Vegan Afternoon Teas in London: The Ultimate Guide for Plant-Based Indulgence

Afternoon tea is one of Britain’s most cherished traditions — a civilised affair involving delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and exquisite patisserie, all enjoyed with a fine pot of tea. Yet, for years, this quintessentially British ritual was largely off-limits to vegans.

Thankfully, London’s culinary scene has undergone a remarkable transformation, and today, you can find a wide array of vegan afternoon teas across the city that are just as decadent and beautifully presented as their classic counterparts.

Whether you’re a lifelong vegan, simply exploring plant-based dining, or entertaining guests with diverse dietary requirements, this guide will introduce you to the very best vegan afternoon teas in London has to offer.

Why Choose Vegan Afternoon Tea?

Choosing a vegan afternoon tea isn’t just about avoiding animal products. It’s about experiencing innovative flavours, supporting sustainability, and often enjoying healthier alternatives. London’s top vegan patisserie chefs are constantly pushing boundaries, crafting pastries and savoury treats so delicious that even non-vegans will be impressed.

Moreover, as awareness of ethical eating grows, more and more people are eager to explore plant-based options — and what better way to indulge than with a three-tier stand of vegan delights in an elegant setting?

Top Vegan Afternoon Teas in London

1. The Egerton House Hotel

Nestled in the heart of Knightsbridge, The Egerton House Hotel offers a beautifully curated vegan afternoon tea in an intimate, quintessentially British drawing room. The menu features an array of delicate finger sandwiches with fillings such as roasted red pepper and hummus, or cucumber and mint.

Scones are served warm with homemade vegan cream and preserves, and the pastries — think fruit tarts, chocolate cakes, and macarons — are entirely plant-based. The hotel prides itself on attention to detail and elegant presentation, making it ideal for a special occasion.

2. The Orchid Lounge at Pan Pacific London

The Pan Pacific Hotel near Liverpool Street boasts a contemporary afternoon tea experience inspired by Asian flavours. Their “Singaporean-inspired Kopi Tiam” vegan afternoon tea includes unique treats like miso caramel choux, mango coconut tarts, and vegan scones served with tropical jams.

The tea selection is equally impressive, featuring blends such as osmanthus oolong and lychee rose. The minimalist, airy surroundings add to the luxurious feel, providing an oasis in the busy City.

3. The Tea Room at sketch

The iconic sketch in Mayfair is famed for its artistic interiors and playful approach to dining. Their vegan afternoon tea, served in the Gallery room with its pink velvet seats and contemporary art, is a true experience. Guests enjoy vibrant finger sandwiches (for instance, avocado with coriander and courgette with basil), alongside inventive pastries like coconut and passion fruit mousse or dark chocolate tarts.

The vegan scones with clotted coconut cream are particularly indulgent. Paired with their extensive tea list or a glass of vegan champagne, it’s an unforgettable afternoon.

4. Farmacy

Located in Notting Hill, Farmacy offers an entirely plant-based menu that extends to its afternoon tea. Their wellness-focused philosophy translates into wholesome but still luxurious bites, including smoked carrot “lox” on rye, truffled mushroom quiche, and raw desserts.

Expect vegan scones with homemade jams and coconut cream, plus adaptogenic teas and even CBD-infused treats if you wish. The bright, botanical interior perfectly complements the nourishing menu, making this an ideal spot for health-conscious tea lovers.

5. Fortnum & Mason

The Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum & Mason, a longstanding London institution, offers a refined vegan afternoon tea that honours tradition while embracing modern tastes. The sandwich selection includes aubergine with sun-dried tomato and a refreshing cucumber option.

Classic scones are made vegan and accompanied by Fortnum’s famous preserves and vegan cream. The patisserie selection ranges from seasonal fruit tartlets to exquisite vegan chocolate cakes. With its elegant white tablecloths and live piano music, this is a truly special treat.

What to Expect from a Vegan Afternoon Tea

A vegan afternoon tea in London typically follows the classic three-tier structure: savouries at the bottom, scones in the middle, and pastries on top. However, each establishment brings its unique touch. You might find Middle Eastern influences, Asian flavours, or raw food elements incorporated into the menu.

Key features to look out for include:

• Plant-based “clotted cream”: Often made from coconut or cashew to recreate the luxurious texture of traditional cream.
• Innovative pastries: Chefs get creative with dairy-free mousses, nut-based cheesecakes, and fruit-forward desserts.
• Creative savouries: Beyond cucumber sandwiches, think smoked tofu, beetroot carpaccio, or vegan cheese.

Teas served often include premium loose-leaf selections, and many venues also offer vegan-friendly sparkling wines or cocktails for an extra touch of indulgence.

Planning Your Vegan Afternoon Tea Experience

When booking, it’s always advisable to mention dietary preferences in advance. Although most places require at least 24–48 hours’ notice for vegan menus, the additional preparation ensures you receive a beautifully curated experience.

Consider the following tips for planning:

• Timing: Afternoon tea is generally served between 12 pm and 5 pm. Some venues may offer multiple sittings.
• Dress code: Many traditional tea salons maintain a smart-casual dress code, so it’s worth checking before your visit.
• Price: Vegan afternoon teas can range from £30 to £80 per person depending on the venue and whether you add Champagne.

Why London Leads the Way in Vegan Afternoon Tea

London has long been at the forefront of culinary innovation and inclusivity, and its approach to vegan afternoon tea exemplifies this spirit. With the city’s diversity and its reputation as a global dining capital, chefs are inspired to create offerings that are both inclusive and sophisticated.

Furthermore, the growing popularity of veganism — whether for ethical, environmental, or health reasons — has encouraged many high-end hotels and restaurants to adapt, ensuring no one misses out on this beloved ritual.

Final Thoughts

A vegan afternoon tea in London is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and compassion. From historic hotels steeped in tradition to modern wellness-focused cafes, there’s a setting and style to suit every taste. Whether you’re a local or visiting London for the first time, indulging in one of these plant-based teas is a delightful way to enjoy the city’s culinary scene.

So, gather your friends, pick your favourite venue, and savour those delicate sandwiches, warm scones, and exquisite patisserie — all while knowing no animals were harmed and the experience is kinder to the planet. After all, afternoon tea is about slowing down, indulging, and creating beautiful memories — and London’s vegan options ensure you can do exactly that, deliciously and elegantly.