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Nothing beats an afternoon spent indulging in adorable finger sandwiches, delectable cakes, scrumptious scones and fancy patisseries. Not to mention the pots of tea or fancy coffees that accompany this miniature feast. While we’ll never say no a traditional afternoon tea experience, sometimes you just fancy something a little different…and that’s where themed afternoon teas come into the mix!
If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, then you’re in luck. In London, there are an array of weird and wonderful themed afternoon teas to suit all manner of interests and all sorts of budget. From Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland-inspired afternoon teas to something somewhat scientific, across the capital you can find plenty of options that combine themed décor, treats and even entertainment for an experience you’ll never forget.
With that in mind, here are 10 of the best quirky afternoon teas in London. Book your train tickets to London with South Western Railway, and get ready for an afternoon treat like no other.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea, One Aldwych
Just as you’d expect, this Charlie and the Chocolate Factory-themed afternoon tea is bursting with pure imagination. Step into this magical world and find plates piled high with Wonka-worthy treats – and nothing is quite as it seems. Wash it all down with chocolate or lemon sherbet tea and a glass of fizzy lifting Champagne for the grownups. This is one that both kids and adults will absolutely love!
One Aldwych is just a 15-minute walk from London Waterloo.
Artsy Afternoon Tea, Rosewood London
In the mood for a morsel of culture? The afternoon tea at Rosewood is a visual feast, with abstract-looking pastries inspired by different works of art. It has been voted the Best Contemporary Afternoon Tea in the UK, so if you or your loved one is a bit of a culture vulture, this isn’t one to be missed!
From London Waterloo, hop on the 521 bus towards London Bridge from 12 minutes.
Mean Girls Afternoon Tea, DUO Camden
Get in loser, we’re going to Camden! For an afternoon tea that’ll make you the envy of all your friends, check out this Mean Girls afternoon tea. Whether you consider yourself a Gretchen Wieners, a Regina George or a Cady Heron, this themed afternoon tea is the ideal activity for you and your girl gang. Every day is Wednesday here, with cakes and cocktails in every shade of pink. Pretty fetch, right?
Take the train to London Waterloo, then it’s a 12-minute ride on the Northern Line to Camden Town.
Science Afternoon Tea, The Ampersand Hotel
Inspired by the Science Museum, which is just around the corner, this interactive afternoon tea combines physics, chemistry and gastronomy for the ultimate out-of-this-world experience! Expect exciting and curious dishes including fossils hidden in chocolate 'soil', jam served in petri dishes and planet-shaped sweet treats. This is an experiment for people of all ages, with a children’s version for budding scientists.
Take the train to Clapham Junction, switch to Victoria, then ride two stops on the District or Circle line to South Kensington.
Harry Potter Afternoon Tea, Cutter & Squidge
Although not explicitly Harry Potter themed, this magical afternoon tea takes place in an underground Potion Room and is inspired by the world of wizardry and alchemy. Get cloaked up and descend into the potion class, where you’ll take a seat at a school desk and concoct your very own drinkable and edible potions. Witches and wizards old and young will be enchanted by this unique experience.
From London Waterloo, ride on the Bakerloo line for four minutes to Piccadilly Circus – don’t be late for class!
Peter Pan Afternoon Tea, Aqua Shard
The Peter Pan Afternoon Tea at Aqua Shard is proof that you never really have to grow up. Tuck into Lost Boys chicken and bacon sandwiches, delight in Tinker Bell cakes topped with gold fairy dust and sip on a Fairy Dust cocktail (okay, maybe that’s one good reason to be an adult) as you gaze out across the rooftops of London.
To indulge in this afternoon tea in the Shard, catch the train to London Waterloo, then jump on the Jubilee line for 10 minutes to London Bridge – you’ll be in Neverland in no time.
Brigit’s Bakery Afternoon Tea Tour
All aboard Brigit’s Bakery bus! Combine afternoon tea with a spot of sightseeing, taking in some of London’s most famous landmarks while you sip on a lovely cup of tea and enjoy the exquisite tastes of France. What better way to see the city?
Take a South Western Railway train to Clapham Junction, then transfer to Victoria, where the tour begins.
Afternoon Tea Cabaret, Phoenix Arts Club
Experience an afternoon tea like no other in the glitzy and glamorous Phoenix Arts Club. Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, sip on bubbly and enjoy the dulcet tones of saucy “sisters” Bounty Hunter and Kimber Keys as they take to the stage with songs and comedy. A guaranteed laugh and one of the best afternoon teas deals available in London!
You’ll find the Phoenix Arts Club just four minutes away from London Waterloo – just hop on the Northern line to Tottenham Court Road.
Tipsy Tea, Mr Fogg's House of Botanicals
If hot drinks aren’t really your thing and you prefer something a little stronger, then the Tipsy Tea at Mr Fogg’s will be right up your street. Choose from five of Mr Fogg’s finest teapot cocktails inspired by exotic plants and botanicals, and sip them from quaint Victorian teacups as you help yourself to sweet and savoury goodies served in a birdcage! The botanical artwork, floral wallpaper and eccentric furnishings provide an Instagram-worthy backdrop to your afternoon tea.
Ride the Northern line for six minutes from London Waterloo to Goodge Street before settling down for your Tipsy Tea.
Sherlock Mystery Tea, Shepherd’s Bush
Be a detective for the day at Sherlock’s Mind Palace Afternoon Tea and Mini Mystery. Enter the secret speakeasy and work together with your friends or family, testing your powers of deduction in order to crack the case and earn rewards in the form of savouries, scones and sweet treats. If you’re a fan of the Baker Street detective then this is definitely one for you.
To get here, get a train to Clapham Junction, followed by a 20-minute ride on the Overground to Shepherd’s Bush.
Looking to indulge in one of London’s top afternoon tea experiences? We’ve got you covered! Don’t miss out on exclusive offers through SWR Rewards, where you can enjoy discounts at some of the city’s best afternoon tea spots. Make sure you redeem on your next trip. Check out the offers here.
You can save even more if you book your train tickets to London with South Western Railway. Explore our flexible range of ticket types to find the best one for your journey, and discover how you could save even more with a Railcard.
