London's top 10 alternative afternoon teas 2023

There’s no better combination than tea and biscuits, which is why we love an Afternoon Tea here at Biscuiteers. If you’re like us and are on the hunt for a London Afternoon Tea for two with a twist, an alternative to the traditional 3pm treat, you’re in the right place. We’ve collected together a list of our top 10 alternative afternoon teas in London. We promise they'll innovate and transform this quintessentially British pastime, while still retaining its celebrated charm and appeal.

1. Biscuiteers London Afternoon Tea
   A quintessentially British affair, our Biscuiteers Boutique and Icing Cafes have an Afternoon Tea with a red, white and blue twist. A celebration of all things British, our London Afternoon Tea perfectly pairs a host of traditional tea-time treats with our iconic biscuits, hand-iced right here in London. And here is the twist, you can now ice your own biscuit creations whilst sipping on something sparkling when you add on a DIY icing experience to your booking. After the hustle and bustle of a busy day in London we can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than sharing (and icing!) some sweet treats with a friend.
   2. Afternoon Tea With a View (OXO Tower)
   For those looking to take in the views of London whilst enjoying a tantalizing afternoon tea, Harvey Nichols’ sophisticated offering might just tempt you. The exquisite menu complete with indulgently filled sandwiches and delicious dessert plates, combined with the stunning views found in the OXO Tower venue certainly makes this afternoon affair a decadent option, perfect for those making the most of their visit to the city.
   3. Pret-a-Portea (Berkeley Hotel)
   Culinary couture is on the menu at The Berkeley’s Pret-a-Portea which resembles the latest catwalk trends in pastry and cake! This season, indulge in delights ranging from Christopher Kane’s fabulous floral gown celebrated as a velvety vanilla cheesecake, to Ralph Lauren’s hero coat reimagined in the rouge tones of a sour cherry and dark chocolate black forest gateau. Know that you are enjoying the most stylish tea party London has to offer. Every fashionista's vice!
   4. Gents Afternoon Tea (Sanctum Soho)
   If handbags and heels aren’t your thing, Sanctum’s offering replaces the traditionally twee scones, tea and cake with steak, burgers, Jack Daniels and, of course, a cigar, allowing even the most macho out there the chance to enjoy the finer things in life.
   5. Mad Hatter’s Afternoon Tea (Sanderson Hotel)
   Taking inspiration from one the most legendary tea parties in literature, the Sanderson Hotel promises a theatrical and whimsical take on afternoon tea. With a menu ranging from ‘Grow Me, Shrink Me, Bring Me Back’ glittery potions and Tweedle Brothers Choux Pastry to dainty sandwiches and scrumptious homemade scones. This tea party also celebrates that other great British trait - eccentricity.
   6. Moving Teas (Afternoon Tea Bus Tours, BB Bakery and City Cruise River Thames Tea)
   If you suffer from a touch of wanderlust, there’s even the option to combine both afternoon tea and sightseeing either by bus, with BB Bakery, or by boat, with City Cruises. The food may be the customary ware but the opportunity to enjoy it while admiring countless stunning views of London – not to mention all the photo opportunities – should not be missed!
   7. American Afternoon Tea (BURGERBITES Camden)
   If you’re not a fan of refined dining, BURGERBITES Afternoon Tea offers a delightfully tasty, eclectic and hearty take on this quintessential British pastime with mini burgers, cupcakes and doughnuts all featuring on the Americanised menu.
   8. The Chinese Whispers Afternoon Tea (Kai Mayfair)
   Credit: opentable
   The Kai Mayfair has introduced an Afternoon Tea designed to really get you talking. Their Michelin-starred Chinese Whispers Afternoon Tea perfectly pairs gourmet treats with…gossip. Dip into the “Jar of Whispers and Conversations” for thought-provoking conversation starters, that will be further encouraged once you sample their menu of ‘Sweet Secrets and Whispers’ and Tea ‘Truth’ Cocktails & Potions. Spread the word!
   9. Doggy Afternoon Tea (Egerton House Hotel)
   This afternoon tea certainly gets tails wagging. The Egerton House Hotels invites guests to bring all their friends, even the four legged ones to their Doggy Afternoon Tea . Served alongside your traditional tea time experience will be a tea stand exclusively for man's best friend. Complete with a selection of tasty treats and Dogitini, this one is perfect for pampered pooches.
   10. Cook your own (The Cookery School)
   Finally, if you think you can do better than all of these, why not give it a try? The Cookery School gives you the chance to learn how to cook the traditional afternoon tea menu, consisting of scones, jam, finger bread rolls and Devonshire cream cakes among others. And don’t worry, you will be allowed to sample your wares afterwards.