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Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel, London,

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel

4.6
4.6
67 Reviews
£41 and over
Afternoon Tea

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 1 time today
Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

Indulge in the epitome of a quintessential English Afternoon Tea experience at The Rubens at the Palace, where refinement meets tradition. Immerse yourself in the charming ambience of our Palace Lounge, offering panoramic views of the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, or enjoy your tea within the opulent surroundings of our exquisitely designed English Grill.

At the helm of our pastry kitchen is the exceptionally talented Sarah Houghting, a pastry chef of distinction who has showcased her skills on Bake Off: The Professionals on Channel 4. Sarah takes pride in crafting the freshest pastries and cakes, ensuring a delightful feast for our discerning guests.

Renowned as one of London's finest Afternoon Teas, we honour the classic British tradition while infusing innovative twists to captivate your palate. Our commitment extends to catering for diverse dietary preferences, with thoughtfully curated menus that include vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and halal choices.

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Private dining

Book your next event with us

View details

Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Price
    £41 and over
  • Cuisines
    Afternoon Tea
  • Hours of operation
    Mon–Fri, Sun 12:00 pm–5:00 pm Sat 12:00 pm–6:00 pm
  • Phone number
    020 7834 6600
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Executive chef
    Ben Kelliher
  • Private party facilities
    Whatever the occasion The Rubens offers the perfect venue for your afternoon tea celebration. With our Events Manager, your function will be meticulously planned and executed, with personalised menus, bespoke themes, and thoughtful touches that reflect your unique style and preferences.
  • Private party contact
    Meetings and Events at The Rubens: 020 7834 6600
  • Neighborhood
    Victoria
  • Cross street
    Bressenden Place
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Public transit
    The Queen’s Gallery: 1-minute walk The Royal Mews: 1-minute walk Victoria Station:2-minute walkVictoria Palace Theatre (Hamilton): 5-minute walk Buckingham Palace: 6-minute walk Apollo Victoria Theatre (Wicked): 6-minute walk Westminster Abbey: 4-minute cab ride Palace of Westminster: 7-minute cab ride Oxford Street: 10-minute tube journey West End theatre district: 14-minute cab rideValet parking is available at the nearby secure car park with a charge of £50 for up to four hours or £70 per 24-hours, available daily with our concierge team from 8am to 8pm. Should the value of your car exceed £300,000 please contact us directly.
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, High Tea, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Experiences

  • Mother's Day Royal Afternoon Tea

    £105.00 per person

    Prepaid

    Mar 30, 2025 only
    Enjoy this most special of weekends with an afternoon tea experience at The Rubens at the Palace Mother’s Day Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea £105 per person, which includes a glass of Champagne accompanied by a flower for Mum. Traditional, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal and Gluten-Free menus available Non-alcoholic alternatives to the Champagne are available Little Prince and Princess Afternoon Tea £55 for those under 12 years
    Mother's Day Royal Afternoon Tea Photo
  • VE Day 80 Commemorative Afternoon Tea

    £45.00 - £78.00 per person

    May 5, 2025 - May 11, 2025
    VE Day Commemorative Afternoon Tea at The Rubens Hotel This May, London will come alive with heartfelt VE Day celebrations, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during World War II. From commemorative events and parades to themed afternoon teas and concerts, the city offers a variety of ways to reflect, remember, and celebrate this historic occasion. Situated in the heart of the planned celebrations, The Rubens Hotel invites guests to enjoy an exclusive commemorative afternoon tea experience. Available between the 5th - 7th & 9th - 11th of May, The Rubens Hotel welcomes guests to commemorate this special occasion: VE Day 80 Commemorative Afternoon Tea - £78 VE Day 80 Commemorative Champagne Afternoon Tea - £98 VE Day 80 Commemorative Bottomless Champagne Afternoon Tea - £123 VE Day 80 Commemorative Vegan Champagne Afternoon Tea - £98 VE Day 80 Commemorative Halal Sparkling Afternoon Tea - £95 VE Day 80 Commemorative Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea - £45 Please advise of any dietary requirements at the point of booking - or email diningrb@rchmail.com with details.
    VE Day 80 Commemorative Afternoon Tea Photo
  • Exclusive: VE Day 80 Afternoon Tea - 8th May

    £63.50 - £126.50 per person

    Prepaid

    May 8, 2025 only
    This May, London will come alive with heartfelt VE Day celebrations, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who served during World War II. From commemorative events and parades to themed afternoon teas and concerts, the city offers a variety of ways to reflect, remember, and celebrate this historic occasion. Situated in the heart of the planned celebrations, The Rubens Hotel invites guests to enjoy an exclusive commemorative afternoon tea experience. Commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with an exclusive Afternoon Tea at The Rubens Hotel Available exclusively on the 8th of May, The Rubens Hotel will be offering an exclusive VE Day 80 Commemorative Afternoon Tea for £110 per person which includes an amuse bouche + palate cleanser + glass of Champagne (with service charge = £126.50 per person) Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea - £55 per child under 12 years old (with service charge = £63.50 per child) Full pre-payment + service charge is required at the point of booking to secure your table at this exclusive event. Payment is non-refundable and non-transferable without 48 hours notice before your booking.
    Exclusive: VE Day 80 Afternoon Tea - 8th May Photo

What 67 people are saying

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6
4.6 based on recent ratings
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.8Ambience
  • 4.1Value

NoiseModerate

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews
Afternoon Tea at The Palace Lounge, The Rubens Hotel offers a "beautiful experience" with "wonderful and attentive service." Guests praise the "delicious food" and "lovely atmosphere," enhanced by a live pianist. While some found it pricey, many appreciated the "superlative service" and "great selection," making it "highly recommendable" for special occasions.

67 Reviews
  1. Eric

    Raleigh1 review

    5.0

    Dined on January 26, 2025

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Kamal, Taylor, and Jessica have made this experience totally easy to setup. Kamal and Staff’s service was excellent. Sandwiches were tasty and plentiful with refills. Ambience was very nice by the window. Almost too much!! Highly recommend.
    Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on February 27, 2025
    Thank you for your lovely review following your recent visit for Afternoon Tea. As much valued guests I am delighted that we exceeded your expectations and that your experience was an occasion to remember. We are so proud of our team and I will be pleased to share your kind feedback with them, especially highlighting the service of Kamal, Taylor and Jessica. Your recommendation to others means a great deal to us and I do hope that we have the opportunity to welcome you back soon. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.

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  2. Maria

    London1 review

    5.0

    Dined on December 25, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Amazing experience! The best afternoon tea in London!
    Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on December 30, 2024
    Thank you for your kind review following your recent visit for Afternoon Tea. Feedback such as yours is always wonderful to read and our team will be so grateful. I do hope that we have the opportunity to welcome you back for another memorable experience soon! Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director

    Is this helpful?

  3. Julissa

    Central Coast1 review

    5.0

    Dined on November 27, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    We loved our afternoon tea experience. It hit all the marks for food, service and atmosphere.
    Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on December 19, 2024
    Thank you for taking the time to share your review following your recent visit for Afternoon Tea. As much valued guests I am delighted to read that you loved your experience with us. Feedback such as yours serves as great motivation for our team and I will be thrilled to share this with them. I do hope that we may have the opportunity to welcome you back one day. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.

    Is this helpful?

  4. steve VIP

    Oxford5 reviews

    1.0

    Dined on September 22, 2024

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 3
    4. Ambience 3
    Compared to other high end teas this fell down on food quality - uninspiring sandwiches, dry scones, limited cake variation etc
    Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on September 30, 2024
    Thank you for sharing your review following your recent visit. I am very sorry that we did not meet your expectations with regards to your Afternoon Tea experience. We appreciate all feedback and I will be sure to pass this on to our Kitchen Team so that they can take your comments on board, as we continuously work hard to improve the facilities and services we provide. I do hope that one day we may have the chance to welcome you back. Warm regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.

    Is this helpful?

  5. SharonA

    Orange County8 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on June 23, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    A family favorite, we always try to have afternoon tea at the palace lounge on trips to London.
    Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens HotelResponded on July 4, 2024
    Thank you for your wonderful review following your recent visit. As regular and much valued guests I am delighted that we have once again met your expectations and our Afternoon Tea continues to be a family favourite! I will be thrilled to share your kind words with our team, ensuring their hard work is duly noted. We look forward to welcoming you back when you next visit London! Best regards, Malcolm Hendry, Managing Director.

    Is this helpful?

  6. OpenTable Diner

    New Mexico1 review

    5.0

    Dined on April 27, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Welcoming, attentive staff. Beautiful presentation & environment.

    Is this helpful?

  7. OpenTable Diner

    London1 review

    3.0

    Dined on April 15, 2024

    1. Overall 3
    2. Food 3
    3. Service 2
    4. Ambience 5
    Beautiful hotel, beautifully presented Afternoon tea. Service was a little slow but plentiful food and wonderful scones Very disappointed when the bill arrived that 15% service charge was applied!! Thank goodness this is discretionally I was happy to tip £10

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  8. OpenTable Diner

    London1 review

    5.0

    Dined on March 10, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Absolutely outstanding experience. From the delicious food, to the ambience, to the personable service. All of our needs were catered to and the environment was calm and cosy. We will definitely be back.

    Is this helpful?

  9. OpenTable Diner

    London1 review

    1.0

    Dined on March 10, 2024

    1. Overall 1
    2. Food 1
    3. Service 1
    4. Ambience 1
    Sadly awful service from Carlota on Mother’s Day - mean to my mum and myself. Very disappointing as we’ve had many lovely celebrations and events there in the past. Not again.

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  10. Sophi VIP

    New York City5 reviews

    5.0

    Dined on March 10, 2024

    1. Overall 5
    2. Food 5
    3. Service 5
    4. Ambience 5
    Lovely experience. Delicious afternoon tea. Caters to different options - gluten free, vegan, kids, & more. Live pianist was excellent. Shout out to Aby for her friendliness & professionalism. Highly recommend.

    Is this helpful?

FAQs

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at 020 7834 6600.

Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel is rated 4.6 stars by 67 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 1 time today
Experiences are available.

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Afternoon Tea in the Palace Lounge at The Rubens Hotel

39 Buckingham Palace Road, London, SW1W 0PS

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Bressenden Place
  • Neighborhood
    Victoria
  • Hours of operation
    Mon–Fri, Sun 12:00 pm–5:00 pm Sat 12:00 pm–6:00 pm
  • Price
    £41 and over
  • Cuisines
    Afternoon Tea
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Smart Casual
  • Parking details
    Valet
  • Public transit
    The Queen’s Gallery: 1-minute walk The Royal Mews: 1-minute walk Victoria Station:2-minute walkVictoria Palace Theatre (Hamilton): 5-minute walk Buckingham Palace: 6-minute walk Apollo Victoria Theatre (Wicked): 6-minute walk Westminster Abbey: 4-minute cab ride Palace of Westminster: 7-minute cab ride Oxford Street: 10-minute tube journey West End theatre district: 14-minute cab rideValet parking is available at the nearby secure car park with a charge of £50 for up to four hours or £70 per 24-hours, available daily with our concierge team from 8am to 8pm. Should the value of your car exceed £300,000 please contact us directly.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Ben Kelliher
  • Additional
    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Delivery, Dog Friendly, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gender Neutral Restroom, Gluten-free Options, High Tea, Indoor Fireplace, Non-Smoking, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Phone number
    020 7834 6600
  • Private party facilities
    Whatever the occasion The Rubens offers the perfect venue for your afternoon tea celebration. With our Events Manager, your function will be meticulously planned and executed, with personalised menus, bespoke themes, and thoughtful touches that reflect your unique style and preferences.
  • Private party contact
    Meetings and Events at The Rubens: 020 7834 6600
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
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