A long-standing British custom, the afternoon tea ritual has a wonderful history. Opulent hotels and country tea houses throughout the land serve the tradition, which entails dainty finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and scrumptious patisserie, all paired with a piping hot cuppa. Be it a retro tea with a vintage twist, or a modern re-working of an institution, afternoon teas don't get much better than this. We take a look at where to get the finest afternoon tea in the UK.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms, Harrogate and York, England
Around the globe, gourmets frequently flock there from miles away and, of course, in large lines stretching the length of the street – for a bite of the sublime, meticulously crafted finger sandwiches, exquisite cakes, and selected loose-leaf teas that Bettys offers. For afternoon tea is an institution there, refined as a fine art at the iconic Yorkshire tearoom that Swiss confectioner, Frederick Belmont, founded way back in 1919. Although the brand has since developed into a miniature chain with five premises – only Bettys' historic stores in Harrogate and York now serve afternoon tea.
Bettys Café Tea Rooms, Harrogate and York, England
Betty’s afternoon tea: Bettys is an establishment that still adheres to all the good things from the past – a traditional decor, and more importantly, absolutely flawless bakes. Sit back and listen to the pianist while gorging yourself on all things good to eat, such as this tiny sweet pea and shallotclair, strawberry and cream macaroons and a selection of Yorkshire salami and mozzarella and other delicious sandwiches I had on a previous visit. Rest assured that you’ll walk away more than satisfied, as lovely Betty’s waitresses are not at all shy of giving you another tea pot and couple of sandwiches for free! Definitely take away one of the fat rascals (which the cafe is famous for – a really fat, fruit scone!) to savour later, I’m pretty sure they won’t judge you if you eat it all immediately.
The Ritz, Mayfair, London, England
Offering what’s arguably the most famous afternoon tea in the UK – and arguably anywhere – the legendary Ritz does not disappoint. You’ll enjoy your cuppa in the lavish Palm Court – complete with gilded mirrors, dramatic chandeliers and a beautiful glass ceiling – while a pianist (or the house harpist) accompanies your spread. Enjoy the classic sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a selection of delectable patisseries, but expect the finer Ritz touch in every delicate detail.
The Cottage in the Wood, Malvern, Worcestershire, England
Certainly, an afternoon tea tastes even more enjoyable (and becomes even more so) with a refreshing country walk, and having an outstanding route just outside The Cottage in the Wood will surely make your treat taste that bit sweeter. The Cottage is ideally situated with access to paths to The Malvern Hills right outside, and reaching the summit only takes 15 minutes. Sweeping valley views are plentiful from the peak, but the tower of indulgence that you’ll enjoy afterwards on your return will top it off nicely. Either enjoy it in The Cottage in the Wood’s 1919 Restaurant with its fantastic window view overlooking rolling greens or opt to sit on The Cottage in the Wood terrace also overlooking the Severn Valley.
St. Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster, London, England
In the heart of the city, within walking distance of attractions such as the Houses of Parliament and Buckingham Palace, St Ermin's Hotel is the ideal antidote to London's ceaseless energy. This beautiful four-star hotel, full of historic character, certainly makes a statement with its beautiful Tea Lounge. Ascend the ornate steps up to the mezzanine floor and marvel at the delicate Rococo plasterwork – it could have been pulled straight from the pages of a Jane Austen novel – before indulging in an authentic British afternoon tea.
St. Ermin’s Hotel, Westminster, London, England
Guests can enjoy an elegantly layered assortment of sweet and savoury goodies, each drawing inspiration from fresh, seasonal produce from the hotel’s very own kitchen garden on the roof. Indulge in a selection of plump, finger sandwiches featuring a decadent range including roast honey gammon, and smoked salmon and truffle egg mayo. Homemade scones (fresh out of the oven) accompany a generous dollop of thick, clotted cream and a selection of tangy fruits. Sweet indulgence takes a variety of forms including creamy matcha cheesecakes and delectable banana tartlets. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and children's options are all available on request.
The Running Fox, various locations
There’s no messing about when it comes to the afternoon teas at The Running Fox and that’s just the way the many followers of this bakery like it. Indulge in generous slices of cake made from scratch that day, massive scones layered with clotted cream, and sandwiches jam-packed with whichever fillings you desire. From breakfast and lunch to an all-day tea, the team behind The Running Fox has four sites dotted across Northumberland including Longhoughton, Shilbottle, Felton and Longframlington.
FAQ's
1. Which venue is widely considered the ultimate classic afternoon tea in Britain?
The Ritz London (specifically held in its gilded Palm Court) remains the world’s most iconic venue for traditional afternoon tea. With strict dress codes, white-glove service, a dedicated Tea Sommelier, and live harp or piano music, it is the benchmark for grand British tradition.
2. What is the best afternoon tea outside of London?
Palm Court at The Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh, Scotland. Set under a venetian glass dome, it won Best Traditional Afternoon Tea in the UK at the 2026 Afternoon Tea Awards, praised for its Scottish-inspired menu, 80+ loose-leaf teas, and exceptional service. Another historic favorite is Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms in Harrogate, Yorkshire, famous since 1919.
3. Which spot offers the best experience for true tea connoisseurs?
The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason in London. As royal grocers since 1707, Fortnum’s offers table-side tea tastings guided by expert "Tearistas", an unmatched selection of rare single-origin brews, and flexible options including savory-only menus.
4. What is the most famous high-end luxury hotel afternoon tea?
Claridge’s in Mayfair, London. Renowned for its timeless Art Deco glamour, Claridge’s serves pristine finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and bespoke loose-leaf teas on signature jade-and-white striped bone china.
5. Where can you find the best creative or fashion-forward afternoon tea?
Prêt-à-Portea at The Berkeley in London. Famous for turning couture fashion trends into edible pastries, its menus change seasonally to mirror runway designs from designers like Prada, Dior, and Balenciaga.
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