Afternoon Tea

It is said that Anna Russell, 7th Duchess of Bedford, invented Afternoon Tea in 1840. This was to satisfy her peckishness during the long wait between lunch and dinner. Today, we are proud to continue this English ritual – with a twist of Claridge’s creativity.

Prepared and served fresh each day, our menu faithfully follows the traditional combination of sweet and savoury. The ingredients include British specialities such as poached Scottish salmon – and our pastries change to reflect the fruits of the season. Of course, at the heart of the experience is the drink itself. From a rich Oolong to the refreshingly complex Claridge’s Blend, you will find teas that complement your food perfectly.

Traditional afternoon tea

Savour a variety of finger sandwiches, patisserie and warm scones accompanied by Marco Polo gelée and Cornish clotted cream. Choose from 24 loose leaf teas, including regional English, rare blends and herbal infusions, served on fine, jade-and-white striped china.

£60 per person

Children's afternoon tea

Sandwiches and pastries, including vanilla fairy cakes and brownies, are specially made for younger guests. The menu also doubles as a colouring book.

£30 per person

Champagne afternoon tea

Raise a toast to tradition. A chilled glass of Laurent-Perrier Brut or Rosé gives your afternoon that extra sparkle.

£70 per person with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Brut
£80 per person with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Rosé

Awards & accolades

• Best for a celebration - London's 10 best afternoon teas 2017, by The Telegraph
• Best for stylish tea connoisseurs - The best afternoon tea in London 2017, by Condé Nast Traveller
• Best Traditional Afternoon Tea at the Afternoon Tea Awards 2016
• Tea Guild Best Afternoon Tea 2006, 2011 and 2012
• Tea Guild Award of Excellence 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2012

Reservations

Claridge's afternoon tea reservations can be made up to 90 days in advance only.

Opening hours

Served daily: 2.45pm, 3pm, 3.15pm, 3.30pm, 4.45pm, 5pm, 5.15pm & 5.30pm.

Sample menus

Afternoon Tea Menu
Children's Tea Menu

Please note that a 12.5% discretionary service charge will be added to your bill.

Dress code

Elegant smart casual; no shorts, vests, sportswear, flip flops, ripped jeans or baseball caps.

Seasonal afternoon tea

To celebrate certain key dates in the British calendar, Claridge’s pastry chefs create a special edition of our afternoon tea. Please note that, on the dates below, a seasonally-inspired afternoon tea will be served exclusively.

£85 per person

2018 dates:

Chelsea Flower Show 21-26 May
Wimbledon 2-15 July
Christmas 12 November-1 January 2019 (Monday-Friday £85 per person; Saturday & Sunday £90 per person)