Afternoon Tea Week in London: Celebrating Tradition with a Sparkling Twist
Tsara Tea – Every August, Afternoon Tea Week (official UK event info) gives London the perfect excuse to indulge in one of Britain’s most timeless traditions — but this year, it’s being served with an extra touch of sparkle. Across the city, some of the most elegant venues are pairing classic tea-time favourites with chilled glasses of Champagne, creating experiences that are equal parts refined and indulgent.
Afternoon Tea: A Brief Look at a British Icon
The origins of afternoon tea date back to the early 1800s, when Anna, Duchess of Bedford, began requesting tea and light snacks to ward off hunger in the long stretch between lunch and dinner. Her personal habit soon became a fashionable social occasion, and over time, the ritual evolved into a carefully curated affair of sandwiches, scones, pastries, and fine tea.
Champagne didn’t appear alongside afternoon tea until later, but once it did, it elevated the experience into something even more celebratory — the ideal choice for marking a special occasion or simply indulging in life’s pleasures (Comité Champagne).
Why Champagne Works with Afternoon Tea
While tea remains the centrepiece, Champagne offers a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the menu.
- Dry Brut styles add crispness that balances savoury bites.
- Rosé Champagnes bring berry notes that complement fruity tarts and jam-covered scones.
- Vintage selections deliver complexity, enhancing every flavour from delicate pastries to bold cheeses.
It’s a pairing that turns an afternoon ritual into a miniature celebration.
Five Exceptional London Venues to Try This August
1. A Skyline Celebration
Imagine sipping Champagne while gazing out across London’s rooftops. Venues like Searcys at The Gherkin offer a blend of tiered trays, savoury delicacies, and world-class views. Expect seasonal savouries, freshly baked scones, and Champagne served with the kind of elegance only London’s skyline can provide.
2. The Historic Grand Hotel Experience
Some of London’s grand hotels have been serving afternoon tea for over a century. The Dorchester celebrates Afternoon Tea Week with a luxurious menu featuring artisan sandwiches, intricate pastries, and an extensive Champagne list.
3. Riverside Refinement
For those who prefer their tea with a view of the Thames, riverside venues like Swan at the Globe create a serene setting paired with British-sourced ingredients. Champagne here often comes from boutique producers, making the experience personal and memorable.
4. Art and Elegance Combined
A handful of London’s afternoon tea spots are known as much for their interiors as for their menus. Here, the Champagne service becomes part of a theatrical presentation — poured tableside into fine crystal flutes, perfectly chilled to contrast with warm, just-baked scones.
5. Department Store Glamour
The Georgian at Harrods offers a refined afternoon tea experience in one of the world’s most iconic department stores. After shopping, guests can relax with seasonal pastries, delicate savouries, and a sparkling toast.
Making the Most of Afternoon Tea Week
If you’re planning to celebrate Afternoon Tea Week in London:
- Book early — popular spots fill quickly in August.
- Ask about Champagne pairings — some venues offer flights so you can taste different styles.
- Dress for the occasion — many afternoon tea venues encourage smart attire, adding to the sense of occasion.
Final Toast
Afternoon Tea Week is more than just a date in the foodie calendar — it’s a celebration of British tradition, culinary craftsmanship, and the joy of gathering over something beautiful. By adding Champagne into the mix, London’s tea rooms have transformed the ritual into an experience that feels both timeless and fresh.
Whether you choose a sky-high lounge, a riverside hideaway, or a historic hotel, you’ll be raising your teacup — and your glass — to one of the most delightful weeks of the year.
