Afternoon tea experiences in London are an elegant way to enjoy a slice of life in the big city.

You can indulge your sweet tooth with delectable dishes at the capital’s best hotels. Cream scones, delicate pastries and finger sandwiches are all on the menu.

For something different, you can take your afternoon tea during a sightseeing bus ride or boat cruise. If you want to tick off London’s major landmarks in style, this is the way to do it.

This is your guide to afternoon tea experiences, one of the most classic gastronomic experiences in London.

What are the best afternoon tea experiences in London?

London afternoon tea boat cruise

On these London afternoon tea boat tours, you’ll be cruising along the Thames River while tucking into your treats. From your comfortable seats on board, you can admire the landmarks along the riverbanks, with some of the city’s top sights on the itinerary.

After boarding the boat you’ll be shown to your allocated seats to settle in for the journey. There are windows on both sides of the vessel so you can soak up the views all around. Once you get underway your tea will be served.

As you dig into cucumber sandwiches and miniature cupcakes, keep an eye on the city. Most cruises take you past highlights like the Tower of London and Shakespeare’s Globe. After the adventure, you’ll be returned to the starting point.

London afternoon tea bus tour

These London afternoon tea trips work much the same way as the cruises, just on dry land. You’ll be seated on a vintage double-decker bus for a ride through the historic city streets. Try to book seats on the upper level for the best views.

Enjoy devouring your scones and savory snacks as you drive by sights like Big Ben and Trafalgar Square. Onboard commentary is provided so you can learn about the landmarks and areas you pass.

Hotel afternoon tea experience in London

The most traditional afternoon tea experiences in London are those that take place in some of the city’s finest hotels. After taking your seats the staff will explain the menu and give you a choice of teas to accompany your food.

You are usually allocated a timeslot for your tea, but if you want to linger afterward, you can enjoy more drinks at the bar.

What will you experience during an afternoon tea?

Many afternoon tea experiences in London take place in hotels or even museums across the city. After arriving, you will be shown to your table and given a menu. Some teas are themed, featuring everything from Harry Potter locations to Sherlock Holmes.

There will often be live music – usually a pianist – to help set the elegant scene. You’ll be transported back in time to when afternoon tea first became popular in the 19th century. The hungry Duchess of Bedford introduced the concept, and it soon became one of England’s quintessential customs.

During the bus tea tour, you’ll pass by popular places like Trafalgar Square, Marble Arch and Harrods. On some trips, you’ll also see the London Eye and Big Ben.

The afternoon tea river cruise is another way to tick off several of the city’s major sights. Tower Bridge, the Tate Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe are all on the agenda, along with The Shard and the Tower of London.

How much do afternoon tea experiences in London cost?

London afternoon tea cruises cost £50 per passenger and include a sightseeing boat ride with commentary. The afternoon tea bus tours are £60 each, again with commentary and sightseeing.

Afternoon tea experiences in London at a 5-star hotel start at £60 per person. Champagne upgrades usually cost around £20. For something a bit cheaper, try the British Museum afternoon tea for just £30.

All experiences include food and your choice of tea. You will need to make your own way to the venue or starting point.

What do afternoon teas include?

Afternoon tea in London usually includes a spread of savory treats like finger sandwiches, and maybe sausage rolls and mini quiches depending on the venue. Scones with clotted cream and jam are also provided, as well as a selection of cakes and pastries.

The experiences come with a pot of tea, and there is generally an extensive menu to choose from. As well as traditional teas there are often exotic offerings and fruit options too.

You can upgrade your London afternoon tea to include a glass of Champagne. Additional drinks will be available to purchase if required.

The tea cruises include a sightseeing boat ride along the River Thames, while the tea bus experiences take you through the historic city streets. Onboard commentary is provided on both of these trips.

Where do afternoon tea experiences in London start?

Afternoon tea experiences in London take place all over the city. You’ll find them in hotels, on boats and even on buses.

Cruises often start at Tower Pier on Lower Thames Street – boarding is 15 minutes before departure. The tea bus tours begin at Victoria Bus Station or on Northumberland Avenue near Trafalgar Square.

How long is the experience?

Most London afternoon tea experiences last around 1.5 hours, which gives you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your feast.

If time is tight, some afternoon tea bus tours and boat cruises are just an hour. Or, if you want to linger a little longer over your scones, opt for one of the 2-hour teas which are offered by some hotels.

When is the best time to have afternoon tea in London?

When it comes to the ultimate time for afternoon tea in London, the clue is in the name! Most establishments serve these sweet treats from around noon until about 4 PM or 5 PM.

When deciding on a time, consider what else you want to fit into your day and whether you will be having lunch or dinner too.

Are there any combos available with afternoon tea experiences in London?

Afternoon tea experience in London plus a River Thames cruise

What could be better than combining a London boat trip with a bit of feasting? You can do exactly that on one of the popular afternoon tea cruises. You’ll head down to the River Thames and take your seat on board, settling in with a delicious platter of treats.

Enjoy watching the famous London landmarks pass by as you journey down the river. Savor the scenery as well as the scones while learning about the history of afternoon tea.

London afternoon tea plus a sightseeing bus tour

For something truly unique, hop on board the vintage London afternoon tea bus and cruise the streets in style. Seated in the traditional old bus seats, you’ll be served your sandwiches and cakes.

Listen to the commentary as you are driven through London and keep an eye out for famous sights. You can sip tea to your heart’s content on these London bus tours while admiring the likes of Trafalgar Square and Marble Arch.

Top tips

Skip lunch if your afternoon tea experience in London is during one of the earlier slots.
Book ahead no matter what time of year you are visiting. London afternoon tea is one of the city’s most popular institutions.
If you can’t finish everything, most places will give you a “doggy bag” so you can take the remaining morsels away for later.
If you have any special dietary requirements, be sure to relay this information at the time of booking.

Afternoon Tea Experiences in London