More than 150 years after the seventh Duchess of Bedford began serving a meal between lunch and dinner, the best afternoon tea in London is still difficult to narrow down. Naturally, there’s no shortage of traditional options, which take their cue from her preferred menu: scones with lashings of jam and cream; cucumber finger sandwiches; trays of pastries and cakes; and pot after pot of Darjeeling and Earl Grey. Tempted? Dress for the occasion and head to The Ritz to dine in the lavish Palm Court or savour treats in the spectacular Thames Foyer of The Savoy.
Equally appealing, however, are the more whimsical places that also deserve a place on any list of the best afternoon teas in London. Take Theatre Royal Drury Lane’s swoon-worthy offering, where elaborately-decorated slices of cake come topped with chocolate cherubs alongside unctuous chicken pies instead of sandwiches. Or, for a cocktail-drenched outing, head to Lyaness at Sea Containers London, where legendary mixologist Mr Lyan pairs Coconut Flower daiquiris with mutton croquettes.
Read on for Vogue ’s definitive guide to the best afternoon tea in London. Read more: explore where to find the best brunch in London ..