Last Updated on 17 November, 2023
Welcome, fellow tea enthusiast to a guided look at the heart of London’s delightful and budget-friendly afternoon tea experiences. When it comes to London afternoon tea, there is an incredible array of options for afternoon tea in London. We have covered many optionos on the blog. From afternoon tea in Canary Wharf, Mayfair, London Bridge, Chelsea, Covent Garden, Kensington, Marylebone, Shoreditch as well as those offering afternoon tea with a view.
As a seasoned explorer of affordable tea delights, allow me to take you on a journey through some of the city’s hidden gems. From charming boutiques to iconic spots, this guide will introduce you to places where your taste buds will dance, and your wallet will remain content.
If you are on a budget this post is for you as we bring you a list of our favourite affordable afternoon tea in London. Perfect finger sandwiches, dainty pastries, and cakes, scones with cream and jam and, of course, a delicious hot pot of afternoon tea.
When you’re visiting London, experiencing a classic luxurious afternoon tea has got to be on your list. Some of you may already be aware that I am a fan of afternoon teas from my reviews of the afternoon tea bus tour with BB Bakery, to the one at Milestone Hotel In Kensington, and a few others that haven’t made it on the blog yet.
When you’re on a budget, finding affordable and budget-friendly spots for delicious afternoon tea is hard to find. Therefore, we have dedicated this list to some of the best budget-friendly options under £30 or less. From a posh palace in Kensington to the incredibly delicious treats from Café Rouge, these budget-friendly spots from London offer excellent value for money.
Affordable Afternoon Tea in London
Afternoon two is sometimes referred to as ‘High Tea’. Sometimes called ‘High Tea’, and and experience to be had when in London. Afternoon Tea refers to an experience of sipping the finest teas while nibbling on sandwiches and scones. Afternoon tea is usually served after 3pm and with is popularity, it has taken on a whole no market.
There are varying experiences, from the budget(which this post focuses on) to luxury which are served with champagne and other fancy elements. If you are in Amsterdam you can also experience a slight take on the afternoon tea by way of a High Wine Experience. Nowadays you can also experience afternoon teas by theme. I will be sharing more in this shortly and link back here.
Below are my top 10 cheap afternoon tea in London. You with many allowing you to explore London, see the sights as you nibble on delicious treats. With each person paying at most £15 and the cheapest offering £9.50 per head. Afternoon tea doesn’t get any more affordable than that!
Biscuiteers in Notting Hill – Sweet Delights on a Budget
In the picturesque Notting Hill, Biscuiteers awaits with its whimsical afternoon tea. Prices start at just £29 per person, offering a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of hand-iced biscuits that are almost too pretty to eat. The setting is a quaint and artistic haven, where every bite is a stroke of creativity.
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Afternoon Tea for Two at Marco Pierre White’s New York Italian
There can’t be a better option under £30 than to enjoy a sumptuous selection of delicious treats and sweets with a hot tea at Marco’s New York Italian.
They provide you with an unforgettable dining experience with delicacies such as scones smothered in clotted cream and jam, tantalizing home-baked cakes, notably tasty pastries, delicate finger sandwiches and a pot of tea. A perfect place for a budget afternoon tea for two in just £25.
The Tea Terrace – A Budget-Friendly Wonderland
The Tea Terrace, a hidden gem within House of Fraser on Oxford Street, is a haven for those seeking an affordable afternoon tea experience.
Prices start at a wallet-friendly £21 per person and include sandwiches, scones, pastries, and your choice of tea. The ambiance is a blend of Victorian elegance and cozy charm, making it a delightful retreat amidst the bustling shopping district.
Afternoon Tea While Sightseeing Cruise At Thames River
Have a cup of your afternoon tea while cruising through the heart of London, from Tower Pier to Westminster. You can sip a cup of tea, and enjoy a selection of British cakes, scones, and sandwiches, along with having a unique luxurious experience through the iconic British great landmarks such as Tower of London, the Houses of Parliament and London Eye in just £30.
They even offer an onboard bar where you can purchase more variety of drinks. Head to Viator to have your advance booking for this once in a lifetime experience.
The Wallace Restaurant – Affordable Elegance
Step into The Wallace Collection’s courtyard, and you’ll find The Wallace Restaurant offering an affordable afternoon tea. Prices begin at £22 per person, featuring a selection of sandwiches, scones, pastries, and, of course, tea or coffee. The setting exudes classic elegance, with an airy and welcoming atmosphere that complements the artistry within the museum.
Afternoon Tea for Two at the Cranley Hotel, South Kensington
Began life in 1869 and since then, transformed into an elegant accommodation which retains its charming vintage features, Cranley Hotel offers a traditional culinary past time inappropriately glamorous surroundings with their affordable Afternoon Tea for two in just £24.
What better place to enjoy such a tradition as afternoon tea? A perfect budget place to have a nice hot cup of afternoon tea while savoring scones with cream and jam, delicious sandwiches, freshly made pastries, and fresh cakes. Head to Cranley Hotel with your friend and experience first-class service throughout.
4. Middle Eastern Afternoon Tea at Mamounia Lounge in Knightsbridge for Two
Have a unique Middle Eastern style afternoon tea experience in London with Mamounia Lounge in Knightsbridge. They offer a wide range of tempting Middle Eastern themed culinary delicacies to devour with their mouth-watering afternoon tea.
Savor their delicious treats with inspired spin on British tradition. Delicacies include cheese briouats, zaalouk, and mechouia bruschetta, mahalabia with caramelized pistachios and date molasses and much more for just £19 for two. They even offer traditional Moroccan mint tea so tuck into a delicious Middle Eastern afternoon tea with your friend or associate at Mamounia Lounge.
The Wolseley – A Budget-Friendly Classic
The Wolseley, an iconic London institution, offers an affordable afternoon tea experience starting at £29.75 per person. Indulge in traditional sandwiches, scones, and pastries while enjoying a classic tea selection. The decor is a nod to the grand European cafes of yesteryear, offering a taste of timeless elegance.
Italian Afternoon Tea for Two at Bella Italia
Delight yourself with a tempting Italian twist on the traditional London Afternoon Tea for Two at Bella Italia. Devour a wide variety of delicious mini pizzas with various Italian classic toppings, delightful desserts, and mascarpone cream served on the new Panescone.
Bella Italia offers its mouth-watering Afternoon Tea for two in just £25. So enjoy this unique and affordable afternoon treat as part of a shopping trip or a random stroll, and savor every bite of the classic Italian flavors on a cup of hot afternoon tea with your friend or associate.
MAP Maison – A Budget-Friendly Fusion
MAP Maison, nestled in East London, offers a fusion of flavors in its affordable afternoon tea. Prices start at £25 per person, showcasing an array of sandwiches, scones, pastries, and specialty teas. The ambiance is a blend of modern chic and artistic flair, with a touch of European sophistication.
Afternoon Tea for Two at Café Rouge – (UK wide)
To have the liberty to choose from their 69 locations all over the whole UK, Café Rouge offers its delicious afternoon tea and mouth-watering cuisine with traditional French culinary methods.
They use only fresh ingredients to make their delicious sweet and savory treats such as carrot and lemon, chocolate mousse, chocolate red velvet, fluffy scones with cream and jam, and delicious croquet monsieur for you to enjoy. Café Rouge offers its budget Afternoon Tea for two in just £25. That is a very cool and affordable £12.50 per person!
Afternoon Tea for Two at Number Twelve Restaurant
Want to treat your friend with some luxurious Afternoon Tea while staying under the budget? What’s best could be than a four-star central London hotel, The Ambassadors Hotel in Bloomsbury, a hotel famous for its elegant and hospitable staff and environment.
Their Number Twelve Restaurant is unique, providing their customers with a comfortable environment at a chic table with crisp tablecloth and first-class food and service.
Their menu is inspired by French fusion, including their trademark tiered platter, delicious finger sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and tartlets. They offer their Afternoon Tea for two in just £28.
The Ivy Chelsea Garden – Affordable Luxury
The Ivy Chelsea Garden presents an affordable afternoon tea starting at £21.95 per person. Delight in sandwiches, scones, and a selection of sweet treats in a charming garden setting. The ambiance is a perfect blend of relaxed luxury, providing an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Chelsea.
Afternoon Tea for Two with Fizz at Café Rouge
The second mention from Café Rouge on our list, this afternoon tea treat is unique because of Café Rouge’s French take on their afternoon tea offer.
With delicious cuisine and a warm delicate atmosphere, Café Rouge is the ultimate venue to indulge in a selection of tantalizing treats, delicious sweets, and mouth-watering savory foods.
Alongside a sweet cup of tea or coffee, each customer gets a sparkling glass of Prosecco. This blissful afternoon tea is offered in just £30 for two people, providing you with the opportunity to catch up with your friends on a cup of delicious afternoon tea.
Cinnamon Bazaar – Spice-infused Tea on a Budget
For a unique twist on afternoon tea, Cinnamon Bazaar in Covent Garden delivers affordability and spice-infused delights. Prices begin at £20 per person, featuring Indian-inspired sandwiches, scones, and desserts, accompanied by your choice of tea or chai. The setting is vibrant and energetic, creating a memorable culinary experience.
Middle Eastern Afternoon Tea with Champagne at Mamounia Lounge Knightsbridge for two
Enjoy a unique Middle Eastern Afternoon Tea for two at Mamounia Lounge in Knightsbridge in a traditional setting. This Middle-eastern style restaurant is an ideal place to indulge in a unique afternoon tea with a classic Middle Eastern twist of flavors.
Have other side dishes such as grilled wraps, strawberry chili jam with Moroccan mint tea and nibbles and date scones with prickly pear. They also offer a glass of Champagne for each person. The price for this whole offer is just £29 for two people. Another tasty and affordable afternoon tea in London for two.
London Thames River Afternoon Tea
You want to take in the sights and nibble on tasty delights as you cruise the London? Then this is a great way to do just that. Combine London’s legendary sights with a scrumptious English tea on this Thames River afternoon sightseeing cruise.
Sail by top London attractions such as Big Ben, the London Eye and Tower of London, and enjoy stellar views of The Shard, the ‘Gherkin’ building, and other icons.
As you cruise, savor a delicious afternoon tea of dainty sandwiches and cakes, plus scones with clotted cream and preserves, accompanied by teas and coffees.
These budget-friendly afternoon tea options in London ensure that you can indulge in this quintessentially British tradition without breaking the bank.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor seeking affordable tea delights, these spots offer a taste of elegance and creativity while keeping your wallet in mind. Cheers to a delightful tea time in the heart of London!
Want To Experience Afternoon Tea But Not Sure Of The Etiquette For Afternoon Tea?
Don’t worry, I have you covered. Check out this video filmed at Milestone Hotel where I have had the pleasure of having afternoon tea at for tips on etiquette for afternoon tea.
14 comments
So many yummy choices for High Tea in London. Where does one start to make a choice on which one to choose in your 10 best afternoon tea in London? The cakes look so delicious. After London I would need to fly to Amsterdam for the High Wine Experience.
Yes, it can be difficult picking out so hopefully, I have made the selection slightly easier for you.
I prefer tea over coffee. These are great tea recommendations for London. I’ll definitely check them out when I have the chance to visit London. Failing that I will have a look at places that do afternoon tea near me.
Glad I have at least inspired your to check out afternoon teas near you, if you are currently not able to one of the British afternoon teas in London.
I love a good afternoon tea in and your list has given me so many new ideas! So many affordable 2 for 1 afternoon tea in London. The Middle Eastern version is Knightsbridge sounds interesting, but the first I’d try would be the English tea with a river cruise! Also, great video 😉
Yes, if you have a sweet tooth then the best places for tea and cake in London above will definitely hit the spot. Also for the ones that love a bit of salt and sweet the Middle Eastern verions is a great option.
This is a good list of alternative ways to do afternoon tea in London. I love the idea of Mamounia Lounge, sounds a bit different from the usual places. I’d go there twice as well. It’s a good idea to add Cafe Rouge on as well, I never thought of that. Great that you have also included the cost of afternoon tea. Looks like there are so many great deals for afternoon tea in London.
Yes, there are plenty of offers on afternoon tea in London so no excuse not to do high tea. Eve if you have to find a budget spot for tea and scones in London.
I would love to check these places out the next time in in London. Everything looks delicious, thanks for sharing these recommendations! Definitly one of the best lists I have seen for the best budget afternoon tea in London. Well done on putting these together.
Thanks! There are plenty of places to have afternoon tea in London. These are just some of my favourite places to visit. Especially if you are looking for budget afternoon tea in London.
Great post!! Tea has to be one of the main highlights of London. However, I didn’t know that there were so many variety out there. I am not a tea drinker but I would love to try one of these affordable high teas in London.
There are plenty of inexpensive afternoon teas in London that will convert you into a tea drinker I can guarantee that! 😀
I wish I had known about some of these famous tea rooms in London when I was in London. I would have loved the one by Thames. Even the Middle Eastern ones look amazing. Will be sharing this with a friend who is heading that way
You might be surprised to know that I have never experienced having an afternoon tea, but your list looks so attractive. I am sold out by the idea of having afternoon tea while cruising over the Thames river. I think I am going to keep it as a highlight in my LOndon visit.