Afternoon Tea in London: A Beginner’s Guide to Doing It Properly

Afternoon tea does look deceptively dainty until you realize it’s a multi-course event in a rather elegant disguise. I learned this first-hand during a London stopover at The Goring—my very first proper afternoon tea, and a near-perfect introduction to one of Britain’s most enduring rituals.

The tradition dates to around 1840, when Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, began requesting tea and small cakes in the late afternoon to bridge the long gap before dinner. It caught on swiftly among aristocratic circles, and by the Victorian era, London’s grand hotels had adopted it as a social institution. The Ritz began serving it in 1906. The Savoy followed. What started as a private domestic habit became a stage for society.

Today, it occupies a pleasantly curious position—part nostalgia, part genuine culinary experience. The quality varies considerably, which is exactly why where you go matters.

The Goring: Where to Start

London has no shortage of polished options, but very few with genuine continuity. The Goring is family-owned, quietly sitting just behind Buckingham Palace—the sort of place that doesn’t chase attention, yet continues to attract a loyal following, royals included.

We chose The Goring’s own Afternoon Blend—malty, honeyed, and smooth, with just enough grip to stand up to warm scones and proper clotted cream. And because it felt like the right moment, a glass of Bollinger alongside. First came finger sandwiches, then warm scones (one plain, one fruit) with thick clotted cream and strawberry jam, and finally a sweet tier of miniature tarts, éclairs, and Victoria sponge.

Pace yourself. There’s more than it looks… Plenty left over for an in-room, post-supper treat.

Other London Venues Worth Knowing

The Dorchester — The Promenade is one of London’s most iconic settings for afternoon tea—grand without being stiff, with a menu that balances classic and seasonal well. Book ahead.

The Ritz London — The Palm Court remains one of the most opulent settings in the Mayfair neighborhood. Strict dress code, with bookings filling up weeks in advance. Worth planning for.

Claridge’s — Art Deco interiors, impeccable service, and a seasonal menu. The Foyer is lively without being loud.

Fortnum & Mason — The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is more accessible than the hotel options, with an exceptional tea selection. A natural stop if you’re already on Piccadilly.

‍A few things to know before you go:

Book well ahead—particularly for The Ritz, The Dorchester, and Claridge’s, which fill up weeks in advance. Most venues still expect smart dress and account for the time: a proper afternoon tea takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Build it into the day rather than squeezing it between other plans.

If a London stay is on your mind—whether it’s a stopover or a longer trip—I’d love to help you put it together. Contact Darby’s Destinations to start designing your London itinerary.