The Waldorf Hilton offers an afternoon tea experience that combines timeless elegance with a touch of theatrical flair. Served in the hotel’s Homage Restaurant, this afternoon tea pays homage to the classic tale of “Beauty and the Beast,” offering guests a whimsical yet refined culinary journey.
A Menu Inspired by a Tale as Old as Time
Executive Chef Malcolm Camilleri has curated a menu that artfully blends traditional British afternoon tea elements with creative interpretations inspired by the beloved fairytale. The experience begins with savoury delights such as roast garlic and rosemary corn bread madeleines and vichyssoise soup. Sandwich selections include hot smoked salmon with yuzu and wasabi mayonnaise, truffled egg mayonnaise with watercress on beetroot and dill bread, coronation chicken with basil and spinach, and roasted pepper with rocket and houmous on sun-dried tomato bread.
Freshly baked classic and raisin scones are served warm, accompanied by strawberry and blackcurrant jams and Devonshire clotted cream. The patisserie selection features a dark chocolate and passion fruit Clocksworth tart, raspberry and rose verrine, white chocolate and peach cup, and a hazelnut and caramel financier, each meticulously crafted to delight both the eyes and the palate.
Accommodating Diverse Dietary Preferences
Understanding the importance of catering to various dietary needs, The Waldorf Hilton offers plant-based and gluten-free versions of their afternoon tea menu. The plant-based menu includes items like courgette and whipped vegan cream cheese sandwiches, coronation sweet potato with spinach sandwiches, and plant-based raisin scones served with strawberry and blackcurrant jams and plant-based cream cheese. The gluten-free menu mirrors the traditional offerings, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the full experience without compromise.
Ideal for All Occasions
Whether celebrating a special occasion or seeking a leisurely afternoon indulgence, The Waldorf Hilton’s afternoon tea is suitable for guests of all ages. A children’s afternoon tea menu is also available, featuring kid-friendly sandwiches and desserts, ensuring a delightful experience for younger guests.
Practical Information
Location: The Waldorf Hilton, Aldwych, London WC2B 4DD
Afternoon Tea Hours: Monday to Friday: 1:00 PM – 3:30 PM; Saturday and Sunday: 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Pricing: £59 per person; £40 per child
Reservations: Recommended; dietary requirements should be communicated 48 hours in advance
Experience an afternoon of culinary delight and enchanting ambiance at The Waldorf Hilton’s afternoon tea which is a perfect blend of tradition and imagination.
Reviews

The Tea Tasting Experience was both educational and enjoyable, featuring a curated selection of teas and delectable treats in a cozy, intimate setting.

The traditional afternoon tea offered a classic selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all served in the elegant Homage restaurant with attentive service.

The 'Be Our Guest' afternoon tea was a delightful experience, with a whimsical Beauty and the Beast theme, complete with edible rose petals and a live harpist enhancing the ambiance.

The ambiance was charming, with crystal chandeliers and a harpist playing softly in the background, making it a perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon.

While the themed afternoon tea was visually appealing, the overall experience felt rushed and did not meet expectations for the price point.
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.
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.
Rhosyn Restaurant, Penally Abbey
Penally Abbey’s Rhosyn Restaurant offers a refined afternoon tea experience with views over the Pembrokeshire coast. Served Wednesday to Sunday, the menu includes finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, pastries, and scones with clotted cream and jam. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available with 24 hours’ notice. Priced at £32 per person, bookings are required in advance. Guests dine in a light-filled space overlooking the gardens. Enquiries can be made via phone or the Penally Abbey website.
Vicinity, the Tower Hotel
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Vicinity, The Tower Hotel, with riverside views of Tower Bridge. Served daily from 1pm to 4pm, it includes classic sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and handcrafted desserts like Pimm’s sponge and rhubarb slice. Choose from teas or upgrade with Champagne or cocktails. Priced at £35 per person, it’s ideal for relaxed meetups or special occasions.
The Chesterfield Mayfair
Indulge in the Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair, a playful twist on the British tradition inspired by childhood treats. Served in a light-filled conservatory, this award-winning afternoon tea is perfect for families, friends, and nostalgic sweet lovers.
Enjoy classic savoury sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and themed patisserie delights like Drumstick macarons and liquorice allsorts cheesecake. Pair your experience with signature teas or Champagne. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available. A fun and indulgent tea experience in Mayfair.
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
Located in historic Bath, The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa’s Afternoon Tea blends Georgian elegance with modern indulgence. Served in Montagu’s Mews or the secluded gardens, guests enjoy finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and preserves, and seasonal pastries like raspberry & pistachio tart and chocolate mousse.
A curated tea selection, including the Royal Crescent Blend, pairs perfectly with the menu. Afternoon Tea is served daily from 1:30 pm to 4:30 pm, starting at £45 per person, with Champagne and children’s options available. Advance reservations recommended.
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