Are you ready to fall down a rabbit hole of delicious treats and whimsical delights in the heart of London?
Afternoon tea, a quintessential British tradition, has been reimagined in the city’s most iconic hotels and venues, offering a truly unique experience for visitors. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the crème de la crème of London’s afternoon teas, each one more enchanting than the last.
Search vacation packages & trips
The Pinnacle of Whimsy: Alice in Wonderland Afternoon Teas
In the world of afternoon teas, few themes are as beloved as Lewis Carroll’s timeless classic, Alice in Wonderland. We’ll start our journey at the Sanderson Hotel, where the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea is a masterclass in whimsy.
A Whimsical Wonderland Awaits
Tucked away in the Sanderson Hotel’s opulent courtyard, the Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea is an immersive experience that will transport you to a fantastical world of wonder. For £50-£70 per person, you’ll be treated to an array of delectable treats inspired by the characters and moments from Alice in Wonderland. From the Queen of Hearts’ crooked crown to the Cheshire Cat’s mischievous grin, every element of this tea is designed to delight and surprise.
Beyond Alice: Other Unique Afternoon Teas in London
While Alice in Wonderland is undoubtedly a timeless theme, London’s afternoon tea scene is bursting with creativity and diversity. From cat cafes to literary-themed treats, there’s something for every interest and palate.
Afternoon Tea with a Feline Twist
For the cat lovers among us, Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium offers a one-of-a-kind tea experience that’s sure to delight. For £27 per person, you’ll enjoy cat-shaped scones, cat-inspired treats, and the gentle purrs of adorable felines as you sip your tea.
A Secret Garden of Delights
The Taj 51’s luxurious hotel is home to a themed tea experience inspired by the children’s classic, The Secret Garden. With edible flower pots and a golden birdcage adorned with butterflies, this tea is a true masterpiece of culinary art. Prices range from £75-£90 per person, making it an indulgent treat for special occasions.
Top domestic vacation destinations
Afternoon Tea on the Go
Sometimes, a traditional sit-down tea just won’t do. For those who prefer to experience London’s sights and sounds while enjoying their tea, there’s a novel solution: afternoon tea on a bus.
Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
For £45 per person, you can enjoy a scenic drive around London’s landmarks while savoring the finest afternoon tea treats. With a range of options to suit every taste, Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is the perfect way to experience the city’s iconic sights and sounds in a unique and delicious way.
| Afternoon Tea Bus Tour | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tour | £45 per person | Scenic drive around London’s landmarks, exquisite sandwiches, pastries, and scones with jam and cream |
| Grinchmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour | £45 per person | Festive holiday treats, scenic drive around London’s landmarks |
Literary-Inspired Afternoon Teas
For bookworms and literature lovers, London’s afternoon tea scene offers a range of treats inspired by the world’s most beloved stories. From Harry Potter to Sherlock Holmes, there’s a literary-themed tea to suit every interest.
A Taste of Hogwarts
For the Harry Potter fans among us, the Georgian House Hotel offers an unforgettable afternoon tea experience that’s sure to transport you to the wizarding world. With treats inspired by the Boy Who Lived, this tea is a must-visit for anyone who’s ever dreamed of attending Hogwarts.
The Mind Palace of Sherlock Holmes
Fans of the world’s greatest detective will adore the Sherlock Holmes Mind Palace Afternoon Tea, a culinary journey that takes you deep into the detective’s inner world. With clever references and nods to the iconic stories, this tea is a true delight for the senses.
| Literary-Inspired Afternoon Teas | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter Afternoon Tea at Georgian House Hotel | £40-£60 per person | Treats inspired by the wizarding world, Hogwarts-themed decor |
| Sherlock Holmes Mind Palace Afternoon Tea | £40-£60 per person | Treats inspired by the iconic stories, clever references to Sherlock’s inner world |
The Art of Afternoon Tea
In a city where afternoon tea is an institution, the venues that stand out are those that push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. From edible art to opulent settings, we’ll take a look at some of the most stunning afternoon tea venues in London.
The Opulence of Sketch
Sketch offers an afternoon tea experience that’s as much about the setting as it is about the food. With an opulent dining room that’s a work of art in itself, this tea is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life. Prices range from £69-£109 per person, making it a luxurious treat for special occasions.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the world of afternoon teas in London, it’s clear that this quintessential British tradition has evolved into something truly unique and diverse. Whether you’re a fan of Alice in Wonderland, Harry Potter, or simply great food and drink, there’s an afternoon tea experience in London that’s sure to delight and surprise.
