After a year in London I have to admit that several aspects of British culture still confuse me. I don’t understand why the refrigerators are so small, why the pies have meat in them (I’ll stick to my apple and pumpkin pies), and most importantly why someone decided mushy pees was a good idea! Yet, the one tradition that I am a huge fan of is afternoon tea. I mean who doesn’t love a hot cuppa (very British of me) served with scones, mini sandwiches and small pastries? I’ve tried my fair share of afternoon teas, and have listed my favorites. Next time you’re traveling around the UK make sure to try out the 7 best places for afternoon.
WHAT IS AFTERNOON TEA?
Afternoon tea is a mini-meal served between 2-5pm, consisting of (you guessed it) tea, scones, and sometimes finger sandwiches, small pastries and cakes. Most cafés have two forms of afternoon tea on their menu: cream tea, and a full high tea. So what is the difference, and which one should you chose?
Cream tea is normally just one or two fresh scones served with strawberry jam, clotted cream, and a pot of tea. High tea, on the other hand, is a whole experience! You will be served three tiers of dainty finger sandwiches, scones, and mini cakes. Some even have the option of adding a glass of champagne! If you are celebrating a special occasion, or don’t mind splurging, then I would definitely recommend ordering a full high tea! However, if you’re on a budget, opt for the cream tea, as it is still delicious!
THE 7 BEST PLACES FOR AFTERNOON TEA IN THE UK
7. National Portrait Gallery, London
The National Portrait Gallery is one of the most iconic museums in London, displaying portraits of the famous Dame Maggie Smith, amongst other notable British personnel. Although easy to miss, there is a small café above the portrait gallery that serves afternoon tea. The café itself is quite simple and modern, and the afternoon tea is average. However, the amazing views make this modest spot worth a visit. A wall of windows looks over the famous lions of Trafalgar Square, where you can even see Big Ben and the London Eye peering out in the background!
6. The Pump Room Restaurant, Bath
Every time I visited a new city in the UK, I made sure to always schedule time for afternoon tea. Bath was no exception! After a bit of research, I came across the Pump Room Restaurant. The restaurant itself is bright, and spacious with a lot of natural light. The location is very central; next to the cathedral and the famous Roman Baths. Although I tend to prefer smaller quaint tearooms with character, the Pump Room was a nice place to enjoy a nice hot cup of tea and a fresh scone, while listening to live piano music in the background.
5. The Grosvener Hotel, London
My first high tea was at The Grosvener Hotel! The 4 star hotel, located in central London across from the Victoria Station, dates back to 1862. From the moment you step in, this hotel offers nothing short of luxury, and the afternoon tea is no exception. The glitzy Grosvener Hotel offers several high tea options. Although slightly on the pricier side, they provide decent portions, a good selection of pastries, and a glamorous experience perfect for special occasions.
4. Grand Café, Oxford
Located on one of the main roads near Oxford University, Grande Café claims to be the first coffee house in England, dating back to 1650. If you’re a history buff, and the idea of sitting inside a café as old as an entire country excites you, then this café is a must! The decoration is quite ornate, with hanging chandeliers, a wall of mirrors, and plush seats. Colorful pastries fill the window display, luring you in with the fresh smell of sugar. In regards to the afternoon tea, the scones are the main attraction. Served warm, they slightly crumble when topped with clotted cream and fresh strawberry jam, and make for the perfect afternoon treat.
3. Harriet’s, Cambridge
Cambridge is by far my favorite city in the UK! Its quaint cobblestoned streets, and canals are enough to make even the toughest critics fall in love. The day trip to Cambridge would not have been the same without a visit to Harriet’s. The small café is easy to miss as it’s slightly hidden, but once inside you’ll find a grand piano in the center of the room, and a case full of fresh French macrons. I opted for the cream tea, and a macaron which were both were delicious and very affordable!
2. The Dome, Edinburgh
If you’re looking for a luxurious high tea, for an incredible price, head to The Dome, in Edinburgh. A two-way staircase, and glistening chandelier greet you upon entering, while elegantly dressed staff members escort you to your table. We made sure to dress our best for this afternoon outing! I normally opt for a classic Earl Grey, but decided to adventure out of my comfort zone, and try one of the floral herbal teas. I was certainly not disappointed. The tea and food were all fantastic, making it the perfect afternoon activity during my girl’s trip to the Scotland!
1. Amba Hotel Charing Cross, London
I found the Amba Hotel on Groupon, and honestly cannot recommend it enough! The hotel itself is centrally located right next to the Charing Cross station, and boasts a sleek, modern yet eccentric aesthetic. The high tea was absolutely lovely, serving a good selection of vegetarian friendly finger sandwiches, soft scones, and several delicious desserts. The staff was friendly, and the tearoom had a wonderful view of the bustling London streets below. My favorite aspect, however, was the unique dishware. The teacups and saucers all had a colorful quirky design that complimented the hotel, giving this traditional afternoon tea a more fun, modern twist!
Whether you’re a tea enthusiast, such as myself, or simply wish to enjoy a posh afternoon sipping on champagne, devouring mini pastries, and engaging in conversation with friends, afternoon tea is a must!
Safe Travels,
Vip <3
Read More:
VIP’s Top 6 Cafés in Madrid
Pin for Later
