So You Fancy a Fancy Scone, Eh? The Cost of Afternoon Tea in London
Ah, Afternoon Tea. A quintessential British experience involving finger sandwiches so dainty they could be mistaken for dollhouse furniture, scones that beg to be drowned in clotted cream and jam, and an endless stream of tea that's practically a national treasure. But before you dust off your finest pinky finger and head out, there's one crucial question: how much will this delightful indulgence set you back?
Buckingham Palace or Builder's Tea?
The truth is, Afternoon Tea in London can range from pricey posh to downright reasonable. It all depends on the experience you're after.
High End Hoity-Toity: Think grand hotels like The Ritz or Claridge's. Here, you're paying for the ambience (think plush carpets, sparkling chandeliers, and maybe even a glimpse of a celebrity). Expect to loosen your purse strings for a cool £75-£100 per person.
Mid-Range Marvels: There are plenty of lovely hotels and restaurants offering Afternoon Tea at a more moderate price point. You'll still get delicious treats and a charming setting, but maybe without the live orchestra. These gems can be found for around £35-£50 per person.
Quirky and Quite Delightful: London is brimming with quirky cafes and tea shops offering Afternoon Tea with a twist. Think "Harry Potter" themed treats or vegan scones. These often come with a more casual vibe and a lighter price tag, around £20-£30 per person.
But Wait, There's More!
Here are a few other factors to consider when budgeting for your Afternoon Tea adventure:
- Champagne Wishes and Caviar Dreams: Craving a glass of bubbly with your scones? Be prepared to pay a premium for Champagne Afternoon Tea.
- High Tea vs. Afternoon Tea: High Tea is typically a more substantial meal, sometimes including savoury dishes like quiche or sausage rolls. This can cost slightly more than a traditional Afternoon Tea.
- Weekday Worries: Many places offer Afternoon Tea deals on weekdays, so you can snag a bargain if you're flexible with your schedule.
FAQ: Your Afternoon Tea Survival Guide
- How to act posh while eating tiny sandwiches? Pinky finger extension is encouraged, but not mandatory. Just don't chomp down like you're attacking a pasty.
- How to avoid scone shame? Scones are always cut in half, cream first then jam (arguments welcome in the comments).
- How to know when you're done? If you can't physically fit another bite and your pinky finger is permanently extended, you're good.
- How to handle leftovers? Don't be shy! Most places will happily provide a doggy bag for your leftover pastries.
- How to find the perfect Afternoon Tea for you? Do some online research! There are websites dedicated to Afternoon Tea in London, allowing you to compare prices, themes, and locations.
So there you have it! With a little planning and these handy tips, you can embark on your Afternoon Tea adventure without breaking the bank. Just remember, it's all about enjoying a delightful tradition, so relax, raise a cuppa, and embrace the delightful world of dainty sandwiches and overflowing teapots.
