Afternoon tea - in the spotlight

Ideas and inspiration

Afternoon tea special offers

The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
DEAL

Afternoon Tea on the Terrace

The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
Taplow House Hotel, Berry Hill, Taplow, Buckinghamshire, SL6 0DA
££££
Modern European,British
The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
DEAL

Champagne Afternoon Tea

The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
Taplow House Hotel, Berry Hill, Taplow, Buckinghamshire, SL6 0DA
££££
Modern European,British
The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
DEAL

Taplow Traditional Afternoon Tea

The Restaurant at Taplow House Hotel
Taplow House Hotel, Berry Hill, Taplow, Buckinghamshire, SL6 0DA
££££
Modern European,British
Indus Restaurant at Park Regis Birmingham
DEAL

Children's Afternoon Tea

Indus Restaurant at Park Regis Birmingham
Park Regis Birmingham, 160 Broad Street, Birmingham , West Midlands, B15 1DT
££££
Indian

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Choosing your experience

Afternoon tea is the perfect way to celebrate something special. Whether you are looking to mark a special day or spoil a loved one, booking an afternoon tea is the ideal way to do something memorable. Explore your options, from traditional teas in 5-star hotels to quirky or themed options for an experience that is completely unforgettable.

Champagne afternoon tea

Add Champagne

Take the traditional experience up a level by adding in Champagne. Many of the UK’s best hotels offer a Champagne option when booking, it’s the perfect choice if you are looking for something fun and elegant that feels extra special. We can’t think of anything more indulgent than an afternoon of Champagne, sweet pastries and scones with clotted cream and jam.

Make it themed

You will find a whole host of themed afternoon teas available across the UK. Some of the most popular are those inspired by our favourite literary characters, from Harry Potter to Peter Pan. If it’s a fun celebration such as a hen party then you might prefer something like a Mean Girls themed tea. Or if you’re playing tourist for the day then you can try an occasion inspired by London’s landmarks.

Try Aqua Shard in Southwark.

Themed afternoon tea
Alternative gin afternoon tea

Alternative options

Not a fan of tea and cake? No problem. Try an alternative to the traditional choice of tea, scones and sandwiches, there are plenty available. If you prefer to add an extra kick to your afternoon then try gin or Champagne options. Alternatively, you can find everything from savoury "gentleman’s teas" to chicken wing teas (yes really!), so there really is no limit.

Try Mr Fogg's Gin Parlour in Covent Garden.

What is afternoon tea?

It’s a meal that is enjoyed in the mid afternoon. It traditionally consists of tea, sandwiches cut into fingers, scones with clotted cream and jam, along with assorted sweet pastries and cakes. However, you will find plenty of variations if the traditional tea is not for you.


What time is afternoon tea?

It is traditionally served at 4pm. If you are booking a tea at a restaurant or a hotel then you can typically book between 2pm-5pm, however this varies from restaurant to restaurant so you might want to check ahead of booking.


How much does afternoon tea cost?

Costs can really vary and of course will be more expensive if you upgrade to things like Champagne options. Typically prices can start from £15pp, right up to £150pp for the most extravagant choices.


What do you wear to afternoon tea?

Traditionally, it’s a smart but casual occasion and most restaurants will have a ‘smart-casual’ dress code, so smart jeans, trousers, skirts or dresses would all be suitable. This can vary from venue to venue and some hotels have a more formal dress code. If you are unsure, ask the restaurant at the time of booking if there is a dress code and they will be able to advise.


What is high tea?

Similar to an afternoon tea, high tea is a little more substantial, with savoury options included. It was traditionally served when workers arrived home, so it is served a little later, from 5pm.


What is cream tea?

Originating from the West Country, traditional cream tea is English breakfast tea served with scones, clotted cream and jam. We make no comment on whether it’s jam or cream first!