Secret Gardens and Sun-Drenched Terraces for Afternoon Tea in London

When the London sun finally makes an appearance, there is no better way to spend an afternoon than tucked away in a leafy courtyard or perched on a stylish terrace. From hidden boutique hotels to world-renowned botanical glasshouses, these eight spots offer a breath of fresh air alongside their tiered stands. Here are the best garden and terrace afternoon teas in London for a perfect outdoor escape.

The Goring, Belgravia

The Goring is home to one of the largest and most pristine private gardens in London, offering a rare sense of quiet luxury in the heart of the city (~£75 per person). Held in the sunny Veranda or on the terrace, this is a quintessential British experience. Known for being a favorite of the Royal Family, the service here is flawless, and the garden setting is as English as it gets. View details and ratings: The Goring

Number Sixteen, South Kensington

This Firmdale property is a true "insider" secret, featuring a vibrant, Mediterranean-style garden hidden behind its white townhouse exterior (~£40 per person). Served in the Orangery or under the trees by the koi pond, the atmosphere is colorful, relaxed, and wonderfully secluded, making it a favorite for those who want to avoid the typical hotel crowds. View details and ratings: Number Sixteen

Petersham Nurseries, Richmond

Taking tea at Petersham is like stepping into a romantic, botanical dreamscape (~£65 per person). Set within a grand glasshouse and surrounded by blooming plants and antique garden furniture, the menu is inspired by the seasons and features wild-crafted ingredients. It is perhaps the most "Instagrammable" garden tea in the UK, combining rustic charm with high-end Italian influence. View details and ratings: Petersham Nurseries

Dalloway Terrace, Bloomsbury

Known for its seasonally changing floral installations, Dalloway Terrace is a visual masterpiece (~£40 per person). Whether it’s draped in autumn leaves or spring blossoms, the terrace is fully heated and retractable, making it a reliable outdoor-feeling option all year round. It offers a stylish, literary-inspired backdrop just steps away from the British Museum. View details and ratings: Dalloway Terrace

The Wallace Restaurant, Marylebone

Located in the glass-roofed courtyard of the Wallace Collection, this spot offers the feeling of an outdoor garden regardless of the weather (~£45 per person). Dotted with real trees and flooded with natural light, it is a serene and cultured setting for a break between galleries. It is one of the most peaceful and light-filled spots in central London. View details and ratings: The Wallace Restaurant

Ham Yard Hotel, Soho

In the middle of bustling Soho, the Ham Yard Hotel manages to offer a spacious, leafy courtyard that feels miles away from the noise (~£45 per person). The terrace is vibrant and modern, decorated with Kit Kemp’s signature eclectic style. It’s a great choice for a high-energy, outdoor urban tea before hitting the West End theaters. View details and ratings: Ham Yard Hotel

The Ivy Chelsea Garden, Chelsea

The garden at the back of this King's Road institution is one of the most famous in London (~£35 per person). With its fountains, wisteria-covered trellises, and cozy fire pits, it is the personification of Chelsea chic. It’s an accessible, lively, and incredibly pretty spot that is perfect for people-watching over a scone. View details and ratings: The Ivy Chelsea Garden

Sky Garden, The City

For a garden experience with a view, Darwin Brasserie within the Sky Garden offers tea among the clouds (~£60 per person). While technically indoors, the floor-to-ceiling windows and lush, prehistoric-style tropical plants provide a unique "indoor-outdoor" botanical feel with 360-degree views of the London skyline. View details and ratings: Sky Garden