The best children's afternoon tea in London

Java Whiskers is a welcoming cat café where you can relax in the presence of the charming resident cats, each with their own distinct personality. It's an ideal retreat for some cuddles and a unique afternoon tea experience. Though children under six years of age aren't allowed in the cat lounge, older children are sure to appreciate the chance to spend some time with Mog's distant relatives.

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 Bear. 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. Adults' and children's afternoon tea menus 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 juice or hot chocolate.

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 is 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 a themed afternoon tea that kids are sure to love. Inspired by the hotel's proximity to the Natural History Museum, the in-house restaurant serves Jurassic Afternoon Tea with detailed patisserie and tasty sandwiches. It'll appeal to both kids and adults who are still fascinated by dinosaurs.

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.

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.

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, including 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.