Tea Total

After the recent diagnosis of my intolerances to lactose and gluten, my world of baked sugary goods came crumbling down on me! My first thoughts being “if i can’t eat cake then how else will I celebrate my birthdays each year?”. Naively, I had never thought about a world without a daily binge of biscuits before. To my relief, a friend’s mum informed me that there are a variety of allergen free afternoon teas available, you just have to hunt them down! So that is exactly what I have done. After a long string of trialled birthday afternoon teas in London, I bring to you my top five picks for allergen friendly afternoon teas.

Instagram: @b8bakery

B Bakery
Based in the heart of Covent Garden, is the hot spot that is Brigit’s Bakery. They thrive off their one of a kind services, from afternoon tea served on a bus to their ready packaged afternoon tea picnics – perfect for sunny days in the park with your loved one. The tea packages contain all the essentials from carton drinks to scones, and are available to pick up from the store’s cafe with as little as 24 hours notice for just £23 per person. They cater for a wide selection of dietary options too, including Halal, Vegan, Vegetarian and Gluten Free so no-one gets left out! https://b-bakery.com

Instagram: @sketchlondon

Sketch
If like me, you’re a lover of art and cake then you’ll be in absolute heaven when you visit Sketch. The pink velvet paradise offset from Conduit Street is surrounded by 200 original prints and drawings by artist David Shrigley, continued right through to the witty tableware. The food itself is pretty dainty but surprisingly filling, covering every dietary requirement going: Vegan, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Gelatin Free and Nut Free. This may be one of the pricier afternoon teas available at £59 per head, but the memorable experience truly justifies the cost. https://sketch.london

Instagram: @the_berkeley (image: @julimizon)

The Berkley London
If you’re looking for something a little different and have a passion for fashion, I’d strongly recommend booking the ‘Prêt-à-Portea’ at The Berkeley. Each component of the tea is created with inspiration from the latest fashion designers from the runway. Chefs even change the menu every six months to keep up with the changing seasons. Nut Free and Gluten Free versions of the tea are available and are well worth the cost of £52 per person for such beautifully decorated and tasting fashion foods! https://www.the-berkeley.co.uk/restaurants-bars/afternoon-tea/

Instagram: @sandersonsocial

Sanderson Mad Hatter’s Tea
Served in the Courtyard of Sanderson is a tea party which takes you to feast in the wonderful world of Alice in Wonderland. The Mad Hatter’s Tea is available from £48 per person and can be adapted if you are Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten or Dairy Intolerant. With menus hidden inside vintage books and teapots, the Mad Hatters Afternoon Tea is full of quirky treats to please you – a personal favourite being Alice’s “Drink Me” potion drink. https://www.morganshotelgroup.com/originals/originals-sanderson-london/eat-drink/mad-hatters-afternoon-tea

Instagram: @beaslondon

Beas of Bloomsbury
Bea’s of Bloomsbury afternoon tea is very relaxed and low-key for a London tea, reflected in the reasonable £28 price tag. This isn’t compromised in cake though, let me tell you that! Bea’s pack out their platters of sandwiches and cakes with a range of delicious fillings, which can be adapted for those Gluten Intolerant or Vegetarian. Subtle decorative touches like the hanging teapot lights make Bea’s cafes the ideal social spot to host birthday gatherings without the fuss. https://www.beas.london