9 Best Spots for Tea in London in the Summertime
Last Updated on February 14, 2025 by Amitylux
London’s afternoon tea culture is a cherished tradition, offering a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether you’re indulging in a classic high tea at a historic hotel or a modern twist on afternoon tea by the river, London boasts some of the finest tea experiences in the world.
This guide highlights the best afternoon tea spots in London for summer 2025, featuring venues that offer not just exquisite teas and pastries but also beautiful settings that capture the essence of the season.
The best spots for tea in London in the summertime.
1. St. Ermin’s Hotel
2. The Goring
3. Four Seasons
4. The Ambersand
5. Brown’s Hotel
6. Claridge’s
…and more!
1. Tea at the Tea Lounge at St. Ermin’s Hotel.
Just steps away from Buckingham Palace, St. Ermin’s Hotel is a hidden treasure with a history that resonates through its every corner. The hotel’s charming courtyard garden is ideal for a summer afternoon tea, offering a tranquil oasis amidst the buzzing city. The tea selection here is impressive, featuring an array of loose-leaf teas from around the globe, complemented by a delectable assortment of pastries, finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones.
The vibe at St. Ermin’s is warm and inviting, and its sophisticated decor tells stories of its past and history. Relax in the garden or settle into the cozy Tea Lounge. Either way, you’ll experience the essence of British tea tradition.
2. Afternoon tea in London at the Goring.
If you take a short stroll from Buckingham Palace, you will come across The Goring, a hotel renowned for its q British elegance and royal connections. The Goring has a history spanning over a century and has long been a favorite spot for afternoon tea. In the summertime, tea is served on the hotel’s veranda, overlooking a private garden that feels like a secluded paradise in the heart of London.
The Goring’s afternoon tea is a luxurious affair. It features an assortment of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delicate pastries. The tea menu is equally impressive, offering a range of fine teas worldwide.
3. Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square.
The Four Seasons at Ten Trinity Square is a must-visit for those who appreciate a blend of history and modern luxury. Located in a landmark building near the Tower of London, this hotel’s Rotunda Bar and Lounge offers a sophisticated setting for afternoon tea. The grand architecture of the Rotunda, with its soaring ceilings and opulent decor, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
4. Themed tea experience at the Ampersand Hotel.
In South Kensington, The Ampersand Hotel is known for its imaginative Science Afternoon Tea, which offers a playful twist on the traditional afternoon tea experience. This quirky tea service provides a variety of themed treats that are as delectable as they are beautiful, such as planet-shaped chocolates, dinosaur biscuits, and test-tube jellies.
In the summer, tea is served in The Drawing Rooms, a bright and airy space that perfectly complements the hotel’s eclectic style. The Ampersand is ideal for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun and sophisticated tea experience. The tea selection includes traditional and exotic blends, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
5. Elegant tea at the Brown’s Hotel.
Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair is one of London’s oldest and most prestigious hotels, with a history that dates back to 1837. The Drawing Room at Brown’s offers the quintessential setting for a traditional afternoon tea, with its elegant wood paneling, plush armchairs, and soothing piano music. During the summer, guests can enjoy their tea in the light-filled room with views of Mayfair’s bustling streets.
Brown’s is renowned for its classic afternoon tea, which includes finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of delicate pastries. The tea menu is extensive, offering everything from classic English Breakfast to rare teas from around the world. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a timeless tea experience.
6. 20s inspired tea at the Claridge’s.
The list of London’s top tea spots would only be complete with mentioning Claridge’s.
Claridge’s is synonymous with timeless British elegance, making it a top choice for those seeking a refined afternoon tea experience in London. Served in the iconic Foyer & Reading Room, the experience includes a carefully curated selection of rare teas from across the world, accompanied by a seasonal menu of hand-crafted pastries and sandwiches.
Claridge’s afternoon tea is a luxurious experience. It offers an array of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries that are simply exquisite. The tea menu is vast, featuring over 30 blends from around the world. Each is carefully selected to complement the seasonal menu. Claridge’s promises a tea experience you will remember for years to come.
7. The Goring – Afternoon Tea with Royal Elegance
Location: Beeston Place, London
If you’re looking for royal-approved afternoon tea, The Goring Hotel is the place to be. As one of the Queen’s favorite hotels, this spot offers a classic British afternoon tea experience with impeccable service and an elegant garden terrace—perfect for summer.
Afternoon Tea Highlights:
Tea Selection: A premium selection of rare teas from across the globe.
Handmade Pastries & Scones: Featuring classic English scones with clotted cream and seasonal fruit jams.
Outdoor Seating: Enjoy tea in their private, lush garden for a serene summer setting.
Reservations: Recommended. Book here
8. Sketch – A Futuristic Afternoon Tea in an Art Gallery Setting
Location: 9 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London
For those who prefer a modern twist on afternoon tea, Sketch in Mayfair delivers an Instagram-worthy experience. Known for its playful pink décor, art installations, and Michelin-starred kitchen, this is one of London’s trendiest tea spots.
Afternoon Tea Highlights:
Unique Setting: Enjoy afternoon tea in the famous pink Gallery Room, designed like a contemporary art exhibit.
Creative Menu: Expect matcha-infused éclairs, delicate truffle sandwiches, and floral-infused teas.
Vegan & Gluten-Free Options: Sketch is known for one of the best plant-based afternoon teas in London.
Reservations: Essential due to high demand. Book here
9. The Berkeley – Fashion-Inspired Prêt-à-Portea Afternoon Tea
Location: Wilton Place, Knightsbridge, London
For a high-fashion take on afternoon tea, The Berkeley’s Prêt-à-Portea is one-of-a-kind. This fashion-themed tea experience reinvents afternoon tea treats inspired by the latest runway collections, making it a must-visit for fashion lovers and foodies alike.
Afternoon Tea Highlights:
Designer-Inspired Treats: Enjoy cakes & pastries shaped like famous fashion pieces (think Prada handbags & Jimmy Choo heels).
Seasonal Menus: The collection changes every six months, making each visit a unique experience.
Chic Ambiance: The luxurious Collins Room offers a stylish, bright, and modern setting for afternoon tea.
Reservations: Highly recommended. Book here
London’s tea culture is integral to the city’s charm. These hotels offer some of the best experiences you can find. Whether you prefer a classic afternoon tea or something with a modern twist, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. This summer, treat yourself to a tea experience in one of London’s most iconic hotels. Immerse yourself in a tradition that has stood the test of time.
Conclusion
London’s afternoon tea scene is both historic and ever-evolving, with venues offering unique seasonal specialties, elegant ambiances, and handcrafted pastries that make every visit a delight.
From traditional tea salons like The Ritz to modern riverside venues like Swan London, each location has something special to offer for summer 2025.
Have you experienced afternoon tea at any of these venues? Do you have a favorite spot in London for tea? Let us know in the comments below, and feel free to share this guide with fellow tea lovers!
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Photo credits: Sterminshotel, thegoring, fslondon, ampersandhotel, browns_hotel, claridgeshotel
FAQ
Earl Grey and English Breakfast Tea are the most famous teas in London. Fortnum & Mason and Twinings are well-known tea brands.
It usually refers to afternoon tea, a British tradition of enjoying tea with sandwiches, scones, and pastries in an elegant setting.
English Breakfast, Earl Grey, and Darjeeling are among the best. Fortnum & Mason, Twinings, and Taylors of Harrogate offer high-quality British teas.
It depends on the venue. Casual afternoon tea spots allow jeans, but high-end places like The Ritz or Claridge’s require smart casual or formal attire.
