Cream Teas in London
As the days grow darker, Londoners are searching for ways to stay cosy in style, and what better way to welcome in the colder months than with afternoon tea? Read further for our recommendations, ranging from classic to the kookier cream teas in London.
The Ritz, Mayfair - This iconic institution boasts an array of 18 loose-leaf teas to choose from, paired with freshly baked scones and an assortment of pastries, finely cut sandwiches and a glass of champagne if you prefer, served in the exquisite backdrop of the hotel’s former ballroom. Whether you’re looking for the traditional cream tea or their alternative options like the Champagne or Celebration tea, The Ritz offers a quintessentially English cream tea that will enchant any tea traditionalist.
Aqua Shard, London Bridge - This whimsical option is inspired by J.M Barrie’s Peter Pan, and offers all of the traditional elements of a cream tea presented in a pirate ship-shaped tea stand and a charming display of uniquely themed treats, such as the ‘Peter’s Secret Never Tree Entrance’ chocolate cake and even cocktails like the ‘Never Grow Up’ punch or the ‘Fairy Dust’ cocktail. If searching for a more traditional tea accompaniment, Aqua Shard offers their own custom ‘Darling’ and ‘Adventure’ teas inspired by Wendy and Peter, as well as the full range of classic teas available.
Beaumont Hotel, Mayfair - Served in the Gatsby’s Room at the heart of the Beaumont Hotel, the Jazz Age Afternoon tea offers traditional teas, scones and sandwiches alongside a unique selection of delectable pastries such as yuzu cream pie, mocha cake and saltwater taffy. The Beaumont offers champagne and tea-based cocktails as well as an alternative menu of entirely vegan options. The impressive variety of the menu ties into the hotel’s 1920’s elegance to create an experience that epitomises luxury.
Sketch, Mayfair - This iconic venue brings all of its quirks to its Afternoon Tea without sacrificing any extravagance. The French fusion-inspired menu boasts gateaux such as quince and vanilla Battenberg or a chocolate with 4 spice éclair alongside the traditional staples. There are eight sparkling wines and champagnes to accompany them if you do so desire, all served in a rose-pink gallery that showcases artist David Shrigley’s pieces from wall to wall.
The Savoy, Mayfair - The Thames Foyer offers the ultimate traditional afternoon tea, with an extensive range of 30 teas to choose from, seasonal pastries and traditional Savoy cakes with vegetarian and vegan options available. Served under the glass-domed atrium of the Foyer, you can sip your tea to the accompaniment of a pianist playing under the gazebo.
The Coral Room, Bloomsbury - The menu for this cream tea is delightfully simple, with elegant iterations of the classics. You can choose between nine varieties of tea, four sandwiches and two flavours of scones as well as more adventurous sweet treats such as a ginger cheesecake with pear compote or strawberry and black pepper parfait with a balsamic glaze to enjoy under the stunning glass chandeliers of this 1920s inspired venue.
