The festive season in London is brimming with magical experiences, and one of the most delightful traditions is enjoying a special afternoon tea with a holiday twist. This quintessentially British activity becomes even more enchanting during the winter, with hotels and restaurants offering festive-themed teas featuring seasonal treats. Whether seeking a cosy spot with friends or a memorable outing with family, here are the best places in London to experience a festive afternoon tea this holiday season.
1. The Ritz: A Timeless Christmas Afternoon Tea
Celebrate the festive season in grandeur with The Ritz’s Christmas Afternoon Tea at the iconic Palm Court. Step into a festive dream at The Ritz, where the Palm Court is transformed into a stunning winter wonderland, featuring luxurious red and gold décor. Guests can indulge in an exceptional selection of 20 premium loose-leaf teas, accompanied by an array of delectable treats, including delicate finger sandwiches, cakes, and freshly baked scones:
Delicate finger sandwiches
- Christmas cakes and mince pies
- Freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve
- A glass of Barons de Rothschild “Reserve Ritz” Brut NV Champagne (optional)
Adding to the charm, guests will be serenaded by The Ritz choir singing beloved Christmas carols.
Special Highlights
- Father Christmas Visits: Children receive a Ritz teddy bear (except on Christmas Day), and Father Christmas himself will appear during select sittings on December 25th.
- Extended Festive Season: Christmas Afternoon Tea runs from Saturday, November 23, 2024, to Monday, January 6, 2025, with multiple sittings daily at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, and 7:30 pm.
Dates
Available Dates: Saturday, November 23, 2024 – Monday, January 6, 2025
Timings: Multiple sittings daily at 11:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 5:30 pm, and 7:30 pm
Pricing
- £115 per adult
- £75 per child (up to 15 years old)
- On Christmas Day: £85 per child
Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available upon request.
Make the Occasion Special
Extend the magic by exploring recipes from The Ritz London Cookbook, curated by Executive Chef John Williams MBE, a perfect gift to relive the culinary excellence at home.
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2. Fortnum & Mason: A Festive Feast of Flavours
Step into a winter wonderland at Fortnum & Mason this holiday season, where festive spirit and luxury blend effortlessly. The iconic Fortnum’s tea salon becomes a festive haven adorned with holiday decor, offering a delectable afternoon tea experience that includes a mix of sweet and savory seasonal treats. This traditional tea is served alongside a variety of loose-leaf teas, including Fortnum’s Christmas tea blend, perfect for enhancing the holiday cheer.
Indulge in classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserves, and festive pastries such as mince pies and gingerbread biscuits. To make the occasion even more special, enjoy the luxurious touch of Fortnum & Mason’s signature Christmas tea blend.
✨ Experience a Magical Setting
The tea room is elegantly decorated for the season, creating a warm and inviting ambiance to enjoy your festive treats. The luxurious surroundings make this a perfect location for a holiday gathering, whether with friends or family.
📅 Dates for the Festive Tea
Fortnum & Mason’s Festive Afternoon Tea is available from November 2024 through early January 2025, ensuring that you have plenty of time to enjoy this seasonal experience.
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Enjoy a wonderful blend of tradition and luxury this holiday season at Fortnum & Mason, where Christmas cheer is always in the air!
3. Claridge’s: A Magical Winter Wonderland
Celebrate the festive season at Claridge’s, where the timeless tradition of Afternoon Tea is given a seasonal touch. Inspired by the legacy of Afternoon Tea’s origins in the early 19th century, guests are invited to indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury treats in the elegant Foyer & Reading Room, now transformed into a magical winter wonderland.
A Timeless Tradition with a Festive Twist
The tradition of Afternoon Tea dates back to 1840 when it was first introduced to the social scene. Since then, Claridge’s has embraced this ritual with creative flair, offering guests a menu featuring poached Scottish salmon, seasonal pastries, and of course, the finest Claridge’s Blend tea. Each day, the menu is prepared fresh, ensuring a delightful experience with each visit.
Indulge in Exquisite Festive Flavors
Celebrate the holiday season with a delightful selection of sweet and savoury treats. The Festive Afternoon Tea menu changes to reflect the season’s fruits, ensuring each visit brings something new. Guests can enjoy the luxurious ambience of Claridge’s winter wonderland alongside traditional offerings, creating the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable afternoon.
Dates and Pricing
From 5 November 2024 to 1 January 2025, enjoy the Festive Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s:
- Weekdays: £115 per person
- Weekends: £120 per person
- Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea: £60 per child
After the festive period, starting 1 January 2025, the price for Traditional Afternoon Tea will be £95 per person.
Opening Hours
Afternoon Tea is served daily from 2:45 PM to 5:30 PM. It is recommended to reserve your spot in advance, as the tea experience is top-rated during the festive season.
Click Here to Reserve Your Festive Afternoon Tea
Ensure your place at this magical event by reserving early, as this is one of London’s most exclusive and sought-after experiences during the Christmas season.
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4. Sketch: An Afternoon Tea with a Creative Twist
A Unique Afternoon Tea Experience in a Quirky Setting
If you’re looking for a creative afternoon tea experience in London, Sketch is the place to be. Known for its bold and artistic interiors, Sketch provides a vibrant setting for a memorable afternoon tea. The iconic pink Gallery room, designed by David Shrigley, is a feast for the eyes, offering a striking backdrop of modern art and contemporary design. Not only will you indulge in delectable treats, but you’ll also enjoy an Instagram-worthy atmosphere, making it one of the top afternoon tea spots in London.
The Menu: A Creative Twist on Tradition
At Sketch, afternoon tea takes on a modern twist, blending classic afternoon tea essentials with innovative new creations. The tea selection offers a variety of premium blends, including Earl Grey, matcha, and seasonal fruit infusions. The food menu features finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and pastries, such as the coconut raspberry tart—a fan favourite. Each season brings new seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit. Sketch’s creative afternoon tea menu is a perfect blend of tradition and imagination.
An Instagrammable Afternoon Tea Experience
Sketch is undeniably one of the most photogenic afternoon tea spots in London. The vibrant and playful design throughout the venue makes it an ideal location for Instagram-worthy photos. From the quirky artwork in the gallery to the unique décor in the dining room, Sketch creates a truly memorable afternoon tea experience. Whether you’re enjoying tea with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the surroundings elevate the overall experience.
Prices and Reservation Information
Sketch’s afternoon tea prices start from £59 per person, with a premium option available for £69 on weekends. It’s one of the best-value afternoon teas in London, considering the unique experience and artistic atmosphere. Given its popularity, especially on weekends, it’s recommended to book your afternoon tea reservation in advance.
Dates and Prices
- Weekday Afternoon Tea: From £59 per person
- Weekend Afternoon Tea: From £69 per person
- Children’s Afternoon Tea: From £29 per person
Click here to reserve your spot at Sketch and enjoy a creative afternoon tea in one of London’s most unique venues.
5. The Savoy: A Festive Afternoon Tea Fit for Royalty
An Unforgettable Afternoon Tea Experience at The Savoy
When it comes to luxury and tradition, The Savoy offers one of the finest festive afternoon teas in London. During the holiday season, this iconic venue transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a truly royal afternoon tea experience. Located in the stunning Thames Foyer, guests can indulge in a delectable selection of festive pastries, seasonal finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones while surrounded by elegance. This Christmas afternoon tea is a perfect way to celebrate the festive season in style.
The Festive Afternoon Tea Menu
The festive afternoon tea at The Savoy features a mouthwatering selection of Christmas-themed pastries and delicate patisserie that reflect the flavours of the season. Each item is carefully crafted using only the finest ingredients, and the menu is designed to highlight traditional festive treats. Enjoy luxurious scones served with Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserves, alongside delicious finger sandwiches made with seasonal ingredients. The experience is completed with a choice of premium teas, selected by The Savoy’s expert team, making this a perfect holiday indulgence.
A Magical Setting with River Thames Views
The festive afternoon tea is served in The Savoy’s beautiful Thames Foyer, where guests can enjoy sparkling views of the River Thames while sipping their tea. This picturesque setting, combined with the festive cheer, creates a truly magical experience. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or colleagues, The Savoy offers a warm and luxurious environment perfect for enjoying an afternoon tea fit for royalty.
Prices and Reservation Information
Due to its popularity during the festive season, reservations for The Savoy’s festive afternoon tea are essential. The experience is priced from £75 per person, with a special children’s menu available for £45 per child. The Christmas afternoon tea at The Savoy is available from mid-November until the end of December, making it the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in one of London’s most iconic venues.
Dates and Prices
- Festive Afternoon Tea: From £75 per person
- Children’s Festive Afternoon Tea: From £45 per child
- Available from mid-November until December 31st
Click here to reserve your place for a luxurious festive afternoon tea at The Savoy and indulge in an unforgettable experience this holiday season.
Final Thoughts
London’s festive afternoon teas are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in style. Whether you prefer a classic experience at The Ritz or a creative twist at Sketch, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to book early, as these popular spots fill up quickly. Gather your loved ones, sip hot tea, and indulge in seasonal treats for an unforgettable holiday memory.
