Few things feel more London than afternoon tea. It can be a chance to slow down, enjoy delicious food and share a proper British tradition together.
But with so many options in the city, it can be hard to know where to start. Some places are better suited to adults, while others go out of their way to make kids feel welcome.
We’ve put together a guide to the best children’s afternoon teas in London. Whether you’re after a classic hotel experience, a science-themed spread near the museums, or afternoon tea rolling past Buckingham Palace, there’s something here for every family.
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is a light meal served in the afternoon, usually between 2pm and 5pm. It traditionally includes sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of cakes and pastries. Tea is served alongside, though many places now offer juice or hot chocolate for kids.
The tradition started in England in the 1840s. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, is said to have started it as a way to stave off hunger between lunch and dinner. It quickly became a popular social occasion, and it’s still going strong today.
London is widely considered the home of afternoon tea, with some of the world’s most famous hotels and restaurants offering their own versions.
The best children’s afternoon tea in London
London has no shortage of afternoon tea options, but not all of them are great for families.
These are the ones that kids genuinely enjoy, from classic hotel afternoon teas to themed experiences that bring a bit of magic to the table.
Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tours
Covent Garden, WC2
This one is a real favourite with kids. Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tours take afternoon tea off the table and onto the road, literally.
You enjoy sweet and savoury treats on board a classic London double-decker bus while touring the city’s most iconic sights.
Perfect for
Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tours are perfect for younger kids and first-time London visitors, families who want to combine sightseeing with a meal. And anyone who loves Paddington Bear.
What to expect
The route takes in landmarks like Big Ben, Downing Street, and Buckingham Palace. Kids can look out the window at the sights while working through a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and scones. It’s a lovely way to see the city, especially for first-time visitors.
The food is made fresh at their Covent Garden bakery, and it holds an average of 4.5 stars from over a thousand Tripadvisor reviews. For both the food and the experience, that’s a strong rating from travellers.
Brigit’s Bakery also offers themed rides throughout the year. Their Paddington Bear tour is a particular hit with younger children, combining the bus tour with a Paddington-themed menu and a gift to take home.
Good to know
Tours depart from Covent Garden and typically last around 90 minutes. Booking in advance is recommended as these tours are popular, especially in school holidays. Children have their own menu with age-appropriate portions.
Check availability at Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Bus Tours
The Ampersand Hotel, Science Afternoon Tea
South Kensington, SW7
The Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington has created an afternoon tea that feels like it was designed with kids in mind. Their science-themed menu is inventive and genuinely fun, and it pairs beautifully with a visit to the nearby museums.
Perfect for
This science-themed tea is perfect for curious kids, science fans, and families making a day of South Kensington.
What to expect
Kids can look forward to steaming volcanoes, lemonade experiments, and tasty fossils hidden in chocolate soil. It’s one of the few afternoon teas where kids are actively encouraged to play with their food, which most of them absolutely love.
The setting is a relaxed hotel drawing room, making it a comfortable space for families. Staff are friendly and know how to make younger guests feel at ease.
Good to know
The Ampersand is a short walk from the Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum. It makes a great afternoon addition after a morning at one of these world-class attractions.
Check availability at The Ampersand Hotel
The Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea
Mayfair, W1J
If your kids love sweets, this one is hard to resist. The Chesterfield Mayfair’s Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea was named Best Themed Afternoon Tea for its “level of service and inventiveness”, and it’s easy to see why.
Perfect for
The Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea is perfect for kids who love sweets, families looking for something a bit different, and anyone who wants a themed experience while staying close to the traditional afternoon tea.
What to expect
The menu is designed around a sweet shop theme, with treats inspired by Coca-Cola and Reese’s peanut butter cups alongside classic afternoon tea sandwiches and pastries. It’s a fun, colourful experience that feels genuinely different from a traditional hotel tea.
Good to know
The Chesterfield Mayfair is located in Mayfair, close to Green Park and Hyde Park. It’s a great option to combine with a morning in the park or a visit to Buckingham Palace. The nearest theatres include Her Majesty’s Theatre, home to The Phantom of the Opera.
Check availability at The Chesterfield Mayfair
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych
Strand, WC2
If you’re looking for afternoon tea that will genuinely delight the kids, this is hard to beat. The Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych is inspired by Roald Dahl’s much-loved story, and the menu is packed with imagination.
Perfect for
Roald Dahl fans, kids who love sweet things, and families looking for a special occasion treat.
What to expect
Kids can look forward to fizzy lifting drinks, snozzberry jam, and a chocolate sludge milkshake mixed by waterfall. There are also savoury sandwiches and quiche alongside the sweet treats. The dining area on the mezzanine level is themed, making it a lovely spot for photos.
The experience really does bring the book to life. It’s sweet, in every sense, so it suits kids with a sweet tooth particularly well.
Good to know
One Aldwych is located on the Strand, making it well placed for a West End visit. The Lyceum Theatre, home to The Lion King, is a short walk away. The Novello Theatre, showing Mamma Mia!, and Theatre Royal Drury Lane, home to Disney’s Hercules the Musical, are also nearby.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea has 4.3 out of 5 stars from 375 Google reviews. Guests highlight the themed food and the creativity of the experience. It is on the more expensive side for afternoon tea, though the tea and sandwiches are unlimited.
Check availability at One Aldwych
Traditional Afternoon Tea at The Langham
Portland Place, W1B
For a more traditional afternoon tea experience, The Langham is where the whole tradition began. In 1865, this Marylebone hotel became the first place to serve afternoon tea to guests. That history gives the whole experience a lovely sense of occasion.
Perfect for
The Langham afternoon tea is perfect for older kids and teens, special occasions, and families who want to experience a little piece of London history.
What to expect
The menu is overseen by two-star Michelin chef Michel Roux. Families can enjoy beautifully crafted sandwiches, pastries, and cakes that blend classic recipes with some modern touches. The Palm Court itself is an elegant, light-filled space that feels genuinely special.
It’s a more formal setting than some of the other options on this list, so it works best with slightly older children who are comfortable sitting at a table for a longer meal. That said, the staff are welcoming and used to guests of all ages.
Good to know
The Langham is based in Marylebone, within easy reach of central London. It’s a great option to pair with a visit to Regent’s Park or the nearby Wallace Collection.
Check availability at The Langham, Palm Court
Boutique Hotel Afternoon Tea at Brown’s Hotel
Mayfair, W1S
Brown’s Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1837, and its afternoon tea in The Drawing Room is one of London’s most celebrated. The oak-panelled room has a warmth and charm that makes the experience feel genuinely unhurried and special.
Perfect for
The Brown’s Hotel afternoon need is perfect for a truly special occasion, older kids and teens, and families who enjoy a touch of London history with their scones.
What to expect
Brown’s Hotel serves elevated versions of the classics. Think prawn cocktail on brioche with crispy shallots and espelette pepper, or beautifully soft finger sandwiches alongside unique tea blends from the Rare Tea Company.
It’s a luxurious experience, and has the service to match. Families are made to feel welcome, though like The Langham, it works best with children who are comfortable in a more formal setting.
Good to know
Brown’s is located in Mayfair, making it well placed for a visit to nearby attractions like the Royal Academy of Arts or Green Park. It’s also an interesting hotel to visit, since it has hosted guests from Rudyard Kipling to Princess Diana, and its Drawing Room is said to have inspired Agatha Christie.
Check availability at Brown’s Hotel
Tips for afternoon tea with kids
Book in advance
Popular afternoon teas, especially themed ones, fill up quickly. This is especially true at weekends and during school holidays. It’s worth booking at least a few weeks ahead for the more well-known venues.
Check for a kids’ menu
Many venues offer a separate, smaller afternoon tea for children at a lower price. This is worth checking when you book, especially for younger kids who may not eat a full adult portion.
Think about timing
Afternoon tea is served from around 2pm to 5pm. Going early in the slot means kids are likely to be at their most settled. It also gives you flexibility for the rest of the day.
Factor in the price
Afternoon tea in London can be expensive, especially at hotels. Adult afternoon teas at luxury venues can range from £50 to £100 or more per person. It’s worth deciding your budget before you book, and looking out for set prices or family deals.
Consider the setting
Some afternoon teas are more relaxed than others. If you have very young children or toddlers, a themed, informal setting like Brigit’s Bakery Bus or the Ampersand’s science tea may suit better than a formal hotel drawing room.
FAQs
What is the best afternoon tea in London for kids?
The science-themed afternoon tea at The Ampersand Hotel and Brigit’s Bakery Bus Tours are both excellent choices for families with younger kids. Both have themed menus and a relaxed atmosphere. For something more traditional, The Langham or Brown’s Hotel offer a more classic experience.
Is afternoon tea suitable for toddlers?
It can be, though it helps to choose a relaxed, informal venue. The Brigit’s Bakery Bus Tour and One Aldwych’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea both work well for younger children. Formal hotel settings may be harder going with very young ones.
How long does afternoon tea take?
Most afternoon teas last between one and two hours. Some venues are more flexible than others about time, so it’s worth checking when you book if you have a show or activity to get to afterwards.
Do kids get a cheaper afternoon tea?
Many venues offer a children’s afternoon tea at a reduced price, usually for children under 12. It’s always worth asking when you book. Some venues, like Brigit’s Bakery, include a children’s menu as standard.
Where can I find more things to do in London with kids?
Loopla has a regularly updated guide to shows, activities, and events for families across London.
Whether you’re planning a day out in the West End or looking for something local, you’ll find plenty of ideas to get started.