London is so well set-up for family visitors, so most of the classic Afternoon Tea spots in the capital will welcome children with open arms. Even the fanciest of hotels, such as Claridges and The Ritz are used to families visiting from all over the world to their formal dining rooms.
However if you’re keen to introduce your kids to a more fun and child-friendly version of the classic Afternoon Tea, there are lots of places serving up an alternative take for a more relaxed, less formal experience.
What is Afternoon Tea?
The traditional version of Afternoon Tea in England consists of (usually): a set of elegant sandwiches, scones (served with clotted cream and jam) and a selection of cakes. They’ll be beautifully presented on the table in a tiered tower and served alongside a choice of tea (whether it be English Breakfast or Earl Grey) and also, frequently, with Champagne.
Historically, it’s been served at hotels like The Dorchester and The Savoy between 3pm and 5pm as a meal in itself. It can also be found around the UK in a more informal format known colloquially as a ‘Cream Tea’ – just the scones, clotted cream and jam served with a pot of tea – found in popular seaside regions such as Devon and Cornwall in even the most casual of cafes.
In recent years there has been an explosion of alternative afternoon teas, with fun seasonal themes to suit kids and new updates on the traditional elements, including flavored scones, different savory items and more unique cakes.
The Best Places for Afternoon Tea for Families
Live out the child-like fantasy of the Alice and Wonderland story at The Sanderson in Fitrovia. They have a dedicated children’s tea menu, served with hot chocolate or juice.
The beautiful pink displays at Peggy Porchen will astound little ones and provide Instagram-worthy shots for the teens too. Our favorite branch is Chelsea.
Handily located close to the museums of South Kensington, this dinosaur-inspired afternoon tea is ideal for school-age kids.
Snozzberry jam and chocolate swudge milkshake mixed by waterfall? It could only be inspired by Willy Wonka.
A colorful afternoon tea served on a pirate ship, with the background of the view from The Shard.
Delicious treats and playful colors bring the afternoon tea experience to life for kids in a quintessential location on the edge of Mayfair and Marylebone.
Worth a trip if only for the super-sensory cafe experience! Popular chain EL&N runs a floral afternoon tea exclusively in their Lowndes Street cafe, near Hyde Park.
Discover the sights of the city on a classic double decker bus, with teas inspired by Paddington or Peppa Pig.
Booking a family vacation to London
If you’re heading to the capital with the family in tow, get an idea of where to stay in London with kids and then browse all the neighborhoods with family-friendly vacation homes in London.
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/camden-town/the-camden-town-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/marylebone/the-york-street-mews-ii-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/marylebone/the-york-street-mews-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/kensington-chelsea/the-vernon-street-residence
- https://www.kidandcoe.com/destinations/marylebone/the-de-walden-street-residence