10 Best Tea Places in London: Our Top Picks

Nothing compares to a perfect cup of tea. Whether you’re an avid tea drinker or just looking for a cozy spot to catch up with friends, London has some of the best tea places in the world.

From classic afternoon teas to creative and unique blends, we’ve rounded up our top 10 picks for you to explore.

Get ready to indulge in finger sandwiches, scones, and delicate pastries while sipping on the finest teas in London. In this blog post, we’ll take you through each of our top picks and what makes them stand out from the rest. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of London’s finest tea places!

1. Afternoon tea at The Dorchester

Immerse yourself in a traditional afternoon tea at The Dorchester, where elegant surroundings and live piano music create an enchanting ambiance.

Indulge in a delightful selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and sweet treats from their extensive menu.

Whether you prefer classic options or have dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free, The Dorchester has something for everyone. With reservations highly recommended, securing your place for this exquisite experience is a good idea.

Priced at £65 per person, it’s a small price to pay for the grand event that awaits you at this elegant spot in central London.

2. Coronation Afternoon Tea at Cellarium, Westminster Abbey

A quintessential part of London’s culture, afternoon tea is a beloved tradition enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

The Coronation Afternoon Tea at Cellarium, Westminster Abbey, offers a royal experience with its exquisite selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and an extensive menu of teas. The historic setting and elegant ambiance make it a must-visit tea house in central London.

When planning your tea outings, consider booking in advance and exploring different blends to satisfy your palate. With its rich history and delightful offerings, the Coronation Afternoon Tea at Cellarium promises a memorable and sophisticated tea experience in the heart of London.

3. Mandarin Alternative Hyde Park London

Offering a luxurious and sophisticated afternoon tea experience, The Rosebery at Mandarin Alternative Hyde Park stands out for its exquisite setting and tea menu. The selection of classic and unique blends, along with the focus on quality and presentation, makes it a fantastic choice.

The Coronation Afternoon Tea, inspired by the Queen’s coronation in 1953, features delightful treats like coronation chicken sandwiches and warm scones with clotted cream and jam. The elegant ambiance makes it perfect for special occasions or a leisurely afternoon with friends. It’s highly recommended to reserve a table in advance to ensure you don’t miss this unforgettable experience.

4. Afternoon Tea at The Goring Hotel

Nestled in the heart of central London, The Goring Hotel offers a luxurious and historic setting for indulging in the best afternoon tea. Guests are treated to a classic experience with warm scones, finger sandwiches, and a delectable selection of pastries.

The elegant atmosphere, complemented by live music from a grand piano, creates an unforgettable tea house ambiance. With an extensive menu featuring a variety of teas, including the finest black tea and delicate orange pekoe, it’s a haven for tea enthusiasts with a penchant for savory treats and sweet delights.

The Goring Hotel truly stands out as a grand saloon for a quintessential London afternoon tea experience.

5. The Royal Afternoon Tea, Covent Garden Hotel

Step into the traditional British tea culture at these top tea places in London. The sought-after Royal Afternoon Tea at Covent Garden Hotel offers a memorable experience with its selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and a variety of teas.

The hotel’s elegant setting and attentive service ensure a luxurious and delightful afternoon tea. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, don’t miss out on this best afternoon tea. Indulge in the art deco atmosphere and live music, creating an elegant spot for an authentic British tea experience.

6. Coronation Regency Afternoon Tea, The Lane

Step into an elegant spot at The Lane and experience their unique take on afternoon tea with the Coronation Regency theme. Indulge in warm scones infused with Earl Grey and creative options like lavender shortbread.

The tea house also offers gluten-free and vegetarian choices for its delicious finger sandwiches and savory treats.

The ambiance exudes an art deco charm with plush seating and beautiful decor. With the added allure of a live pianist playing on a grand piano, it’s a good idea to make a reservation and enjoy the best afternoon tea in central London.

7. Art Afternoon Tea at the Mirror Room, Rosewood London

Step into the elegant and sophisticated setting of the Mirror Room at Rosewood London, where you’ll experience a unique twist on traditional afternoon tea with their Art Afternoon Tea. Each course pays homage to famous artists like Picasso and Kandinsky, representing different art movements in a creative culinary display.

The menu boasts a variety of teas and exquisitely presented sweet and savory bites, including finger sandwiches and warm scones.

The attentive and friendly service adds to the allure of this high-class tea house, making it a perfect spot for a luxurious afternoon out. Reservations are highly recommended for this popular and extraordinary culinary experience.

8. The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason

The iconic Fortnum & Mason department store houses The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, opened by HM The Queen in 2012. Its traditional afternoon tea offers finger sandwiches, pastries, and warm scones. With over 90 teas to choose from, the salon provides an extensive menu in an elegant setting with white tablecloths and fine china.

The knowledgeable staff ensures a perfect blend for every visitor, creating the best afternoon tea experience. The royal connection and luxurious atmosphere make it a great place for those with a sweet tooth and a love for classic finger sandwiches.

9. Sri Lankan High Tea at Lyaness

London’s tea culture is rich and diverse, making it essential to establish specific criteria when selecting the top tea places. Lyaness offers a unique experience with its Sri Lankan High Tea.

It’s not just about the tea; it’s about the overall experience, from the warm scones to the selection of teas. Additionally, London features traditional English tea rooms and modern destinations like the Palm Court.

To make the most of your experience, indulge in the classic finger sandwiches and take in the live music at renowned locations such as the Art Deco style Lyaness, making it a good idea for anyone with a sweet tooth.

10. A Taste of Balthazar at Balthazar

Indulge in a refined tea affair at Balthazar, nestled in a French bistro ambiance. Delight in the opulent tea menu, featuring premium loose-leaf teas and a delectable array of finger sandwiches, warm scones, and pastries.

The venue’s art deco design, accentuated by stunning floral arrangements, exudes an air of sophistication.

Impeccable service adds to the allure, making Balthazar a prime choice for the best afternoon tea in London. Enhance the experience with a glass of champagne or a cocktail as you revel in the live pianist’s melodies. Balthazar, an elegant spot for a tea house experience in central London.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the unique features that make each of these tea places stand out?

Each tea place on our list offers a distinct ambiance and decor, creating a unique experience. The tea selections range from traditional blends to innovative flavors, catering to diverse preferences.

Indulge in specialty food items like scones or pastries, perfectly complementing your tea choice. Plus, each establishment has its captivating history and story

Are there any specific types of tea that are particularly popular at these locations?

Many of the best tea places in London offer a wide variety of tea types, including black, green, herbal, and fruit teas. Some popular tea blends include Earl Grey, English Breakfast, and Darjeeling. Some locations may specialize in certain types of tea, such as Chinese or Japanese green teas. Many of these tea places also offer traditional British treats like scones and clotted cream to enjoy with your tea.

Do these tea places offer food or snacks to accompany the tea?

Most tea places in London offer food or snacks to accompany the tea. The type of offerings may vary, but popular options include scones, sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. It’s a good idea to check the menu before visiting to ensure they have what you’re looking for.

Are reservations required for any of these tea places?

Reservations are highly recommended for most tea places on the list. It’s best to check their websites or call ahead as some may require reservations in advance, especially during peak hours or weekends. While walk-ins may be possible, it’s safer to reserve your spot to avoid disappointment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring the tea culture in London is a delightful experience. From traditional afternoon teas at iconic hotels like The Dorchester and The Goring Hotel to unique themed teas at places like Cellarium and Rosewood London, there is something for every tea lover in this vibrant city.

Indulge in the regal ambiance and exquisite tea blends while savoring delicious pastries and sandwiches.

Whether you prefer a classic tea experience or want to try something different like Sri Lankan High Tea at Lyaness, these top tea places in London will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. So, grab your teacup and embark on a tea-filled journey through the charming streets of London.

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