Best afternoon tea in London: Hotels with the perfect setting for Mother’s Day 2023

Most major London hotels serve afternoon tea, but while some venues provide an experience you’ll never forget, others can be nothing short of dire. But don’t worry, we’ve selflessly eaten our way through tier after tier of delicate finger sandwiches, scones and indulgent pastries and cakes to find out which ones stand out, so we can bring you the best of the bunch – there’s not a soggy cucumber sarnie in sight.

Whether you want panoramic views of England’s capital city, somewhere you can linger for the whole afternoon in style or a delightful tea on a budget, there’s something for everyone – including a few themed options. So, don your loosest-fitting clothes and get ready to indulge in stacks of sweet and savoury treats that would make the likes of Mary Berry and Paul Hollywood weep with joy.

The best afternoon tea hotels in London are:

Neighbourhood: Marylebone

Combining the indisputably traditional with contemporary pizazz is no mean feat, but Palm Court manages just that. Forming the centrepiece of this luxury hotel – which became the first ever London hotel to serve afternoon tea when it opened back in 1865 – it provides an immediate wow factor with service to match. Delicate finger sandwiches were joined by plain and golden raisin scones, which were perfection, while the raspberry sponge with raspberry confit and jasmine cream was one of many delectable cakes and pastries. No need to worry about table space – the dainty tiered plates (Wedgwood, of course) sit on floor-standing silver frames. And if you don’t have tummy space (we didn’t), you can take your cake of the day home. Take time to peruse the teas – there are almost 20, all chosen by a tea sommelier. There are dedicated vegetarian and vegan afternoon tea menus, too.

Price: From £70 per person