If you’re visiting the UK over the holidays, indulge in the best Christmas tea in London. Afternoon tea was introduced by Anna, seventh Duchess of Bedford, in 1840.
The Duchess would become hungry around four o’clock in the afternoon. The evening meal in her household was served fashionably late at eight o’clock, thus leaving a long period between lunch and dinner.
One of my recent dreams is to enjoy all the best Christmas afternoon teas in London. I researched all the best places so you can enjoy a stress-free British tradition.
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Christmas Afternoon Tea at Biscuiteers
When: November 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024
The festive afternoon tea at Biscuiteers was voted Best Festive Afternoon Tea by Luxury London Magazine! Their luxurious festive afternoon tea is inspired by the indulgent flavors of Christmas.
All their treats are handmade in their in-house patisserie kitchen, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Address: 194 Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2ES
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Langham
When: November 6, 2024 – December 31, 2024
The Langham in London offers one of the best festive afternoon teas.
This luxury afternoon tea in London will treat you to sandwiches like Roast Norfolk Turkey and Classic Cucumber. The menu also offers classic and raisin scones. The pastries on the menu have seasonal flavors like crunchy almond sable, almond cream, and macerated fruit.
This year they will also have a children’s festive afternoon tea. All Christmas afternoon tea details can be found on their official website.
Address: 1C Portland Pl, London W1B 1JA
Christmas Afternoon Tea Oscar Wilde Bar at Hotel Cafe Royal
When: November 7, 2024 – January 4, 2025
Held exclusively within this Grade II listed room, a festive afternoon tea experience at Hotel Café Royal is truly unique. Held in the historic Grill Room, gilded features decorate the mirrored room and artistic ceilings, delightful delicacies, sumptuous sweets, and overflowing Champagne and teas make the entire service one to remember.
Plus, with live piano and an intimate setting, you will find yourself transported to a time gone by, one where patrons of old waltzed through the halls of this hallowed building. Some of Hotel Cafe Royal’s most famous guests include Princess Diana, David Bowie, and Elizabeth Taylor.
Address: 10 Air St, London W1B 5AB
Festive Afternoon Tea at InterContinental London Park Lane
When: November 8, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Standing proudly on the former site of Queen Elizabeth II’s former childhood home—the Wellington Lounge pays respect to its heritage by offering traditional afternoon tea with a modern twist for an experience fit for royalty.
Christmas afternoon tea in London is truly a special experience at the InterContinental London Park Lane. I would love to try all their Christmas-themed desserts!
Address: One Hamilton Place, Park Ln, London W1J 7QY
Strand Palace Festive Afternoon Tea
When: November 9, 2024 – January 16, 2025
This year, the Strand Palace in London is having a Snow Palace Afternoon Tea Set, and it is so ADORABLE! This year, they have a vegetarian selection of sandwiches like Whipped Goat’s Cheese and Caramelised Red Onion Marmalade Tartlet and Egg Mayonnaise and Dill Relish On Rye Bread.
For dessert, don’t miss out on their Winter Forest Cherry and Yuzu Dark Chocolate Gateau. Did I also mention it is served in a three-tier snowman curate.
Address: 372 Strand, London WC2R 0JJ
B Bakery Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour
When: November 11, 2024 – January 31, 2025
The B Bakery Christmas After Tea Bus Tour lets you feel the magic of Christmas while taking you around the heart of London. Brigit’s Bakery Christmas afternoon tea menu offers handmade patisserie treats like Christmas tree chocolate cupcakes and Spiced orange choux.
This year, they offer delicious afternoon teas with a Grinchmas-themed tour and a Christmas lights tour on Regent Street. They even have an adorable Paddington Bear festive tea!
Address: 6-7 Chandos Pl, London WC2N 4HU
Skyline Festive Afternoon Tea at Tīng Shangri-La at The Shard
When: November 12, 2024 – January 6, 2025
You’re definitely in for a festive treat for the skyline Christmas afternoon Tea at Tīng. Relax with panoramic views over London as you enjoy tea, delicate finger sandwiches, and savory delights.
Address: 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9QU
The Ivy Asia Christmas Afternoon Tea in London
When: November 13, 2024 – January 2, 2025
Would this be Gina Bear’s blog without a little Asian inspiration? 😉 The Ivy Asia across London is a luxury hotel that offers festive pan-Asian food and drinks.
The drool-worthy afternoon tea menu will feature a festive twist on Japanese-inspired dishes with vegetable dumplings and steamed vegetable bay buns. Get your sweet tooth on with their raspberry macaroons and yuzu honeycomb cheesecake.
Address: 8-10 N Audley St, London W1K 6ZD
The Dorchester Festive Afternoon Tea
When: November 16, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Taking tea at The Dorchester in London, surrounded by luxury, tradition, and delicious cakes is the true definition of a day in London spent well. With a new season comes a whole new selection of the finest teas.
Enjoy the most wonderful time of the year with a glass of bubbles along with Dorchester’s festive afternoon tea. There’s no better way to celebrate an occasion or spend time with friends and family.
Address: 53 Park Ln, London W1K 1QA
The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard Christmas Afternoon Tea
When: November 18, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Indulge in festive afternoon tea with a twist at The Parlour at Great Scotland Yard, a 5-star hotel where tradition and history meet modern luxury.
The former home of the Metropolitan Police, this historical institution now fuses classic glamour with bold art. Every thoughtful detail of its interior design tells the story of its prominent past.
Address: 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN
Festive Afternoon Tea at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park
When: November 18, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Tis the season with a festive afternoon tea at the Mandarin Oriental near Hyde Park London. You can expect a holiday setting consisting of a roaring log fire, Christmas decorations, and views over Knightsbridge.
As well as a special festive Afternoon Tea for adults, their talented pastry team has dreamed up a jolly children’s afternoon tea set too!
Address: 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LA
Christmas Afternoon Tea at the Ritz London
When: November 23, 2024 – January 6, 2025
The Ritz Club will have a festive afternoon tea for the 2024 season! Enjoy Christmas at the Ritz in London in their Palm Court which will be decorated with a Christmas tree, red and gold trimmings, and other festive decor.
Their savory dishes will include Ham with Grain Mustard Mayonnaise on Brioche Bread and Cheddar Cheese with Chutney on Tomato Bread. And of course, we can’t forget the scones with homemade strawberry jam!
Address: 150 Piccadilly, London W1J 9BR
Magical Afternoon at Wands and Wizard Exploratorium
When: December 2, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Wand and Wizard is broadly inspired by fantasy and science-fiction and is a place for fans of magic. You may see many of your favorite references to Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, and Star Wars.
Rest assured, you’re in good company with your fellow geeks. When participating in the Christmas Wizard Afternoon Tea, you select your wand and are taken to an interactive workstation.
You can cast spells with your wand to open your locked puzzle chest, which contains your ingredients. Now this totally sounds like an afternoon of fun!
Address: 26 Greek Street, London, United Kingdom W1D 5DE
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough London
When: November 13, 2024 – January 8, 2025
The Lanesborough Hotel is a five-star hotel and perfect for a luxurious stay. Try their Christmas afternoon tea while sitting amongst their gorgeous Christmas décor.
This year, they’re collaborating with Bridgerton, and the menu is the best Christmas gift ever! Their signature tea blends come with a twist like the Chocolate brownie which is a black tea.
I’m honestly most excited to try the Book of Eloise pastries. Make your afternoon more festive by adding on the champagne afternoon tea.
Address: Hyde Park Corner, London SW1X 7TA
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Orchid Lounge at Pan Pacific
When: November 13, 2024 – January 5, 2025
The Orchid Lounge at Pan Pacific London Christmas afternoon tea is high on my list for how delicate, feminine, and pretty it is. You can view the Orchid Lounge festive tea menu on their official website.
Address: 80 Houndsditch, London, EC3A 7AB
Festive Afternoon Tea at Four Seasons London at Park Lane
When: November 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
The festive afternoon tea at Four Seasons Park Lane in London is one fit for a queen. Nestled within the heart of Mayfair and a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, there isn’t a more fitting location to celebrate the holidays.
While enjoying Christmas afternoon tea in London why not have a staycation at the Four Seasons too?
Address: Hamilton Pl, Park Ln, London W1J 7DR
Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
When: November 15, 2024 – January 6, 2025
The Rotunda’s festive afternoon tea will kick off with classic finger sandwiches like minted cucumber, roast turkey, and truffle egg mayonnaise. The Four Seasons Hotel Ten Trinity Square also offers sparkling tea to go with their Christmas afternoon tea in London.
Address: 10 Trinity Square, London EC3N 4AJ
Harry Potter Warner Bros Studios Tour Christmas Afternoon Tea
When: November 16, 2024 – January 19, 2024
The official Harry Potter Christmas afternoon tea is a special event for Hogwarts in the Snow. This fantastic event will give you a sense of nostalgia as you celebrate Christmas at one of the most magical places on earth.
The Hogwarts afternoon tea offers a variety of menus including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free afternoon teas. This afternoon tea is best for anyone with dietary requirements. Enjoy warm scones and loose-leaf teas.
Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford WD25 7LR
Magical Afternoon at Wands and Wizard Exploratorium
When: December 2, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Wand and Wizard is broadly inspired by fantasy and science-fiction and is a place for fans of magic. You will see references to Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones, and Star Wars.
Rest assured, you’re in good company with your fellow geeks. When participating in the Christmas Wizard Afternoon Tea, you select your wand and are taken to an interactive workstation.
You can cast spells with your wand to open your locked puzzle chest. It contains your ingredients to make magical tea and memories.
Address: 26 Greek Street, London, United Kingdom W1D 5DE
Festive Red Bus Afternoon Tea at The Dilly
When: August 15, 2024 – January 5, 2025
This year, The Dilly is celebrating their afternoon tea London style! Their Christmas afternoon tea will be served with savory treats such as cranberry jam and turkey sandwiches. Their desserts are named after London’s most iconic landmarks such as Tower Bridge, Big Ben, and Saint Paul’s.
Address: 21 Piccadilly, London, W1J 0BH
Christmas Afternoon Tea at Marriott County Hall
When: November 14, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Step inside The Library and you’ll be transported back to the glitz and glamor of the roaring 1920s. Located in the Marriott Hotel County Hall, The Library decor features oak bookcases stacked with the classics and adorned with busts of literary and historical figures.
Enjoy spectacular views over the River Thames and Big Ben. Indulge in their homemade festive scones, savory finger sandwiches, and popular Big Ben cakes.
Address: County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London SE1 7PB
Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace
When: November 18, 2024 – January 5, 2025
At The Rubens at the Palace, expect a scrumptious feast of cakes, pastries, and seasonal flavors that pay tribute to the long-standing English tradition of Afternoon Tea. It is set against the tranquil backdrop of either The English Grill or The Palace Lounge and you can also hear live music.
Address: 39 Buckingham Palace Rd, London SW1W 0PS
Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Lane at Theatre Royal Drury Lane
When: November 22, 2024 – January 8, 2025
Treat yourself to an unforgettable experience, celebrating the ceremony and pageantry of an exquisite afternoon tea at Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Surrounded by elegance from the moment you enter, the Grand Saloon features dazzling chandeliers, ornate ceilings, beautiful furnishings and fine art.
Address: Catherine St, London WC2B 5JF
Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at Hilton on Park Lane
When: November 22, 2024 – December 29, 2024
At the Hilton on Park Lane, enjoy an exciting mixology experience and indulge in a festive-themed pic ‘n’ mix. Crafted with love and care by Revery’s award-winning pastry chefs, the festive afternoon tea menu features a delightful array of savory and sweet treats.
Address: 22 Park Ln, London W1K 1BE
Christmas Afternoon Tea at Sofitel London St James
When: November 23, 2024 – December 31, 2024
During the Christmas season, The Rose Lounge gets a festive afternoon tea twist. At the Sofitel London St James, you can enjoy a choice of 15 different types of loose-leaf tea, an assortment of delicate savory dishes, delicious pastries, and freshly made scones with Cornish clotted cream and homemade seasonal jam.
Address: 6 Waterloo Pl, London SW1Y 4AN
Festive Afternoon Tea at the Hyde Cafe at the Royal Lancaster
When: November 25, 2024 – January 5, 2025
This festive season, the Royal Lancaster invites you to relax and enjoy an irresistible assortment of delicately crafted sandwiches, warm baked scones, and deliciously sweet delicacies accompanied by a selection of the finest Camellia’s Tea House teas, served in the beautiful Hyde Café.
What caught my eye on the festive afternoon tea menu was the roasted sirloin of beef with chimichurri dressing and rocket salad on granary bread. For the sweets, the cranberry curd, and yuzu cremeux shortbread looked like a total dream!
Address: Lancaster Terrace, London W2 2TY
Festive Afternoon Tea at The Landmark London
When: November 28, 2024 – January 5, 2025
The Landmark London offers the most exquisite Afternoon Tea served beneath the elegant high palms of our famous Winter Garden Restaurant. The setting is serene and refined with the soft sound of piano and daylight twinkling through.
Indulge in an irresistible assortment of delicacies, delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with rich Cornish clotted cream and delicious preserves, along with a selection of crafted cakes and pastries.
Address: 222 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 6JQ
Festive Afternoon Tea at Hyatt Regency London Churchill
When: November 28, 2024 – January 4, 2025
The Hyatt Regency London Churchill Hotel is tucked away behind bustling Oxford Street and near boutique shops. You’ll find characterful streets of the London village of Marylebone where you can experience impeccable service and an occasion to remember.
The Hyatt Regency London Churchill has a festive afternoon tea menu to give your tastebuds a holly jolly experience.
Address: 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
Festive Afternoon Tea at InterContinental at The O2
When: December 3, 2024 – January 7, 2025
Afternoon tea is a quintessentially British affair. You can enjoy views overlooking the River Thames with festive afternoon tea at the Intercontinental in London.
This year, the O2 is presenting an Indian fusion Christmas tea experience. Their savory bites include bread pakora and a paneer puff. The menu also includes masala mince pies.
Address: 1 Waterview Dr, London SE10 0TW
The Savoy Christmas Afternoon Tea
When: December 16, 2024 – December 27, 2024
Afternoon tea at Savoy is considered one of the best luxury high teas in London. The Savoy tea begins with a mix of traditional finger and open sandwiches, alongside freshly baked scones with clotted cream and lemon curd.
Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ
Festive Afternoon Tea at Conrad St James
When: December 2, 2024 – January 7, 2025
Festive afternoon tea in The Orchard Tea Room is a true delight with its stunning floral decorations and wonderfully relaxed ambiance. It features a beautiful glass roof that lets in light and enhances the space’s sophisticated, contemporary design.
Their elegant Conrad St James Afternoon Tea Menu is classically based with fresh ideas and delicious sweet and savory specialties, making it even more of an occasion.
Address: 22-28 Broadway, London SW1H 0BH
Christmas afternoon tea in London is sure to make your highlight list during the holiday season. Honestly every single one of these places look fantastic and it will be hard for me to choose which place I’d like to visit for afternoon tea in London.
This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!
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