The best coronation afternoon teas in London

Launched on 18 April, Fortnum & Mason have a special menu to celebrate the Coronation. We tried out the special edition tea and were impressed by all the elements, particularly the showstopping patisserie. Classic cucumber or egg mayo sandwiches are joined by a dainty mushroom eclair and punchy salt beef sandwich, before warm plain and fruit scones are served with both jam and lemon curd. The highlight of our tea was a stunning elderflower and meadowsweet cream tartlet, with raspberries suspended in a glossy clear jelly. Pair your tea with The Delphinium, a cocktail created for the occasion.

Once you've finished your tea, make sure to explore the famous Fortnum's food hall for a huge range of decadent treats and coronation offerings, from biscuits and jam to teaware, wine and commemorative gifts.

Book the Fortnum & Mason afternoon tea here (from £78pp).

The Goring

The grand surroundings of The Goring feel an appropriate location for a royal-themed tea. On our previous visit to The Goring (which is the only hotel to hold a Royal Warrant), it was the five-star service that impressed us – fit for a king. The Goring has Fortnum & Mason's special release Coronation Darjeeling tea on the menu, while the food itself is inspired by King Charles's rumoured favourite flavours and includes Coronation Cotswold chicken finger sandwiches, scones served warm and decorated with the outline of King Charles III profile and crown-topped patisserie. Available from the 24th April until the 28th May.

Book The Goring afternoon tea here (from £75pp).

The Lane

Set in the heart of Covent Garden, The Lane is in the stunning surroundings of Theatre Royal – an appropriate location for a coronation tea, as it is the only theatre in the world with a royal charter. Charles and Camilla themselves visited in 2021. The special edition coronation menu is available until 10 May, and starts with a mini coronation chicken pie among the savoury treats. Following scones, a crown-topped sticky toffee pudding and celebratory slice of royal blue-iced cakes complete the special tea.

Book The Lane coronation afternoon tea here (from £59pp).

Intercontinental Park Lane

Just minutes away from Buckingham Palace and with views of the royal parks, the Intercontinental Park Lane is as close as you can get to the royal action. Tea is available in the Wellington Lounge from Wednesday-Sunday until 14 May, with a special menu taking a range of royal inspiration. Dishes include slow-roasted pheasant and truffle sandwiches, scones with rhubarb and vanilla jam, martini cheesecake and a red plum clafoutis tart with Scottish whisky cream.

Book the Intercontinental Park Lane tea here (from £55pp).

Rick Stein

If you don't fancy the crowds at a busy afternoon tea spot, order one to enjoy in the comfort of your own home instead. Rick Stein has created a decadent tea to be delivered to your door that serves two, although the generous quantities could be stretched further. Savouries include quiches, Cornish pasties and sausage rolls, while three types of cake (chocolate, Dundee and rhubarb), along with cheesecake and scones, will surely satisfy a sweet tooth. Perfect to enjoy while watching the Coronation, or just enjoying the long bank holiday weekend.

Order the Rick Stein King's coronation afternoon tea here (£70).

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