A lovely afternoon royal-tea; the best places for Coronation tea in London and the UK ahead of the Coronation

What could be more British than sitting down at a fancy tea room and enjoying high tea, with finger sandwiches, scones and of course the humble pot of tea. With the Coronation of King Charles III fast approaching, what better way to celebrate the crowning of a new monarch than raising our tea cups and nodding politely in the direction of the royal procession? It is the reserved, British way after all…

High tea is also a great British tradition that dates back to the 19th century. It was initially a small meal that was taken by the working class in the mid-afternoon, consisting of tea (usually a strong blend) and a selection of small snacks such as bread, butter, and cheese.

Over time, high tea became more elaborate and was adopted by the upper classes as a social occasion. It evolved to include a wider variety of foods, such as cakes, scones, and sandwiches, and was often served in fine china on elegant tables. 

High tea was typically taken between 4 pm and 6 pm and was a way for the upper classes to socialise and showcase their wealth and refinement, but these days is just a good way for a chinwag with friends and loved ones.

With tourism set to peak this summer in the run up and including the day of the coronation itself, Peopleworld have decided to take a look at the area we highlighted in our guide to getting to procession locations to take a look at the best places for a high tea that’s fit for such a royal occasion!

Hyde Park/Grosvenor Square

The Park Room

• Location: 86-90 Park Lane Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel, London W6 7LS England
• Tripadvisorrating: 4.5/5

What reviewers said: “Fantastic experience!! The best afternoon tea in town and Altay (the waiter) is simply the best. Highly recommended for an amazing evening”

To make a booking at The Park Room, visit their page on Tripadvisor.

Westminster Abbey

The English Rose Cafe

• Location: 4 Lower Grosvenor Place Victoria, London SW1W 0EJ England
• Tripadvisorrating: 4.5/5

What reviewers said: “This was our 2nd of 3 afternoon tea experiences during our vacation from the U.S, and we really enjoyed it. My teenage daughter absolutely loved it, and although my teenage son wasn't really into the afternoon tea thing, we were able to get him a croissant separately, which he enjoyed. For me personally, the scones were the best I've ever eaten in my entire life”

To make a booking at The English Rose Cafe, you can visit their page on Tripadvisor.

The Mall

The Rose Lounge

• Location: 8 Pall Mall, St James’s, London SW1Y 5NG England
• Tripadvisorrating: 4.5/5 

What reviewers said: “My 3rd visit to the Rose Lounge and again it was faultless. Wonderful attentive service in a beautiful and relaxed lounge. Fabulous afternoon tea. It’s my favourite venue in London.”

To make a booking at The Rose Lounge, visit their page on Tripadvisor for more information. 

Buckingham Palace

The Rubens at The Palace

• Location: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, London SW1W 0PS England
• Tripadvisorrating: 4.5/5

What reviewers said: “We were 4 friends who had booked the Royal Afternoon Tea on a Sunday. There was a great selection of teas. The sandwiches, scones and cakes were delicious. The waiters were attentive and topped up both food and tea when required. We couldn't eat all the cakes so we were all given a box to bring the leftovers back home. Absolutely delightful afternoon in a historic hotel across the street from the Palace.”

To book a table for high tea at The Rubens at The Palace, visit their page on Tripadvisor.

Bonus - where to have high tea in Cliveden like Meghan Markle?

With Meghan staying in Montecito to celebrate Prince Archie’s birthday, those in Berkshire might want follow in the the footsteps of the Duchess of Sussex and have high tea at Cliveden. Meghan Markle stayed there with her mother Doria Ragland before her wedding to Prince Harry.

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie in Bristol

• Location: 42-44 Caledonia Place Clifton Village, Bristol BS8 4DN England
• Tripadvisorrating: 4/5

What reviewers said: “Excellent birthday lunch with three courses and superb G&T. Lovely surroundings as usual for the Ivy Brasserie in the heart of Clifton. And a patient waiter too.”To book a table at The Ivy Clifton, visit their Tripadvisor page for more information.