Tea at the Ritz has to be the London equivalent of Breakfast at Tiffany's – a world-famous brand that captures the essence of each city's history and culture. Synonymous with the comfortable colonialism of the old British aristocracy, for Londoners afternoon tea at the Ritz conjures an image of luxury, indulgence, formality and impeccable service. Detailed in delicate shades of gold, pale green and pale pink, the Palm Court, where afternoon tea is served, is an exemplar of soothing sophistication combined with lavish Louis XVI luxury. Lofty ceilings, glittering chandeliers, gilded trellises, marble columns, deep cornices and draped floral curtains all combine for a visual treat of the old Establishment. Waiters, dressed immaculately in tails, serve up tea in fine bone china with exact precision while a pianist tinkles the ivories and a harpist plucks away in the background. Views of Green Park’s royal gardens are a stunning reminder of a time when King Edward VII, Winston Churchill and Charles De Gaulle formed part of the regular stream or royal, aristocratic and noble visitors taking tea at the hotel’s Palm Court. It’s hardly needs saying but dress smartly - a jacket and tie are essential for men. Early booking (as far in advance as six weeks for weekend sittings) is essential.
Best for:
Louis XVI luxury, aristocratic tradition, chandeliers and champagne, Colonialism cornices and columns.
Did you know?
While the Ritz is often credited with selling the original English Afternoon Tea, the Savoy Hotel was actually the first to do so.
May Fair Hotel
Stratton Street, W1J 8LT
This swanky hotel has been home to the movers and shakers of London Fashion Week and the BFI London Film Festival this... More
The Terrace at The Ritz
150 Piccadilly, W1J 9BR
British
It would be bordering on foolish to leave out the opulent terrace at the grand Ritz Hotel when... More
Established in 1837 for “genteel” folk, James Brown’s charming hotel instantly became synonymous with the refined tradition of afternoon tea.
A popular haunt of royalty ... More
The great Brasseries of France are the most obvious inspiration for this hugely popular restaurant, but there are few places in Paris that can match ... More
Occupying a prominant spot on Piccadilly, this branch of Napket is their most imposing and impressive. Napket is a stylish cafe with a very slick ...More
Something of an unconventional choice for the Royal Academy of Arts, this major exhibition takes you on a 'journey' through the works of Anish Kapoor ...More
Wild Thing is a wonderful exhibition of sculptures, drawings and pastels at the Royal Academy of Arts from three well known early 20th century sculptors; ...More
Portraits, commissioned and otherwise, are a tradition as old as art itself, with representations made of great men and women for posterity from the time ... More
This rather exclusive establishment has been arming London folk with a seriously upper-class, posh brolly and a riding crop for centuries. An incredibly timeless store, ... More
A department store but not as we know it; Dover Street Market offers a novel approach to consumerism that combines a dynamic street market feel ... More
Thai food is the cuisine of the moment - green curries, red curries, satays, are everywhere. To the uninitiated,it's very difficult to recreate at home. ... More
Cordwainers, specialists in leather, accessories and footwear, have now merged with the London College of Fashion. Among the very best specialist textile and fashion courses ...More
Catalyst personal trainers are among the best in London. Get fit without doing yourself an injury, lose weight with a specially devised programme or build ... More
Famous for its famous owner, the Punch Bowl became a celebrity hang-out when Guy Ritchie split up with Madonna. The director of 'Lock, Stock' could ...More
A favourite with young royals - Princes Harry and William, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie have been spotted here... all at the same time. And where ... More
Between the Victorian elegance of Berkley Square and the Imperial magnificence of Piccadilly, you might be surprised to find a club that oozes with Eastern ... More
Get the FREE monthly guide to London entertainment, arts, concerts, sport, book signings, and essential event information delivered directly to your inbox.
LondonTown.com has special discounts every week. The amount of discount will vary depending on the dates you are coming and how far in advance you book. All discounts are subject to availability.