Afternoon Tea in London

Written by Viator, July 2012

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Cultural Experience, Cultural Experience, Good Place to Drink, Good Place to Drink, Popular with Locals, Popular with Locals

Afternoon tea is considered to be a tradition in England and one that both locals and visitors take great pleasure in taking – although it is now seen as more of a treat to be taken in a hotel or tea shop than part of everyday life. Afternoon tea was first introduced in the 1840s when Anna Russell, the Duchess of Bedford, complained of feeling hungry between meals and asked for tea and cakes to be sent to her room to see her through to her evening meal at 8pm. This idea caught on amongst the middle and upper classes, and before long it became a daily activity, becoming more sophisticated and elaborate as well as developing into an important social occasion.

Afternoon tea is offered in many of London’s famous hotels such as The Ritz, The Langham or The Dorchester, and it is often an elegant affair in a luxurious setting. Menus generally consist of a choice of teas such as Darjeeling, Assam, Ceylon or Early Grey, finger sandwiches such as cucumber, egg and watercress, or smoked salmon and cream cheese, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a selection of cakes and pastries. Afternoon tea menus can include a glass of champagne, and ‘high tea’ menus are sometimes available which include more savory items. Formal afternoon teas are found not only in London but in many plush country house hotels around the UK.

Afternoon tea is available at St Paul's Cathedral, so feel free to combine this exquisite English tradition with one of the most famous buildings in British history. For a less extravagant affair (but equally as satisfying) head to one of the many traditional tea rooms located in almost every town and village to enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake.

This makes for a pleasurable stop-off when out shopping to replenish those all-important energy levels. After all, Henry James once said ‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.

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All Afternoon Tea in London Reviews

Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: London Thames River Afternoon Tea Cruise

Excellent trip.The tea was yummy!!!!!!!

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: London Afternoon Tea at Grosvenor House

My sister and I enjoyed an elegant afternoon tea at this hotel on Park Lane. The service was terrific and the food plentiful and delicious, in fact we had our sandwich plate refilled! I contacted the hotel direct to book a specific time as it was Easter Sunday and I was concerned about turning up at anytime beteween 2 and 6 as stated on voucher and not having a seat. A lovely way to spend Easter Sunday away from home!

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Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: London Afternoon Tea at Fortnum and Mason

This was a delightful treat to sit , relax and experience an English tea! Wonderful surroundings, tea and food could not have been more pleasurable!! Service top notch. This is a must do when in London

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