If you are searching for an elegant afternoon tea in London on a budget, The Delaunay may look like a promising choice. Its grand Viennese-style dining room feels luxurious, but its classic afternoon tea currently costs £36.50—considerably less than afternoon tea at many of London’s five-star hotels.
I tried afternoon tea at The Delaunay to discover whether the food lived up to the surroundings. Here is my honest review of the sandwiches, scones, cakes, service and overall value—and whether The Delaunay deserves a place among the best budget afternoon teas in London.
Tucked away in Aldwych, just off Covent Garden, the Delaunay afternoon tea combines British tradition with a touch of Viennese flair. As the more approachable sibling of the luxurious Wolseley, the Delaunay provides a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for a leisurely catch-up.
A Brief History of The Delaunay
Opened in 2011 by renowned restaurateurs Chris Corbin and Jeremy King, the Delaunay draws inspiration from the grand cafés of Europe. Its design and menu reflect a blend of French and Central European influences, creating a unique dining experience in the heart of London.
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The Delaunay Afternoon Tea Experience
Our afternoon tea began with a selection of finger sandwiches featuring classic fillings like smoked salmon, chicken, cheese and pickle, and egg mayonnaise. While the sandwiches were enjoyable, one or two were slightly dry, though this wasn’t a major concern.
The scones, both fruit and plain, were served warm under a silver dome, accompanied by homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream—a delightful combination.
The patisserie selection included a chocolate Sacher torte, a pistachio and poppy seed cake with raspberry icing, and a cheesecake, all of which were homemade and very good.
We didn’t ask for seconds of anything although we were a bit short on clotted cream and jam but our tea pots were regularly refreshed.
The Delaunay Afternoon Tea Service and Ambience
The Delaunay’s interior exudes a subtle glamour with its wood panelling and almost library feel. The tea service was popular, as evidenced by both Londoners and tourists who were enjoying it. Service was attentive but unobtrusive, allowing us to chat with each other without feeling rushed. We had two hours there before we were asked to finish before the dinner service.
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Is This One of the Best Budget Afternoon Teas in London?
Calling The Delaunay cheap would be misleading. At £36.50 per person, plus service, it is certainly not one of the cheapest afternoon teas in London. However, it is more affordable than many of the capital’s grand hotel teas, some of which now cost £70 or more.
For anyone looking for a luxurious London afternoon tea on a budget, The Delaunay offers an impressive setting, attentive service and homemade patisserie without the five-star hotel price. However, the slightly dry sandwiches and limited choice of teas prevent me from declaring it the best affordable afternoon tea in London.
A Cheaper Alternative: The Delaunay Counter
If the full afternoon tea is beyond your budget, The Delaunay Counter may provide a less expensive way to enjoy the same glamorous surroundings. You could order tea or coffee with one of the homemade cakes rather than committing to the full afternoon tea.
This is not a traditional afternoon tea, but it may be the smarter choice for anyone searching for a budget afternoon tea experience in London. Check the current Delaunay Counter menu before visiting, as prices and offers can change.
Plan Your Visit
- Address: 55 Aldwych, London, WC2B 4BB
- Website: thedelaunay.com
- Telephone: 020 7499 8558
- Nearest Tube: Covent Garden
Is Afternoon Tea at The Delaunay Worth It?
Afternoon tea at The Delaunay combines an elegant central London setting with attentive service and excellent homemade cakes. At £36.50 per person, it offers a taste of luxury for considerably less than many famous London hotel teas.
It would not be my choice for the best afternoon tea in London on a budget if the food alone were the deciding factor. The sandwiches lacked the wow factor, and the selection of teas was limited. Nevertheless, the Viennese atmosphere, warm scones and impressive patisserie make it an appealing affordable luxury.
While it may not have the grandeur of its sister restaurant, The Wolseley, it provides a charming and more accessible alternative for those seeking a refined afternoon tea experience. We paid in the region of £120 for two, but this included service and two glasses of Cremant at £15 each.
Their afternoon tea is £36.50 (2026) per person plus service. For an even more budget-friendly option, The Delaunay Counter’s cake and tea offer is a hidden gem worth exploring.
However, the next time that I am in Aldwych, instead of having the full afternoon tea works in the main restaurant I will be looking for more budget-conscious options at the Delaunay Counter. They currently have a cake and coffee offer of £9.75 for a coffee of your choice and a slice of Sachertorte, or the option of a cream tea (pot of tea and two scones, a glass of sparkling rosé and a pot of tea for £19.95). A bargain!
FAQs
Is The Delaunay a budget afternoon tea in London?
At £36.50 per person, The Delaunay is not among the cheapest afternoon teas in London. However, it is relatively affordable compared with afternoon tea at many five-star hotels, particularly given its glamorous dining room and central location.
What is included in afternoon tea at The Delaunay?
The classic afternoon tea includes assorted finger sandwiches, fruit scones with homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream, handmade cakes and a choice of Delaunay teas.
Is afternoon tea at The Delaunay worth the money?
It is worth considering for the beautiful surroundings, attentive service and homemade cakes. The sandwiches and limited tea selection were less impressive, so food-focused afternoon-tea enthusiasts may find better value elsewhere.
Where can I find the best afternoon tea in London on a budget?
Prices vary, but independent restaurants and grand cafés are often more affordable than five-star hotels. See my guide to five budget-friendly but luxurious London afternoon teas for more ideas.
