How to Take Afternoon Tea at The Ritz

Afternoon tea at The Ritz London is more than a meal—it is a ritual, a celebration of elegance, tradition, and refined British culture. Since 1906, The Ritz has welcomed dignitaries, celebrities, and discerning guests to its grand Palm Court, where the art of afternoon tea is elevated to an experience of unparalleled sophistication. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for anyone seeking to partake in this iconic tradition. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned connoisseur, understanding the nuances of timing, etiquette, menu selection, and ambiance ensures your visit is not only memorable but authentically aligned with The Ritz’s legacy.

Unlike casual tea service found in cafés or hotels, The Ritz afternoon tea is a curated performance of hospitality. Every detail—from the crystal teapots and fine bone china to the precise temperature of the water and the order in which scones are served—is meticulously orchestrated. This guide demystifies the process, offering insider knowledge that transforms a simple tea reservation into a seamless, luxurious encounter. By following these guidelines, you will not only enjoy the finest tea and pastries in London, but you will also participate in a century-old tradition with confidence and grace.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Visit Well in Advance

Reservations for afternoon tea at The Ritz London are highly sought after and often booked weeks, if not months, in advance. The Palm Court operates daily from 12:00 noon to 5:30 p.m., with sittings every 30 minutes. To secure your preferred time slot, especially on weekends or during peak seasons such as Christmas, Easter, or royal events, book at least six to eight weeks ahead via The Ritz’s official website or by telephone. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated due to the venue’s strict capacity limits and high demand.

When booking, specify any special requests—such as a window seat, a private corner, or a celebration occasion—though these are subject to availability. The Ritz does not guarantee specific seating, but early reservations increase the likelihood of a favorable location. Confirm your reservation 48 hours prior to your visit to avoid cancellation due to no-show policies.

2. Dress Appropriately

The Ritz maintains a smart casual dress code for afternoon tea, with an emphasis on refined elegance. While formal attire is not mandatory, guests are expected to present themselves in a manner befitting the venue’s stature. Men should wear collared shirts, trousers, and closed-toe shoes. Jackets are recommended but not required. Women are encouraged to wear dresses, skirts, or tailored separates. Hats and gloves, once customary, are now optional but remain a charming touch for those wishing to embrace tradition.

Avoid sportswear, flip-flops, shorts, beachwear, or overly casual attire such as ripped jeans or tank tops. The ambiance is one of timeless grace, and attire that is too relaxed can disrupt the experience for others. If in doubt, err on the side of formality—it enhances both your own enjoyment and the collective atmosphere.

3. Arrive Early and Be Prepared

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled sitting. The Ritz is located in the heart of Piccadilly, and while the surrounding area is well-served by public transport, traffic and pedestrian congestion can cause delays. The nearest Underground stations are Green Park and Piccadilly Circus, both a five- to seven-minute walk away.

Upon arrival, proceed to the main entrance on Piccadilly. A doorman will greet you and direct you to the Palm Court. Do not attempt to enter through side doors or service entrances. At the entrance to the Palm Court, a host will verify your reservation and escort you to your table. There is no waiting area outside the Palm Court—arriving early ensures you are comfortably seated and ready to begin your experience without delay.

4. Understand the Tea Service Structure

The Ritz afternoon tea follows a classic three-tiered presentation. Upon being seated, your table will be set with a linen napkin, fine bone china teacups and saucers, a silver teapot, and a selection of cutlery. A small plate of lemon wedges and sugar cubes accompanies your tea, while a separate silver tray holds the tiered stand of delicacies.

The service unfolds in a specific order:

• First Tier (Bottom): Savory finger sandwiches, traditionally prepared with crusts removed and cut into delicate triangles or rectangles. Varieties include cucumber with dill cream cheese, smoked salmon with crème fraîche, egg and cress, and ham with mustard mayonnaise.
• Second Tier (Middle): Warm scones served with clotted cream and two types of jam—strawberry and raspberry. These are freshly baked and presented warm to ensure optimal texture.
• Third Tier (Top): An assortment of miniature pastries, cakes, and confections. This may include Victoria sponge, chocolate éclairs, lemon tartlets, macarons, and seasonal specialties such as lavender shortbread or rosewater financiers.

The order of consumption is traditionally from savory to sweet, beginning with the sandwiches, followed by the scones, and concluding with the pastries. This progression allows the palate to appreciate the subtle flavors without being overwhelmed by sweetness too early.

5. Choose Your Tea with Intention

The Ritz offers over 30 varieties of loose-leaf teas, sourced from premier estates around the world. A dedicated tea sommelier is available to guide your selection. Popular choices include:

• Earl Grey: A classic blend of black tea infused with bergamot oil, offering a citrusy brightness.
• English Breakfast: A robust, full-bodied black tea, ideal for those who prefer a stronger infusion.
• Darjeeling First Flush: A light, floral tea from the Himalayan foothills, often described as the “champagne of teas.”
• Chamomile or Peppermint: Caffeine-free options for those seeking a gentler experience.
• Seasonal Specials: The Ritz frequently introduces limited-edition blends, such as rose and vanilla or spiced chai, inspired by the time of year.

To order, simply indicate your preference to your server. The tea will be brewed fresh in a silver teapot using water heated to the precise temperature for each variety—typically 95°C for black teas, 80°C for green teas, and 100°C for herbal infusions. Allow the tea to steep for the recommended time (usually 3–5 minutes) before pouring.

6. Pour and Serve with Grace

While the server will pour your tea, understanding the proper etiquette enhances your experience. When the tea is served, hold the cup by the handle with your thumb and forefinger, avoiding the use of your pinky finger—this is a common misconception. Stir gently with the teaspoon, moving it back and forth rather than in circles, to avoid clinking against the porcelain. Remove the spoon before sipping.

Adding milk is a matter of personal preference. Traditionally, milk was added first to prevent thermal shock to delicate china, though today it is acceptable to add milk after pouring. The Ritz serves both whole milk and single cream; cream is richer and enhances the flavor of black teas, while milk provides a smoother mouthfeel. Lemon should be added only to teas that pair well with citrus—such as Earl Grey—and never to teas with floral or delicate notes, as it can overpower them.

7. Enjoy the Scones Correctly

The scones are the centerpiece of the experience. Break them gently with your hands, never with a knife. Spread clotted cream first, then jam. This order ensures the jam adheres properly and the cream does not dissolve into the jam. Do not cut the scone into slices—this disrupts the texture and is considered improper. Take small, deliberate bites to savor the warmth and layers of flavor.

8. Savor the Pastries with Care

Each pastry on the top tier is crafted by The Ritz’s head pastry chef and his team. These are not merely desserts—they are edible art. Begin with the lightest flavors, such as the lemon tartlet or macaron, before progressing to richer items like the chocolate éclair or opera cake. Use the provided fork for larger pastries, and pick up smaller confections with your fingers. Avoid using the same utensil for multiple items to preserve flavor integrity.

9. Engage with the Atmosphere

The Palm Court is renowned for its live piano music, performed by a resident musician who plays a curated selection of classical and jazz standards. Allow the music to enhance your experience—do not speak loudly or use mobile phones. The ambiance is intentionally tranquil, designed for quiet conversation and contemplation. If you wish to take photographs, do so discreetly and avoid flash. The Ritz encourages guests to capture memories, but not to disrupt the experience of others.

10. Conclude Your Visit with Gratitude

When you are finished, place your napkin neatly on the table to the left of your plate. Do not crumple it or leave it on the chair. If you enjoyed the experience, a simple thank you to your server is appreciated. The Ritz does not require tipping, as service is included in the price, but a handwritten note or verbal compliment to the manager is always welcomed.

Before leaving, consider visiting The Ritz Boutique, located adjacent to the Palm Court, where you may purchase exclusive tea blends, fine china, and signature confections to recreate the experience at home.

Best Practices

Timing Is Everything

Afternoon tea is not merely a meal—it is a moment in time. The Ritz recommends scheduling your visit between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the Palm Court is at its most serene. Early slots (12:00–2:00 p.m.) are often bustling with tour groups, while later slots (4:30–5:30 p.m.) may feel rushed as the venue prepares for dinner service. The sweet spot offers the ideal balance of ambiance, service, and availability.

Respect the Ritual

The Ritz afternoon tea is steeped in tradition. Avoid rushing through the experience. Take your time with each course. Allow the flavors to unfold. Do not overload your plate—service is designed to be enjoyed in stages, not consumed in haste. The experience is meant to last between 90 and 120 minutes. Guests who linger beyond two hours may be gently encouraged to conclude their visit to accommodate the next reservation.

Communicate Dietary Needs in Advance

The Ritz accommodates a wide range of dietary preferences, including gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options. However, these must be requested at the time of booking, not upon arrival. The pastry team requires at least 48 hours’ notice to prepare special items without compromising quality. Gluten-free scones and dairy-free clotted cream are available, as are vegan pastries made with plant-based alternatives. The tea selection remains unchanged, but caffeine-free herbal infusions are always offered.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

While Champagne can be added to your afternoon tea (a popular upgrade), it should be consumed mindfully. The Ritz offers a selection of premium sparkling wines, including Krug, Dom Pérignon, and Bollinger. A glass of Champagne enhances the experience but should not dominate it. Avoid ordering multiple glasses or spirits, as the focus remains on tea and delicate flavors. The venue does not permit guests to bring their own alcohol.

Engage with Staff, But Do Not Interrupt

The servers at The Ritz are trained professionals with deep knowledge of tea, pastries, and etiquette. Feel free to ask questions about ingredients, origins, or preparation. However, avoid interrupting service mid-pour or mid-conversation. Wait for a natural pause before speaking. A smile and a quiet “thank you” go a long way in this environment of refined hospitality.

Keep Children Appropriately Supervised

Children are welcome at The Ritz, but the environment is not designed for high energy or unattended play. Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. The Ritz offers a children’s afternoon tea menu with simplified selections and smaller portions, but it is not a family-friendly restaurant in the casual sense. Quiet behavior and respectful conduct are expected.

Do Not Use Your Phone

Mobile phones are permitted but should be kept on silent and used sparingly. Taking calls or recording videos during service is discouraged. If you must take a photo, do so quickly and respectfully. The Ritz encourages guests to be present in the moment, not behind a screen.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

The Ritz London’s official website (www.theritzlondon.com) is the primary resource for booking, menu previews, dress code updates, and seasonal offerings. The site includes high-resolution images of the Palm Court, detailed descriptions of each tea blend, and virtual tours of the venue. It also features a dedicated FAQ section and a downloadable PDF guide to afternoon tea etiquette.

Tea Tasting Kits

The Ritz Boutique offers curated tea tasting kits that include miniature samples of the teas served in the Palm Court, accompanied by tasting notes and brewing instructions. These kits are ideal for enthusiasts who wish to replicate the experience at home. Each kit includes a small infuser and a booklet detailing the origin and flavor profile of each tea.

Books and Media

For those seeking deeper context, several publications offer insight into the history and culture of British afternoon tea:

• “The Art of Afternoon Tea” by Jane Pettigrew – A comprehensive guide to tea traditions across the UK.
• “The Ritz London: A Century of Elegance” by Richard Hough – Chronicles the hotel’s history, including its tea service.
• “Tea: A Global History” by Helen Saberi – Explores the global evolution of tea rituals.

Documentaries such as “The Ritz: A British Institution” (BBC) and “Tea in Britain” (Channel 4) provide visual context and historical footage of tea culture in London.

Tea Infusers and Equipment

To recreate The Ritz experience at home, invest in quality tools:

• Porcelain teapot: Preferably with a built-in strainer for loose-leaf tea.
• Thermometer: To ensure water is heated to the correct temperature for each tea type.
• Tea timer: To avoid over-steeping, which can make tea bitter.
• Silver tea tray: For presentation, echoing the elegance of The Ritz.
• Three-tier cake stand: To replicate the traditional service layout.

These items are available through specialty retailers such as Fortnum & Mason, Harrods, or directly from The Ritz Boutique.

Mobile Apps

While The Ritz does not have a dedicated app for afternoon tea, the hotel’s official app provides real-time updates on availability, seasonal menus, and exclusive offers. Third-party apps like OpenTable and Resy can be used for booking, but they are not always synchronized with The Ritz’s internal system. For guaranteed reservations, always use the hotel’s official channels.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Anniversary Celebration

A couple from Manchester celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with afternoon tea at The Ritz. They booked six months in advance for a 3:00 p.m. sitting. They requested a table by the window and asked for a small card to be placed on their dessert plate. The staff responded by presenting them with a personalized cake inscribed with their initials and a handwritten note. They chose Darjeeling First Flush and were delighted by the seasonal lavender shortbread. Their server, aware of the occasion, offered a complimentary glass of Bollinger and a tour of the hotel’s historic corridors after tea. The experience became the centerpiece of their anniversary photo album.

Example 2: The First-Time Visitor

A young professional from Tokyo visited London for the first time and booked afternoon tea as a bucket-list item. She arrived in a tailored dress and carried a small notebook to jot down tea names. She was unsure about the order of eating and asked her server for guidance. The server explained the progression from savory to sweet and recommended the Earl Grey with clotted cream. She was particularly moved by the warmth of the scones and the precision of the presentation. Afterward, she purchased a tea tasting kit and returned the following year with her parents.

Example 3: The Business Meeting

Two international executives from Singapore and Germany met over afternoon tea to finalize a partnership. They chose a private corner table and ordered a blend of English Breakfast and Jasmine Green Tea. They avoided Champagne, focusing instead on the conversation and the subtle flavors. The quiet ambiance allowed them to speak without interruption, and the structured service created natural pauses in their dialogue. They later described the experience as “the most elegant negotiation setting” they had ever encountered.

Example 4: The Dietary Restriction

A guest with celiac disease booked afternoon tea after researching The Ritz’s gluten-free options. She contacted the hotel 72 hours in advance and was provided with a detailed list of safe items. Her gluten-free scones were baked separately and served on a dedicated plate. The pastry chef personally checked in to ensure her satisfaction. She left a note thanking the team for their attention to detail and later wrote a testimonial featured on The Ritz’s website.

FAQs

How much does afternoon tea at The Ritz cost?

As of 2024, the standard afternoon tea is priced at £65 per person. The Champagne afternoon tea, which includes a glass of Bollinger, is £85. Additional upgrades, such as premium tea selections or extra pastries, may incur a small surcharge. Prices are subject to change seasonally and are inclusive of service.

Can I bring my own tea or food?

No. The Ritz does not permit guests to bring outside food or beverages. The entire experience is curated and prepared in-house to maintain quality and safety standards.

Is there a children’s menu?

Yes. The Ritz offers a children’s afternoon tea for £35, which includes smaller sandwiches, a mini scone, and child-friendly pastries such as chocolate brownies and fruit tarts. Juice or hot chocolate is served instead of tea.

How long does afternoon tea last?

Typically, the experience lasts between 90 and 120 minutes. Guests are encouraged to linger and enjoy the atmosphere, but extended stays beyond two hours may be politely limited to accommodate reservations.

Can I book for a large group?

Yes. Groups of up to 12 guests can be accommodated in the Palm Court. Larger groups may be seated in adjacent areas or require special arrangements. Bookings for groups of eight or more require a deposit and advance notice of at least two weeks.

Is afternoon tea available on holidays?

Yes. The Ritz offers afternoon tea on most public holidays, including Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, though hours and menus may vary. Special holiday-themed teas, such as Christmas spiced tea or Easter floral pastries, are often introduced.

What if I’m late for my reservation?

If you are more than 15 minutes late, your table may be released to another guest. If you anticipate a delay, contact the hotel immediately. They may hold your table for up to 20 minutes, depending on availability.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes. The Ritz offers fully vegetarian and vegan afternoon tea menus upon request. These include plant-based sandwiches, dairy-free clotted cream, and vegan pastries made without eggs or butter. All options are clearly labeled and prepared separately.

Can I purchase the tea and pastries to take home?

Yes. The Ritz Boutique sells the same teas served in the Palm Court, as well as packaged pastries and scones in gift boxes. These are available for collection on the day of your visit or can be shipped internationally.

Conclusion

Taking afternoon tea at The Ritz London is not simply a culinary indulgence—it is an immersion into a world where precision, heritage, and grace converge. From the moment you step into the Palm Court to the final sip of tea, every element is designed to elevate your senses and honor a tradition that has endured for over a century. This guide has provided you with the knowledge to navigate the experience with confidence, from booking and attire to etiquette and appreciation.

By following these steps and embracing the rituals, you do more than enjoy a meal—you become part of a legacy. The Ritz does not merely serve tea; it curates moments. And in a world that moves too quickly, that is a rare and precious gift.

Whether you are celebrating a milestone, honoring a tradition, or simply seeking a moment of beauty in a chaotic world, afternoon tea at The Ritz offers more than flavor—it offers meaning. Plan wisely, arrive with reverence, and savor every detail. Because after all, in the words of The Ritz itself: “It is not the tea that makes the moment—it is the way you take it.”