Afternoon Tea at Brown’s Hotel: Timeless Tradition in Mayfair
Step into a world of refinement at Brown’s Hotel, a true Mayfair institution where the quintessentially British ritual of afternoon tea is celebrated with understated elegance. Located in the heart of London and part of the Rocco Forte Hotels collection, Brown’s offers an afternoon tea experience in The Drawing Room that is as historic as it is luxurious.
The Drawing Room: A Setting Steeped in Heritage
Afternoon Tea at Brown’s is served in The Drawing Room, a space that blends heritage with charm. With wood-panelled walls, original artworks, and plush furnishings, the room offers a tranquil escape from the city. The ambience is warm and welcoming, accompanied by live piano music that elevates the sense of calm and occasion.
The Drawing Room has been the backdrop for many historic moments. Indeed, it’s where Queen Victoria herself enjoyed tea. Today, the same tradition continues, honouring its legacy while offering an impeccable modern service.
A Thoughtfully Curated Afternoon Tea Menu
The menu pays tribute to the best of British patisserie, with a focus on seasonality, innovation, and precision. Curated by the hotel’s Executive Pastry Chef, each item on the afternoon tea menu is crafted by hand using the finest ingredients.
The standard menu includes:
A rotating selection of delicate finger sandwiches made with freshly baked breads and traditional fillings.
Warm scones, both plain and fruit, served with homemade strawberry jam and thick Cornish clotted cream.
A show-stopping selection of pastries, which change regularly to reflect the season and chef’s inspirations. These may include delicacies such as lemon verbena tartlets or raspberry éclairs.
To accompany the food, Brown’s offers an extensive tea menu curated by their in-house tea sommelier. With over 25 teas to choose from including single-estate blends, herbal infusions, and classic favourites. There’s something for every palate.
Types of Afternoon Tea Available
Brown’s offers a range of experiences to suit the occasion:
Traditional Afternoon Tea: The classic format with all the trimmings, best enjoyed in the serene surroundings of The Drawing Room.
Champagne Afternoon Tea: Guests can add a glass of fine Champagne for a celebratory touch.
Children’s Afternoon Tea: A specially designed mini-menu for younger guests, perfect for family outings or birthdays.
Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus are available with advance notice.
Ideal for All Occasions
Whether you’re marking a milestone, catching up with friends, or simply seeking a refined afternoon in Mayfair, Brown’s afternoon tea suits a wide range of guests:
Couples looking for a romantic experience
Families celebrating a special moment
Solo visitors in search of peaceful indulgence
Tourists exploring British culture in iconic surroundings
Practical Details
Afternoon Tea at Brown’s is served daily from 12:00 pm to 5:30 pm. Reservations are strongly advised due to its popularity. Bookings can be made directly via the hotel’s website or by calling the reservations team.
Address :
33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP, United Kingdom
Opening Hours :
Everyday
12pm to 5.30pm
Reviews
Absolutely unmatched afternoon tea—cosy ambiance, delectable sandwiches, scones, pastries, bubbly, and wonderfully friendly staff.
A flawless first London tea—exquisite teas, divine pastries, and staff guiding even tea ‘newbies’ with warm professionalism.
Impeccable service in The Drawing Room—live piano, classic-meets-modern décor, and a rich variety of menu options in a refined atmosphere.
Traditional elegance with contemporary flair—wood-panelled setting, top-class tea library, serene yet vibrant, just the right balance.
Timeless, historic charm meets generous portions—succulent sandwiches, endless dessert trolleys, and impeccable attention to detail.
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.
The Waldorf Hilton
The Waldorf Hilton’s Afternoon Tea, served in the elegant Homage Restaurant, offers a whimsical "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired menu featuring creative savouries, themed patisserie, and freshly baked scones. Plant-based and gluten-free options are available, along with a dedicated children's menu. Harp music and refined surroundings make it ideal for special occasions or a relaxing treat. Served daily from early afternoon. From £59 per person.
Rails Restaurant
Located in King’s Cross, Rails Restaurant offers a modern take on afternoon tea, blending British tradition with French patisserie. Guests enjoy savoury delights such as truffle egg mayonnaise on brioche and Comté cheese croissants, followed by warm scones with clotted cream and French-inspired pastries, including raspberry & rose macarons and dark chocolate ganache cake.
A curated tea selection complements the experience, with Champagne and cocktail upgrades available. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free menus ensure an inclusive stylish and contemporary afternoon tea.
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo
The Prince Park Tower Tokyo offers a seasonal Matcha Afternoon Tea in collaboration with SENKYU, featuring gluten-free sweets and savouries crafted with premium Uji matcha. Highlights include matcha cheesecake, daifuku, tiramisu, and chirashi sushi. Served in the airy Lobby Lounge with Tokyo Tower views, it includes a wide tea selection from Japanese blends to herbal infusions. Ideal for matcha lovers and health-conscious guests, it’s available daily with advance booking required. Each session lasts up to three hours.
St. Pancras London
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at The Hansom, nestled under St Pancras station’s historic arches. Choose from Traditional at £59, Champagne at £75, Rosé Champagne at £95, or the luxurious Prestige Afternoon Tea for Two at £400. Expect scones, sandwiches, pastries, and 18 tea options. Served daily from 1:00 pm –5:00 pm, it’s perfect for travellers, couples, or celebrations. With live jazz at weekends, stunning architecture, and central location, The Hansom offers a refined break from the city bustle. Booking recommended. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Imperial Lounge Aqua
Served daily at The Imperial Lounge Aqua on the 17th floor of the Imperial Hotel Tokyo, this refined afternoon tea blends Japanese and Western flavours. Seasonal menus include items like parfaits, ceviche, and scones, paired with teas from Ippodo and unlimited refills. The setting overlooks Hibiya Park and suits both casual and special occasions. Priced from ¥9,400, booking is recommended.
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