining and a wonderful afternoon tea spread. Think delicate pastries, fresh scones, and flavorful teas, all served in an elegant atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Pair your tea with a relaxing spa treatment for the ultimate pampering experience!
5. Monarch Taprobane Eminent Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (519) 498-4096
Address: 560 Proudfoot Ln #1004, London, ON N6H 5C9, Canada
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
For a more low-key but still delightful tea experience, Monarch Taprobane Eminent Tea in London, ON, offers a selection of loose-leaf teas and accompanying treats. It’s a quiet spot to enjoy a relaxed afternoon with friends or family, sipping tea and chatting.
Pro Tip: Try their selection of rare and specialty teas for something unique.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 5 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Tea Lounge | Yes | Yes | Yes | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| The Tea Haus | – | Yes | Yes | Accessible | – | – |
| Villa Cornelia | Yes | No | No | – | Yes | – |
| Idlewyld Inn & Spa | – | – | No | Accessible | – | – |
| Monarch Taprobane Eminent Tea | – | – | – | – | – | – |
FAQs
What should I expect from a traditional high tea?
Expect a spread of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, and pastries, served alongside a pot of tea. It’s all about relaxing and enjoying the finer things!
Can I get high tea to go?
Yes, several places like The Tea Haus offer takeout options, so you can enjoy your high tea at home.
Are reservations necessary for high tea?
It’s always a good idea to book ahead, especially for popular spots like Villa Cornelia and The Savoy.
With so many wonderful spots to choose from, London, ON, is the perfect city to experience a memorable high tea. Whether you’re after something elegant, quirky, or relaxed, there’s a place waiting for you to sip, snack, and savor. Ready for your next tea adventure? Time to pick your spot and enjoy the best high tea experience in town!