Step into the heart of regal London and discover the quintessential afternoon tea experience at The Rubens at the Palace, nestled mere steps from the iconic Buckingham Palace. Here, guests are invited to indulge in a refined culinary journey, savoring a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of delectable pastries – all while taking in the stunning views of the Royal Mews. With a vast selection of premium loose-leaf teas and the option to elevate the occasion with a glass of champagne, this is an afternoon tea that truly embodies the essence of British tradition and luxury. What delights await as you venture further into this regal and indulgent experience?
Key Points

- Enjoy a quintessential English afternoon tea experience with finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and delectable pastries at The Rubens at the Palace, overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
- The savory offerings feature classic fillings like cucumber and cream cheese, Scottish smoked salmon, and coronation chicken, complementing the selection of premium loose-leaf teas.
- The sweet treats include a decadent array of freshly baked scones, vibrant fruit preserves, silky Devonshire clotted cream, and indulgent miniature cakes and tarts.
- The diverse tea selection includes classic English breakfast, earl grey, and unique varietals like chamomile, jasmine, and lemon verbena, expertly brewed and served in elegant china.
- Guests can upgrade their afternoon tea experience with a glass of champagne, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication while enjoying the magnificent views of the Royal Mews.
Overview of Afternoon Tea

The Rubens at the Palace Hotel offers guests a quintessentially English afternoon tea experience, with a menu featuring a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and an array of delectable pastries, all served while overlooking the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace.
Diners can indulge in a wide variety of traditional English teas, or opt to upgrade their experience with a glass of champagne.
The refined and elegant setting, combined with the hotel’s impeccable service, creates an unforgettable afternoon tea experience.
Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a moment of indulgence, visitors to The Rubens at the Palace Hotel can enjoy the time-honored tradition of afternoon tea in London.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in London.
Savory Delights on the Menu

Alongside the sweet treats, The Rubens at the Palace Hotel’s afternoon tea menu showcases a selection of savory delights to tempt the palate. Theres some good a variety of finger sandwiches, each crafted with the finest ingredients. From the classic cucumber and cream cheese to the tantalizing Scottish smoked salmon, these bite-sized morsels offer a perfect balance of flavors. The menu also includes traditional English scones, warm and fluffy, served with clotted cream and preserves. This savory spread is the perfect accompaniment to the selection of premium loose-leaf teas on offer, creating a harmonious dining experience fit for royalty.
| Sandwich Fillings | Description |
|---|---|
| Cucumber & Cream Cheese | Fresh cucumber slices layered with creamy, tangy cheese |
| Scottish Smoked Salmon | Thin slices of salty, smoky salmon on soft bread |
| Egg Mayonnaise | Hard-boiled eggs bound in a rich, creamy mayonnaise |
| Ham & Mustard | Thinly sliced ham with a zesty, Dijon mustard spread |
| Coronation Chicken | Tender chicken in a mildly spiced, fruity mayonnaise |
Sweet Treats and Pastries

Along With the savory finger sandwiches, The Rubens at the Palace Hotel‘s afternoon tea service showcases a delectable array of sweet pastries and treats, each meticulously crafted to delight the senses.
Diners can expect a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, from the buttery richness of freshly baked scones to the delicate complexity of vibrant fruit preserves and silky Devonshire clotted cream.
Decadent miniature cakes and tarts feature an array of indulgent fillings and toppings, while delicate petit fours offer a refined conclusion to the experience.
Whether one’s palate craves the classic or the innovative, the pastry selection at The Rubens is sure to satisfy the most discerning of sweet tooths.
Loose-Leaf Tea Selections

A selection of premium loose-leaf teas complements the refined treat offerings at The Rubens at the Palace, allowing guests to craft a truly customized afternoon tea experience.
From the robust, full-bodied Assam to the delicate, floral-forward Darjeeling, the tea menu showcases the finest leaves meticulously sourced from renowned estates around the world.
Alongside classic English breakfast and earl grey, guests can enjoy more unique and aromatic varietals like chamomile, jasmine, and lemon verbena.
Each tea is expertly brewed to bring out its nuanced flavors and served in elegant china, elevating the quintessential afternoon tea ritual.
With such a diverse and high-quality selection, tea connoisseurs and casual sippers alike are sure to discover their new favorite.
Champagne Upgrade Option

For those guests seeking to elevate their afternoon tea experience, The Rubens at the Palace offers the option to complement their selection of finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries with a glass of chilled Champagne.
This upgrade adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to the quintessentially English tradition. The crisp, effervescent bubbles of the Champagne provide a delightful contrast to the delicate flavors of the tea-time fare.
Whether enjoyed as an indulgent treat or to mark a special occasion, the Champagne upgrade elevates the afternoon tea experience at The Rubens to new heights. Guests can savor the bubbles while taking in the magnificent views of the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace.
Children’s Afternoon Tea

The Rubens at the Palace also caters to families, offering a special ‘Little Prince and Princess Tea’ for children, ensuring the youngest guests can enjoy the timeless tradition of afternoon tea in a delightful and age-appropriate manner.
This pint-sized tea service features a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and preserves, and an array of sweet treats like miniature cakes and pastries. Designed to delight young palates, the children’s menu includes a choice of specialty teas or hot chocolate.
With its charming ambiance and thoughtful touches, the ‘Little Prince and Princess Tea’ allows families to create cherished memories while indulging in this quintessentially English experience.
Important Booking Information

Guests must confirm their afternoon tea reservation at the time of booking to secure their preferred date and time slot. Dietary restrictions require 72-hour advance notice to accommodate special requests. Unfortunately, the hotel enforces a strict non-refundable policy, prohibiting any cancellations or changes to reservations.
The afternoon tea experience at The Rubens at the Palace is designed to be accessible for all guests:
- The hotel is wheelchair and stroller friendly.
- The location is conveniently situated near public transportation.
Guests are expected to adhere to a smart casual dress code. Children are welcome, with a special ‘Little Prince and Princess Tea’ menu available. The hotel staff are prepared to provide exceptional service to all visitors.
Location and Transportation Details

The Rubens at the Palace’s prime location on Buckingham Palace Road places it within a short walking distance of Victoria Station, a major transportation hub serving the Victoria, Circle, and District underground lines as well as National Rail services. Guests can easily access the hotel and afternoon tea experience by public transit.
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| Underground | Victoria, Circle, and District Lines |
| National Rail | Services from Victoria Station |
| Public Buses | Multiple bus routes along Buckingham Palace Road |
| Taxis | Readily available in the area surrounding the hotel |
The centralized location and proximity to public transportation options make The Rubens at the Palace a convenient choice for enjoying a quintessential English afternoon tea experience in London.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Number of Guests Required for Booking?
The hotel does not have a minimum guest requirement for booking afternoon tea. Guests can make reservations for parties of any size, allowing flexibility and convenience when planning this quintessentially English experience.
Do You Offer a Vegetarian or Vegan Afternoon Tea Option?
Yes, The Rubens at the Palace offers a vegetarian and vegan afternoon tea menu. Guests can enjoy a delightful selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries tailored to their dietary preferences, alongside a choice of premium loose-leaf teas.
Can I Bring My Own Tea if I Have a Preferred Brand?
The hotel’s policy generally does not permit guests to bring their own tea. However, they are happy to accommodate special dietary requirements and preferences with advance notice. Guests are encouraged to consult with staff about the available tea options and selections.
Is There a Dress Code for Children Attending the Tea?
There is a smart casual dress code for children attending the afternoon tea. They should wear neat, clean clothing suitable for a formal dining setting. Specific formal attire is not required, but overly casual or messy outfits may not be permitted.
Do You Offer Any Discounts or Promotions for Afternoon Tea?
The hotel offers occasional promotions and discounts on its afternoon tea menu, though specific details may vary. Prospective guests are encouraged to inquire about any current offers when making their booking to ensure they receive the best available rate.
Recap
The Rubens at the Palace offers a quintessentially English afternoon tea experience fit for royalty.
From the delectable finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones to the array of exquisite pastries and premium teas, every element of this indulgent offering evokes the grandeur of Buckingham Palace.
Guests can elevate the experience further with a glass of champagne, creating a truly memorable afternoon of refined elegance and unparalleled service.
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