A selection of pink macarons with chocolate filling.

Best afternoon tea in London in 2025

This quintessentially British tradition is a must-do – perfect for creating envy among those back home. Go as gooey as a macaron over traditional treats, try something quirkier such as joining an afternoon tea bus in London, or seek out a wallet-friendly cheap afternoon tea in London... Here are our naughty-but-nice afternoon tea ideas.

Content contains affiliate links, marked with asterisks (*). If you click through and make a purchase, Visit London receives a commission – every purchase supports London’s jobs and economy.

When should I have afternoon tea in London?

The quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea is traditionally enjoyed between 3pm and 5pm, with 4pm often cited as the best time to indulge in afternoon tea in London.

Whilst the tradition was originally invented in the 19th century to be served as a refreshment for the upper classes between lunch and dinner, today it can be enjoyed at pretty much any time! Some people prefer to have tea served in a pot, scones topped with cream and jam, finger sandwiches and decadent sweet treats in lieu of lunch, while others go later and have it as an early dinner.

Is there a dress code for afternoon tea in London?

The dress code for afternoon tea experiences in London are usually relaxed smart-casual.

This may change however depending on the type of afternoon tea you have booked and the venue it is hosted in. Be sure to check the dress code for your afternoon tea before attending the experience.

Tickets, hotels and offers