Enjoy afternoon teas with a very merry twist and experience this season's best in central London. Escape the bustle of everyday life as you sip tea (or champagne) and reconnect with loved ones. Pick from our favourite festive afternoon teas for a unique Christmas present and way to wind down 2022.
1. The Langham
Go on a musical journey with The Langham's “A Christmas Carol-themed” afternoon tea. Prepare for a truly magical musical experience set to the soothing soundtrack of the hotel's piano. Come hungry and work your way through its indulgent collection of sandwiches, scrumptious scones, seasonal cakes and delicious patisserie in the elegant settings of Palm Court.
Tuck in for £90 per person or from £100 accompanied by a glass of Champagne.
An afternoon tea in the extravagant surrounds of the Grade II listed The Grill Room at Hotel Café Royal is an inspired choice this Christmas. Experience its renowned afternoon tea, sprinkled with some extra festive magic. Sample savouries like spiced pumpkin panna cotta and honey roast gammon with Seville orange and chestnut butter sandwiches ahead of the main event: its desserts. Delight in Christmas-cake scones and sumptuous festive patisserie.
Take a seat in the refined glamour of Oscar Wilde’s favourite salon for £70 per head or £80 with a glass of Champagne.
3. Dukes
Dukes’ elegant Drawing Room overlooking a quaint courtyard creates the perfect setting to enjoy traditional teatime. Nibble on finger sandwiches and an assortment of decadent festive cakes and treats. You’re spoilt for choice when booking your drink pairing. Will it be teas from The East India Company from £40 per person, a glass of Champagne from £49.50, or – our personal favourite – a bespoke Dukes’ mini Martini pairing for £52.50?
4. The Wolseley
Treat that special someone to a traditional afternoon tea with a festive twist at The Wolseley. Sit down to gourmet turkey and cranberry sandwiches served with a slice of mouth-watering coffee, gingerbread and walnut cake; a chocolate orange torte; and a mulled wine poached pear tart. Is it an afternoon tea without freshly baked scones? No need to worry as your tea stand will be adorned with this classic teatime favourite. Wash everything down with a selection of loose-leaf teas (from £36.75) or savour a spot of champagne from £49.75 per person. Book now and kick off your festive season with an indulgent afternoon tea.
Your Christmas experience at Fortnum & Mason begins the moment you enter its bauble-studded doors. Sit down to a sumptuous afternoon tea inside the famous Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. Keep all palettes happy and choose between the classic afternoon tea or swap out for vegetarian or gluten-free options, all starting form £70 per person. Veggie highlights include Coronation tofu and Delica squash with kale pesto finger sandwiches served with the finest fruit scones and exquisite patisserie. All you’ll want for Christmas is to devour this fabulously festive afternoon tea at Fortnum’s.
Plan more time together and settle in to a leisurely Christmas meal in London’s West End. Don’t want your evening to end? Prolong the party with the best places for a Christmas cocktail nearby.