On the 21st April, teacups clink, kettles whistle and tea lovers get together to celebrate National Tea Day!
The origins of National Tea Day trace back to the early days of the British Empire when tea became the beverage of choice for the nation. Introduced to England in the 17th century, tea quickly became a symbol of sophistication and social status. Its popularity soared, leading to the birth of afternoon tea rituals and the iconic British tea time tradition.
Fast forward to the 21st century and tea has evolved into a global phenomenon. National Tea Day is a celebration of this universal love of a good brew. To help make this ONE special, Gemma Logan, party expert at Fizzbox, gives us the rundown of the best afternoon teas in London.
Afternoon Tea Bus
Price: From £60 per person
Drinks included: Unlimited tea
Location: Victoria Coach Station, 164 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 9TP
Hop aboard a vintage Routemaster London bus for a delightful afternoon of tea and treats! Indulge in finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam and French pastries, accompanied by unlimited tea. Take in the iconic sights of London during this 90-minute tour, all from the comfort of your seat. Sip on as much tea as you like and munch on savoury and sweet food as you see the city in style.
Sushi & Asian Tapas Afternoon Tea
Price: From £33.95 per person
Drinks included: Oriental tea & unlimited prosecco
Location: 134-136 Wardour Street, London, W1F 8ZP
Enjoy a twist on traditional afternoon tea with Inamo sushi and Asian tapas afternoon tea with bottomless bubbles. Choose between their vibrant Soho spot or the charming Covent Garden restaurant where you’ll tuck into a selection of savoury treats, from crispy chicken karaage to signature dragon rolls. Save room for sweet treats like passion fruit lollipops and chocolate mousse. Wash it all down with Oriental tea and free-flowing prosecco. Plus, enjoy interactive menus and games.
Traditional Afternoon Tea at B-Bakery
Price: From £40 per person
Drinks included: 10 teas to choose from
Location: 6-7 Chandos Place, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4HU
Enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea that blends English elegance with French finesse. Feast on a variety of freshly-cut sandwiches like classic cucumber with mint cream cheese or turkey ham with mustardy mayo as well as savoury muffins and pretzels with tasty fillings. Satisfy your sweet cravings with handmade treats such as tarts, cupcakes, macarons and choux pastries. And when it comes to tea, you’re spoilt for choice with English breakfast, earl grey, rooibush jardin rouge, peppermint, lemon and ginger, berry and elderflower, darjeeling and more.
Gin Lovers Afternoon Tea
Price: From £50 per person
Drinks included: Tea & a gin cocktail
Location: 6-7 Chandos Place, Covent Garden, London WC2N 4HU
Enjoy a two hour reservation with gin cocktails and a traditional afternoon tea. Indulge in a variety of sweet and savoury treats, from pastrami burgers to cucumber finger sandwiches. Satisfy your sweet tooth with lemon cupcakes and raspberry tarts infused with gin cream liqueur. And no afternoon tea is complete without scones with clotted cream and jam, enjoyed in this tranquil Covent Garden tearoom. It’s the perfect blend of elegance, relaxation and gin!
Afternoon Tea at Revolution
Price: From £20 per person
Drinks included: Glass of prosecco or cocktail
Location: 140-144 Leadenhall Street, London, EC3V 4QT
Get ready to spice up your afternoon at Revolution with a modern afternoon tea. Indulge in a mouth-watering range of dishes including cheeseburger sliders, crispy fried chicken, chilli cheese fries and roasted cauliflower bites while vegans. Dessert options include cookie dough s’mores and chocolate brownies. Expect a fun, laid-back atmosphere at this popular bar. Plus, kick off the party with a choice of cocktail or prosecco for that extra sparkle.
- Gemma Logan