Afternoon Tea at The Wolseley, London
Located in the heart of Mayfair, The Wolseley is one of London’s most iconic dining destinations, renowned for its classic European charm, Art Deco elegance, and impeccable service. With its rich history and grand setting, The Wolseley offers a sophisticated yet welcoming afternoon tea experience, making it a favourite among locals, tourists, and afternoon tea connoisseurs alike.
Whether you’re looking for a classic British afternoon tea, a celebratory Champagne tea, or simply a relaxing afternoon in one of London’s most stylish dining rooms, The Wolseley provides a truly memorable experience.
The Setting: A Grand Café in the Heart of London
Stepping into The Wolseley is like stepping back into a bygone era of glamour and refinement. Housed in a stunning Grade II-listed building, the restaurant’s striking Art Deco design, soaring ceilings, black-and-gold detailing, and polished marble floors create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Unlike some traditional afternoon tea venues, The Wolseley offers a more relaxed yet refined setting, where guests can enjoy top-tier service in a bustling yet elegant environment.
A Classic Afternoon Tea Menu
The afternoon tea menu at The Wolseley is a perfect balance of British tradition and European influence, featuring:
Finger Sandwich Selection Cucumber & mint
Egg mayonnaise & mustard cress
Smoked salmon & cream cheese
Coronation chicken
Ham & Gruyère cheese
Each sandwich is delicately prepared with freshly baked bread, ensuring a light yet satisfying start to your afternoon tea.
Freshly Baked Scones Classic and fruit scones
Served with clotted cream & homemade strawberry jam
Light, fluffy, and served warm from the oven, the scones at The Wolseley are a highlight of the experience, offering the perfect combination of sweetness and richness.
Exquisite Patisserie & Cakes
The Wolseley’s selection of handcrafted pastries and cakes showcases the best of traditional British and French patisserie, featuring: Raspberry macaron
Classic Victoria sponge
Chocolate éclair
Lemon drizzle cake
Vanilla mille-feuille
Each dessert is elegantly crafted, ensuring a delightful finish to your tea.
A Selection of Fine Teas & Champagne Options
The Wolseley offers an extensive selection of premium loose-leaf teas, sourced from some of the finest tea plantations in the world. Guests can choose from:
Wolseley Afternoon Blend – A signature blend of black teas, smooth and aromatic
Darjeeling First Flush – A delicate and floral tea with a light muscatel flavour
Earl Grey – A classic black tea infused with bergamot oil
Jasmine Pearl Green Tea – A fragrant and refreshing green tea
Lemon Verbena Herbal Infusion – A soothing, caffeine-free option
For those looking to add a touch of indulgence, The Wolseley also offers a Champagne Afternoon Tea, featuring a glass of: Brut Baron de Marck Champagne
Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut
Afternoon Tea for Every Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply indulging in an afternoon treat, The Wolseley’s afternoon tea is perfect for: Visitors looking for an authentic London afternoon tea
Couples enjoying a sophisticated date
Friends catching up over a relaxed, elegant setting
Small groups celebrating a special occasion
The timeless charm of The Wolseley, combined with its delicious menu and warm hospitality, ensures that every afternoon tea experience is truly special.
Booking & Information Location: The Wolseley, 160 Piccadilly, London W1J 9EB
Availability: Served daily from 3:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Pricing:
Traditional Afternoon Tea: £39.75 per person
Champagne Afternoon Tea: From £51.00 per person
A Timeless Afternoon Tea Experience
The Wolseley’s afternoon tea is a true London institution, offering a perfect blend of classic British tradition, European elegance, and modern sophistication. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular guest, this timeless experience is one to savour.
Reviews

The Wolseley, an elegant café-restaurant in London's Piccadilly, offers a quintessentially British dining experience that pays homage to its history as a former motor garage. The interior exudes a grand atmosphere, reminiscent of classic European brasseries, making it a popular spot for both locals andtourists.

Always impeccable service and great food. We were super late for our reservation due to road closures but they were so accommodating (parade on Piccadilly) and allocated us a table later than planned. We love it here and find the atmosphere much more pleasant than the city branch.

The Wolseley is a place where the atmosphere truly stands out—grand, elegant, and perfect for a stylish meal. The Pain au Chocolat was a highlight—flaky, buttery, and delicious. However, the pancakes with bacon were underwhelming, as the pancakes were a bit chewy and lacked flavor.

Such a wonderful and fancy place to have a breakfast,brunch or afternoon tea as well. It’s not my first time here and for sure not the last. The service is perfect all the staff are amazing and so respectful, your order will be ready in few minutes. The place and atmosphere is incredible including the decoration.

Amazing food and surprised by large portions! Made sure allergies were considered and brought boyfriend some actually very tasty gluten free bread! He had the Bubble & Squeak with mushrooms and a duck egg in this gorgeous gluten free gravy. Vegetarian options: There were at least 7 options I remember.
Claridge’s
Nestled in Mayfair, Claridge’s Afternoon Tea blends luxury and tradition. Guests enjoy finger sandwiches, warm scones with Claridge’s jam and Cornish clotted cream, and seasonal pastries. A curated tea selection, including Claridge’s Blend and Oolong, enhances the experience.
Served in elegant surroundings with impeccable service, it’s perfect for special occasions or indulgent afternoons. A Children’s Afternoon Tea ensures an inclusive experience. Served daily from 2:45 pm to 5:30 pm, prices start at £95 per person. Advance reservations recommended.
Fait Maison Gloucester Road
Afternoon Tea at Fait Maison’s Salon de Thé in Kensington offers a luxurious escape with floral décor, seasonal flair, and a vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy a three-tiered spread of sweet and savoury delights, loose-leaf teas, and Middle Eastern-inspired patisserie. Perfect for any occasion, with dietary-friendly options available in a beautifully styled setting led by chef Om Waleed.
The Kensington Hotel
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Kensington Hotel, served daily in the elegant Drawing Room. The menu features refined finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and artistic patisserie inspired by seasonal ingredients. Guests can choose from a broad tea selection or add champagne for a celebratory touch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available with notice. A stylish choice for couples, museum-goers, or special occasions. Advance booking is strongly recommended.
The Park Tower Knightsbridge
Served in the elegant Knightsbridge Lounge, Afternoon Tea at Park Tower Knightsbridge features stunning décor, including a glass chandelier and hand-painted magnolia blossoms. Guests enjoy finger sandwiches, such as smoked salmon on rye and chicken with tarragon mayonnaise, along with signature pastries like chocolate praline tart and raspberry & rose éclair.
An extensive tea selection complements the menu, with the option to add Champagne. Served daily from 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm, this refined experience is perfect for special occasions or leisurely afternoons. Reservations recommended.
Cadogan Lounge, Belmond Cadogan Hotel
Afternoon Tea at the Cadogan Lounge, Belmond Cadogan Hotel, offers a refined Chelsea experience crafted by Chef Benoît Blin. Guests enjoy imaginative sandwiches, warm savouries, elegant pastries, and freshly baked scones, all served in a calm, stylish setting. A curated tea list and optional Champagne add to the occasion. Served daily from 12:00 PM–6:00 PM, priced at £80 per person. Ideal for special occasions or a peaceful afternoon.
The Dorchester
Served in The Promenade, The Dorchester’s Afternoon Tea blends British tradition with luxury. Guests enjoy finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, and seasonal pastries crafted by award-winning chefs. A curated tea selection features exclusive blends and classic favourites, with the option to upgrade to Champagne Afternoon Tea.
Ideal for those seeking a refined British tradition, The Dorchester also offers a Children’s Afternoon Tea and vegan options. Served daily from 12:00 pm to 4:30 pm, prices start at £110 per person. Reservations recommended.
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