Hotel afternoon teas at claridge's and the ritz charge £49-95 and frankly aren't worth the hype. Sketch on conduit street does afternoon tea from £58 but it's more about the pink room instagram shots.

Better value: the ivy chelsea garden from £33.95, or try the shard's hutong for £45 with actual views. Book weekend slots 2-3 weeks ahead for popular spots in kensington and chelsea.

For something different, explore dim sum afternoon tea at dumplings' legend in chinatown or persian tea at maison bab. Often more filling and interesting than standard cucumber sandwiches at tourist hotels.