Afternoon tea is a quintessential part of British culture – we even have a National Afternoon tea week to honour this daily tradition.
But sometimes, enjoying luscious cake and scones alongside tea in ornate settings doesn’t always fit the occasion. Furthermore, afternoon tea could use a fresh take to revitalise it from time to time.
This is why many have tried more whimsical ways to enjoy afternoon tea. From spooky basements that look like something out of Harry Potter’s magical world of witchcraft to therapeutic plant-filled garden tea houses, there are endless creative spins on this activity.
2Chill has come up with a list of themed afternoon teas that offer a fun twist on one of our favourite British traditions.
Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel
Taking its creation from the nearby neighbour in South Kensington, the Science Museum, The Ampersand has continued to impress curious guests with jams served in petri dishes, chocolate spacemen and dinosaur biscuits.
Deep sofas and studded armchairs in scarlet velvets and kingfisher blues sing a relaxing afternoon tea experience more than anything else.
From £54.50pp
London Landmarks Afternoon Tea at Town House Kensington
Nestled in buzzing Kensington, the Town House has made the most out of its desirable location by taking inspiration from the city’s most famous landmarks.
With a dainty porcelain cup matching a turquoise London Eye-shaped tray – punctuated by the capital’s most recognisable landmark sweets, such as the red telephone booth cake, Big Ben pasty and The Shard chocolate – London Landmarks Afternoon Tea at Town House Kensington makes for a unique afternoon tea experience.
From £42pp
Afternoon Tea and Alpaca Walk at Charnwood Forest Alpacas
Why not go for a walk with adorable alpacas in the fresh countryside air before enjoying your refreshments? Located in serene farmland near Ashby-de-la-Zouch, North West Leicestershire, Charnwood Forest Alpacas is the perfect setting for a family day out.
Indulge in freshly baked scones and open sandwiches with your favourite cup of tea or coffee.
From £49pp
Ready-to-Wear at The Berkeley
Inspired by the runway successes of the fashion world, this much sought-after Afternoon Tea at The Berkeley Hotel has undoubtedly become fashionistas’ favourite.
From Dolce & Gabbana patisserie accessories to a Victoria Sponge Valentino bag, the menu changes seasonally to catch up with new trends. What’s on now? Donatella Versace’s ocean-themed cocktail dress has been reimagined as a coconut dacquoise and mango confit, encased with exotic fruit mousse and topped with a sugar starfish.
From £60pp
Kusama-inspired Afternoon Tea at Rosewood London
Served in the exquisitely designed and intimate Mirror Room, this inventive afternoon tea at Rosewood London is inspired by Yayoi Kusama’s latest exhibition at the Tate Modern: ‘Infinity Mirror Rooms’.
Created by the renowned pastry chef Mark Perkins, this contemporary makeover of Britons’ favourite tradition invites guests to immerse in London’s vibrant and energetic art scene.
From £65pp
Plant-Based High Tea at Farmacy
This vegan-friendly spot offers one-of-a-kind delicacies ranging from gluten-free charcoal bread to CBD-infused homemade chocolates. Guests can easily spend a few hours in this sun-drenched spot one afternoon over a selection of savoury treats and pots of hemp-leaf tea.
From £50pp
Afternoon Tea Bus Tour at Brigit’s Bakery
What better way to immerse yourself in the British capital’s culture, landmarks and history than hopping on a bus tour while sipping on a lovely cup of tea? Brigit’s Bakery offers an assortment of freshly prepared savouries – think pastrami with a slice of gherkin burger, tomato muffin and pretzel with chives, cream cheese and fresh salmon – and a selection of homemade tarts.
When London meets Paris with this modern boutique bakery, you know it has all the ingredients for a perfect afternoon tea experience.
From £45pp
Wizard Afternoon Tea at Georgian House Hotel
Carefully designed to conjure a mysterious and imaginative feel, this spooky afternoon tea at Georgian House Hotel intrigues kids and adults alike. Upon entering the hotel, smartly dressed staff will lead you to a basement, allowing curious guests to venture to castles brimming with furniture, intricate details, and of course, a delicate array of mouth-watering treats.
Think open salmon sandwiches served from a smoking box, eye of newt scones, self-made bubbling potion cocktail and golden chocolate wizard hats. And best of all? The hotel serves complimentary robes and slippers for a truly magical experience.
From £33pp
Afternoon Tea Cruise at City Cruises
When only a classic option will do, afternoon tea with City Cruises London – where guests are offered delectable cakes and pastries while cruising along the Thames – is a great option.
All aboard for a selection of delicious sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and unlimited tea and coffee or soft drinks for kids. And if the mood takes you, perhaps a glass of something bubbly.
From £34pp
High Chai at The LaLIT
Steeped in Indian tradition, afternoon tea at the LaLit is markedly different from anywhere else in London. The tearoom boasts an extensive collection of world teas, from Formosa Oolong, White Apricot to Indian Masala Chai.
Replace finger sandwiches with paneer kathi rolls, quail’s scotch eggs with black mustard seeds and samosas, and enjoy a view of the glorious Great Hall.
From £47pp
Japanese-inspired Afternoon Tea at Karma Sanctum Soho
If you’ve still got Olympics fever, why not choose a twist on British traditional afternoon tea and indulge in Japanese-inspired delights at the Karma Sanctum Soho Hotel?
If you want to trade cucumber sandwiches for mini platters of Aged Wagyu Beef Sliders or Salmon Tartar with wasabi, coriander and mint, this is a perfect place to go.
From £40pp