A popular activity for visitors to London is afternoon tea, a dining experience that has become synonymous with England. It’s offered in literally hundreds of hotels, restaurants, cafés, museums, and tea shops, and while it’s a must-do for many travelers it can be hard to discern where to go and what to know before booking it. The cost, dress code, and the experience can vary drastically, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for when seeking out the perfect afternoon tea for you. 

To help, we enlisted Afternoon Tea Expert Eileen Donaghey to break down everything you need to know, including what to do if you are not a fan of tea. No matter your budget or taste, it’s something she encourages everyone to try at least once. “There’s something quite unique and magical about going for an afternoon tea that only the British manage to do,” Donaghey says. “You won’t regret it.”

What is afternoon tea?

First things first: afternoon tea is a British tradition that includes tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes. It was originally conceived in the 19th century as a way for members of upper-class society to tide themselves over between lunch and dinner. It’s considered to be a light meal, as opposed to high tea, which is a more substantial meal served in the evening. In some parts of the U.K., particularly the north of England, “tea” is also the term for the evening meal, served around 6 p.m.

“High tea can contain the same food as afternoon tea, but also contains heavier items such as pies and quiche,” explains Donaghey. “Traditionally, the later meal was served on higher tables, which could be attributed to the name. High tea is becoming more popular in the U.K. so make sure you check the menu before booking so you reserve yourself the correct meal.”

When do you partake in afternoon tea?

Traditionally, afternoon tea was served between 3:30 and 5 p.m. Today, many restaurants, cafés, and hotels begin serving it as early as noon. When you choose to book depends on the rest of your itinerary. Afternoon tea tends to be extremely filling, so plan accordingly if you are eating a heavy lunch or dinner on the same day. “You can have afternoon tea at a time to suit you and I’ve seen some hotels start serving it in the morning to maximize the demand they face for afternoon tea,” Donaghey notes. 

What does afternoon tea involve?

Tea is, of course, a key element. Guests are typically offered a list of teas to choose from, some of which may have an added cost if they are premium blends. The tea is served alongside finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and pastries or cakes. The sandwiches can vary but usually involve smoked salmon, cucumber, egg salad, coronation chicken, or ham. The scones are plain or with fruit, and many Brits have debated how best to eat them (we vote to spread the clotted cream on first, then dollop the jam on top). 

Many afternoon tea services also feature Champagne — alcoholic or non-alcoholic options are often available — or cocktails, which are often tea-inspired. Guests can order additional beverages, like soda and espresso drinks, to accompany the experience. 

How much does it cost?

The price for an afternoon tea experience in London can vary dramatically. It typically ranges from £20 to £100 per person, excluding additional beverages like Champagne or cocktails. Higher-end spots will offer unlimited food, with an option to take extra home at the end, and the way the afternoon tea is presented can be impacted by the cost. “The service varies too and on the lower end of the price bracket none of the food or tea is replenished,” Donaghey explains. “Just make sure your expectations meet the reality of the place you are booking.”

What about dietary restrictions?

Luckily, many establishments in London cater to dietary restrictions. Gluten-free is usually possible, as is going vegetarian or nut-free. Several top hotels have vegan options, including The Langham, The Athenaeum, and The Savoy. When it doubt, ask — afternoon tea is popular enough that those serving it are flexible and accommodating. For a plant-based, healthy choice, book into Farmacy, which serves an afternoon tea free from dairy, refined sugar, and additives. 

I hate tea. Should I still go?

Ted Lasso described tea as “garbage water,” so you’re not alone in your distaste for the hot beverage. But not all tea tastes the same. While you might hate English breakfast tea (which is traditionally served with milk in the U.K.), there are plenty of other varieties to try. Donaghey suggests going for a lapsang souchong if you prefer coffee since it has a heavier flavor. A white tea could also be a good alternative. There are some places, though, that will swap in a coffee or a hot chocolate, especially if they cater to children who notoriously are not fans of black tea. 

What should I wear?

Londoners tend to be fairly casual, which translates into dining out. While sneakers or ripped jeans would be frowned upon, most restaurants and hotels embrace an upscale casual vibe for afternoon tea. Higher-end hotels, however, can be pickier about what you wear. When in doubt, check the website or call first. Plus, it can be fun to dress up for the occasion. 

“The main thing to consider is the dress code, as if you are going to one of the bigger hotels they do prohibit sportswear and running shoes for example,” Donaghey says. “There is one hotel in particular, [The Ritz], that will not let you cross the threshold without formal shoes and a formal shirt, tie, and jacket for men.” 

Is a themed afternoon tea worth it?

Not all afternoon tea is traditional, especially in London. In recent years, London has hosted afternoon teas themed around “Alice in Wonderland,” Kew Gardens, fashion, Shakespeare, West End theater, and even science. The Ampersand Hotel hosts an afternoon tea inspired by physics, chemistry, and astronomy in collaboration with the Science Museum, an ideal pick for interested kids. The Middle Eight Hotel serves a “Covent Garden Crescendo Afternoon Tea,” which is delightfully musically inclined. The Rosewood London offers a series of art-themed afternoon teas, with pastries paying homage to works by Banksy, Andy Warhol, and Vincent van Gogh. 

Many of the themed teas are fun, whimsical, and delicious, making them a great choice for adults and young ones alike. Others, like an infamous chicken wing afternoon tea, are less tasty and more of a gimmick. Visitors can even partake while on a city bus, like Brigit’s Bakery London’s popular “Peppa Pig Afternoon Tea,” which combines sightseeing and sweet treats. 

“There’s no end of choice when it comes to choosing an afternoon tea in London and you can take your tea on land, on the river, and even on a bus,” Donaghey says. “If you’re picturing an afternoon tea with the tiered stands and a white table cloth you are better off sticking to something more traditional, but there are some very fun experiences to try out. If you’re short on time, trying something like a bus would be a great way to see the city.”

What are the top places to have afternoon tea in London?

It depends on what you’re looking for. For a traditional experience, book into Fortnum & Mason’s iconic Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, which was named for Queen Elizabeth II after she visited in 2012. Impressive high-end options include Claridge's, The Goring Hotel, and the aforementioned tea at The Ritz London, which is a truly decadent affair.

For a more contemporary and upscale experience, reserve a table at Hotel Café Royal, which hosts guests in an opulent salon that was once a favorite of Oscar Wilde. The NoMad London’s recently launched afternoon tea is especially charming and hosted in a memorable glass conservatory dining room. 

Less pricey but still elegant options include The Wallace Collection, The Soho Hotel, The British Museum, and Dean Street Townhouse. For those short on cash, look for restaurants or cafés that offer a “cream tea,” which involves a cup of tea and a scone with clotted cream and jam, like the one at The Wolseley.