Afternoon Tea at Buckingham Palace | Classic British Treats

Buckingham Palace Afternoon Tea at the Garden Café

Located on the Palace's West Terrace, just beyond the exit from the State Rooms, the Garden Café provides a seasonal menu celebrating British summer, with freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, and classic treats like coronation chicken seeded rolls and smoked salmon bagels.

Afternoon Tea in a keepsake tin

For a quintessential royal treat, the Garden Café offers Afternoon Tea in a limited-edition keepsake tin. This pre-packaged selection includes an assortment of finger sandwiches, Earl Grey scones, lemon drizzle loaf cake, and other delectable pastries. It is served with your choice of tea or coffee, and you have the option to add English sparkling wine or a Buckingham Palace G&T for a celebratory touch. No advance booking is needed for this experience.

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Combining a Palace tour with Afternoon Tea

Many visitors choose to combine their Palace tour with a luxurious Afternoon Tea at a nearby venue. This allows you to secure a booking and enjoy a full traditional service.

The Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: For a truly unique experience, consider a themed bus tour. You can enjoy a full Afternoon Tea service on a vintage double-decker bus while it drives past London's most famous landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, and Westminster Abbey.

Top Afternoon Tea venues near Buckingham Palace

London's finest hotels have perfected the art of Afternoon Tea, offering their own lavish interpretations of the royal tradition just a stone's throw from the Palace.

The Rubens at the Palace: Directly opposite the Royal Mews, The Rubens offers a celebrated "Royal Afternoon Tea." Their menu features exquisitely crafted cakes and pastries inspired by the Royal Family and the Palace itself, making it a perfect themed experience.
The Goring Hotel: As the only hotel to hold a Royal Warrant, The Goring is a favorite of the Royal Family. Its Afternoon Tea is considered one of the best in London, serving a classic menu in an elegant, quintessentially British setting.
The Guardsman Hotel: Tucked away on a quiet street near the Palace, The Guardsman provides an intimate and luxurious Afternoon Tea experience. It's an ideal choice for a more private and exclusive celebration.

Frequently Asked Questions about Buckingham Palace Afternoon Tea

Can I book an Afternoon Tea inside Buckingham Palace?

No, a traditional, bookable Afternoon Tea is not offered inside the Palace's State Rooms. The only public option is the pre-packaged Afternoon Tea from the Garden Café, which requires a State Rooms ticket to access.

Where can I have Afternoon Tea on the Palace grounds?

You can visit the Garden Café on the West Terrace, which is open during the summer opening season. You can purchase food and drinks there, including the special Afternoon Tea in a keepsake tin.

What kind of food is available at the Garden Café?

The café's seasonal menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, cakes, and pastries. The Afternoon Tea tin features sandwiches, scones, and a selection of cakes.

Are dietary options available?

Yes, the Garden Café caters to a wide range of dietary requirements, including plant-based, gluten-free, and more. It is best to check the full menu upon arrival.

Can I combine Afternoon Tea with a Palace tour?

Yes, you can only visit the Garden Cafe at the end of a tour of Buckingham Palace's State Rooms.

What is the dress code for Afternoon Tea?

A smart-casual dress code is recommended. Guests are encouraged to dress elegantly, ensuring shoulders and knees are appropriately covered. This helps maintain the refined atmosphere of the experience.

Is the experience suitable for children?

Yes, the Afternoon Tea experience is family-friendly. While the atmosphere is elegant, children are welcome. Families are advised to book in advance because seating can be limited during peak periods.

How far in advance should I book my Afternoon Tea?

The Garden Café does not require advance booking. However, if you plan to visit a nearby hotel for a formal Afternoon Tea, it is highly recommended to book your table weeks or even months in advance.