Arts

Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week with These Unmissable Experiences Across London (and at Home)

Afternoon Tea Week (5th–11th August) is the perfect excuse to indulge in a quintessentially British tradition – and this year’s offerings are nothing short of extraordinary. From matcha-infused delights in Marylebone to sci-fi-inspired treats in the West End, here’s where to sip, snack and celebrate in style.

A Matcha-Made Moment: JENKI Afternoon Tea at Nobu Hotel London Portman Square

Tea lovers can elevate their summer afternoons with the Nobu Summer Afternoon Tea experience, blending Nobu’s signature style with the earthy richness of JENKI’s ceremonial grade matcha. At the centre of this experience is the reimagined scone – a JENKI matcha scone paired with tangy yuzu curd and clotted cream, served alongside a classic plain version.

Guests will also enjoy a sophisticated selection of savouries including an Asparagus Dry Miso Skewer, Wagyu Slider, and Corn Kara-Age Slider, followed by indulgent desserts like the Mango Ginger Tart, Nobu Cheesecake, and homemade mochi. All of this is served with a curated selection of Canton teas, spanning Jasmine Pearls, Silver Needle, and Japanese Kabuse Sencha, plus classic options like Black Earl Grey and herbal blends.

📍 The Lounge at Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
🕐 Monday–Sunday, 12:45 pm – 5:30 pm
🔗 Book here

Tea with a View: VU from The Tower

For those seeking sky-high serenity, VU from The Tower at The Tower Hotel offers a picture-perfect Afternoon Tea experience with jaw-dropping views of Tower Bridge and the Thames.

Served daily from 1–4 pm, this stylish tea service includes tiers of elegant pâtisserie, dainty finger sandwiches, and warm scones, all bathed in natural daylight through floor-to-ceiling windows. Expect classic treats like Lemon Meringue Pies, Pistachio Bombs, and Battenburg cake, with an optional glass of Champagne or signature VU cocktail.

📍 The Tower Hotel, VU from The Tower
🕐 Daily, 1–4 pm
🔗 Book here

Afternoon Tea That Changes Lives: The Clink at HMP Brixton

For a truly meaningful experience, head to The Clink Restaurant at HMP Brixton, where the traditional Afternoon Tea is served with a side of social impact. Operated by The Clink Charity, the restaurant is run by prisoners training in hospitality as part of their rehabilitation.

Guests are treated to an elegant array of handmade scones, freshly prepared finger sandwiches, and exquisite cakes, all served in a formal dining setting within the prison itself — a rare opportunity to dine with purpose.

📍 The Clink Restaurant, HMP Brixton
🔐 Advance booking and security clearance required
🔗 Book here

A Sci-Fi Twist: Back to the Future Afternoon Tea at SOUND Cafe

SOUND Cafe at The Cumberland Hotel offers an immersive dining experience for fans of film and theatre with its Back to the Future The Musical Afternoon Tea.

Inspired by the cult classic, the tea features playful creations like Mcfly’s slider burger, Mayor Goldie Wilson’s Hot Dog, and the E=MC² Mac & Cheese Toastie. Sweet highlights include Doc’s Brownies, Biff’s Apple Cobbler, and George’s Fruit Macarons, all served with Lorraine’s mini shakes and Marvin’s berry iced teas in fruity flavours such as Raspberry Mint and Mango Passionfruit.

📍 SOUND Cafe, The Cumberland Hotel
🔗 Book here

Afternoon Tea at Home with Whittard of Chelsea

Prefer your tea in the garden or from the comfort of your own kitchen? Whittard of Chelsea brings the joy of Afternoon Tea to you with a gorgeous selection of summery infusions and iced teas.

Flavours include the creamy Ice Cream Sundae and the nostalgic Strawberries & Cream, both £9.95, as well as the refreshing Summer Garden blend of hibiscus, raspberry, and rhubarb. For a bolder taste, try the Raspberry & Grapefruit Cold Brew (£5.95) or the tropical Mango Black Tea (£7.95).

🫖 Available at whittard.co.uk

Whether you’re a traditionalist, a trend-setter or a time-traveller, Afternoon Tea Week 2025 has something to satisfy every palate and passion. Be it matcha magic, riverfront views, rehabilitation through food or cinematic treats, this is your invitation to sip, savour and celebrate.