Best Afternoon Tea London

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE TEA GUILD IS NO LONGER IN OPERATION. THE INFORMATION ON THIS PAGE REFERS TO 2013.

The best place in London to enjoy a sumptuous Afternoon Tea has been named as The Goring Hotel which has scooped The Tea Guild's prestigious award for the capital for "Top London Afternoon Tea". The Tea Guild Awards are considered the 'Oscars' of the tea world, with world-famous London hotels and tea rooms competing for the highly coveted honour.

Each year the judge's task of choosing a winner gets more challenging as standards continue to reach new levels and this year's London competition was no exception. As a result, The Tea Guild has also awarded 22 special Awards of Excellence in recognition of outstanding quality and consistency.

The judges - who all dine anonymously and pay like regular customers - follow strict guidelines and criteria that cover every aspect of the Afternoon Tea experience.

The décor, the appropriateness of the crockery, staff attitude and tea knowledge are all considered, as are efficiency of service, overall ambience and very importantly how the tea itself is served.

The Goring Hotel

The Goring Hotel in Belgravia, Central London, received the top award for London tea destinations after gaining a near perfect score by the Tea Guild's very impressed judges. Guests can enjoy an elegant Afternoon Tea by a roaring fire in the hotel's lounge. In more clement weather The Goring boasts a delightful garden, offering one of the few al fresco Afternoon Teas in the capital. The Afternoon Tea menu consists of dainty finger sandwiches, homemade buttery scones, and numerous hand-crafted patisseries, all served with an excellent selection of carefully selected and perfectly brewed teas.

Head of The Tea Guild Irene Gorman said: "Afternoon tea at The Goring Hotel is a truly special experience. The elegant surroundings and faultless presentation make it a memorable occasion aided by friendly, efficient and knowledgeable staff. It is easy to understand why this leading establishment attracts so many, of all ages, to take Afternoon Tea."