Award Winning Afternoon Tea in The United Kingdom

Please note, leading restaurant guides issue awards to restaurants based on dining from a full menu and will not normally consider afternoon tea when deciding how highly to rate a restaurant. Therefore the above restaurants are not ranked, although it's a safe bet that any restaurant serving award winning food in The United Kingdom is also likely to provide some of the best afternoon tea in The United Kingdom! Please also note that for the restaurants listed above, afternoon tea may be offered within the parent hotel/venue the restaurant resides in, rather than in the restaurant itself.

Ah, the United Kingdom, a marvellous destination where the tradition of afternoon tea is truly celebrated in all its splendour. From the charming countryside tea rooms to the grand, historic hotels scattered all over London, one's afternoon can be delightfully lost sipping tea and nibbling on delicate finger sandwiches, scones and pastries. London, of course, is home to some of the most prestigious and renowned venues for this quintessentially British experience. The Ritz London, with its opulent Palm Court, is among the finest of institutions to offer a traditional high tea. It provides an elegant spread served on the finest china, accompanied by a glass of champagne should one fancy a more luxurious twist. Similarly, Claridge's is a perennial favourite, famed for its art deco setting and a mouthwatering selection of treats both classic and contemporary. If one were seeking something more contemporary yet equally charming, Sketch in Mayfair offers a stunningly modern backdrop complete with whimsical touches that have made it a popular destination for tea enthusiasts. Wander outside London, and the beauty of afternoon tea in more serene spots takes on a completely different flavour. Take, for instance, Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms in Harrogate—a true Yorkshire gem that has been serving tea lovers since 1919. The charm of stepping into Bettys lies not only in the impeccable service and mouth-watering confections but in the feeling that time itself has slowed down, allowing one to savour every moment. In the Cotswolds, there are many quaint tea rooms nestled in picturesque villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water or Bibury where guests can enjoy an afternoon tea in a more intimate and rustic setting. Whether in the heart of the bustling city or the peaceful countryside, afternoon tea across the UK is an experience synonymous with grace, elegance, and, quite naturally, a love for good conversation over a fragrant pot of tea.