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Born in London, the ritual of Afternoon Tea has been loved by generations for almost two centuries. Covent Garden is home to some of the very best spots to indulge in tea, cakes, sandwiches and Champagne - what better place to do so than Covent Garden. Whether it’s spoiling a loved one, enjoying some quality mother and daughter time or simply treating yourself (because, why not?), then look no further as we’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy Afternoon Tea in the West End of London.
The Best of British: The Ivy Market Grill
Catching up with the parents? Meeting a friend for a spot of shopping? For an afternoon treat in Covent Garden, we highly recommend the Ivy Market Grill for their Champagne Cream Tea which includes freshly baked fruit scones, clotted cream and strawberry preserve - with a glass of Champagne and choice of teas, infusions or coffees.
For those who prefer something a bit more savoury, you can also order off the ‘All Day’ menu including The Prawn & Avocado Open Sandwich or the famous Ivy Shepard’s Pie - with slow braised lamb and beef, red wine sauce, plus cheddar potato mash.
The French One: Ladurée
Ladurée’s Afternoon Tea - or should we say, L’heure Du Thé, is served every day in Covent Garden from 12pm until 6pm. It’s the perfect place to treat a loved one with panoramic views across Covent Garden’s West Piazza, and you can even watch the street performers outside St. Paul’s Church.
Afternoon Tea Reimagined: SUSHISAMBA
For something completely different, SUSHISAMBA blends Japanese and Brazilian flavours into a unique afternoon tea offering. Enjoy creative savoury bites, colourful sweets, and the option to add Champagne—all served with views over the iconic Covent Garden Piazza.
Viola's
An oasis of calm in the heart of Covent Garden, Viola's is where exquisite food and stylish settings meet. Discover the charming floral-themed afternoon tea available Monday-Friday, featuring a classic three-tier stand with finger sandwiches, scones and seasonal pastries. Each element of the afternoon tea is served with care, from the handcrafted dishes to the curated selection of treats.
Cinnamon Bazaar
Discover afternoon tea with a twist at Cinnamon Bazaar. The bespoke menu brings traditional tea-time spread, inspired by Vivek's roots in Kolkata in West Bengal, blended with traditional British afternoon tea. Dine on savoury snacks like mustard fish finger sandwiches or sweet treats such as saffron macaroon or pistachio cake.
Tea and Tour: The Royal Opera House
Journey behind the scenes at the Royal Ballet & Opera and delve into the history of Swan Lake on a ballet themed tour, complete with afternoon tea.
The experience begins with an hour long guided tour of the Royal Opera House. See the original feathered tutu and headdress worn by dancers throughout the years and learn about the history and artistry that brought this production to life. Following the tour behind the scenes, indulge in an Afternoon Tea served at the Balconies Restaurant in the Paul Hamlyn Hall.
Mariage Frères Tea Emporium
A must-try for tea lovers, Mariage Frères' elegant tea house boasts one of the largest tea selections in the world. Dig into Afternoon Tea featuring refined tea-infused savouries, delicate pastries and beautifully crafted scones.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Tea at One Aldwych
Indulge your inner child and adventure into the magical, mouth-watering world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with an enchanting afternoon tea at One Aldwych.
This whimsical family-friendly experience is inspired by Roald Dahl's famous story. Expect imaginative creations including 'fizzy lifting' drinks, vibrant cakes and chocolatey delights.
Brigit's Bakery
Brigit's Bakery serves up a delightful afternoon tea of sweet and savoury delights: finger sandwiches, mouthwatering cakes, mini cupcakes, and freshly baked scones served with jam and clotted cream, alongside a selection of teas, juice or bubbles! Choose from traditional, vegan, vegetarian, halal, or gluten-free afternoon tea options, ensuring that there's something delightful for everyone to enjoy.
Tradition at The Savoy
Afternoon Tea has been part of The Savoy since 1889, where fashionable Londoners would gather for sandwiches, patisserie and live bands. Today the ritual continues as a quintessentially British experience, offering an elegant afternoon tea served from The Gallery. Enjoy warm scones, a procession of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and over 30 exceptional teas to choose from.
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