The Savoy Afternoon Tea: Prices, Dress Code & Booking (2025)

Few London experiences carry the quiet anticipation of settling into The Savoy’s Gallery for afternoon tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply curious about the legendary spread, the details matter — from what to wear to how much to budget. We’ve gathered the latest prices, official policies, and real guest insights to help you plan your visit.

Tea Varieties: Over 30 · Tradition: Over 100 years · Price per Person (Classic): from £75

Key details about The Savoy afternoon tea are compiled in the following table.

How much is Savoy afternoon tea per person?

The pricing is the first thing most guests want to pin down. According to Visit London (official tourism authority), the classic afternoon tea is listed from £90 per person, though recent firsthand reports from Come Fly with Lindsay cite £75. The champagne option adds roughly £20, bringing it to around £95. A children’s menu is available at £45 per child, also confirmed by Visit London.

What is the price for two people?

For two adults opting for the classic menu, expect a minimum of £150 based on the lower-end £75 figure, or £180 at the £90 rate. Children cost £45 each. Note that the price does not include the discretionary 12.5% service charge.

Are there different tiers of afternoon tea?

Yes. The Savoy offers a classic afternoon tea, a champagne afternoon tea (with a glass of bubbly), a high tea option (typically more substantial), and a twilight tea served from 6pm for £49, according to AfternoonTea.co.uk. Seasonal Christmas and holiday versions also appear.

The trade-off: the higher price reflects the prestige of The Gallery setting, but cheaper twilight slots offer a way to experience the same atmosphere for less.

What is the dress code for afternoon tea at the Savoy?

The Savoy insists on smart casual attire. Visit London states outright: no sportswear, no flip-flops. AfternoonTea.co.uk repeats the same rule. But enforcement can be nuanced.

Can you wear jeans to afternoon tea at the Savoy?

According to Glamour & Gains (travel guide), smart jeans may be acceptable, but ripped or distressed denim is not allowed. The Savoy reserves the right to refuse entry based on attire.

What should men wear to The Savoy afternoon tea?

Jackets are strongly encouraged, though not strictly mandatory. Ties are not required. Men should avoid shorts, baseball caps, and sportswear. A collared shirt with smart trousers is a safe bet.

Are smart trainers allowed?

Trainers are generally not permitted under the smart casual rule. If you’re unsure, opt for leather loafers or clean, minimal sneakers, but note that the hotel’s discretion applies.

What this means: dressing appropriately is crucial to ensure entry, but the hotel’s discretion allows some flexibility.

How to book The Savoy afternoon tea?

Reservations are essential and can be made online through The Savoy’s official website or by phone. Visit London confirms bookings can be made up to three months in advance, and each sitting is allocated two hours.

Can you book online?

Yes. The official booking page accepts credit card details to secure the slot. Online booking is straightforward and recommended for weekend and holiday dates.

How far in advance should you book?

For peak times (Saturday, Christmas season), book at least 2–4 weeks ahead. The system opens three months out, so popular days go fast.

Is a deposit required?

A credit card guarantee is required at the time of booking. The cancellation policy typically allows full refund if cancelled 48 hours in advance, according to The Savoy.

The catch: popular slots fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Do you tip at The Savoy afternoon tea?

A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to your bill, as stated on The Savoy’s official site. This is standard for London’s fine-dining scene.

Is service charge included?

Yes, it is automatically applied. Check your bill to confirm — some guests report it is always added, but the term “discretionary” means you can request its removal if service was poor.

What is the standard tipping amount?

If you enjoyed exceptional service, an additional 5–10% on top of the service charge is appreciated but not expected. The 12.5% usually covers the team.

The implication: you can adjust the final amount if service is exceptional, but the 12.5% is standard.

Is afternoon tea at the Savoy worth it?

Value depends on what you prioritise. The Savoy offers a setting — The Gallery with a live pianist, a hundred-year tradition, and over 30 teas — but the bill is steep.

How does it compare to other London afternoon teas?

At £75–£90 per person, it sits at the upper end of London’s afternoon tea market. Competitors like The Ritz or Claridge’s are similar in price. The Savoy stands apart with its art deco interior and flexible twilight option at £49.

What do guests say in reviews?

“The traditional afternoon tea was £75 per person, and the high tea was £85, with an extra £20 for champagne. The scones were warm and the service impeccable.”

— Come Fly with Lindsay

“Afternoon tea at The Savoy is served in The Gallery, with a live pianist setting a refined mood. The selection of teas is extraordinary.”

— AfternoonTea.co.uk

What makes it special?

Three things: the setting (The Gallery, designed by Pierre‑Yves Rochon), the tea selection (over 30 loose-leaf varieties), and the history (afternoon tea served since the hotel opened in 1889).

The pattern: the twilight tea offers a more affordable entry point, while the classic provides full experience.

Upsides and downsides

The catch: the high price point may be offset by the historic setting and service quality.

How to book and enjoy your Savoy afternoon tea — step by step

1. Check dates and timings. Afternoon tea is served daily 12:30pm–7pm, last seating 5:15pm. Twilight tea runs 6pm–9:30pm. (Visit London)
2. Choose your tier. Classic (£75–£90), champagne (+£20), high tea (£85), or twilight (£49).
3. Book 2–4 weeks ahead via thesavoylondon.com or call +44 20 7836 4343.
4. Note any dietary needs at least 72 hours in advance (vegan, gluten‑free, halal all available).
5. Plan your outfit — smart casual, no sportswear, jacket recommended for men.
6. Arrive 10 minutes early for check‑in and photos in The Gallery.
7. Budget for the bill — add 12.5% service charge automatically.

What this means: following these steps ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Confirmed facts and what remains unclear

For anyone planning a special visit to London, the decision is not whether to go, but how to prepare. With prices starting at £90, booking well in advance is essential. Savvy guests will choose the twilight tea for a budget-friendly alternative, while those seeking the full experience should budget for the champagne option and a jacket.

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For those planning a visit, the Savoy afternoon tea experience offers detailed pricing and booking insights to help you plan the perfect outing.

Frequently asked questions