Guide to children's afternoon tea in London

Brigit's Bakery is known for its afternoon tea experiences on a converted double-decker bus, letting guests tour London's sights in comfort as they enjoy afternoon tea. In addition to traditional afternoon tea, Brigit's Bakery serves some of the most popular children's afternoon teas, themed after beloved characters such as Peppa Pig or Paddington. Toddlers will love the themed treats while parents can unwind with a glass of champagne as they tour Central London.

A great afternoon tea in London for families can be found at the One Aldwych hotel, which offers an afternoon tea experience modelled after Roald Dahl's “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”. It's not just the scrumptious treats and imaginative drinks that are inspired by the classic story – the space itself is designed as Willy Wonka's laboratory, full of beakers and jars packed with coloured candy, completing the magical illusion.

Double-deckers, black cabs, red telephone boxes – iconic London imagery that delights the young and the old alike is highlighted in this Central London afternoon tea for families. An adults' and a children's afternoon tea menu are served here. Both feature exquisitely crafted savouries and sweets, with the grownups' version accompanied by a range of hot drinks and sparkling wines and the kids' including children's drinks such as fruity juice or hot chocolate.

The Victorian townhouse hotel in Westminster offers different afternoon teas in its luxe contemporary setting. Kids are sure to love the one themed after “The Secret Garden”, a classic British children's story told here through beautifully designed pastries and sandwiches. Vegetarian and vegan versions are available as well.

The whole family can enjoy the afternoon tea served at Aqua Shard in London's tallest building. The experience is themed after J. M. Barrie's “Peter Pan”, with the afternoon tea served on a stand inspired by the Jolly Roger, scones hidden in a treasure chest, and other snacks inspired by the timeless novel. Best of all, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the afternoon tea are donated to The Great Ormond Street children's charity.

The Chesterfield hotel in Mayfair offers a whimsical family-friendly afternoon tea inspired by vintage sweetshops, complete with staff in candy-striped suits, a sweetshop cart, and delicious treats such as Coca-Cola slices and chocolate scones. Adults can have tea or champagne along with the snacks, while children will be wowed by a theatrical smoking pink lemonade.

The lavish family-friendly Ampersand Hotel in South Kensington serves not one but two themed afternoon teas that kids are sure to love. Choose between the Jurassic Afternoon Tea and the Science Afternoon Tea, both featuring detailed patisserie and tasty sandwiches. The Jurassic one is sure to appeal to those who are still fascinated by dinosaurs, while the Science menu offers an interactive experience blending physics, chemistry, and gastronomy.

The Rosewood London is home to an award-winning afternoon tea that's perfect for budding art lovers. Served in the dazzling contemporary setting of the hotel's Mirror Room, the changing menu here honours famous artists such as Frida Kahlo, David Hockney, and Banksy, with a kids' afternoon tea served as well. All are honoured in this way.

Magic shop and bar The Wizard Exploratorium offers an immersive tea-brewing adventure in the heart of London, blending the art of tea brewing with molecular gastronomy and technology, inspired by the imaginative worlds of childhood. Guests select a magic wand and engage in an interactive experience, casting spells to control their tea stand and unlock a puzzle chest with tea ingredients. A children's afternoon tea with smaller portions is available as well.

The Sanderson London Hotel offers the unique Mad Hatter's Afternoon Tea, an “Alice in Wonderland”-inspired affair, complete with story-themed teapots and an assortment of sweet and savoury treats derived from the classic tale. The hotel caters to younger guests specifically with a whimsical children's version, as well as offering a vegan version to ensure the whole family can enjoy this fun afternoon tea.

Betty Blythe is a unique, vintage-themed café known for its cosy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying afternoon tea or hosting themed parties. The café offers a variety of afternoon tea options daily, including an elegant set with homemade scones and cakes, a vegan alternative, and a smaller version for kids or lighter appetites. It's also popular for parties for both children and adults, offering fun activities like costume dressing, teacup painting, and biscuit icing.

Based in a Grade II-listed townhouse in Pimlico, the charmingly stylish Georgian House Hotel has a touch of magic about it, offering different Wizard Experiences. This includes a family-friendly afternoon tea. Every weekend, adults and children can enjoy sweet and savoury bites and potions during a wizard-themed event. Mini wizards have their own menu too.

Whiskers & Cream in North London is a welcoming cat café where you can enjoy award-winning teas, snacks, pastries, and an array of drinks in the presence of the charming resident cats, each with their own distinct personality. It's an ideal retreat for some cuddles and a treat, with the various afternoon tea menus available in a kids' version as well. Due to a limit on the number of children under 11 years old per session, it's best to give the café a call before your visit.