Best Festive Afternoon Tea at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel, London

When it comes to Christmas afternoon tea in London, few places capture the season’s magic quite like The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel. Just a short stroll from Trafalgar Square, this elegant hideaway combines British tradition, winter indulgence, and historic charm into one unforgettable festive experience.

As London’s twinkling lights come alive and the air fills with the scent of mulled wine, there’s no better way to embrace the season than by sitting down to a Festive Afternoon Tea that celebrates everything we love about the holidays, warmth, flavour, and just a touch of sparkle.

Background about The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel

The Great Scotland Yard Hotel, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt, sits in one of central London’s most storied locations. Once the original headquarters of the Metropolitan Police, the building has been beautifully restored into a five-star haven that blends heritage and modern elegance.

Step inside, and history greets you at every corner. During the festive season, the hotel transforms into a winter wonderland with a giant Christmas tree in the lobby, twinkling lights, and sometimes even the Metropolitan Police Choir singing carols to guests. It’s that quintessentially British mix of history, charm, and hospitality that makes it feel so special.

Located within the hotel, The Parlour is the perfect setting for an afternoon tea in London that feels intimate and refined. With its warm lighting, plush seating, and subtly festive décor, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, sip, and savour.

What The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel Is Known For

The Parlour has built a reputation for seasonal afternoon teas that celebrate both craftsmanship and creativity. Throughout the year, it’s known for its modern twist on tradition but come November, the spotlight shifts to its Festive Afternoon Tea, easily one of the best Christmas afternoon teas in London.

This year’s menu is a perfect balance of savoury sophistication and sweet indulgence. From smoked salmon with caviar and horseradish cream to turkey with celeriac remoulade and cranberry sauce, the savoury course alone feels like a love letter to the season. The experience continues with freshly baked cranberry scones and a finale of stunning desserts such as Bespoke Chocolate Délice, The Great Scotland Yard Christmas Bubble, and an orange and hazelnut Christmas Tree tea cake.

Every detail, from the candy-cane decorations beneath the serving boards to the wreath-style presentation, brings out the festive joy. It’s whimsical, elegant, and effortlessly luxurious, everything you could hope for from a Christmas high tea in London.

What is the Experience like at The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel?

The experience begins the moment you step through the hotel’s grand doors. The lobby glows with festive lights and the staff are so welcoming. The Parlour itself is cosy yet sophisticated, with just enough light for those all-important Instagram shots.

Once seated, you’re presented with the afternoon tea menu, a choice between the Classic (£65), Champagne (£75), or Christmas Cocktail (£75) options. Since I’m more of a tea enthusiast, I chose the Classic, which focuses purely on tea pairings and the culinary journey itself.

What is the Food like at The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel?

Tea Selection

The tea list is impressive, offering a wide range of blends from around the world. I opted for the Organic Hojicha, a Japanese roasted green tea known for its nutty depth and strong finish. My friend went for the Organic Rooibos, a caffeine-free herbal infusion from South Africa with notes of vanilla and Seville orange. It was rich, aromatic, and perfectly festive.

Refills are continuous, and the staff make sure your teacup never runs dry, a small detail that goes a long way in making the experience feel indulgent.

The Savoury Course

Each bite was beautifully presented and packed with festive flair:

• Smoked Salmon, Caviar, and Horseradish Cream on Malted Bread – a luxurious and balanced start (one of my favourites)
• Turkey, Celeriac, and Cranberry Sandwich – a nod to classic Christmas flavours
• Egg Truffle Mayo and Chives on Pain de Mie – nice and light (one of my favourites)
• Wild Mushroom and Rocket Quiche – earthy and comforting (one of my favourites)
• Chestnut and Montgomery Cheddar Yorkshire Pudding – creative and utterly delicious

The savouries are available for one choice of refills, which I took advantage of (the mushroom and egg options were too good to resist). Each dish arrives on a board accented with subtle Christmas touches candy canes and wreath motifs that add a dash of festive fun without taking away from the refinement.

The Scones

No British afternoon tea is complete without scones! Served warm in a linen wrap, the plain and cranberry scones were light, buttery, and golden. Accompanied by Cornish clotted cream and the standout wild blackberry and mulled wine jam, every bite was pure Christmas comfort.

The Dessert Tower

And then came the grand finale, the dessert tower. Each pastry looked like something from a winter fairy tale, bursting with flavour and creativity.

• Bespoke Chocolate Délice – Valrhona dark chocolate and salted caramel shaped like a wrapped present
• The Great Scotland Yard Christmas Bubble – spiced apple mousse with a treacle sponge base
• The Christmas Tree Cake – orange and hazelnut, light yet fragrant, topped with delicate festive detailing

The desserts may look small, but they’re incredibly rich, and by the end of it all, I was absolutely full in the best possible way. It’s safe to say you won’t be needing dinner after this.

What is the Price like at The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel?

The Classic Afternoon Tea is priced at £65 per person, while both the Champagne and Christmas Cocktail versions are £75.

If you enjoy a glass of bubbles, the Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut adds a luxurious touch. For those who prefer something festive but non-traditional, the cocktail (made with Licor 43, vodka, nutmeg, and vanilla) is a clever holiday twist.

Note, a 13.5% discretionary service charge is added to the bill.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the best festive afternoon tea in London, The Parlour at The Great Scotland Yard Hotel should be high on your list. It combines everything you could want in a holiday treat, exceptional food, elegant surroundings, warm service, and just enough Christmas magic to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.

What really stands out is how genuine the whole experience feels. It’s luxurious but never pretentious, indulgent yet comforting. You can taste the craftsmanship in every layer of the menu, and you can feel the warmth of the staff who clearly take pride in creating something memorable.

The Festive Afternoon Tea at The Parlour launches on Monday, 10th November, and runs through the holiday season. As one of the most sought-after Christmas afternoon teas in central London, bookings fill up fast, so be sure to reserve early.

Whether you’re visiting London for the holidays or simply looking to treat yourself to something special, this experience is a must.

Highlights & Key Details

Why Go

• One of the best festive afternoon teas near Trafalgar Square
• Unique blend of London history and modern indulgence
• A joyful, photo-worthy experience from start to finish

Perfect For

• Christmas celebrations in London
• Festive gatherings or special occasions
• Luxury hotel afternoon tea lovers
• Wanting a true taste of London tradition for afternoon tea during the festive season

The Parlour, The Great Scotland Yard Hotel Details

• Location: 3-5 Great Scotland Yard, London SW1A 2HN (Near Trafalgar Square)
• Opening Hours: Daily from 8–11 am, 12–9 pm
• Price: £65 per person for the classic afternoon tea

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