Price For Afternoon Tea At The Ritz

There’s a certain magic in the air when you step into The Ritz London. It’s not just the chandeliers or the gilded ceilings—it’s the ceremony of afternoon tea itself. And yes, that ceremony comes with a price tag that might make your teacup tremble.

As of 2024, the classic afternoon tea at The Ritz starts at £70 per person. For that, you get a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and pastries that look like tiny works of art. The champagne upgrade? That bumps it to about £90, because bubbles and buttercream are a timeless duo.

This isn’t just tea—it’s a performance. The staff in tailcoats, the piano player, the silver teapots—it all feels like a scene from a period drama. You’re not just paying for food; you’re buying a two-hour escape into old-world elegance.

What’s actually on the plate?

The menu rotates with the seasons, but the core is reassuringly classic. Think smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwiches, coronation chicken, and egg mayonnaise with cress. The scones arrive warm, accompanied by clotted cream and strawberry preserve—never jam, as any traditionalist will tell you.

Pastries are where the Ritz lets its hair down. You’ll find delicate éclairs, fruit tarts, and a chocolate mousse that could make a grown person swoon. And yes, you can ask for more sandwiches—they’re included, so don’t be shy.

A fun little fact: The Ritz serves over 1.5 million cups of tea every year. That’s enough to fill a small swimming pool, or a very large afternoon tea party.

The booking ballet

Here’s the catch: you can’t just walk in. Reservations are essential, and they often book up weeks in advance. You’ll need to secure your spot online, and be ready to pay a deposit of around £50 per person.

Want a tip? Book for a weekday if you can—it’s quieter, and the vibe feels more like a secret indulgence. Saturday slots are a scramble, like trying to get a taxi during London Fashion Week.

Another insider move: request a table in the Palm Court, the original room. It’s smaller, cozier, and has that iconic gold-and-marble glow that makes every photo look like a vintage postcard.

Dress code drama

The Ritz has a strict dress code, and yes, it’s as glamorous as it sounds. Jackets are required for men (ties optional but encouraged), and no trainers or sportswear allowed. Think of it as a chance to dress up—like a mini red carpet for scone enthusiasts.

Women often go for smart dresses or chic blazers. Flat shoes are fine, but a heel adds that certain swish. And if you forget a jacket? The Ritz can lend you one, but it’s better to arrive feeling like you belong.

Afternoon Tea in London | Holiday Guides by Come Fly with Lindsay

A cultural nod: The dress code harks back to the 1900s, when tea at a grand hotel was a social ritual. It’s a gentle reminder that some pleasures are worth the effort.

The tea itself: a deep dive

You’ll get to choose from a selection of around 18 teas, from classic Earl Grey to floral blends like jasmine pearl. The staff are trained to help you pick based on your mood—bold for a rainy day, floral for a sunny one.

Pro tip: try the Ritz Royal Blend. It’s their signature black tea, smooth and slightly malty, perfect with milk. And don’t pour the milk first—that’s a Victorian-era habit that’s now seen as a faux pas in polite circles.

Fun fact: The Ritz uses silver-plated teapots that are polished daily. They’re heavy but keep the water at the perfect temperature, which is why your second cup is just as hot as the first.

Is it worth the cost?

Let’s be honest: £70 is a splurge for a meal that isn’t dinner. But think of it as theater you can eat. The experience unfolds slowly—sandwiches first, scones second, pastries last—like a three-act play with carbs.

Many people save up for it as a treat: birthdays, anniversaries, or a “just because” celebration. There’s a reason it’s been going strong since 1906—it’s reliable luxury. The food is consistent, the service is impeccable, and the memory lingers.

If you’re on a budget, consider the “high tea” option (a more informal version with savories like sausage rolls) at some Ritz-adjacent hotels. But for the full gilt-edged fantasy, stick with the original.

Practical notes for your visit

Book early—like two months ahead for weekends. Cancel at least 48 hours in advance if plans change, or you’ll lose your deposit. And don’t forget to eat a light breakfast; you’ll want to make room.

Luxury Afternoon Tea At The Ritz London Is The Most Elegant Experience

Tea is served in three sittings: 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:30 PM. The 1:30 PM slot is the sweet spot—not too early for a hangry state, not too late for a post-caffeine crash. Plan on two hours total, but don’t rush.

One tiny warning: no doggy bags. The Ritz doesn’t do leftovers, so savor every crumb. If you can’t finish, discreetly ask for a napkin—it’s cheeky, but some guests do it.

The cultural echo

Afternoon tea at The Ritz isn’t just tea; it’s a British export that’s become a global icon. You’ll see tourists from Tokyo, New York, and Sydney at nearby tables, all speaking in hushed, excited tones. It’s a shared moment of cross-cultural delight.

Pop culture loves it too. In Downton Abbey, the Crawleys would approve of the silver and civility. And in Notting Hill, Julia Roberts’ character might have sneaked in for a scone between movie scenes. The Ritz is a set you get to play in.

Fun fact: The Ritz’s tea was once a favorite of Winston Churchill, who lived nearby. He reportedly loved his tea with a splash of milk and a cube of sugar. You’re walking in history’s footsteps—just with better lighting.

Final sip

Afternoon tea at The Ritz is an investment in pause. In a world that never stops, it forces you to sit, talk, and nibble slowly. You might spend £70, but you’ll leave with a sense of having refueled your soul.

Back in daily life, you can recreate some of that feeling: brew a good tea, use a proper cup, and take 20 minutes without your phone. It won’t have the chandeliers, but it’ll have the same quiet ritual.

And if you ever do splurge on the real thing? Smile, wear your best jacket, and remember: elegance is timeless, and scones are forever.