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6 special afternoon tea spots in the City of London

The dainty sandwiches, the trickle of Earl Grey, the delicate spreading of jam and cream (now is not the place for the ‘which goes first?’ argument) – is there a more elegant way to spend a few hours than with an English afternoon tea?

If you’re seeking an extra special spot for your tea and scones, the City of London will have you spoilt for choice. From tea with a view to fusion menus, here are some of the most luxurious afternoon tea locations in the City.

Searcys at The Gherkin

Putting the ‘high’ in high tea, this delicious afternoon tea is served with a 360-degree helping of City view. Alongside classics such as cucumber sandwiches and fruit scones, the mouth-watering menu includes gin-cured salmon, devilled eggs, vanilla and matcha battenberg, and lemon posset choux. You can also upgrade your afternoon tea with sparkling wine or even limitless Champagne (for 90 minutes anyway). 

Find out more - Searcys at the Gherkin

Afternoon Tea Spots in the City of London - Searcys at The Gherkin - 3 cocktails short green, fizzy peach and a long clear

© Searcys at The Gherkin

Fortnum’s Bar & Restaurant at The Royal Exchange

Tell us a grander, more historic and quintessentially English afternoon tea than that served by Fortnum & Mason at The Royal Exchange – we’ll wait. Because when two names of such distinct heritage and prestige meet, you have one unmissable treat. Serving classic afternoon teas in the majestic central courtyard, this is a picture perfect occasion. 

Find out more - Fortnum's Bar & Restaurant at the Royal Exchange

Afternoon Tea Spots in the City of London - Fortnum’s Bar at The Royal Exchange - grand covered courtyard with soft seating and decorative bar

© Fortnum’s Bar & Restaurant at The Royal Exchange

Afternoon Tea at Pan Pacific London

Looking for something a bit leftfield of your regular fruit scone? Allow us to introduce Kopi Tiam – a Singaporean-inspired twist on the traditional English afternoon tea, expertly crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Francesco Mannino. Choose from a rotating selection of seasonal menus, such as the current Lunar New Year Tea collection in collaboration with Cantonese-style bun specialist, Bun House. For children, ask for the cute ‘Little Kopi Tiam’ menu of afternoon tea favourites.. Additionally, they offer entirely allergen-free versions of all our menus (V, VE, GL).

Find out more - Straits Kitchen at Pan Pacific 

Straits Kitchen - a dimly lit lobby with a yellow sofa and green plants

Ten Trinity Square, Four Seasons Hotel London

To celebrate the treasures in the neighbouring Tower of London, Ten Trinity Square’s Crown Jewels Afternoon Tea is a gem-coloured delight but, luckily, these jewels are edible. Alongside the expected finger sandwiches and scones, nibble your way through commemorative pastries including The Ruby, The Pearl and The Crown. A selection of speciality teas, sparkling wines and Champagne round-off this regal afternoon treat.

Find out more - Ten Trinity Square, Four Seasons Hotel

Afternoon Tea Spots in the City of London - Four Seasons Hotel London - grand white circular room tiled floors and armchairs around small tables

© Four Seasons Hotel London

Millie’s Lounge at The Ned

Within the 3,000 square metre banking hall of The Ned, the former headquarters of Midland Bank, sits Millie’s Lounge serving afternoon teas with a hint of 1920s glamour. Choose from a simple cream tea, a classic afternoon tea, or plough your own path with a high tea of Jersey Rock oysters and Champagne. Then sit back and ponder how much money may have changed hands over those Grade I listed bank counters fixed around the hall.

Find out more - Millie's Lounge

Afternoon Tea Spots in the City of London - Millie’s Lounge at The Ned - high ceiling soft booth seating with mood lighting

© Millie’s Lounge at The Ned

Vintry & Mercer

Enjoy an afternoon tea that's fit for a King. Vintry and Mercer's Crown Afternoon Tea is a truly majestic gastronomic experience. The menu features Royal themed savoury treats named after the famous Royal Palaces, and for dessert - a glazed ‘Sovereign’s Orb’ filled with delicious raspberry and orange blossom mousse and Genoise sponge. Bring the family - there's a Prince & Princess option too, perfect for children.

Find out more - Vintry & Mercer

An afternoon tea served on a cake stand shaped like a crown.

© Vintry and Mercer - Crown Afternoon Tea

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