The British tradition of afternoon tea was born in 1840, when the Duchess of Bedford admitted her guilty pleasure of enjoying tea and a few nibbles in the interim between lunch and dinner. It’s now a national tradition and one of the most charming things to do in Chelsea.
Your choice of teas and adorable little patisseries are guaranteed, as are scones with jam and cream, and dainty little sandwiches. Add a flute of Champagne or a cocktail and it becomes a proper way to celebrate a special occasion (or just replenish after an afternoon’s shopping).
From the opulence of the Belmond Cadogan Hotel to contemporary interpretations at Harvey Nichols and Bluebird Chelsea, here’s our edit of the best afternoon teas in Chelsea.