Afternoon Tea in London: Top Must-Visit Spots

Introduction to Afternoon Tea in London

Afternoon tea is an integral part of British culinary culture, and London is the perfect place to indulge in this charming tradition. Unlike typical tea parties, afternoon tea in London offers a delightful blend of light bites and refined beverages. With a history spanning hundreds of years, afternoon tea has evolved into a relaxing feast after a long day’s work.

The History of Afternoon Tea

According to legend, afternoon tea was initiated by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford. She found herself feeling hungry between lunch and dinner and decided to enjoy some bread and sweets. This led to afternoon tea becoming a staple among the British elite, with renowned hotels like Claridge’s and The Savoy elevating the experience into an art form featuring exquisite dishes and elegant presentation.

The Components of a Typical Afternoon Tea

A delightful afternoon tea usually includes a variety of dishes. Common ingredients for sandwiches include cucumber, smoked salmon, and cream cheese. Following that are savory items like quiches and tarts, along with irresistible pastries. Notably, scones — small cakes typically served warm with cream and jam — are a must-have at any afternoon tea gathering.

Dress Code for Afternoon Tea

While there are no strict dress codes, many people opt for smart-casual attire for special occasions like afternoon tea. Some venues, such as The Ritz, require gentlemen to wear jackets and ties to maintain a formal atmosphere.

Top 5 Must-Visit Afternoon Tea Spots in London

• Claridge's: One of the oldest and most beloved hotels in London, Claridge's offers a superb afternoon tea experience in a luxurious setting with professional service. The traditional afternoon tea is priced at £95 per person.
• The Savoy: Known for its impressive service, The Savoy’s afternoon tea menu features a range of beverages from Earl Grey to other premium teas, all carefully crafted.
• Sketch: Famous for its uniquely artistic ambiance, Sketch prides itself on offering an afternoon tea experience where pastries are designed like works of art.
• Fortnum & Mason: This venue is not only famous for its tea but also for its delectable confections. Afternoon tea here is typically accompanied by homemade jams and fresh cream.
• Raffles at the OWO: Blending tradition with history, this hotel offers a fantastic afternoon tea featuring enticing themed dishes, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in a historic atmosphere.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

For Vietnamese citizens, a visa is required to enter the United Kingdom. Generally, a short-term tourist visa will meet your needs. You can fly from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to London (LON) with round-trip fares ranging from 15-20 million VND. Don’t forget to check the exchange rate, as 1 British Pound is approximately 30,000 VND. London operates on GMT+1, so make sure to adjust your schedule accordingly.

Tips for Enjoying Afternoon Tea

When enjoying afternoon tea in London, be sure to take your time and savor the experience — you might want to set aside 2-3 hours to fully enjoy it. It’s advisable to make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment, especially on busy weekends.

Finally, feel free to ask the staff for recommendations on the best teas and dishes to suit your taste. Afternoon tea is not just a meal; it's a fascinating cultural experience that you should definitely try when in London!

Reference and editing from: Condé Nast Traveler