The best private dining rooms in London for afternoon tea

The Westin serves a wellbeing-inspired afternoon tea, for those who like the idea of enjoying their cake with a more mindful approch. It's traditionally served at Mosaic, an open restaurant with city views, but speak to the team about hiring any of its private rooms - there are plenty!

The Palace Tea Parlour does what it says on the tin! Host the most elegant of afternoon tea celebrations in this private room, with space for up to 45 seated guests. The tearoom is decorated in swathes of red and gold that are sure to give your celebration the majesty it deserves.

This Georgian townhouse in St James's can cater to any occasion, from 16 to 200 guests. All the rooms on the ground and first floors boast stunning period details - take a look at the Reading Room and Library for a cosy affair. 

Ochre is the principal restaurant in the National Gallery and the decor lives up to its name. Painted in soothing tones of ochre yellow, it offers an uplifting backdrop to a celebration. The private dining room can seat 19 around a large circular table, while the afternoon tea menu changes with the seasons and is often inspired by an iconic piece of art.

The award-winning afternoon tea at The Stafford London features mouthwatering treats like truffled egg brioche buns and hazelnut chocolate macarons. Group bookings of 6-26 can be accommodated in the restaurant and lounge, or make it a secluded affair in one of its cosy private rooms.

From the moody Den to the light-filled Back Room, St Martins Lane Hotel's private rooms suit a wealth of styles. The Tea & Tales Afternoon Tea menu offers a playful twist on tradition, from a Flower Pot yuzu cheesecake to a Cricket Ball of lychee, cherry, and coconut.

The Library at this charming Bloomsbury hotel offers a warm and cosy setting to enjoy afternoon tea with loved ones. It only holds six people, perfect for intimate occasions, and serves a 'Mr Ma’s Afternoon Tea' menu inspired by some of the hotel's key literary connections.  

This luxurious affair deserves a room to suit, and the Rubens at the Palace is bursting with elegant spaces. For afternoon tea, opt for the Palace Lounge, which boasts panoramic views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace. Menus are classic and decadent, created by executive pastry chef Sarah Houghting from Bake Off: The Professionals.

This quintessentially British hotel serves as a fitting backdrop to an elegant afternoon tea. Choose from six private spaces to enjoy its Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea: Butler's Restaurant, The Conservatory, Library, Queen Suite, Charles Suite or Royal Suite. Catering for 20-100 guests, The Chesterfield is one of the most flexible venues in this list.

Looking to add a touch of glam to this traditional pastime? L’oscar certainly dials up the glitz and glamour. This Grade II listed former church is dressed in rich purples, gold accents and warm wooden flourishes throughout each space. Choose the Library or Committee Room for an afternoon tea like no other.

Royal Lancaster's afternoon tea is a feast for the senses, offering a floral-inspired twist on the affair in partnership with the Natural History Museum. For birthdays and anniversaries, the team can organise special menus and table cards free of charge.

Swan London’s seasonal menus and superior location overlooking the river makes it one of our top choices for private dining in London. Choose from the elegant Bull Room for a space with views of Shakespeare’s Globe and the Thames while you feast on dainty sandwiches and cakes.

Fancy afternoon tea on your very own private bus? Bustronome is unlike any other private space on this list - a fine dining restaurant on a double decker bus that tours around London's major landmarks. Cool, right? Book its signature afternoon tea experience for your next event.