Plant-based dining has firmly found its place in London, and even the city’s most iconic food traditions are evolving to match – including afternoon tea. The best vegan afternoon teas don’t simply remove animal-based products; they recreate the full experience. From baked scones with plant-based cream to beautifully crafted pastries and savouries.
At Visit London, we curate our recommendations based on in-person experience of the city’s food scene. This guide is shaped by places I’ve personally visited and would genuinely recommend, with a focus on quality, creativity and overall experience. I’ve selected a mix of renowned institutions and lesser-known standouts that each deliver something truly memorable.
From refined, seasonal menus in elegant surroundings to playful, themed experiences with a plant-based twist, these are the vegan afternoon teas that showcase the very best of London right now. All options listed have vegetarian options too.
Unmissable vegan afternoon teas in London
- 🌿 The Savoy – Best for a luxury vegan afternoon tea experience in an iconic setting
- 🫖 Sanderson – Best for themed treats and fun decor
- 🍰 One Aldwych – Best for a theatrical experience and thoughtful decorations
- 👑 The Rubens at the Palace – Best for an afternoon tea in a royal setting
- 🧁 Jean-Georges at The Connaught – Best for an indulgent afternoon tea
How I chose the best vegan afternoon teas in London
As Visit London's vegan food specialist, I've based my guide on first-hand visits, recommending the best places I've been to in London for plant-based afternoon teas.
My selection reflects a range of tastes and interests, with options that appeal to all ages and occasions. From standout first impressions to fresh takes on this British foodie classic, these experiences showcase the diversity of London's food scene – spanning different neighbourhoods, price points and styles of afternoon tea experiences.
Best vegan afternoon teas in London
Nearest Tube: Covent Garden (Piccadilly) or Embankment (Circle, Bakerloo, District and Northern)
When: Daily, typically: 12.30pm-4pm (advance booking recommended)
Price: £90
Set in the Thames Foyer beneath its iconic glass dome, The Savoy offers one of London’s most recognisable afternoon tea settings with seasonal menus. The china and glassware echo the dome’s design, while silhouettes of dancers line the walls, evoking a grand ballroom, complemented by soft piano music in the background. On my visit, the vegan menu feels just as indulgent as the traditional offering.
The experience begins with refined finger sandwiches, including a coronation chickpea twist alongside a charred courgette and a savoury tartlet. Warm scones follow with fluffy vegan cream and jam. The pastries are my highlight: delicate, beautifully presented and full of flavour, from rich chocolate to lighter, fruit-led creations. The experience unfolds at a relaxed pace, with attentive service and generous tea refills. The staff suggest the vanilla black tea as it is a favourite among guests and, personally, I can also recommend the Phoenix Honey Oolong tea for anyone who enjoys a subtle flowery taste.
Best for: Special occasions, luxury experiences, first-time afternoon tea visitors.
Good to know: Tea refills and sandwiches are unlimited. The vegan menu must be requested at the booking stage under dietary restrictions, best to book 24-48 hours in advance. Dress code is smart casual.
Nearest Tube: Oxford Circus (Bakerloo, Central and Victoria) and Goodge Street (Northern)
When: Daily: 12.30pm-7pm
Price: £75
There’s something timeless about sitting down for the Mad Hatter’s vegan afternoon tea at Sanderson, one of London’s most whimsical settings. Alice in Wonderland–themed teapots and china set the tone, alongside a water-inspired backdrop, flamingo statues and even a dress-up rail for children. The atmosphere feels playful yet polished and the vegan menu matches the sophistication of the traditional option.
The finger sandwiches – including smoked aubergine, beetroot hummus and mushroom – are well balanced and full of flavour, followed by scones served with vegan spread and jams. The pastries stand out for me because of their creativity and presentation, from a strawberry cheesecake heart, my top choice, to a chess cake slice and a caterpillar creation, each finished with intricate chocolate details inspired by timepieces and chessboards. Everything feels thoughtfully executed, with attentive service generous tea refills creating a relaxed, enjoyable pace throughout.
Best for: Fans of surreal dream worlds and imaginative sweet treats
Good to know: You can have as many servings of sandwiches as you wish. For those who don’t fancy coffee or tea, you can have two soft drinks of your choice.
Nearest Tube: Temple (Circle and District)
When: Wed-Fri:12pm-3pm, Sat-Sun: 12pm-4.30pm
Price: £75
Step into a whimsical dining experience of delicate pastries and perfectly brewed tea at One Aldwych’s Charlie & the Chocolate Factory vegan afternoon tea. With playful details throughout, it’s one of London’s most imaginative settings. From the moment I walk in, it feels like entering another world – with candy jars lining one side, beautiful floral displays, and even a set of scales inspired by the film, playfully judging whether you’re a “good” or “bad” nut.
The afternoon tea starts off with a refreshing cold tea, followed by inventive savouries a welcome twist on the usual serving of mainly finger sandwiches. Scones are served with jam and chocolate cream, while tea is free flowing with plenty of choice. The pastries combine bold flavours with playful presentation, with the Hair Toffee mousse standing out as my personal favourite. Towards the end, I receive a beautiful stick of cotton candy and chocolate milk, adding a touch of nostalgia and a hint of childhood magic.
The vegan afternoon tea is every bit as satisfying as the classic version, with no sense of compromise, so take your time, relax, and make sure to have the chocolate as well as the lychee rose petal tea, which could not have been more fragrant.
Best for: Fans of Roald Dahl, families, and quirky experience seekers
Good to know: You can have as much of any of the food as you wish - but in my experience it will be filling enough!
Nearest Tube: Victoria (Victoria, Circle and District)
When: Sun-Fri: 12-5pm, Sat: 12-6pm
Price: £70
Enjoy a royal afternoon tea at The Rubens at the Palace, just a stone’s throw from the Royal Mews and Buckingham Palace. Set within opulent surroundings, the space features crystal chandeliers, plush red carpets in rich tones, and portraits of former monarchs, including Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth I.
The experience begins with a selection of finger sandwiches, offering plant-based takes on classic fillings such as coronation cauliflower and tofu with cress, alongside options such as grilled vegetables with hummus, which is my personal favourite. Scones and pastries are served on generous tiered stands next to the table, accompanied by a choice of freshly brewed teas. The vegan scones are impressively light and fluffy, served with jam, cream and a zesty lemon curd, adding a bright, citrusy contrast. The pastry selection is beautifully arranged and indulgent, with rich flavours throughout. My top pick is the round strawberry and cream crown, a cake shaped dessert finished with a red crumbly glaze, filled with cream, hiding a soft Victoria sponge centre.
The service is relaxed and well-paced, allowing me to enjoy the experience in a leisurely manner, while attentive staff ensure everything runs smoothly without ever feeling intrusive.
Best for: Fans of elegant settings and traditional British luxury
Good to know: Window seats offer some of the best views for people-watching.
5. Jean-Georges at The Connaught – Best for an elegant and lavish afternoon tea experience
Enjoy a contemporary take on afternoon tea at Jean-Georges at The Connaught, set within a bright and elegant dining space. The room features comfortable seating and striking red and yellow stained-glass accents, creating a calm and sophisticated atmosphere.
The experience begins with an amuse-bouche, followed by a selection of finger sandwiches with inventive flavour combinations. Options include cucumber with orange, courgette with lettuce, and coronation aubergine with subtly sweet notes. The pickled carrot sandwich with dill and cream cheese is my standout savoury bite. Guests can choose from a range of teas, including a signature blend made with Cornish-grown leaves, recommended by the staff and a personal favourite.
A selection of pastries and desserts follows, offering a mix of chocolate, fruit and cream-based options. My highlight is the strawberry-chocolate covered yoghurt mousse with rhubarb compote filling, combining smooth, tangy and crisp textures. It is all topped off with a crunchy chocolate fudge biscuit reminiscent of chocolate fudge brownies. Attentive service and a relaxed pace complete the experience.
Best for: A modern, high-end afternoon tea for special occasionsGood to know: A sommelier is available to recommend champagne or wine pairings.
6. The Wolseley – Best for an afternoon tea in grand historic setting
Step into the grand surroundings of The Wolseley, a Piccadilly institution known for its historic interiors and European cafe style. High ceilings, marble columns and Art Deco-inspired details reflect the building’s 1920s heritage and create an impressive yet welcoming setting.
The vegan afternoon tea is served on a three-tiered stand, with sandwiches, scones and cakes presented together. Sandwich fillings feature well-loved ingredients such as avocado, tomato and basil, courgette with tapenade, bell pepper, and cucumber with mint. Warm raisin scones are served with vegan butter and strawberry jam.
The selection is completed with a variety of cakes and a flapjack, including a chocolate cake with a crunchy chocolate outer layer, soft sponge and chocolate mousse filling, topped with ganache, which is my personal favourite. Service is friendly and efficient, with additional servings available on request.
Best for: 1920s Art Deco style and a prime location for shopping and sightseeing.Good to know: All the food items are served together, allowing you to enjoy the selection in any order and at your own pace.
| Venue | Price Range | Area |
|---|---|---|
| The Savoy | ££££ | Strand |
| Sanderson | £££ | Fitzrovia |
| One Aldwych | £££ | Covent Garden |
| The Rubens at the Palace | £££ | Westminster |
| Jean-Georges at The Connaught | ££££ | Mayfair |
| The Wolseley | ££ | Piccadilly |
London Vegan Afternoon Tea FAQs
Do I need to book vegan afternoon tea in advance in London?
It depends on the venue, but it’s best to book in advance to ensure you have a table. Many places ask you to specify dietary requirements when you reserve, and some require 24-48 hours’ notice for vegan options.
Are vegan afternoon teas widely available in London?
Yes. Vegan afternoon teas have become increasingly popular and are now widely available across London. Many venues offer dedicated vegan menus rather than simple substitutions. In fact, some are so carefully crafted that they closely resemble traditional afternoon teas, while others take a more creative approach and stand out even more than the standard options.
Which London hotels offer vegan afternoon tea?
There are too many to list in full, but popular options include:
- The Langham
- Savoy
- The Rubens at the Palace
- One Aldwych
- Sanderson
- Dukes Hotel
- Egerton House Hotel
- The Ampersand Hotel
- The Hyde at Roseate House
- The Dorchester
Many of these hotels offer fully plant-based menus or adapt their classic afternoon tea into vegan versions.
What is included in a vegan afternoon tea?
A vegan afternoon tea typically includes the same elements as a traditional one: finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, cakes, and a selection of teas, often with unlimited refills. Some venues also include additional savoury items alongside the sandwiches.
What is the typical price range for a vegan afternoon tea in London?
Prices usually range from £45-£90. More casual venues tend to charge less, while luxury hotels often sit at the higher end of the range and may offer themed afternoon tea experiences. Ordering champagne or cocktails as part of the tea will usually be at an additional cost, unless the experience has this included.
