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Tea is more than a drink in Britain it’s a lifestyle, a ritual, and an experience. And nowhere captures this better than London’s iconic cream tea cafes.
A traditional cream tea typically features warm scones, clotted cream, fruit jam, and a fragrant pot of loose-leaf tea. But finding the best London cream tea cafes means knowing where time-honoured tradition meets quality and charm.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the capital or a Londoner searching for your next teatime indulgence, this curated guide offers the very best spots to enjoy cream tea at its finest.
What Makes the Best London Cream Tea Experience?
A proper cream tea experience goes beyond food. it’s about setting, service, and authenticity. The best venues share several key features:
- Freshly baked scones, served warm and crumbly
- Thick, rich clotted cream sourced from Devon or Cornwall
- Fruit preserves, usually strawberry or raspberry, often homemade
- A diverse tea selection, including black, green, and herbal blends
- Elegant yet comfortable surroundings, from historic hotels to cosy hideaways
- Optional enhancements, such as Champagne or themed tea menus
An unforgettable cream tea experience leaves you feeling pampered and culturally immersed.
How to Spot a Top-Quality Cream Tea Cafe in London?
Look out for these telltale signs of an exceptional café:
- Reputation and reviews: Trusted names often appear in top London food guides and receive glowing reviews.
- Presentation: The food should be neatly arranged, often served on tiered trays or elegant china.
- Service: Attentive, knowledgeable staff elevate the entire experience.
- Ambiance: From classical music to plush decor, great cafes create a refined environment.
- Flexibility: Accommodations for dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, etc.) are a welcome touch.
Choosing well means selecting not just food but a memorable atmosphere.
Why Is London Famous for Its Cream Tea Cafes?
London’s historical connection to tea began in the 1600s when it became the drink of choice in royal circles. The tradition evolved, and by the 19th century, cream tea and afternoon tea had become quintessential British pastimes.
London now boasts:
- Luxury hotels preserving old-world charm
- Boutique tearooms with modern twists
- Cultural institutions like Fortnum & Mason that helped shape tea customs
Its cosmopolitan flair also means global tea fusions and themed experiences are readily available.
Is There a Difference Between Cream Tea and Afternoon Tea in London?
Absolutely. Though often confused, the two are distinct:
| Feature | Cream Tea | Afternoon Tea |
| Food | Scones, clotted cream, jam | Finger sandwiches, pastries, scones, sometimes hot food |
| Beverage | Typically tea (Earl Grey, English Breakfast) | Tea, sometimes Champagne |
| Time | Mid-afternoon | Mid to late afternoon |
| Price | More affordable | Generally pricier |
| Length | Shorter, 30–60 minutes | Extended, often 1.5–2 hours |
Cream tea is perfect for those seeking a simpler, more focused experience on the classic scone-and-tea combo.
What to Expect on a Traditional Cream Tea Menu in London?
The core components are consistent across most venues:
- Two to three scones, plain or fruit
- Clotted cream, thick and chilled
- Strawberry or raspberry jam, often house-made
- Loose-leaf tea, brewed to perfection
- Optional additions, such as pastries or sparkling wine
Some places offer themed menus or include petit fours to complement the basic offering.
What Are Some Etiquette Tips for Enjoying Cream Tea in London?
Observing etiquette can enhance your experience and help you blend in:
- Don’t dunk your scone spread cream and jam with a knife
- Eat with your hands, but do so neatly and over your plate
- Cream or jam first? It’s a hot debate. Cornwall says jam, Devon says cream. London? Either!
- Sip tea quietly, stirring without clinking the spoon
- Dress the part Smart casual attire is appreciated in upscale venues
Being mindful of traditions adds charm to your outing.
What Kind of Cream Do the British Put in Tea?
Contrary to popular belief, British people typically don’t put cream in their tea. Instead, they use milk usually semi-skimmed or whole milk. The idea of adding cream to tea is more common in North America or in certain tea-based desserts.
In the UK, putting cream directly into tea is considered unusual and can overpower the delicate flavours of the brew.
However, clotted cream is a vital part of the cream tea experience but it’s served on scones, not in the tea itself. This thick, rich cream is spooned generously over warm scones and topped with fruit preserve as part of the traditional cream tea ritual.
So, in British cream tea:
- Tea = served with milk (not cream)
- Cream = used on scones, not in the cup
This distinction is a cornerstone of proper British tea etiquette.
Top 12 Best London Cream Tea Cafes
1. The Savoy
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Located in the grand Thames Foyer, The Savoy offers a truly regal cream tea experience under a stunning glass dome. Guests enjoy attentive service with a touch of theatrical flair, accompanied by live piano music.
Their warm, crumbly scones are served with Cornish clotted cream and house-made strawberry preserve. A variety of bespoke tea blends are available, expertly poured at your table. It’s one of London’s most iconic destinations for afternoon indulgence.
Offers
- Seasonal limited edition cream tea menus throughout the year
- Gift vouchers for cream tea experiences available online
- Festive cream tea offerings in December
Cream Tea Includes
- Freshly baked scones (plain and raisin)
- Cornish clotted cream
- House strawberry preserve
- Selection of specialty loose-leaf teas
- Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EY
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7420 2111
- Email: savoy@fairmont.com
- Website: thesavoylondon.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 6 PM
- Price: From £75 per person
2. Fortnum & Mason Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon
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Located in the heart of Piccadilly, Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon is a majestic, quintessentially British venue. With over 300 years of tea expertise, this salon offers refined cream tea in an opulent, serene setting.
The scones are served with luxurious clotted cream and a selection of house preserves, alongside a curated tea list. The attention to heritage and quality makes this a must visit destination for traditionalists. The salon also caters to various dietary requirements.
Offers
- Afternoon tea gift boxes available to purchase online
- Loyalty rewards for frequent diners
- Special tea menus launched for royal events or seasonal occasions
Cream Tea Includes
- Warm scones (plain and fruit)
- Cornish clotted cream
- Fortnum’s strawberry or raspberry preserve
- A pot of Fortnum’s signature tea blends
- Address: 4th Floor, Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7734 8040
- Email: customer.services@fortnumandmason.co.uk
- Website: www.fortnumandmason.com
- Opening Hours: Mon–Sat: 11:30 AM – 7 PM, Sun: 12 PM – 6 PM
- Price: From £40 per person
3. The Drawing Room at Brown’s Hotel
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This charming space within Brown’s Hotel offers a tranquil and artful environment for a refined cream tea. Surrounded by wood panelling, original artworks, and soft lighting, guests enjoy a peaceful, luxurious setting.
Their cream tea features classic scones with silky clotted cream and homemade jams, paired with a wide selection of teas. Service is impeccable and discreet, ideal for quiet afternoons or business meetings.
Offers
- Seasonal themed afternoon teas available
- Children’s afternoon tea sets
- Exclusive menu collaborations with artists and chefs
Cream Tea Includes
- Plain and fruit scones
- Cornish clotted cream
- Raspberry or strawberry preserve
- Loose-leaf tea selection from Camellia’s Tea House
- Address: Ground Floor, 33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP
- Phone: +44 207 518 4006
- Email: drawingroom@roccofortehotels.com
- Website:www.roccofortehotels.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 5 PM
- Price: From £55 per person
4. The Beaumont
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An elegant and understated hotel in Mayfair, The Beaumont offers a relaxed yet sophisticated cream tea setting. Guests enjoy plush seating, soft lighting, and a calm atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Their cream tea includes perfectly baked scones, rich clotted cream, and fruit preserves, complemented by premium teas. The setting strikes a balance between modern luxury and timeless British charm.
Offers
- Weekend afternoon tea specials
- Add-on Champagne option
- Gift vouchers available for tea and spa packages
Cream Tea Includes
- Warm scones (plain and sultana
- Devon clotted cream
- Homemade seasonal preserve
- Classic and herbal loose-leaf teas
- Address: The Beaumont Mayfair, 8 Balderton St, London W1K 6TF
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7499 1001
- Email: info@thebeaumont.com
- Website:thebeaumont.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
- Price: From £45 per person
5. Candella Tea Room
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Tucked away in Kensington, Candella Tea Room is a local favourite offering a warm and vintage-style tea experience. The interior is charming and cosy, with antique décor and friendly service.
Their cream tea is simple, hearty, and affordably priced, featuring home-style scones and traditional accompaniments. It’s perfect for casual tea lovers or those looking for an authentic British café.
Offers
- Loyalty discounts for return customers
- Cream tea with a cake upgrade option
- Student specials during weekdays
Cream Tea Includes
- Two warm scones
- Cornish clotted cream
- Strawberry jam
- Choice of traditional teas
- Address: 34 Kensington Church St, London W8 4HA
- Phone: 020 7937 4161
- Email: candellatearoom@hotmail.com
- Website: candellatearoom.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM
- Price: From £15 per person
6. Rosewood London – Mirror Room
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Set in the luxurious Rosewood Hotel, the Mirror Room offers a sophisticated and modern take on British cream tea. The interiors are sleek, with mirrored panels and plush velvet seating.
Their seasonal scones, rich clotted cream, and inventive preserves make for a fresh experience. Their tea list features rare blends and exotic infusions.
Offers
- Seasonal themed afternoon teas (e.g., Art Afternoon Tea)
- Add-on Champagne or cocktail pairings
- Online bookings with special discounts during holidays
Cream Tea Includes
- Fresh fruit and plain scones
- Cornish clotted cream
- Flavoured seasonal jams
- Curated selection of loose-leaf teas
- Address: 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN
- Phone: +44 207 781 8888
- Email: london@rosewoodhotels.com
- Website: rosewoodhotels.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 6 PM
- Price: From £60 per person
7. Sanderson – Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea
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This quirky venue in Fitzrovia reimagines traditional cream tea with an Alice in Wonderland twist.
The Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea is whimsical, colourful, and a favourite among families and younger audiences. The scones are delicious and the presentation is imaginative and theatrical.
Offers
- Mad Hatter-themed packages for birthdays
- Complimentary ‘Drink Me’ potions on select days
- Seasonal fantasy-themed menu variations
Cream Tea Includes
- Plain and fruit scones
- Clotted cream
- Strawberry preserve
- Tea blends inspired by the story (e.g., Alice blend)
- Address: 50 Berners St, London W1T 3NG
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7300 1400
- Email: sndreservations@morgansoriginals.com
- Website: morgansoriginals.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12:30 PM – 5 PM
- Price: From £58 per person
8. Claridge’s
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Known for impeccable service and timeless elegance, Claridge’s offers one of the most celebrated cream tea services in London.
It’s a refined experience from start to finish, with fresh scones and a world-class selection of teas curated by in-house tea connoisseurs.
Offers
- Personalised messages or cakes with booking
- Luxury tea hampers for home delivery
- Seasonal menus to mark special occasions
Cream Tea Includes
- Buttermilk scones (plain and raisin)
- Cornish clotted cream
- Marco Polo gelee or strawberry jam
- Claridge’s bespoke tea blends
- Address: Brook St, London W1K 4HR
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7629 8860
- Email: info@claridges.co.uk
- Website: www.claridges.co.uk
- Opening Hours: Daily, 2:45 PM – 5:30 PM
- Price: From £75 per person
9. Sofitel St James
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Sofitel St James brings a French twist to the British cream tea tradition, offering a sophisticated and serene setting.
With plush interiors and elegant floral arrangements, the experience is refined and relaxed. Their scones are generously portioned and perfectly baked.
Offers
- Afternoon tea packages for couples
- Loyalty points for Accor members
- Festive menus with limited-edition treats
Cream Tea Includes
- House-baked scones
- Clotted cream and raspberry jam
- Classic and infused teas
- Vegan-friendly options available
- Address: 6 Waterloo Pl, London SW1Y 5ER
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7747 2200
- Email: Sofitel.LondonStJames@sofitel.com
- Website: www.sofitelstjames.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 5 PM
- Price: From £55 per person
10. One Aldwych – Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea
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Inspired by Roald Dahl’s classic, this imaginative tea at One Aldwych is a hit with children and the young at heart. Their scones are beautifully baked and come with fun-flavoured jams like bubblegum and lemon curd. It’s an experience packed with magic and nostalgia.
Offers
- Birthday celebration packages for kids
- Weekend family tea menus
- Themed souvenirs and treats available for purchase
Cream Tea Includes
- Golden scones
- Cornish clotted cream
- Bubblegum blueberry jam and lemon curd
- Chocolate-infused loose-leaf teas
- Address: 1 Aldwych, London WC2B 4BZ
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7300 1000
- Email: reservations@onealdwych.com
- Website: www.onealdwych.com
- Opening Hours: Wed–Sun, 12 PM – 4 PM
- Price: From £58 per person
11. Cafe Royal Grill
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This historic venue on Regent Street delivers a grand experience in a space frequented by royalty and artists alike. The atmosphere is elegant and serene, making it ideal for refined afternoons. Their cream tea service features classic favorites with polished presentation.
Offers
- Champagne tea packages
- Hotel stay & afternoon tea bundles
- Special discounts on off-peak weekdays
Cream Tea Includes
- Plain and sultana scones
- Cornish clotted cream
- Strawberry and apricot preserves
- Selection of premium teas
- Address: Café Royal, 68 Regent St., London W1B 4DY
- Phone: +44 (0)20 7406 3333
- Email: enquiries@hotelcaferoyal.com
- Website: www.hotelcaferoyal.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 6 PM
- Price: From £65 per person
12. The Milestone Hotel
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Overlooking Kensington Gardens, The Milestone is a boutique hotel with an intimate and tranquil tearoom. Their cream tea is traditional, with generous portions and attentive service in an elegant setting filled with period décor.
Offers
- Private tea room bookings available
- Romantic packages for couples
- Holiday and themed cream tea specials
Cream Tea Includes
- Classic scones
- Devonshire clotted cream
- Strawberry preserve
- Kensington blend teas
- Address: 1-3 Kensington Ct, London W8 5DL
- Phone: +44 20 7917 1000
- Email: bookms@milestonehotel.com
- Website: milestonehotel.com
- Opening Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 4 PM
- Price: From £55 per person
Conclusion
London’s cream tea culture is a treasured tradition that combines indulgence, elegance, and timeless charm.
Whether you’re sipping a bespoke blend beneath the chandeliers of Claridge’s or enjoying a homely scone at Candella Tea Room, every venue on this list offers a unique take on this quintessential British experience.
The best London cream tea cafes cater to every taste luxury seekers, budget-conscious visitors, families, and foodies alike.
From classic to creative, simple to spectacular, this guide showcases the very best places to savour fluffy scones, rich clotted cream, and perfectly brewed tea in one of the world’s most iconic cities.
So, next time you’re in London and the clock strikes three, you’ll know exactly where to go. Reserve a table, take a seat, and enjoy a slice of British tradition done right.
FAQ About Best London Cream Tea
Where can I find the best London cream tea for first-time visitors?
Fortnum & Mason or The Savoy offer iconic experiences ideal for first-timers.
Which place offers the best value for cream tea in London?
Candella Tea Room is praised for quality and affordability.
What is the most famous cream tea spot in London?
Claridge’s is often regarded as the most prestigious cream tea destination.
Can I enjoy the best London cream tea without a reservation?
Yes, at smaller cafés like Candella, but top venues usually require booking.
What makes a cream tea the best in London?
Fresh scones, authentic clotted cream, premium teas, and elegant ambiance.
Are vegan options available at the best London cream tea cafes?
Yes, many top venues now offer vegan-friendly cream tea menus.
Which London area has the highest number of top cream tea cafes?
Mayfair and Kensington are hotspots for premium cream tea experiences.