Despite being one of London‘s smallest boroughs, Kensington and Chelsea stands out as one of the most exclusive areas in the Capital, boasting a royal status. This borough is a beacon of culture and sophistication, hosting landmarks such as Kensington Palace, the esteemed Chelsea Flower Show, and leading museums like the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Natural History Museum. This opulent area, known for its grand Victorian architecture, exquisite boutiques, and lush parks, also harbors some of the city’s most enchanting spots for an afternoon tea experience. Whether you’re a devoted enthusiast of this quintessential British tradition or seeking to indulge in a luxurious afternoon, find the finest spots for afternoon tea in Kensington and Chelsea below!
Afternoon Tea in Kensington and Chelsea
The Orangery at Kensington Palace
For those seeking a royal experience, The Orangery at Kensington Palace offers an elegant backdrop like no other. Set within the palace grounds, guests can enjoy their tea amidst historic architecture and stunning garden views. The menu features classic British fare, including an exquisite range of teas, champagne for those special occasions, and an assortment of scones, sandwiches, and pastries.
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Location: Kensington Palace Gardens, London W8 4PX
The Cadogan’s Lounge at The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel
Offering a contemporary take on the traditional afternoon tea, The Cadogan’s Lounge at The Cadogan celebrates the British ritual with a modern twist. Here, guests can enjoy a selection of international teas and infusions, alongside innovative culinary creations that change with the seasons. The lounge itself is a stylish blend of tradition and modernity, providing a cozy yet elegant setting for an afternoon treat.
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Location: 75 Sloane St, London SW1X 9SG
The Ivy Chelsea Garden
For a more whimsical afternoon tea experience, The Ivy Chelsea Garden’s ‘Chelsea’s Secret Garden’ is an absolute must-visit. Set in a beautiful courtyard garden, this spot offers a magical escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their afternoon tea menu features a delightful mix of sweet and savory treats, alongside a selection of teas and champagne. The enchanting garden setting makes this an ideal choice for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a leisurely afternoon.
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Location: 197 King’s Rd, London SW3 5EQ
The Milestone Hotel
Overlooking Kensington Gardens, The Milestone Hotel’s Library provides a quintessentially English setting for afternoon tea. This intimate space, filled with books and luxurious furnishings, offers a traditional tea service with all the trimmings. Expect a selection of fine teas, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a range of meticulously prepared sandwiches and pastries. The Milestone prides itself on its exemplary service, making each visit truly special.
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Location: 1-3 Kensington Ct, London W8 5DL
The Tea Room at Harrods
No list of afternoon tea spots in Kensington and Chelsea would be complete without mentioning the world-renowned Harrods. The Tea Room, formerly known as The Georgian Restaurant, offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience amidst the opulence and history of one of the world’s most famous department stores. Expect classic British elegance, an extensive selection of teas, and impeccable service.
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Location: 87-135 Brompton Rd, London SW1X 7XL
11 Cadogan Gardens
Located in the vibrant heart of Chelsea, 11 Cadogan Gardens stands as a boutique luxury hotel. Its charming redbrick Victorian façade, comprising four townhouses, sets the stage for a cozy and lavish setting, perfect for indulging in a traditional Afternoon Tea experience. Guests can relish in this British tradition within the hotel’s Drawing Room, where they can cozy up around the open fire, or in The Secret Garden, offering a serene escape during the warmer months.
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Location: 11 Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea, London, SW3 2RJ
The Ampersand Hotel
At The Ampersand Hotel, guests of all ages can enjoy an immersive Science Afternoon Tea experience at The Drawing Rooms, inspired by the neighboring Science Museum. Delight in a stellar menu featuring themed treats like smoked salmon blinis and almond dinosaur shortbreads. Upgrade to the Science Teapot Tales for a decadent twist with a themed cocktail flight. Situated in Kensington, this luxury hotel blends Victorian values with modern flair, offering a chic setting to indulge in English heritage and delicious treats by the open fire.
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Location: 10 Harrington Rd, South Kensington, London SW7 3ER
Bluebird Chelsea
Bluebird Chelsea is a chic, contemporary spot on King’s Road, known for its vibrant atmosphere and stylish decor. Their afternoon tea brings a modern twist to the traditional, with inventive pastries and savories. Enjoy your tea in their courtyard for a delightful alfresco experience, making it a perfect stop after shopping or walking in the area.
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Location: 350 King’s Rd, London SW3 5UU
The Kensington Hotel
The Kensington Hotel provides an exquisite setting for afternoon tea with its elegant drawing rooms and sophisticated ambiance. Their afternoon tea menu is inspired by London’s iconic landmarks, featuring pastries and savories crafted to resemble architectural marvels, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
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Location: 109-113 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5LP
Royal Albert Hall
Since its inauguration by Queen Victoria in 1871, the Royal Albert Hall has stood as one of London’s most iconic landmarks. Renowned for hosting the annual BBC Proms concerts and showcasing performances by leading classical and contemporary artists from around the globe, it holds a cherished place in the city’s cultural landscape. Verdi, a charming curved restaurant on the first floor, offers an afternoon tea experience with delightful views of the Royal College of Music. Amidst the Grade-I listed elegance, the menu presents a quintessentially British theme infused with creative flair, promising an unforgettable experience.
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Location: Verdi Restaurant, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP
The Gore London
The Gore has exuded elegance and charm for over a century. Combining authentic tradition with contemporary British cuisine, their Afternoon Tea offers the ultimate experience. Indulge in a menu featuring finger sandwiches, savory treats, genuine scones, and seasonal cakes. Guests can elevate their experience with an upgrade to English sparkling Afternoon Tea or English sparkling Rosé Afternoon Tea.
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Location: 190 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5EX
100 Queen’s Gate Hotel
Located in Kensington, 100 Queen’s Gate Hotel – London, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, exudes prestige and luxury, offering an equally delightful Afternoon Tea experience amidst elegant surroundings. Following a recent multi-million pound refurbishment, the hotel has been transformed into an oasis of sophistication, featuring a chic cocktail bar and the restaurant Botanica, nestled in an airy atrium where Afternoon Tea is served. In Botanica, guests are invited to partake in the quintessentially British tradition of Afternoon Tea, complemented by a carefully curated selection of teas from Newby. Paired perfectly with pastries and savories crafted by the team of in-house chefs, this Afternoon Tea promises a unique and indulgent experience.
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Location: 100 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5AG
Number Sixteen
Nestled within a mid-Victorian white stucco terrace, Number Sixteen stands as a chic boutique hotel in the heart of picturesque South Kensington, just moments away from London’s finest museums. Whether amidst their stunning tree-filled garden or within the vibrant ambiance of the Drawing Room or Library, guests can indulge in a delightful Afternoon Tea experience. Featuring a selection of sandwiches and an array of delicious cakes, you can elevate your indulgence with the option to add a glass of champagne for an extra touch of luxury.
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Location: 16 Sumner Place, London, SW7 3EG
London Secret Garden
Nestled in the quiet streets of Kensington, London’s most secretive garden presents a unique afternoon tea experience. Five stunning pop-up domes, fully air-conditioned and exclusively yours, flank the summer beach, guaranteeing complete privacy for you and your friends. Indulge in a spread of freshly prepared classical sandwiches and warm vanilla-scented English scones, served with traditional Devonshire clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam, alongside a generous selection of desserts. Each sitting lasts for a one-and-a-half-hour period, and you’re welcome to extend your afternoon on the beach or at Kens Bar.
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Location: 100 Cromwell Rd, London, SW7 4ER
The Adria
In South Kensington, The Adria offers a timeless Afternoon Tea experience, blending tradition with contemporary elegance. Celebrate the rich history of this British tradition amidst a setting that pays homage to tea’s legacy. Delight in a meticulously crafted menu inspired by centuries of tea culture, complemented by a showcase of historic tea-ware from the esteemed Chitra Collection. Nestled within a 19th-century townhouse, The Adria provides boutique luxury and modern comfort, just moments away from iconic landmarks like the Natural History Museum and Harrods.
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Location: 88 Queen’s Gate, South Kensington, London SW7 5AB
The Tea House at Bread Ahead
Located upstairs at Bread Ahead Pavilion Road bakery, The Tea House offers a welcoming and elegant space for indulging in afternoon tea with family and friends. Overlooking the dedicated pastry kitchen designed for crafting iconic British Afternoon Tea, the dining room serves a menu embracing seasonality and traditional bakes paired with Fortnum and Mason teas. Crafted with Bread Ahead’s ethos of traditional values and creative execution, the Afternoon Tea celebrates the bakery’s flavors in a special setting. Relax and indulge in the beautiful surroundings while savoring a generous feast of sweet and savory bakes alongside changing seasonal treats, featuring traditional cakes from Black Forest to Battenberg and warm fresh scones served with homemade jam, lemon curd, and clotted cream.
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Location: Bread Ahead, 249 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0BP
Whether you’re in search of a traditional afternoon tea experience, a touch of royal elegance, or a modern twist on a classic ritual, Kensington and Chelsea offer some of the best spots in London. Each venue brings its unique charm and a promise of an afternoon well spent, steeped in luxury, history, and the fine art of tea.
