Queens afternoon tea scones. You ever just sit at home, tea in hand, wishing you were nibbling scones with the royals? Been there. I used to think afternoon tea at Buckingham Palace was this untouchable, fairytale experience. Guess what? I found out it’s totally doable—even from my tiny kitchen.

And with some clever tweaks (hint—cover your bakes with this microwave food lid if you’re in a rush or loving shortcuts) you get a seriously regal treat. So, what’s it really like? How much does it cost? Is the food worth the hype? Let’s spill the (Earl Grey) tea.

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

Quick Tips for Afternoon Tea at Buckingham Palace

Want to book? I get it, the Queens afternoon tea scones experience has this mysterious sparkle, right? First off, don’t be nervous. You absolutely don’t need to be an etiquette expert. I worried I’d make a mess, spill the jam, insult the Queen (she wasn’t actually there, but still). It’s fancy, but really comfortable.

In my experience, it’s all about timing. Book early—slots fill faster than you’d believe. Wear something you’d wear to a nice brunch. Smart-casual’s your best bet. But don’t panic over hats or gloves unless you want to go full royal. When you sit down, servers explain everything (thank goodness).

One more thing: if you have dietary stuff—veggie, allergy, etc—mention it in advance when booking. They actually care (you’ll be surprised!).

If you get distracted staring at the palace gardens (yep, guilty), nobody will judge you. Lean in and enjoy the moment. Most folks are just as wide-eyed as you.

“I was sure I’d look out of place, but everyone was so welcoming. The staff even explained each part of the menu so I never felt lost.” – Someone who gets nervous easily (me)

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

The Afternoon Tea Menu at Buckingham Palace

Okay, let’s talk food. The menu changes seasonally, which is honestly fantastic because it feels fresh every time. You get a three-tiered stand (the stuff dreams are made of). The lineup? Expect delicate little sandwiches with fillings like smoked salmon, cucumber, or sometimes free-range egg and cress.

But let’s be real, most of us are really waiting for the Queens afternoon tea scones. They’re warm, fluffy, not too crumbly. The cream and jam options—proper clotted cream, homemade preserves—make it almost impossible not to eat seconds. Just eat your scone however you want: cream first, jam first; the debate’s as old as tea itself.

Then those sweets and cakes. I had a miniature Victoria sponge and nearly wept. It was ridiculously good. The pastries are often inspired by royal favorites. And tea—oodles of options, not just English breakfast. I tried a lemon verbena one. Blew my mind.

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

If you’ve never splurged on tea before, now’s your moment.

How Much It Costs

Okay, brace yourself. The price was higher than I expected. Last season it hovered around £45–£60 per person (ouch, but hey, it’s a ‘treat yourself’ moment). Kids are usually cheaper. And you know what? Compared to some high tea places in London, it’s not that wild, pricewise.

Don’t forget the sneaky extras. Fancy champagne? Add £10-£15. Want a special occasion cake for a birthday? Extra. But, for the setting, plus the bragging rights, I honestly think it’s worth every penny. Once in a lifetime and all.

You should absolutely book ahead and pay in advance, just so you’re not worrying about it at the end. They handle the rest with so much care, it feels like a five-star restaurant even if you’re only wearing that Target dress you love.

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

Our Buckingham Palace Afternoon Tea Review

I’ll be straight up—I went in with sky-high expectations and zero self-control. The experience was downright lovely, start to finish. The waiting staff were patient (thank goodness, because I probably asked too many “what’s this cake?” questions). The room where tea’s served? Gorgeous, with almost-too-nice-to-sit-on chairs and views of those royal gardens that make your jaw drop.

Scones were my true highlight. Not dry or biscuit-like (I’ve had sad scones, these ain’t it). Warmed to perfection. Each bite with the tart strawberry jam—heavenly. The sandwiches went quicker than I planned, but everything tasted fresh. Tea refills kept coming. Plus, you can wander outside in the Buckingham Palace gardens after. I giggled like a kid seeing ducks in the pond.

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

If I had to nitpick, I guess the only downside was, well, you don’t leave room for dinner. Maybe a con? Maybe not.

Other Afternoon Teas Around London

Look, Buckingham Palace is magical, but London is bubbling with fun, quirky afternoon teas. Never hurts to try a few! Some of my favorites: Sketch (the pink room alone is Instagram city), Fortnum & Mason for that old-school posh vibe, and The Ritz if you’re feeling like royalty on payday. There’s even a bus that serves afternoon tea as it whizzes around the sights (warning: eat cake before taking sharp corners).

But my heart? Still with Queens afternoon tea scones for their unbeatable flavor and pomp. Each spot has its charm—try the palace at least once, then branch out like a local.

Serving Suggestions:
- Split your scone (don’t saw it).
- Try both jam-first and cream-first camps, see where you land.
- Use a microwave food cover lid to keep scones from drying out after reheating.
- Pair with your favorite strong tea. Lifesaver after a long day.

If you’re planning a real tea adventure soon, or just curious about every tiny detail, check out this handy breakdown: Everything You Need to Know To Enjoy Afternoon Tea at …. Trust me, it’s worth a visit—sip, nibble, and pretend you’re a fancy royal for the afternoon. Hey, if I can do it, you totally can too.

Queens Afternoon Tea Scones

Author: foodgam
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious warm and fluffy scones perfect for an indulgent afternoon tea, paired with clotted cream and homemade preserves.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup whole milk
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Clotted cream (for serving)
Homemade strawberry jam (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in the milk and stir until the dough comes together. Do not overmix.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently roll to about 1 inch thick.
Cut the dough into circles using a biscuit cutter and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Serve warm with clotted cream and jam.

Notes

To keep scones from drying out, cover them with a microwave food lid if reheating.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 scone
Calories: 250
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg