Imagine a quintessential British experience, and high tea in the United Kingdom surely comes to mind.
This delightful tradition is much more than just tea; it’s a grand affair that combines the elegance of fine china with the comfort of warm scones and the charm of delicate sandwiches.
Set against the backdrop of the UK’s rich history and lush landscapes, high tea offers a taste of British culture that is both timeless and delicious.
Whether in a cozy countryside cottage or a luxurious city hotel, high tea is a treat that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and indulge in a slice of the UK’s culinary heritage.
1. Afternoon Tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel
Nestled in the heart of London, The Bloomsbury Hotel offers a quintessential British high tea experience.
With its elegant decor and central location near Covent Garden, it’s the perfect escape for a luxurious afternoon.
Despite initial service hiccups, the hotel has shown remarkable customer care, ensuring a memorable visit.
Indulge in the Bloomsbury’s exquisite selection of teas paired with fresh scones, delicate sandwiches, and a variety of pastries.
2. Candella Tea Room
Candella Tea Room is a quaint gem in London, offering a cozy retreat with its traditional charm and shelves brimming with teacups.
The warm service adds a personal touch to the experience, making guests feel cherished and well-cared for.
Indulge in an array of delectable finger foods and cakes that complement the extensive selection of loose leaf teas.
The afternoon tea, reasonably priced at 25£, promises a delightful sampling of flavors that cater to every palate.
3. Park Room
Nestled in the heart of London, Park Room offers a quintessential high tea experience with its elegant English charm and luxurious furnishings.
The live piano melodies create an enchanting atmosphere that complements the exquisite tea selection.
Indulge in the signature Snowman afternoon tea, a delightful array of cakes, sandwiches, and pastries.
The generous portions are sure to satisfy, and the attentive service will make your high tea experience unforgettable.
4. Richmond Tea Rooms
Richmond Tea Rooms offers a whimsical escape into a world of exquisite decor and culinary delight.
It’s a place where every detail is meticulously crafted, from the vibrant teapots to the enchanting ambiance that transports you straight into a fairy tale.
Indulge in the American-style pancakes, a crowd favorite, or the savory smashed avocado on toast.
Don’t miss the quintessential Queen’s afternoon tea paired with the classic English breakfast tea for a truly regal experience.
5. Afternoon Tea at The Parlour
Nestled in the heart of Central London, The Parlour offers an exquisite afternoon tea experience that is both intimate and luxurious.
With its collaboration with Floris London, it presents a unique multi-sensory delight that tantalizes the senses, making it a standout destination for tea enthusiasts.
Indulge in the finely crafted selection of savories and sweets that accompany their cream tea.
While service may require patience, the charming atmosphere and the promise of good company make the wait worthwhile.
6. Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea
Step into the whimsical world of the Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea, where every detail is a nod to the enchanting ‘Alice in Wonderland’.
The vibrant atmosphere and the creative presentation of food make it more than just a dining experience—it’s a delightful adventure for the senses.
Indulge in the tiered trays filled with inventive bites that are as delicious as they are imaginative.
From the savory to the sweet, each morsel is a masterpiece, with the teas offering a spectrum of intriguing flavors to complement your meal.
7. Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens
Nestled in the heart of London, Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens offers a quintessential high tea experience.
With its elegant decor and serene terrace view, it promises a luxurious escape from the bustling city life.
Indulge in the finest Earl Grey tea paired with an assortment of delectable treats.
The cucumber sandwiches are a revelation, and the variety of cakes and sweets will delight your palate.
Be prepared to be pleasantly full, as the generous servings might even leave you with a delightful box to take home.
8. Afternoon Tea at The Egerton
Nestled in the heart of London, The Egerton offers an afternoon tea experience that transports you to a bygone era of elegance.
With its cozy fireplace and charming decor, it’s a perfect retreat for those seeking a touch of class and a warm welcome.
Indulge in the warmth of freshly baked scones, the highlight of The Egerton’s menu, paired with a selection of fine teas.
While some offerings may be hit or miss, the scones are a must-try, promising to delight with every bite.
9. Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel
Nestled in the heart of London, The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel offers an afternoon tea experience that is both cozy and elegant.
With its attentive service and warm ambiance, it’s a perfect retreat for those looking to indulge in a quintessential British tradition.
The selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delicate pastries are divine, but the standout is the egg and cress sandwich that even the little ones adore.
Don’t forget to explore their tea selection – it’s robust enough to warrant taking your favorite blend home!
10. Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s offers a quintessential British experience in the heart of Mayfair.
With its attentive service, live piano music, and a warm atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for a family outing or a leisurely catch-up with friends.
The opulent surroundings are matched by a service that makes everyone feel welcome and pampered.
Begin with a glass of champagne and indulge in the savory sandwiches, especially the turkey and egg varieties that are crowd favorites.
Don’t miss out on the scones with rich, delectable cream, but save room for the sweet finale – the petite pastries and desserts that might just steal the show from the traditional scones.
11. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
020 7734 8040
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Steeped in sophistication, The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon offers a regal retreat with its Edwardian elegance.
Opened by royalty, it’s a place where tradition meets luxury, making every visit a cherished experience.
Indulge in an array of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and an assortment of delicate pastries.
For those with dietary preferences, the gluten-free options are just as delightful, ensuring no one misses out on the quintessential British afternoon tea experience.
12. Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London
Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London offers an exquisite experience that stands out in the city’s bustling tea scene.
The chic lounge, adorned with a designer chandelier, provides a luxurious setting for a leisurely afternoon.
Indulge in the truffle-infused sandwiches and the perfectly portioned scones that are a testament to the establishment’s culinary excellence.
The tea selection is curated to complement the light meals, making it a top choice for those seeking quality tea time in London.
13. Afternoon Tea at Foggs
Nestled in the heart of Windsor, Afternoon Tea at Foggs offers a quintessential British tea experience.
The charming ambiance, paired with attentive service, makes it a perfect retreat for both locals and tourists seeking a slice of tradition.
Indulge in their freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, and an assortment of pastries.
Don’t miss their signature Earl Grey blend, which perfectly complements the sweet and savory treats.
A visit here is a treat for the senses and a highlight of any afternoon in Windsor.
14. Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont
020 7499 1001
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Step into the 1920s with Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont, where the charm of Mayfair’s golden era meets modern hospitality.
The serene Gatsby’s Room, with its daily tea ritual, offers a slice of tranquility amidst the bustling city.
Savor the selection of teas, each guest picking two favorites, paired with a delightful array of savory sandwiches and sweet pastries.
The service is impeccable, adding to the allure of this quintessentially British experience.
15. Palm Court
Palm Court offers an exquisite high tea experience with a glass-domed ceiling and lush palm trees that transport you to a luxurious oasis.
While the teas are exceptional with a wide variety to choose from, the food is a hit or miss.
However, the overall experience is enhanced by the attentive service and the charming souvenir tea to take home.
16. The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
Nestled in the heart of London, The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel offers an exquisite high tea experience.
With its elegant wood-panelled café and attentive sommeliers, it’s a haven for tea enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of luxury.
Indulge in the freshly made sandwiches, each bite complementing the fine selection of teas.
17. Afternoon Tea at The Goring
**Afternoon Tea at The Goring** offers a quintessentially British experience with a touch of luxury.
Nestled in the heart of London, the terrace setting provides an elegant backdrop for a relaxing afternoon.
The staff’s exceptional service and the welcoming atmosphere make it perfect for families, as even the little ones feel cherished.
Indulge in the freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, or choose from a selection of delicate finger sandwiches and pastries.
Pair your treats with their exquisite selection of teas for a truly memorable high tea experience.
18. The Pump Room Restaurant
Nestled next to the historic Roman Baths, The Pump Room Restaurant offers a quintessential British high tea experience.
With live classical music setting the ambiance, it’s a perfect blend of tradition and relaxation.
The Champagne and Starter combo is a delightful beginning, followed by an array of teas to complete the refined palate experience.
19. Science Afternoon Tea at The Drawing Rooms (at The Ampersand Hotel)
Nestled in the heart of South Kensington, **Science Afternoon Tea** at The Drawing Rooms offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with attentive service, makes it an ideal spot for both first-timers and seasoned tea aficionados.
Indulge in a delightful array of treats that cater to all preferences, from **classic scones** to **inventive molecular gastronomy-inspired pastries**.
The chefs’ willingness to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as onion and garlic-free options, ensures a personalized experience.
Don’t miss out on their exquisite tea selection and the generous offer of snack refills.
20. Betty’s Café Tea Rooms
Nestled in the heart of York, Betty’s Café Tea Rooms is a quintessential British experience brimming with charm and history.
Whether it’s the allure of traditional afternoon tea or the cozy ambiance for casual dining, this tearoom is a delightful retreat from the bustling city streets.
Indulge in the legendary ‘Fat Rascal’ scones or the assortment of exquisite cakes that pair perfectly with a pot of their finely brewed tea.
The warm, friendly staff enhance the dining experience, making every visit memorable.
20 Best High Tea in United Kingdom for 2024
- Afternoon Tea at the Bloomsbury Hotel
- Candella Tea Room
- Park Room
- Richmond Tea Rooms
- Afternoon Tea at The Parlour
- Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea
- Afternoon Tea at The Montague on The Gardens
- Afternoon Tea at The Egerton
- Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s
- The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason
- Afternoon Tea at Corinthia London
- Afternoon Tea at Foggs
- Afternoon Tea at The Beaumont
- Palm Court
- The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
- Afternoon Tea at The Goring
- The Pump Room Restaurant
- Science Afternoon Tea at The Drawing Rooms (at The Ampersand Hotel)
- Betty’s Café Tea Rooms
Many years ago, I, Henry Joseph, traded my corporate career for an apron and a bustling Tea Room in England’s Peak District. Now, in Mollymook, NSW, I continue to share my passion through AnniesHighTeas, offering personalized Grazing Boxes with local produce, inviting you to explore the world of high tea with me.
