Best Christmas Afternoon Teas In London 2024

There is nowhere quite like London at Christmas, and there's nothing as British as sandwiches or scones. First introduced in the 19th century by the Duchess of Bedford, this indulgent afternoon pastime soon caught on, becoming popular with upper-class women in the 1880s. While it may be more of a casual affair today, afternoon tea still feels celebratory, so there's no better time to enjoy these tiered feasts than the festive season.

Nowadays, alongside the traditional pretty cakes and finger food, you can find all sorts of unique, themed treats to enjoy. From luxury sittings with Champagne to quirky winter wonderland selections, we've found some of the best festive afternoon tea in London to try out in 2024 over the holidays.

Best Christmas afternoon tea London 2024

Written by Kiera Chapman.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 18th December 2024




Brigit's Afternoon Tea Ltd

If you're after affordable Christmas afternoon tea on a London bus, then check out Brigit's Afternoon Tea Ltd. Take in the city sights, twinkling in all their glory, as you sip on prosecco and zoom past the likes of Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament and Hyde Park for 90 minutes.

Served on a moving vintage bus (a revamped, iconic 1960s Routemaster), you'll be able to enjoy a selection of delicious savoury and sweet treats - think salmon and cream cheese fillings, Christmas tree cupcakes, mascarpone and fig choux and, of course, scones with fresh clotted cream, all from £45 per person. 

Haxells Restaurant & Bar

Found right in the heart of the city at Strand Palace, just a short walk from Covent Garden, Haxells Restaurant & Bar's tearoom is a lovely little gem. Boasting Art Deco-style interiors and a laid-back atmosphere, it's ideal for nibbling away at an irresistible assortment of sandwiches on a tree-shaped display.

Until the 16th of January, delight in its Snow Palace Afternoon Tea offering, which features themed treats like Artic Reindeer Yule Logs and Raspberry Santa Macarons, as well as a signature cocktail, mocktail or prosecco. To top things off, they're also hosting Snow Palace ballerina performances on the weekends and surprise visits from Santa Claus and his elf.

Biscuiteers Notting Hill

Although Biscuiteers in Notting Hill and Belgravia know a thing or two about pretty afternoon tea all year round, it's even better come Christmastime. You'll have plenty of festive fun in the space all while learning how to decorate your very own masterpieces. 

Its festive offering is available from £48 per person, or £55.50 with a glass of bubbles, and features scrumptious winter finger sandwiches stuffed with turkey and cranberry, patisseries and freshly baked scones, as well as a bespoke blend of Tregothan Tea.

Festive Afternoon Tea At The Milestone Hotel And Residences

@ The Milestone Hotel and Residences on Mon, 18th Nov 2024 - Fri, 3rd Jan 2025

The Milestone Hotel and Residences is presenting some of the best afternoon Christmas tea in London for 2024 - and we're feeling very merry about it. Located conveniently opposite Hyde Park, this gorgeous venue is celebrating the arrival of winter in style with themed treats.

For £90, you can tuck into hazelnut praline and pear choux, caramel apple bavarois and honey-roasted ham and cranberry sandwiches all while admiring the holiday decor. Add on Champagne for an extra £15, and if you're bringing your kids they can dine for £45 each.

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea in the English Grill

@ The English Grill at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel on Mon, 25th Nov 2024 - Sun, 5th Jan 2025

Sleigh the holiday season by treating your loved ones to the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at The English Grill in The Rubens at The Palace Hotel. Specially crafted by executive pastry chef Sarah Houghting, the menu features a delightful array of cakes, pastries, and seasonal flavours that honour the timeless English tradition.

Plus, you'll get to sip on some mulled wine or Champagne while enjoying the soothing sounds of live piano music. From £82 per person, you can enjoy one of the ultimate London Christmas afternoon teas for 2024 in the heart of the city, before venturing off to do your holiday shopping. 

Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea At The Chesterfield Mayfair

@ Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair on Fri, 22nd Nov 2024 - Sun, 5th Jan 2025

Award-winning and located in the heart of the city, The Chesterfield Mayfair is making sure you have a beautifully festive time with its Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea, starting from £75 per person and running until the 5th of January. 

While in luxe surroundings, delve into mouthwatering bites, from cherry and pistachio Battenberg and gingerbread choux buns to Ferrero Rocher macarons and more. You can even add on a glass of Champagne to make your post-midday experience that little bit more luxurious.

Nutcracker Afternoon Tea At The Egerton House Hotel

@ The Egerton House Hotel on Wed, 20th Nov 2024 - Sun, 5th Jan 2025

Get ready to jingle all the way to The Egerton House Hotel's Festive Afternoon Tea this December, a winter wonderland in the heart of Knightsbridge. The hotel entrance is getting a merry makeover with a Victorian shopfront vibe, complete with not one but two dazzling Christmas trees and an exterior decked out with garlands and twinkling lights.

Once inside, treat yourself to a delightful array of Victorian sweets and homemade gingerbread, all for just £48 per person. It's going to be a ho-ho-whole lot of fun.

Vicinity

This winter, Vicinity is bringing us something special with their Alpine Lodge pop-up, running from October to March. You can enjoy views of Tower Bridge and the Thames here, as well as cosy blankets and firepits to keep you warm.

Throughout late November and December, you can also enjoy a festive afternoon tea, available from 12pm to 5pm every day. Tuck into chocolate yule log slices, all-butter scones, roast turkey sandwiches and more, with the option to add on Chapel Down sparkling wine or Lanson Pere Et Fils Champagne.

Festive Afternoon Tea At Lucy Wong

@ Lucy Wong on Saturday 28th December 2024

This year, head to Lucy Wong in Fitzrovia for a festive feast that's a little bit different, as she brings her signature Asian flavours to the classic spread. Every Saturday from 3pm 'til 5pm, you'll be able to enjoy 90 minutes of free-flowing spritz and Suntory cocktails - the ultimate bottomless Christmas afternoon tea in London if you ask us. 

And on the menu? Delicious, dainty bites like mini pork bao buns, coconut pandan mousses and passion fruit pana cottas. Drinks-wise, there are an array of bespoke tipples, including a premium range featuring Sweet Harmony, made with Hibiki whisky and Fortunella orange liqueur. 

Garden Rooftop

In the heart of Charing Cross is Garden Rooftop, a delightful, airy restaurant that offers panoramic views of the city's iconic landmarks like the London Eye. This Christmas, it's offering a festive afternoon tea that's a feast for the eyes and mouth.

Book your spot for £45 per person, or £55 if you fancy adding some Champagne, and look forward to some delicious sweet treats. On the menu? Smoked turkey and cranberry brioche, and spiced apple and almond tarts.

The Perception at W London

Après Tea with with a glass of Black Run cocktail - £67.50 and 3 other offers

The W London are teaming up with their W Verbier counterparts to bring a slice of the Swiss Alps to Leicester Square this winter with their Veuve Clicquot Après Lodge. Expect a crackling fire, as well as slopes-themed afternoon tea called Après Tea. 

Food across this experience includes crisp potato rosti topped with sour cream and smoked ham, beetroot and dill smoked salmon with keta caviar, and pasteries shaped like snowballs, mountains and skis, alongside 'sloping scones'. It's £52.50 per person, £67.50 with a Black Run cocktail or £70.50 with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brut or Rosé.

The Stick Man Experience with Afternoon Tea

@ The Montague on The Gardens Hotel on Wed, 4th Dec 2024 - Sun, 5th Jan 2025

Looking for a Christmas afternoon tea in London for kids? Experience a magical day out with The Stick Man Experience at The Montague on the Gardens. Treat yourself and your family to a delightful afternoon tea inspired by the festive season, with delicious treats and a 10% discount for Stick Man ticket holders.

Whether you're a fan of the play or just looking for a festive indulgence, this event offers the perfect cosy atmosphere for both kids and adults. From £24.50 per child and £70 per adult, this unique experience is one you won't forget.

The Dilly

Dating back to 1908, The Dilly is a top hotel in the Piccadilly area that's home to a fantastic restaurant. The all-glass walls and ceiling fill the gorgeous space with natural light, and you can dine surrounded by luscious greenery. This Christmas, they're offering themed afternoon teas for £49 per adult, and £39 for kids, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free versions available.

Enjoy a wide range of teas from all over the world, or add on Pommery Louis English sparkling wine for £16 extra. The festive feast includes cranberry and turkey sandwiches, hazelnut and salted caramel sweets and a mandarin and cardamom cheesecake - alongside fresh scones of course.

Cutter & Squidge

A cosy cafe in the heart of Soho, Cutter & Squidge is an independent, family-run venue that's all about great afternoon tea in welcoming surrounds. They're offering a festive afternoon tea for £42.50 per person this year, with the option to add on prosecco or mulled wine for £6.50 extra.

Indulge in three classic finger sandwiches, warm scones served with jam and clotted cream, Christmas-themed cakes and mince pies, with a pot of freshly blended tea or coffee.

Christmas at InterContinental London - The O2

Intercontinental London at The O2 is going all-out with its festive celebrations this year - including a Christmas twist on their signature Indian-inspired afternoon tea. Available throughout December, you can enjoy a classic spread for £55, with a Champagne option for £70.

Tuck into everything from roasted turkey breast with cranberry to battered fried milk bread pakora and brie with cinnamon chutney - alongside all kinds of desserts and a wide range of teas.

Dalloway Terrace

After a Christmas afternoon tea in Covent Garden? Littered across Instagram feeds everywhere, Dalloway Terrace is one of London's prettiest spots. Their heated outdoor area, known for its fluffy blankets and fairy-lit foliage is the perfect place to sample their contemporary afternoon tea menu alfresco style.

From £75 per person, you can tuck into hazelnut, coffee and caramel opera cake, New York cheesecake with Papua New Guinea vanilla, mince pies and grilled cheese sandwiches, accompanied by a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Champagne.

Hotel Café Royal

Hotel Café Royal is a fantastic choice for luxury Christmas afternoon tea in London in 2024. Venture over to the five-star hotel on Regent Street to soak up opulent surroundings in its historic Grill Room or Domino Room, marvel at the golden interiors and enjoy relaxing piano tunes all while tucking into an incredibly aesthetic spread. 

Made by pastry chef Maxence Blondelle, the festive instalment will be available until the 3rd of January and features Norfolk bronze turkey sandwiches, winter cherry cake, prune and Cognac bavaroise tartlet and over 20 types of tea. Feeling extra festive? Add a glass of Champagne for a little extra yuletide spirit. 

The Ritz London

When it comes to festive frolics, you can't beat The Ritz London Christmas afternoon tea. This iconic hotel is probably one of the most famous dining destinations in the world, boasting five stars to its name and a history that dates back to 1906. This year, treat yourself from £115 each to an upmarket experience in The Palm Court, surrounded by opulent decor and a towering tree.

You'll be treated to pastries, mince pies and more, with the choice of 20 delicious loose-leaf teas. Elevate your experience with a glass of Champagne, and if you visit on the 25th, you'll receive a special visit from Father Christmas himself. As for carols? There's a choir singing those too.

The Savoy

Fancy adding a dash of holiday cheer to your afternoon tea experience at The Savoy? During the festive season, their patisserie is twinkling with extra magic, featuring delightful treats that celebrate the traditional holiday spirit.

Indulge in a selection of scrumptious finger sandwiches, including coronation chicken and smoked salmon, alongside featherlight scones, French pastries and a variety of exquisite teas handpicked by their expert team. And don't forget to save room for sweet, festive-themed delights like lemon drizzle cake and banana bread.

Claridge's Festive Afternoon Tea

The best afternoon tea in London this Christmas has got to be at the famous Claridge's in Mayfair. Founded in 1812, the stunning, Art Deco-inspired hotel is continuing the British ritual with a signature twist to be enjoyed in The Foyer and Reading Room. 

Expect sweet and savoury bites made with fresh ingredients like Scottish smoked salmon, and pastries filled with seasonal fruits. Secure your place from £115 per person and look forward to indulging in black forest Christmas trees, festive choux with orange marmalade and spiced cream, and white chocolate and cranberry baubles.

Sketch

From the 13th of November to the 6th of January 2025, Sketch wishes everyone a sweet Christmas and a scrumptious New Year with its festive afternoon tea, taking place in The Gallery, Gastro Brasserie Luxe. Indulge in miniature chocolate yule logs, Battenbergs decorated like presents and fresh fruity scones - the venue can also deliver the delicious spread to you in the comfort of your own home, wrapped up in a pink jewellery box. 

The restaurant's theme for winter centres around delightful seasonal confections, with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger. Its exhibition will also feature the Sugar Plum Fairy from 'The Nutcracker' and a nod to the poem 'T'was The Night Before Christmas'.

Palm Court At The Langham

One of the city's top hotels for dining, The Langham is home to elegant restaurant Palm Court. This decadent space features comfortable armchair-style seating and lots of natural light, ideal for a fancy festive afternoon tea. Their offering will set you back £115 including Champagne, with a children's option for £55.

There are vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus available alongside the meat option - all complete with seasonal treats such as roast Norfolk turkey or celeriac and truffle sandwiches, tonka bean and orange-infused shortbread and crunchy almond sable.

The Landmark London

Gorgeous hotel The Landmark London, designed by Sir Edward Watkin and dating back to 1899, is a pretty sophisticated spot for celebrations this yuletide season. Their Winter Garden Restaurant is whipping up a delicious festive afternoon tea from £92 per person, complete with either Lallier R.019 or Taittinger Rosé Champagne.

As for the food, expect the likes of coronation chicken or egg mayonnaise with black truffle sandwiches, alongside apple and cinnamon scones, Christmas pudding, pistachio yule log and more.

One Aldwych

Inspired by the iconic Roald Dahl story, One Aldwych is offering a fantastic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed afternoon tea. expect a magical experience for kids and adults alike, with vegan and vegetarian menus available as well as the classic.

Expect savoury snacks like turkey, chestnut and cranberry sandwiches, as well as beetroot macarons, fizzy lifting lemonade posset, hair toffee mousse and more. This costs £95 per person, including Champagne or a cocktail.

The Tiffany Blue Box Café

If you're looking for a Harrods Christmas afternoon tea, The Tiffany Blue Box Café is waiting for you. This elegant venue features Tiffany jewels, amazonite stone features, and hand-crafted Tiffany motifs, as well as a luxurious blue colour scheme.

Their afternoon teas start from £72 per person, featuring butter roast turkey sandwiches, New York red velvet cake, chocolate praline and hand-picked loose-leaf tea.

Bingham Riverhouse

Venture out to Richmond to discover Bingham Riverhouse, a stunning hotel and restaurant that comes with cosy garden igloos to dine in - as well as their elegant indoor spaces that provide brilliant views of the Thames.

You can enjoy their festive afternoon tea for as little as £39 per person, or a boozy option for £55. Think turkey or gammon sandwiches, alongside spiced berry jam scones, mini mince pies and s'mores chocolate brownies.