Where can travelers locate affordable Victorian tea experiences in London?

For any traveler in London who wishes to experience a truly authentic British tradition, afternoon tea is a must. This time-honored tradition, originated in the mid-1800s, offers an opportunity to take a relaxing respite in the afternoon, indulge in deliciously prepared food, and sip on expertly brewed tea. But where can one find an affordable Victorian tea experience in London? Search no further. London caters to all tastes and budgets, offering a range of places where you can enjoy this quintessential British experience without breaking the bank.

Afternoon Tea at the British Museum

Your visit to London would not be complete without experiencing afternoon tea at the British Museum. As one of the world's oldest museums, it combines the joy of exploring fascinating artifacts with the delights of a traditional British afternoon tea.

The tea room at the British Museum serves a delightful array of sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The menu offers a selection of teas from around the world, all served in a setting that exudes British charm. The afternoon tea comes at a reasonable price, starting from £20 per person, making it an affordable option for travelers seeking a Victorian tea experience in London.

The Chocolate Themed Afternoon Tea at Rabot 1745

For those with a sweet tooth, the chocolate-themed afternoon tea at Rabot 1745 is a must-try. Located in the heart of Borough Market, this unique spot specializes in all things cocoa, offering a unique twist on the traditional afternoon tea.

Their afternoon tea menu includes sandwiches with chocolate-infused fillings, scones served with chocolate spread, and an array of chocolate pastries. Paired with a selection of hot chocolates and teas, this is an experience worth indulging in. What's more, the price for two persons is around £35, making it a great value for the quality and variety of items served.

Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon

Fortnum & Mason, an iconic British institution, offers a traditional afternoon tea in their Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon. This experience, though slightly higher in price than the others mentioned, is worth every penny for the incredible ambiance, delectable food, and extensive tea selection.

The salon’s tea menu offers over 80 varieties of loose-leaf tea, along with the traditional afternoon tea staples of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries. Prices start from £60 per person, but the experience is well worth the investment. It is recommended to book in advance to secure a table.

Afternoon Tea at the B Bakery Covent Garden

Conveniently located in Covent Garden, B Bakery offers a delightful and affordable afternoon tea experience. This stylish bakery and tea room provides a wide selection of homemade sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all to be enjoyed with your choice of their fine teas.

The afternoon tea at B Bakery is competitively priced at £30 per person. If you fancy adding a touch of luxury to the experience, you can opt for the Champagne afternoon tea, which includes a glass of champagne for an additional £12. A timeless experience in a charming setting, B Bakery is a great choice for a budget-friendly afternoon tea in London.

Tea at The Ritz

Tea at The Ritz is a quintessential London experience. Known as one of the best places in the city for afternoon tea, this iconic hotel offers a truly luxurious experience.

Upon entering, you're greeted with a breathtakingly beautiful room, with high ceilings, chandeliers, and grand decor. Their afternoon tea menu includes a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, and a range of exquisitely presented pastries and teacakes.

Tea at The Ritz is a more premium experience, with prices starting from £75 per person. However, for travelers looking to splurge on a truly memorable afternoon tea experience, the splurge is more than worth it. Advance booking is essential due to the high demand.

Tea in London is more than a beverage; it’s an experience steeped in tradition and heritage. Whether you choose a traditional setting like The Ritz, a museum tea room, or a chocolate-themed treat at Rabot 1745, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable and affordable afternoon tea experience in London. Don't forget to book in advance to secure your spot and enjoy your afternoon sipping tea like the British do.

The Original Tour: London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Another unconventional yet affordable tea experience in London is the London Afternoon Tea Bus Tour offered by The Original Tour. This unique experience gives tourists the chance to see some of the city's iconic sights while enjoying a traditional afternoon tea, all aboard a classic London double-decker bus.

The tour operates daily, and the route takes you past some of London's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, The London Eye, The Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey. The afternoon tea served on board includes a selection of finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones with clotted cream and jam, along with a variety of teas.

The bus itself is a classic vintage Routemaster, with the lower deck designed to recreate a comfortable tea room atmosphere. Tickets for the bus tour cost £45 per person, which considering the included sightseeing, makes for a great-value afternoon tea experience.

The Orangery at Kensington Palace

Located in Kensington Gardens, The Orangery is a historic greenhouse-turned-cafe, offering a picturesque setting for enjoying afternoon tea. It stands out not only for its stunning architectural design but also for the quality of its tea and food offerings.

Their afternoon tea menu includes an assortment of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delicate pastries. The Orangery offers a range of teas, from traditional English Breakfast to fragrant Jasmine Blossom.

The afternoon tea at The Orangery costs £30 per person, a competitive price for such a high-quality experience in a royal setting. Considering its location in the heart of Kensington Gardens, it's also a perfect place to relax after a stroll in the park.

Conclusion

In the hustle and bustle of London city life, taking a moment to slow down and savor a cup of tea in a charming setting is a truly unique experience. From the traditional elegance of Fortnum & Mason and Tea at The Ritz, to the novelty of a bus tour or a tea amidst the artifacts in the British Museum, London offers a variety of affordable Victorian tea experiences to fit every traveler's taste and budget.

The secret to enjoying these afternoon teas is to remember the British adage "keep calm and drink tea." It's all about taking the time to relax, enjoy the company, and indulge in the delicious sandwiches, scones, and pastries. So, whether you're a local or a traveler, don't miss the opportunity to experience this timeless British tradition in the heart of London. Remember to view post Instagram or the respective websites to make a reservation and secure your spot for an unforgettable tea experience. Afterall, there's nothing quite like a London afternoon spent over a pot of tea, savoring a cream tea, and taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.