Afternoon tea has its roots in 19^th-century England, offering echelons of the English upper class a moment to enjoy each other’s company while sipping tea and nibbling finger sandwiches. The ritual quickly garnered popularity, and has become a favourite tradition among locals and overseas visitors alike.

In honour of this beloved custom, there is now an annual Afternoon Tea Week – falling on 7-13 August in 2023. To mark the occasion, Brummell has curated a list of some of the best Afternoon Teas the capital has to offer. And while you don’t need an occasion to enjoy a glass of bubbly or a dainty patisserie treat, why not book a table and join in the celebration in style?

The Delaunay  

Fresh to the afternoon tea scene, The Delaunay is honouring the traditional afternoon tea with a delicious classic menu. Legendary pastry chef Regis Negrier creates finger sandwiches designed to please the British palate, handmade pastries inspired by his extensive experience in French boulangeries, and (of course) just-baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, all presented on a regal three-tier stand. Fully sated, sip on a warm cup of tea, chosen from a wide array of different blends, or enjoy a glass of Pommery Brut Royal NV to celebrate the weekend in style.

From £34.50 per person, served Saturday and Sunday, 3-5pm; thedelaunay.com/afternoon-tea

The Langham

When The Langham opened in London in 1865, legend has it that it became the first hotel in the world to serve afternoon tea. A claim much made among the London greats, we shan’t comment on the lore, but what we will back up is the exquisite spread served by culinary legend Michel Roux Jr. Dainty sandwiches of coronation chicken (Roux’s favourite), classic cucumber and gentleman’s relish are inspired by the Victorian tradition, while jewel-like patisserie such as a lychee and rose-infused baba and an almond madeleine, topped with mascarpone and orange blossom cream, are presented on bespoke chinaware by British designer William Edwards. The smell of freshly baked signature scones tempts even the most satiated, before a showstopping finale of a sharing seasonal trifle is offered tableside. Though diners will cheers a glass of Taittinger champagne, this afternoon tea isn’t just for the adults; The Langham has created a miniature version for children, where bite-sized sweet treats resemble Victorian-era toys.

From £85 per adult and £50 per child, served Wednesday to Sunday, 12.30-5pm; book here

Obicà 

Since its first location opened in Rome in 2004, Obicà has been known for its mastery of Italian fare. Today, Obicà celebrates Afternoon Tea Week by treating lovers of Italian cuisine to a unique twist on afternoon tea. Inspired by authentic British and Italian recipes and produce, the menu includes delightful savoury bites of bruschetta, arancini and fried mozzarella – swapping out scones for tiramisu and torta caprese. Round off this quintessential Italian spread with a choice between tea, coffee, cocktails or a glass of prosecco.

From £45 per person, 7-13 August 2023, 2-5pm. Available at all Obicà sites across London; obica.com

Sofitel London St James

Head to Sofitel St James for a French twist on a traditional English tea, and enjoy finger sandwiches, quiches and vol-au-vents before dipping into the delectable cake selection in the Rose Lounge. For Afternoon Tea Week, enjoy a complimentary glass of Charles Heidsieck champagne, plus the poetic sounds of a Royal Academy of Music flautist on 12 August, and a violinist on the 13^th – the perfect soundtrack to this relaxing-yet-refined experience.

From £70 per person, 7-13 August 2023, 12-5pm; sofitelstjames.com. Book here.

Stafford London in St James’s

Michelin-starred chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, and Stafford’s head pastry chef, Magdalena Velczenbach, have put their heads together to create a jaw-dropping afternoon tea menu. Finger sandwiches and sweet and savoury scones nod towards a traditional British afternoon tea, but it’s the selection of sweet treats that makes this menu so special. Presented on a bespoke trolley, the seasonal cakes and pastries will leave you spoilt for choice. Take your pick of five of the options, but make sure to leave room for the show-stopping signature Earl Grey and honey layer cake.

From £70 per person, from 31 July 2023, 12-5.30pm; thestaffordlondon.com

Afternoon Tea with Neal’s Yard Remedies at Dalloway Terrace

Tea takes centre stage at Dalloway Terrace. Accompanying its deliciously traditional afternoon tea menu is Neal’s Yard Remedies’ pop-up tea trolley. Wash down a scone or two with a choice of four restorative blends designed for your health and wellbeing. Dalloway Terrace’s tea sommelier will also talk you through the organic herbs on offer, so you can curate your own perfect blend.

From £45 per person, 7-13 August 2023, 1-4pm; dallowayterrace.com. Book here.

Covent Garden Crescendo Afternoon Tea at Middle Eight

Afternoon tea is done right at Middle Eight. Located in the heart of theatreland, Middle Eight adds a musical twist to the English tradition. Enjoy the symphony of finger sandwiches, sausage rolls and scones before exploring the delectable patisserie selection. Named to relate to music, the Treble Clef Treat and Blood Orange Opera are delicately decorated to coincide with the theme. Furthermore, Middle Eight is offering 25 per cent off throughout August – music to our ears!

From £41.45 per person, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-31 August 2023, 1-5pm; middleeight.com

High Tea at Angelo Musa

High tea at Angelo Musa provides the perfect menu for those with a sweet tooth. Nestled among the luxurious fashions of Harrods’ fourth floor, the eatery plays host to patisserie masterpieces and other French bites – both sweet and savoury. Plus, enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne to honour Afternoon Tea Week.

£75 per person, Monday-Thursday, 1-31 August 2023, 12-9pm 2023; harrods.com/angelo-musa

A Tribute To Nature at The Carlton Tower Jumeirah

This afternoon tea menu was created by acclaimed pastry chef Jessica Préalpato, in admiration for British botanicals. Rooted in the concept of “desseralité” – a style created exclusively by Préalpato – all the ingredients are locally sourced to give you a well-rounded appreciation of the region and, in particular, nearby Kew Gardens. Enjoy 25 per cent off the menu for Afternoon Tea Week.

From £56.25 per person, 7-13 August 2023, 12-5pm; jumeirah.com

Masala High Chai at Masala Zone

Visit Masala Zone’s newest location in the beautiful Criterion Restaurant building for a fiery twist to a traditional afternoon tea. Drawing inspiration from several Indian regions, Masala Zone offers mouth-watering authentic monsoon snacks of bhajias, pakoras, and lamb sliders. Finger sandwiches are reimagined with punchy Bombay herbs and spices, while scones are replaced by an assortment of traditional Indian treats. However, the restaurant’s signature masala chai is the real showstopper. Served from colourful, handpainted Indian teapots, become immersed in Indian culture this Afternoon Tea Week. 

From £32 per person, available from 7 August 2023, 3-5.30pm; masalazone.com