Whether you’re a caffeine fiend or a tea taster extraordinaire, London is one of the best areas in the world to find a good cuppa. Due to its world status as an import city, London has been exposed to a plethora of cultures over the years. With former colonies still providing their take on traditional refreshments, the city of London is well known for making a good brew. You’d be hard pressed to find better tea in any other European country, which is why you’ll find this particular hot drink making an appearance on michelin star menus and being the centrepiece to many day to day social events and meetups. Below are some of the best places to find a cup of tea and enjoy it with the atmosphere that London has become so famous for.
Afternoon tea at your favourite hotel
The Piccadilly London West End Hotel and spa is your perfect setting for afternoon tea with a twist. Ideally located in the heart of London’s West end, retreat from the city centres hustle and bustle with this perfect blend of English teas infused with Indian spices. With great deals on afternoon teas for two, this is the place to go for light Indian snacks such as samosas and Lucknawi spiced scones with cumin jam for the perfect Indian high tea extravaganza.
Hyde Park teas
The royal Hyde Park is well known for having three stunning cafes and grills dotted around the 140 hectare park. If you’re on the lookout for the perfect cuppa with a bit of fresh air to go with it, then Hyde Park is the place to be. With its beautiful range of tea time treats and stunning views over the Serpentine lake and gallery, you’ll be glad you got out of your hotel room.
Wallace collection cafe
The beautiful conservatory cafe in the Wallace Collection museum allows for a light lunch and tea time extravaganza which is hard to beat. With white walls and a glistening conservatory ceiling, you’ll really be able to let the light in.
Carnaby Street
This West London boutique shopping street is full of glamorous tea rooms and cafes for a break between those shopping trips. With great chains and independent cafes alike, this is the place to be for an afternoon tea in a truly London location. Surrounded by cobbled streets and beautiful squares, Carnaby Street is the perfect stop off for the tea and retail lover.
Sketch
This quirky tea room experience takes you to the heady heights of Mayfair and offers up a beautiful assortment of art and afternoon tea selections if you’re looking for a unique afternoon experience, then Sketch si the one for you. With rolling themes throughout the year, Sketch has seen collaborations with artists such as David Shrigley.
Japanese Afternoon Tea
Japanese Afternoon Tea has seen a massive rise in many London tea rooms. With a wide range of japanese snacks and colourful drinks to choose from, you can sample matcha, sochu and cherry blossom infused teas. With tea rituals being an ancient Japanese tradition, it’s no wonder the Brits have turned their eyes to it.
Chinese afternoon tea at the Shard
Giving a new meaning to high tea, the Chinese restaurant Ting found on The Shard, brings a wide range of Chinese herbal teas to the heady heights of the skyscrapers 35th floor. Whatever your tea drinking needs, this is also a fantastic opportunity to sample the delights of the London skyline, all while tasting the revitalising green teas and snacks of China.
