We’re throwing a spotlight on cream teas, one of the UK’s most popular foodie traditions and always a winner on our group tours. According to legend, scones were first enjoyed by monks in an abbey in Devon and the Duchess of Bedford, lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria, is credited with creating afternoon tea as we know it today. The choice of style, location and even theme is immense.

Cream teas in London: high-end, glamorous and insta-perfect!
Afternoon tea in a luxury London hotel is the ultimate indulgence. Treat yourself to tea in the famous Palm Court at The Ritz or the historic Drawing Room in the quintessentially English Brown’s Hotel. Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at Claridges with a string quartet and art deco backdrop or at the Savoy, which first opened its doors in 1889. Linger over gourmet finger sandwiches at The Goring, which has been welcoming high society since the Edwardian era. Or schedule a stop at an original London railway hotel, like travellers from times gone by. Founded in 1707, London's Fortnum & Mason remains an undisputed destination for outstanding food and the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon promises the perfect afternoon tea experience.

Afternoon Tea beyond London
Take tea in The Orangery at magnificent Blenheim Palace, birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. Or travel back to the golden age of luxury rail travel with Carriages of Cambridge and indulge in a 1920’s tea in original Pullman-style carriages. Head to Harrogate or York and Betty's, famed for its afternoon tea since 1920. Unwind in the lovely grounds or quaint tea rooms of stately homes including Hever Castle, Leeds Castle, Chatsworth and Cliveden. Sip sparkling wine in a luxury vineyard, alongside your choice of tea and cakes.

The South-West: where it all began
Explore Tregothnan in Cornwall, home to the UK’s first tea gardens. Enjoy the wonderful River Garden Tea Tour, followed by a cream tea. For the last word in decadence, book afternoon tea at the beautiful Royal Crescent Hotel in Georgian Bath.

Take tea on a train or boat or bus!
Delight in freshly brewed teas or vintage champagne on a classic steam train, as you journey through picturesque countryside and charming villages. Afternoon tea is also available on scenic boat trips along the Thames or on a traditional double-decker bus.

High tea in the garden
Appreciate the glorious gardens of RHS Garden Wisley while relaxing over a delicious afternoon tea.

Themed teas
There’s a themed tea for everyone. Regency fans can choose between Mr Darcy’s Afternoon Tea at the Jane Austen Centre in Bath or the Bridgerton Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough in London. Select from a menu based on Shakespeare’s most famous works, a Sherlock Holmes tea, or a Peter Pan one. For a mystery twist, visit Burgh Island for an Agatha Christie-inspired afternoon tea or Beatrix Potter fans might opt for a themed tea in the Peter Rabbit Café. We can also arrange Halloween, Christmas, Science, magic and fashion themed teas.

Groups! Why not book an etiquette workshop or talk whilst enjoying an afternoon tea? Contact us for more information or take a look at our Gourmet Experiences & Group Tours.

August 20, 2025