For many, the quintessential London experience includes indulging in the traditional afternoon tea. It’s not just about the tea or the food. It’s about the atmosphere, the history, the quaintness, and the high level of service. But let’s face it, some of the most well-known spots for high tea in London, like the Ritz or Claridge’s, can be prohibitively expensive. This begs the question: where can budget-conscious tourists find affordable high tea experiences in London? We are going to explore some affordable yet authentic options in this article.
London’s Best Affordable High Tea Venues
Within the grandeur of London, several establishments offer a memorable afternoon tea experience without burning a hole in your pocket. These venues offer a blend of traditional and contemporary high tea experiences, each unique in their way, reflecting the city’s diverse culture and history.
The Savoy Hotel, for instance, offers a taste of luxury with their classic afternoon tea menu. Served in the Thames Foyer, the heart of the hotel, guests can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, a range of delicate pastries, and of course, a choice of teas. At £65 per person, it isn’t precisely budget, but it is significantly cheaper than the Ritz and offers a slice of the high life.
For a more down-to-earth experience, Yumchaa is a tea bar that offers a wide variety of loose leaf teas in a relaxed, modern setting. Their afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and a pot of tea of your choice. You can enjoy this for just £15 per person.
Experiencing Traditional Afternoon Tea
The tradition of afternoon tea, introduced in England by Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, in the year 1840, serves as a mini meal to ward off hunger between lunch and dinner. This meal typically includes delicate finger sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and jams, sweet pastries, and cakes.
At The Original Maids of Honour on the Kew Road, you can experience this tradition without the hefty price tag. Their afternoon tea menu includes a pot of tea or coffee, a selection of sandwiches, a scone with cream and jam, a variety of cakes, and one of their famous Maids of Honour tarts, all for £16.95 per person.
Similarly, Tea and Tattle attached to the Arthur Probsthains bookshop opposite the British Museum, offers a traditional afternoon tea for £17 per person. This includes a pot of tea from their extensive menu, finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and a slice of cake.
Themed Afternoon Tea Experiences
London also offers a plethora of themed afternoon tea experiences that promise an unforgettable time. These not only serve delicious food and a varied tea menu, but they also provide a unique atmosphere that adds to the overall experience.
B Bakery’s London Bus Tour is a great example of this. Enjoy afternoon tea with a twist as you tour the city on a vintage Routemaster bus. Priced at £45 per person, it’s a bit more expensive than the other options, but it does combine food with a tour of London’s top sights.
Another themed experience is the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea at the Sanderson Hotel. This Alice in Wonderland-themed tea party includes assorted finger sandwiches, scones served with clotted cream and jam, a variety of whimsical pastries and cakes, and of course, your choice of tea. Prices start at £48 per person.
Afternoon Tea with a Glass of Bubbly
For those looking for a more decadent experience, some venues offer the option to add a glass of champagne to the traditional afternoon tea offerings. This addition often elevates the experience, making it feel more luxurious and festive.
The St. Ermin’s Hotel, located in the heart of Westminster, offers a champagne afternoon tea in their beautiful tea lounge and terrace. Their menu includes a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and homemade fruit preserves, a selection of afternoon tea pastries and cakes, a choice of teas, and a glass of champagne, all for £39 per person.
Similarly, Sketch, located in Mayfair, offers a champagne afternoon tea for £59 per person. This includes a glass of champagne, a selection of sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, an assortment of delicate pastries and cakes, and a pot of tea from their extensive menu.
Whether you’re a long-time tea enthusiast or a tourist looking for the quintessential London experience, the city offers a diverse range of afternoon tea experiences to suit every budget. While the Ritz and Claridge’s may be out of reach for some, the options we’ve explored here prove that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy this timeless British tradition.
Local’s Favorite High Tea Spots
Beyond the known landmarks and the tourist-filled spaces, there is another layer to the London high tea scene. This layer is filled with local favorites, places known for their high-quality tea, delicious food, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
One such place is the Orange Pekoe in Barnes, a charming little tea shop that has been a local favorite for years. Known for their wide selection of teas, freshly baked scones, and delicate finger sandwiches, Orange Pekoe offers an authentic afternoon tea experience for around £20 per person.
For those who are fans of vintage and retro, Drink, Shop & Do located near Kings Cross offers an afternoon tea filled with nostalgic charm. Serving a selection of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes on vintage china, it’s a delightful experience for around £24 per person.
Muriel’s Kitchen in South Kensington, a family-run eatery, offers a beautifully presented afternoon tea, complete with a mini Victoria sponge and other delectable cakes, finger sandwiches, scones, and a variety of teas for £18.95 per person. It’s a hidden gem that provides a cozy, home-like atmosphere, making it a popular spot among the locals.
Wrapping Up
Experiencing an afternoon tea in London doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. Numerous establishments offer a fantastic selection of afternoon teas, complete with the quintessential finger sandwiches, clotted cream, and a vast assortment of teas at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for a traditional experience at the Savoy Hotel, a modern twist at Yumchaa, a themed adventure at B Bakery, or a quiet, local spot like Orange Pekoe, there’s something for everyone.
Remember, enjoying an afternoon tea is as much about the experience as it is about the food and drink. So, take your time to soak in the atmosphere, embrace the tradition, and make lasting memories. Whether you’re a tourist looking to get a slice of British culture or a Londoner wanting to enjoy a leisurely afternoon, these budget-friendly options will provide an unforgettable experience without straining your wallet.
No matter where you choose to go, a fantastic afternoon tea experience awaits you in London. So, put on your best outfit, invite a friend or two, and indulge in this timeless tradition that continues to be a hallmark of London’s culture, earning it the leading trust and love of locals and tourists alike.
