The British tradition of afternoon tea is a must while in London, and Mayfair is the perfect place to enjoy it. I’ve spent many years tasting the top teas in this upscale area, and now I want to tell you about the ones that stand out above the rest. From classic numbers to elegant affairs, there’s something to please every palate. Read on for my top picks for the best afternoon teas in Mayfair. I’ve included an interactive map of where you can find them, too.
Best Afternoon Tea in Mayfair
Afternoon tea has a long history. The practice dates back to the 19th century, when Anna, 7th Duchess of Bedford, brought her friends together for tea and cake. Her initial gathering sparked a trend that eventually became a delicious tradition in the UK.
Today hotels, restaurants, and cafes across London go all-out for it, even vying for prestigious awards for the best afternoon tea in the city. The ones in Mayfair are no exception.
From classic tea services to whimsical ones, places in the neighborhood put substantial time and resources into creating stand-out tea experiences. Visitors and locals alike get to benefit from their efforts. I’m no exception, and I hope my list inspires you to try some of them.
If you need to work off a few calories afterwards (and you probably will), you can go on my free self-guided walk in the area. It will show you the leafy squares and hidden mews locals love in this part of the city center.
If you want more inspiration, you can take a look at my London tea itinerary and my free self-guided London food tour, which includes afternoon tea. I’ve also written a blog post about the best afternoon teas in London if you’d like additional ideas.
And if you want to do it all the proper way, my guide to afternoon tea etiquette and my post about the British tea culture are must-reads.
1. Sketch
If you’ve ever set foot inside Sketch, you’ll know why I’ve put it at the top of my list of the best afternoon teas in Mayfair. Not only is The Gallery one of the most awe-inspiring rooms in London, but this famous restaurant also offers delicious food and exquisite pastries that live up to expectations.
Entering this Mayfair institution is like being whisked off to Candyland. The banquettes resemble icing and the chairs are redolent of puff pastries. I’ll never forget my afternoon tea experience here. I felt like I was in a grown-up fairy tale.
While you’re having tea at Sketch, don’t miss the opportunity to pop across the hall to see the stunning Glade room. Oh, and the loos are worth a special trip. They’re like nothing you’ve ever seen.
2. The Dorchester
Right by Hyde Park, The Dorchester offers another of my favorite afternoon teas in Mayfair. This iconic hotel is one of the most famous places to stay in London, and it has one of the top tea offerings as well.
Afternoon tea at The Dorchester is an unforgettable treat for the senses. The Promenade features Corinthian columns, plush chairs, and classic decor. The food and service are top notch, and it all makes for an unparalleled experience.
If you want to learn more, you can take a look at my Dorchester afternoon tea review for additional information, photos, and details.
3. Brown’s Hotel
Next on my list of the best afternoon teas in Mayfair is Brown’s Hotel. This luxurious place is known for its traditional English tea experience. It’s even said that Queen Victoria came here to try it.
Having afternoon tea in The Drawing Room at Brown’s is an incredibly enjoyable way to spend a couple hours. From the classic wood-paneled tearoom to the live piano music and beautiful pastries, it’s easy to fall in love with this one.
If you want to see more, you can check out my review of Brown’s afternoon tea in London. It will show you all the details, from the sandwiches to the atmosphere and service.
4. Claridge’s
Claridge’s is next on my list of the area’s top afternoon teas. This landmark five-star hotel is adept at blending timeless elegance with modern flourishes.
Afternoon tea at Claridge’s is a delight to partake in. The menu offers a range of finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam and Cornish clotted cream, and pastries. It’s all served on pretty trays, too.
If you want to know more, you can read my review of Claridge’s afternoon tea. It has additional details and photos of my experience here.
5. InterContinental Park Lane
Right by Hyde Park Corner, the InterContinental Park Lane serves another of Mayfair’s best teas. This place offers “traditional afternoon tea with a modern twist for an experience fit for royalty.”
The service takes place in the Wellington Lounge, which is on the site of Queen Elizabeth II’s childhood home. The room has views of Wellington Arch, and guests can enjoy afternoon tea in a peaceful atmosphere.
Better yet, there’s live music Friday through Sunday. If you can time your trip to coincide with it, you’ll get to be serenaded as you sip and savor.
Map of Afternoon Teas
As promised, I created an interactive Google map of all the places on my list of the best afternoon teas in this part of London. You can see it here. It will give you an idea of where they are in relation to one another so you can choose the right option for you.
Mayfair Afternoon Tea
I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of the best afternoon teas in Mayfair, and that it’s inspired you to try one (or all!) of them. Whatever you do, I’m sure you’ll love the blend of tradition and deliciousness these spots offer. If you found this post helpful, buy me a coffee!
New here? Join thousands of others and subscribe to the A Lady in London blog via email.
Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a small commission when you click on them and make a purchase. It doesn’t affect the way you shop, and it’s a great way to support the A Lady in London blog.
Pin it!
