Best Afternoon Teas
Going for Afternoon Tea is one of the most popular Hen Party Ideas in the UK, but choosing the best afternoon tea for your special event can be difficult!
We’re Afternoon Tea experts so we’ve left no scone unturned in pulling together a list of the best afternoon teas in the UK.
This list was last updated in September 2023 so is bang up to date with over 30 ideas for the newest and best afternoon teas in the UK.
Best Afternoon Teas in the UK
Afternoon tea is a very British affair, and it makes the ideal elegant hen party activity.
What is great about afternoon tea is that it works perfectly for a group of mixed-age hens.
Your friends will love a bit of tea and cake, but it’s also perfect for any older family members who wouldn’t enjoy a more wild hen party day out.
The other great thing about choosing an afternoon tea in the UK is that there are SO many varied options of fun and unique afternoon teas.
We’ll start by taking you through some of the best afternoon teas in the UK and then share our favourite quirky afternoon teas in London and around Britain.
Classic Afternoon Teas In The UK
If you want to find the perfect classic afternoon tea to book for your special occasion then we’ve collected a list of some of best afternoon teas.
When you book a classic afternoon tea you can usually expect a relatively formal setting, sometimes with a smart dress code.
If you’re not sure on the dress code, check out the website of the venue, or click here to read our guide on What To Wear For Afternoon Tea.
1. Afternoon Tea on the Thames Cruise
Another way of enjoying a traditional afternoon tea with a difference is to take an afternoon tea cruise on the Thames in London.
You can settle in for a cruise down the Thames on your state-of-the-art boat and take in the landmarks of London while feasting on delicious cakes and sandwiches.
An Afternoon Tea Cruise for Two on The Thames costs £58. Click to book via Get your Guide*.
2. The Ultimate Afternoon Tea – Afternoon Tea at The Ritz
This is the ultimate afternoon tea in the London and probably the ultimate afternoon tea in the UK!
Spend a couple of hours taking in the elegant surroundings, fine china and exceptional service at London’s The Ritz Hotel.
There are 18 types of loose leaf tea to choose from so you better get planning.
Important to note: reservations for 6 guests or more have to be pre-paid in full 7 days in advance. No jeans or sportswear are permitted at The Ritz Afternoon Tea.
Traditional Afternoon Tea at The Ritz costs £53.50 per person.
3. Llanerch Vineyard Afternoon Tea
This is a classic afternoon tea with a twist, the twist being that you’ll be enjoying your sandwiches and scones overlooking a vineyard in Wales!
Currently Afternoon Tea at Llanerch is taking place in the Woodland Marquee.
Don’t forget to try Llanerch’s Welsh Cakes!
Afternoon Tea at Llanerch Vineyard is extremely popular so booking in advance is highly recommended!
A traditional afternoon tea costs £20 per person, or if you want a glass of sparkling wine or Champagne with it, it will cost £27.
4. Warwick Castle Afternoon Tea
If you fancy an afternoon tea in a very grand setting then why not book the Warwick Castle Afternoon Tea?
After taking in the landscaped gardens, exploring the winding turrets and getting lost in the maze, you will take tea in the Conservatory Tea House.
Afternoon Tea for Two at Warwick Castle costs £75.
5. Afternoon Tea Near Hyde Park
If you’re looking for an afternoon tea experience in Central London then it doesn’t get much more central than Hyde Park.
You can enjoy Afternoon Tea at the DoubleTree London Hyde Park Hotel in their Urban Meadow eatery. Afternoon Tea is served every day between 12pm and 5pm, although it is recommended to book in advance.
Why not combine your afternoon tea with a visit to Hyde Park itself and enjoy a stroll in the extensive gardens and a visit to the Diana Memorial Fountain.
Afternoon Tea for Two at the London Hyde Park DoubleTree is currently available for just £19.
We also think that this is one of the most cute afternoon tea presentations in London, look at the little picnic bench!
6. Afternoon Tea River Cruise in York
If you fancy a classic afternoon tea with a difference then we would recommend this York sightseeing river cruise with afternoon tea.
You’ll take a sedate 90 minute cruise along the river Ouse taking you right through the centre of the historical York city centre.
As well as triangle sandwiches and delicious fruit scones, your cruise will be accompanied by live commentary telling you about the sights of York.
Afternoon Tea on the Ouse for Two costs £48. Click here to book with Red Letter Days*.
Quirky Afternoon Teas
If you’re looking for afternoon tea with a difference then we have gathered some of the most unique afternoon teas in the UK.
Expect afternoon tea experiences with a difference – everything from tea on a steam train to sharing your scones with Peter Rabbit!
7. Tea With Naughty Sheep
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a quirky afternoon tea that is wilder than this – how about Afternoon Tea with Naughty Sheep!
Located in the beautiful Scottish countryside near Stirling, this is probably the most memorable afternoon tea on this list as you’ll be joined by two cheeky pet Herdwick sheep who might be looking to nibble your sarnies!
They are also happy to cater for vegan afternoon tea too!
Afternoon Tea with Sheep starts from £32 per person and can be booked via Airbnb experiences.
8. Afternoon Tea Up The Blackpool Tower
Another idea for a memorable afternoon tea is to head to the home of ballroom and take afternoon tea up the Blackpool Tower!
Whether you’re a Strictly Come Dancing Fan or just want to try one of the most unique afternoon tea experiences in the North, then tea at the tower is a great idea!
You’ll dine in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom while you enjoy scones with clotted cream and jam and a slice of your favourite cake.
You can even take a spin on the famous dance floor!
Pre-booking is essential.
9. Afternoon Tea On A Steam Train
This is the best afternoon tea experience for train fans or those who just want to pretend they’re in the Railway Children for an afternoon!
You’ll be treated to sandwiches, scones and cakes in the finest of atmospheres as you sit on the plush, traditional train seats of the Northern Belle and admire England’s green and pleasant lands roll by.
The great thing about this afternoon tea on a steam train is that you can choose from 17 locations across England, meaning there is likely to be one fairly local to you.
Your journey on the Northern Belle will last 4 hours and you can choose between a traditional afternoon tea or a Quirky Mad Hatters afternoon tea party, if an Alice in Wonderland Afternoon Tea is more your style.
This steam train afternoon tea is made even better by live musicians who will stroll through your carriage and magicians who visit you at your table!
However, Afternoon Tea on the Northern Belle doesn’t come cheap: a 4 hour afternoon tea train experience for two will set you back £590.
Book Afternoon Tea on the Northern Belle via Buyagift*.
10. Afternoon Tea on a Bus in Glasgow
How do you fancy enjoying afternoon tea on a red bus as you coast through the streets of Glasgow?
You’ll be treated to a sparkling afternoon tea on board a 1966 Routemaster while sitting at a retro booth!
Price: £78 for two people including a glass of Prosecco each and you can book it via GetYourGuide.
11. Vineyard Tour
Another great idea for a quirky afternoon tea is to have afternoon tea at a vineyard!
You might think that touring a vineyard and then tucking into a delicious afternoon tea spread will set you back a lot of money but there’s a Red Letter Days voucher* that will grant you access to this experience from just £45 for two people!
The great thing about this afternoon tea experience is that you can pick from 12 different locations so there is likely to be one near you.
Who knew the UK had so many vineyards!
Quirky Afternoon Teas in London
Looking for unusual afternoon teas in London or for a quirky afternoon tea in London? We’ve got you covered with ideas from afternoon tea on a London bus to a Shakespeare-themed afternoon tea!
12. Afternoon Tea London Bus Tour for Two with Brigit’s Bakery
Have you always fancied having afternoon tea on a bus? Brigit’s Bakery can make your dream of afternoon tea on a London bus come true!
You’ll hop on board a vintage 1960s Routemaster bus and take in the sights of the capital on a 90 minute tour whilst getting stuck into a plentiful afternoon tea spread of sandwiches, cakes and scones.
Afternoon tea for two on a London bus costs £110 and can be booked via Red Letter days*.
Tip for afternoon tea on a London bus: You can pre-book alcohol to be consumed on board in advance, but cannot buy it on board on the day. Good to know if you are booking your afternoon tea for a hen do!
13. Champagne Afternoon Tea for Two in The Domes at London Secret Garden Kensington
If you’re looking for a social distancing afternoon tea in London then check out the amazing afternoon tea in the domes at London Secret Garden in Kensington.
Once tucked inside your own igloo pod, you’ll be treated to a delicious afternoon tea, including a glass of champagne.
You might even forget that you’re in central London!
This amazing experience costs just £30 per person when booked as an afternoon tea for two package to be used Monday – Thursday day time!
You can grab this great voucher deal on Buyagift*.
14. London Landmarks Afternoon Tea
One of London’s best afternoon teas is the well-known London Landmarks Afternoon Tea which takes place at Townhouse Kensington.
Your eyes AND your palate will be taken on a culinary tour of London’s most famous landmarks as you tuck into afternoon tea featuring delectable treats shaped like a retro London phone box, Big Ben and the Shard!
London Landmarks Afternoon Tea costs £42 per person or £54.50 with a glass of Champagne. The London Landmarks Afternoon tea is definitely one of the most unique afternoon teas in London.
15. Make A Fascinator Afternoon Tea
This is the most perfect afternoon tea for a crafty bridal party as it combines a delicious high tea with making a fascinator!
Imagine going here for your hen party and then all the girls being able to actually wear the fascinators they made at your wedding!
This quirky London afternoon tea takes place near Hyde Park and costs £72 per person.
If you’re looking for a great afternoon tea for a hen party in London then this is definitely it!
16. Peter Rabbit Afternoon Tea
This has got to be one of the quirkiest afternoon teas in London – a Peter Rabbit-themed afternoon tea, perfect for literary lovers!
They even do a children’s special Peter Rabbit afternoon tea where the kids get a vegetable patch box with their treats in.
The Peter Rabbit afternoon tea takes place at The Terrace on Piccadilly and costs £39 for an adult at £29 for a child.
17. Cream Tea on a Dutch Barge
In Canary Wharf lives a delightful Dutch barge that goes by the name of Lydia, and you and up to 3 friends can hop aboard and enjoy a traditional British cream tea!
This is by far one of the quirkiest London cream tea options out there and is certainly bound to be a memorable experience!
Your hosts will be Tere and Colin who actually live on the barge and are keen to welcome you into their home, share their home-cooking and tell you all about their life on the water in London.
Cream tea on a Dutch Barge in Canary Wharf costs £60 per person*.
18. Prêt-à -Portea: The Couture Cakewalk Afternoon Tea
One of the most “London” afternoon tea experiences you can get is this fashion-inspired afternoon tea.
Your table will be adorned with the most exquisite fashion-inspired afternoon tea treats.
The Couture Cakewalk Afternoon Tea is at the Berkeley Hotel and costs £60 per person.
19. Literary Afternoon Tea ***
20. Alice in Wonderland Queen of Hearts Afternoon Tea
Sure to be one of London’s quirkiest afternoon teas is this Alice in Wonderland-themed Queen of Hearts afternoon tea which is located at the 5* London Taj hotel!
Will you choose the Royal Flush cake or the No White Roses red velvet cupcake? Or maybe you’ll just have to try both!
Further Alice in Wonderland afternoon tea delights include the Running Late macarons and the Checkmate Battenberg cake.
Alice in Wonderland Afternoon Tea for Two costs £90 and you can book it via Buyagift*.
This would make a great afternoon tea for a hen weekend in London.
21. A Midsummer Nights Dream Afternoon Tea
Any Shakespeare fans in the house? We thought so!
This Midsummer Nights Dream is the best Shakespeare-themed afternoon tea experience in London, and it even takes place at the famous Globe Theatre on the river Thames.
Just take a look at the very creative menu they have come up with and you’ll be sure to notice that they have really gone to town with the food here.
This elegant and enchanted Midsummer Nights Dream Afternoon tea for two people can be snapped up for the very attractive price of £64.
Pop over to Buyagift* to secure yourself the voucher deal for this unique afternoon tea in London.
22. Science Themed Afternoon Tea
If you’re looking to book an afternoon tea that will interest any science fanatic then look no further than the science themed afternoon tea at the Ampersand Hotel.
Imagine following up your visit to the Science museum in Kensington with this quirky afternoon tea in London. The science geek inside you can salivate over jelly served in a petri dish and planet-shaped macarons!
The Ampersand Hotel Science Afternoon Tea costs £99 for two people. Click here to book your visit*.
23. Drag Afternoon Tea
Looking for an afternoon tea fit for a queen? Then we have found the ultimate afternoon tea in London for you.
Which cake will you devour first? The Glitterball? (a sparkling sphere of creamy white chocolate-coated lemon and blueberry cake) or the Red Lip Sync? (a chocolate-flavoured sponge with vanilla icing topped with ruby sparkle and rose essence pipette)
The Drag Afternoon Tea at W London costs £39 per person of £44 with a glass of Prosecco.
24. The Pelham Afternoon Tea – currently suspended
The Pelham Hotel in London usually hosts an impressive afternoon tea, most recently inspired by the Victoria & Albert Museum’s Mary Quant exhibition.
Currently this afternoon tea isn’t taking bookings due to closure of the restaurant following government guidance.
We’ll be sure to let you know once this amazing London afternoon tea venue reopens!
25. The Potion Room Afternoon Tea at Cutter and Squidge
Cutter and Squidge has become a bit of a cake institution in London, so it stands to reason that they also host one of the best afternoon teas in London.
If you’re looking for a magical afternoon tea then slip into your cloak and get involved with mixing up some potions of your own and you dine on rock cakes with clotted cream and delicious sandwiches.
The Potion Room Afternoon Tea at Cutter & Squidge costs £99 for two people and you can secure your magical ticket here*.
26. Japanese Afternoon Tea
If you know a sushi fan then we have found the best themed afternoon tea for them! How about trying the Japanese Afternoon Tea at Kouzo London?
This exquisite dining experience will see you tuck into salmon rolls, foie gras on toasted bread and tuna nigiri.
You’ll also be treated to a selection of Asian desserts including green tea mochi (which are very chewy but tasty little spheres). This is a truly unique afternoon tea experience in London.
27. Indian Afternoon Tea
Sticking with the theme of afternoon teas from afar, how about trying this Indian Afternoon Tea in London?
You will have the opportunity to try a range of unique afternoon tea treats with an Indian twist that we’re sure you won’t have tried before!
How about a masala uttapam (a bit like a dosa) or a khatta meetha murgh roll?
Of course there will be a wide selection of high end teas to complement your Indian afternoon tea feast too.
Indian Afternoon tea takes place at Park Grand Hotel in Westminster and costs just £59 for two people.
Book your voucher for Indian-themed afternoon tea now on Buyagift*.
28. Bottomless Gin Afternoon Tea
Calling all gin fans, this is THE afternoon tea for you! In fact, this is the best afternoon tea for drinking generally because it offers you 90 minutes of bottomless gin cocktails, prossecco and and G&Ts!
In between all those drinks, and to line your stomach of course, there will be an array of tapas to tuck into including crostinis with buffalo mozzarella, iberico ham, mini brioche burger buns and smashed avocado.
Don’t forget to leave room for the delicious red velvet cake for dessert.
Bottomless Gin afternoon tea for two will set you back £99, but you’re sure to eat and drink your money’s worth while you’re there!
Book your voucher now for bottomless drinks afternoon tea on Buyagift*.
29. Jailhouse Rock Afternoon Tea
Old Street Magistrate’s Court and Police Station might not be the first location that springs to mind when you think of a fancy afternoon tea in London, but trust us when we say it is certainly one of the most quirky afternoon teas in London!
The special interiors of this location still feature the original holding cells from the building’s previous life, although it’s all been dolled up and made very stylish.
As well as your delicious afternoon tea, you’ll also get a glass of Champagne each.
30. Sketch Afternoon Tea
We couldn’t talk about afternoon teas in London and not include the cult classic, Sketch, could we?
Sketch serves their famous afternoon tea in The Gallery every day from 11am to 4pm.
You’ll be tucking into a selection of sandwiches, scones and patisseries in the cutest surroundings which is sure to make for good insta snaps.
Afternoon Tea at Sketch starts from £49 per person.
What to wear for Afternoon Tea
If you’re not sure what to wear for an Afternoon Tea then don’t fret, we’re here to help you with some ideas.
What you should wear for an Afternoon Tea depends very much on where you are going for afternoon tea.
Most places on this list of the best afternoon teas will allow you to turn up in whatever you are wearing.
But, if your afternoon tea booking is taking place at a fancy hotel or restaurant in London, then it’s highly likely that there will be a strict dress code that you need to adhere to.
Afternoon Tea Dress Code – Smart/Casual
As a rule, high end afternoon teas will require you to arrive dressed in a relatively smart outfit.
The following would make good afternoon tea attire:
- A pretty or smart dress, ideally not too short or low cut
- A pair of smart trousers or skirt with a shirt or top
- Smart shoes – flat or heeled but no trainers or flip flops
Can I wear jeans to afternoon tea?
It depends where your afternoon tea is as to whether you can wear jeans, trainers and sports clothing.
We would suggest to err on the side of caution and dress up a little for your afternoon tea. After all, you’re spending good money on a fancy day out so you may as well go full on and look the part!
Expert tip: Don’t wear jeans for Afternoon Tea at The Ritz!
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