Afternoon Tea in London
Often the most memorable moments of a journey come simply partaking in local customs and rituals. No visit to London is complete without stopping for afternoon “high tea”.
The tradition of “high tea” started back in the 19th century when it was normal for Londoners to eat only two large meals a day. This began to change when Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, complained about her hunger during the late afternoon. She started to have a cup of tea and a light snack around 3:00 pm, and eventually the tradition started to catch on. It didn’t take long until everyone looked forward to their mid-afternoon tea and snack break. Today in England, the tradition continues with more options now than ever before. Here are some favorite spots that are affordable, and loved by locals as well as tourists!
The Orangery, Kensington Palace
After strolling through the beautiful neighborhood where the Kensington Gardens and Palace are located, stop in at The Orangery for your fix of a nice cup of tea. Don’t forget to add some clotted cream and strawberry jam to your scone for an extra burst of delicious flavor. Make reservations in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.
Cost: £27.50 per person.
Nearest tube station: High Street Kensington
Time: 12:00 P.M – 6:00 P.M.
Book online here
The Ivy, Kensington Brasserie
A stone’s throw away from Kensington Palace, this restaurant with a modern British menu offers three types of afternoon tea: cream tea, classic afternoon tea, and champagne afternoon tea. There is something for everybody here, whether you’re just looking to unwind with a cup of Darjeeling or need to refuel after a long day of sightseeing.
Cost:
Cream tea: £8.75
Afternoon tea: £19.75
Champagne afternoon tea: £27.50
Nearest tube station: High Street Kensington
Time: 3:00 P.M – 5:00 P.M.
Check out their menu here
Cinnamon Soho
This place puts a unique Indian twist on an old English tradition. For £12.50 per person, you can choose from a variety of different Asian-style teas and cakes. Relax with a cup of Indian Masala Chai tea and a slice of ginger and galam masala cake. They offer a wide variety of gluten-free and vegetarian options as well.
Cost:
Per person: £12.50
Tea for two: £25.00
Nearest tube station(s): Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus
Time: 3:00 P.M – 5:30 P.M.
View their menu here
Drink, Shop, & Do
If you’re looking for something a little bit less formal than the typical afternoon tea scene in London, this is a great pick for you. Their “Man’s Afternoon Tea” comes with a pint of lager, three doorstop sandwiches, pickles, and more. They have gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Their shopping area sells affordable products from independent designers, yarn, and sweets. In the café, you can purchase the furniture, the decorations on the walls, and even your tea spoon!
Cost: £28
Nearest Tube Station: King’s Cross St. Pancras
Days: Saturdays and Sundays
View their menu here
