The Ampersand Hotel – A Whimsical and Colourful Afternoon Tea in South Kensington
At number four is The Ampersand Hotel with its award-winning Science Afternoon Tea, a brilliantly imaginative take on the classic cream tea that’s perfect for families, foodies, and curious minds alike. Set in the elegant Drawing Rooms, where bold velvets meet cosy British charm, this tea is inspired by the neighbouring Science Museum, and it’s anything but ordinary.
Why is it so high on our list? Because this is hands down one of the most colourful afternoon tea experiences in London. From jam in petri dishes and chocolate spacemen to planet-themed cakes and dinosaur biscuits, every detail is playful and visually striking. It’s an interactive journey through science, delivered on three delicious tiers.
The Ampersand also offers themed versions for kids, gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian guests, ensuring no one misses out on the fun. Plus, you can add Champagne or try their inventive “Teapot Tails” for a grown-up twist.
Whether you’re after a fun family outing or a quirky date, this afternoon tea blends creativity, education, and pure joy in one colourful, unforgettable experience.
Address :
10 Harrington Rd, Kensington, London SW7 3ER
Opening Hours :
Mon – Fri
12:30– 6:30pm
Sat – Sun
11:00am – 6:30pm
Reviews
10/10 vegetarian afternoon tea. The whole experience was a delight, from the "fizzy lemonade" experiment to start off, to the chocolate dinosaur excavation to wrap things up. Each of the sandwiches was fresh and wonderfully flavorful. But my favorite part was the scones, perfectly warm and soft yet crumbly, as good scones ought to be. As an added bonus, the service was quite friendly. Highly recommend!
The scones and cakes are delicious. of course this afternoon tea is for children ,they are everywhere in the room, they are amazed by the various scientific devices and concentrate on them, but they also get bored very quickly. It was impossible to relax as we usually do at afternoon tea, and we could not stay to enjoy the pot of tea that we could refill freely.
Lovely afternoon tea, staff are super friendly and they have a fully vegan option which isn't terrible (this is speaking from trying many vegan ones around). Staff offer more sandwiches if needed and top up the tea for free. The vegan hot dog was delicious. The desserts are good, but not mind blowing - I don't know if I'd go back specifically to eat it all again.
What an absolute treat this was. It was probably twice the upper limit of what I’d usually spend on a meal, but for a one-time experience, it was worth it. You can’t beat this level of creative presentation. I’d call the food a solid 8-9/10 as well. As someone in the sciences for a career and who also likes creativity in food, I was in heaven. I recommended it to family who travels a lot.
The Science Afternoon Tea was an extraordinary and unique adventure! The food exceeded our expectations, which was a delightful surprise. Initially, we anticipated a great science-themed experience, and it certainly delivered on that front. Next, we were presented with a "food tower" featuring a variety of savory bites, followed by four delicious scones, and topped off with beautifully designed desserts.
The Lanesborough
Enjoy a regal Afternoon Tea at The Lanesborough, inspired by Bridgerton and served in The Lanesborough Grill. Expect elegant finger sandwiches, warm scones, and character-themed pastries, all paired with fine teas or themed cocktails. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and children’s options available. A luxurious, theatrical experience perfect for fans and traditional tea lovers alike.
Aqua Shard
Perched on Level 31 of The Shard, Aqua Shard’s Peter Pan Afternoon Tea brings Neverland to life with whimsical storytelling and gourmet delights. Guests enjoy creative savouries, including Chicken & Bacon Sandwiches with ‘Lost Boy Rules’ and the ‘Enormous Mushroom Chimney’. Sweet treats include warm scones hidden in a treasure chest with apricot marmalade and coconut clotted cream.
With panoramic views and vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian options, this magical experience is available daily from 12:00 pm to 3:15 pm, starting at £70 per person. Advance booking recommended.
The Ampersand Hotel
Inspired by The Science Museum, The Science Afternoon Tea at The Ampersand Hotel offers a fun, interactive twist on tradition. The menu features planet-shaped cakes, petri dish desserts, and “volcanic” scones, making it perfect for families and science lovers.
Guests enjoy savoury bites, chocolate dinosaur eggs with raspberry mousse, and a smoky dry ice cocktail. A selection of specialty loose-leaf teas is available. Vegetarian and gluten-free options can be requested. Served daily from 12:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Advance reservations recommended.
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