Afternoon Tea
The quintessential British ritual — scones, finger sandwiches and tea on tiered stands, at its most characterful in a handful of landmark rooms.
The call
Worth it if you only have one day and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is Afternoon Tea worth it?
Afternoon Tea deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
Skip the abstract 'have an afternoon tea' and pick a room with a real character: the Palm Court at The Ritz is full-dress, gilded, piano-and-tiara theatre (jacket and tie, no trainers), while Fortnum's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is grand but a touch more relaxed.
- 02
It's an occasion, not sightseeing — lovely, expensive, and it won't fill a day.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep Afternoon Tea.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, Afternoon Tea is an easy yes.
You want the trip to feel easy
Afternoon Tea rewards a trip built around relaxation.
Food is a reason to travel
Afternoon Tea rewards a trip built around food & drink.
Think twice if
Plan it well
- Cost
- £40–£90+
- Timing
- Mid-afternoon; reserve well ahead for the landmark hotels.
- Booking
- Book weeks ahead at iconic venues; note smart dress codes (jackets, no trainers).
- Allow
- 1.5–2 hrs
- Accessibility
- The major hotels are generally accessible; confirm step-free routes when booking.
- Getting there
- Green Park or Piccadilly Circus Tube for the Mayfair and St James's grand venues.