You’ll discover London’s most magical family afternoon tea spots, from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory themed treats at One Aldwych to dinosaur-shaped cookies at the Natural History Museum. Kids will love Peter Pan adventures at Aqua Shard’s sky-high views, while Sketch’s whimsical wonderland and The Ritz’s elegant palace setting create unforgettable memories. Sherlock mysteries at Sanderson, sweetshop delights at The Chesterfield, and royal treatment at Claridge’s complete your options. Each venue offers special menus and accommodations that’ll make your family adventure even sweeter.
- Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych
- Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard
- Sweetshop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Hotel
- Kid’s Afternoon Tea at St Ermin’s Hotel
- Sherlock Inspired Afternoon Tea at The Sanderson Hotel
- Children’s Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s Hotel
- Alice in Wonderland Tea Party at Sketch
- Royal Afternoon Tea at The Ritz London
- Dinosaur Discovery Tea at Natural History Museum
- The Sum Up
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea at One Aldwych
When you step through the separate entrance at One Aldwych in London’s bustling Covent Garden, you’ll enter a whimsical world inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved chocolate factory. This magical afternoon tea transforms classic treats into character-themed delights that’ll captivate kids and adults alike.
You’ll discover Augustus Gloop’s Strawberry Fudge, “Hair Toffee” mousse, and fresh cotton candy alongside traditional favorites like Coronation Chicken sandwiches and salmon quiche. The theatrical “mixed by waterfall” chocolate milkshake creates pure excitement, while five specialty teas including Chocolate Noir and Berries & Hibiscus offer unique flavors. The menu also features playful options like fizzy lifting drinks and snozzberry jam that bring the story to life.
At £75 per adult and £55 for children under 12, it’s served Wednesday through Sunday with convenient access from Covent Garden, Charing Cross, or Holborn stations.
Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard
Where else can you soar 244 meters above London while enjoying afternoon tea with Peter Pan? Aqua Shard on Level 31 offers magical views through floor-to-ceiling windows while you feast on Neverland-inspired treats.
You’ll discover ‘Lost Boys’ chicken sandwiches, Captain Hook ‘Codfish’ brandade, and Neverland Lagoon bagels served on clock face platters. The sweet treats arrive on a ship-shaped stand inspired by the Jolly Roger, while warm scones come hidden in a treasure chest with coconut clotted cream.
Adults pay £75, children £50, with a 15% cover charge and £2 charity donation included. Book for 12:00pm-3:30pm daily at London Bridge.
Smart casual dress is required, but all ages are welcome with dietary accommodations available. The restaurant features a recently redesigned modern interior that perfectly complements the contemporary British afternoon tea experience.
Sweetshop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Hotel
From sky-high adventures to ground-level sweetness, The Chesterfield Mayfair brings childhood candy shop dreams to life in their elegant Conservatory overlooking peaceful gardens.
You’ll discover whimsical treats inspired by classic British sweetshops, featuring Coca-Cola slice, Drumstick macarons, and giant jazzies alongside their famous chocolate scones with clotted cream.
The theatrical smoking pink lemonade adds magical flair that’ll captivate kids while adults savor sophisticated finger sandwiches like Scottish smoked salmon and honey roast ham.
Located in Mayfair, this award-winning afternoon tea runs from 12:30pm to 5:30pm daily. The experience also offers a special Winter Wonderland version available from November 14th to January 4th, 2026.
At £75 per person (children’s version £45), you’ll enjoy excellent value with dietary options including gluten-free, vegetarian, and halal menus.
Book early—families receive 15% off when dining with children until August 2025.
Kid’s Afternoon Tea at St Ermin’s Hotel
While many hotels cater to adults with refined afternoon teas, St Ermin’s Hotel in Westminster creates a genuine children’s paradise that’ll have your little ones buzzing with excitement.
The Buzzy Bees themed menu features kid-friendly favorites like Nutella sandwiches, chocolate brownie flowerpots, and mini scones with clotted cream.
Your children can even watch over 350,000 bees through special viewing areas while sipping hot chocolate or fresh fruit juice.
Located just one minute from St. James’s Park tube, you’ll enjoy the ornate Rococo plasterwork in their Tea Lounge or outdoor terrace. The venue offers warm and relaxed atmosphere with attentive, friendly service throughout your visit.
At £24 per child, the Festive Tea includes sandwiches, sweets, and drinks.
Book ahead for weekends and school holidays, with sessions lasting 1.5 hours in this tree-lined Westminster courtyard.
Sherlock Inspired Afternoon Tea at The Sanderson Hotel
Step through what appears to be an ordinary optician’s shop at West 12 Centre, and you’ll discover one of London’s most cleverly disguised afternoon tea experiences.
The Sherlock-inspired “Mind Palace” at Sanderson Hotel transforms your family meal into an interactive mystery adventure.
You’ll solve mini puzzles while enjoying cream cheese salmon pretzels, stilton and leek muffins, lemon meringue tarts, and traditional scones with clotted cream.
The experience includes Earl Grey or English Breakfast tea, plus seasonal treats like chocolate brownies and hazelnut choux. For an extra special touch, consider upgrading to bottomless prosecco to enhance your detective dining experience.
Running Thursday through Sunday from 12pm to 3:30pm, you’ll need advance booking for your 90-minute adventure.
Prices range from £39-£49 per person, with dietary accommodations available.
Children’s Afternoon Tea at Claridge’s Hotel
Located in the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s Hotel offers a magical afternoon tea designed specifically for young adventurers. Your little ones will love the interactive menu that doubles as a coloring book, keeping them entertained throughout the experience.
The children’s menu features kid-friendly finger sandwiches like egg mayonnaise and cucumber with mint cream cheese, plus freshly baked scones with clotted cream. Don’t miss the mango and passionfruit sorbet cone – it’s a real treat!
The pastry chefs create hand-made sweets daily, including delicious lemon and blueberry cake.
Priced at £45-£50 per child, the experience runs from 2:45 PM to 5:30 PM daily. This delightful tradition for children was inspired by the original afternoon tea that was originated in 1840 by Anna Russell, 7th Duchess of Bedford. Claridge’s expertly handles allergies with separate serving trays and advance planning, ensuring every child enjoys this special London tradition safely.
Alice in Wonderland Tea Party at Sketch
Where can you find falling snow indoors and pink velvet booths that’ll make your kids feel like they’ve tumbled down the rabbit hole? Sketch’s Gallery tearoom on Conduit Street transforms afternoon tea into pure magic. Your children will gasp at the fake snow falling from ceilings, hop across the entrance hopscotch game, and settle into plush pink seating surrounded by Alice in Wonderland wonder.
The kids’ afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, juice, Malabar marshmallows, and delightful pastries. You’ll love the unlimited sandwich refills and whimsical touches like wisteria, dripping paint staircases, and over 200 artworks. Don’t miss the spaceship-like pods in the bathroom area that create an otherworldly photo opportunity for the whole family. Book early—especially weekday 2pm slots fill quickly.
At £58-£80 per person, it’s pricey but unforgettable. Arrive before 1pm for the best photos without crowds.
Royal Afternoon Tea at The Ritz London
When you’re ready to treat your family to London’s most legendary afternoon tea, The Ritz’s Palm Court delivers pure elegance that’ll make your children feel like royalty.
The gold-decorated room with gilded ceilings and live pianist creates magical moments your kids will remember forever.
You’ll start with classic finger sandwiches like Scottish smoked salmon and tarragon chicken, followed by warm scones with clotted cream.
The pastries include seasonal treats like chocolate yule logs, while the guéridon trolley offers exciting cake selections.
With over 20 loose-leaf teas including kid-friendly options, there’s something for all. The experience is elevated by The Ritz’s certified Tea Master, Giandomenico Scanu, making it the only UK hotel with this prestigious designation.
Expect to pay £79 per adult and £57 per child, with prices rising to £95/£73 from January 2026.
They accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice, and smart casual dress is required.
Dinosaur Discovery Tea at Natural History Museum
After exploring dinosaur fossils and ancient creatures, you can treat your family to the Natural History Museum’s themed afternoon tea in the exclusive Anning Rooms. Your kids will love the dinosaur-footprint macarons, ammonite cookies, and Earth pot raspberry chocolate alongside traditional coronation chicken sandwiches and Earl Grey scones with clotted cream.
Located on Cromwell Road in South Kensington, this nature-inspired experience celebrates British seasonal produce. You’ll need to book online and can choose standard afternoon tea for £35 or add prosecco for £40.
The museum accommodates all dietary needs with seven days’ notice, including vegan and gluten-free options. For a similar innovative experience, consider The Ampersand Hotel’s Jurassic-themed tea featuring dishes like volcanic eruptions and dinosaur egg baskets.
Sessions run Wednesday through Sunday at 12pm and 3pm. Children of all ages are welcome, and there’s no dress code required.
The Sum Up
You’ve got amazing choices for your next family adventure! Whether you’re dreaming of chocolate factories, flying with Peter Pan, or solving mysteries with Sherlock, London’s got the perfect afternoon tea waiting for you. Pick your favorite theme, dress up if you want, and get ready to create magical memories with your family. Don’t forget to bring your appetite for delicious treats and loads of fun!
