There are few things as essential to English culture as tea. The ritual of afternoon tea dates back centuries and shows no sign of disappearing, with a bustling scene of high-end tea experiences only continuing to grow not only in number but also in impressiveness. The West End neighborhood of London is proving to be a noticeably ambitious player in the tea game, with innovative establishments offering a variety of afternoon tea experiences from French to Japanese influences and immersive environments inspired by Salvador Dalí or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Whether a native Londoner or a traveler looking to do as the locals do, here is a list of unique tea experiences one can only find in London's West End.

8 Enter The World Of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory

Whimsical feelings of childhood nostalgia and, of course, tons of sweets immerse guests into the world of Charlie and the Chocolate factory at One Aldwych where a tea experience is entirely crafted around the classic Roald Dahl story. Offerings are not limited to the sweet stuff and cover the full range of the flavor palate from savory salmon and roast beef to fluffy cakes and creams, fruity cocktails, fizzy champagne, and fantastic teas. One Aldwych works for any occasion whether it be a group outing or an indulgent escape for one.

7 Let The Sweet Tooth Loose In A Traditional Sweetshop

The Original Sweet Shop Afternoon Tea at The Chesterfield Mayfair provides a vibrant setting that feels like a step back in time with the aesthetic of a traditional sweet shop along with classic teas, scones, and candy abound along with possibilities for finding new favorites. Its setting at the historical and luxurious Chesterfield Mayfair hotel makes the atmosphere feel even more immersive as guests get to choose from a wide variety of teas (including their own loose-leaf tea),a playful pink lemonade, or perhaps bubbly champagne along with plenty of dining options.

Related: These Are The UK’s Poshest Tea Experiences

6 Afternoon Tea In A Chocolate Lover's Paradise

The May Fair Edition Charbonnel et Walker Afternoon Tea experience was developed in collaboration with the famous chocolatiers, who are recognized for using only the finest couverture in their widely adored truffles and chocolate. Guests can indulge in handcrafted chocolatey treats such as tiramisu with shavings of Charbonnel et Walker chocolate or sugar-coated donuts with chocolate sauce. Exquisite sandwiches are offered as well with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

5 Frenchify Tea Time At Rose Lounge

The Rose Lounge at Sofitel pays homage to France with its new menu largely based upon head pastry chef Jamie Warley's time in the country. Lateset offerings include innovative savory dishes like French onion soup, Croque monsieur and celeriac, truffle, and bacon quiche. Immaculate sweets are also available to perfectly complement some of the finest teas to choose from.

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4 Get Surreal In A Salvador Dalí-Inspired Space

The Art Afternoon Tea at the Rosewood Hotel builds a unique tea time experience with the works of Salvador Dalí in mind in its dazzling mirror room and boasts zany quirky pastry concepts like the Queen of Hearts—ruby peach jelly, almond sponge, and glazed strawberry mousse on a red sable heart, garnished with chocolate decorations and an edible queen of hearts playing card. Another is the Butterfly Windmill which celebrates one of Dalí's depictions of freedom and metamorphosis. This innovative spot also explores the latest digital trend of NFTs with its virtual reality experience known as NFTea.

3 Steep In Luxury At Fortnum's

Fortnum's is famous for its luxurious yet homely afternoon tea experience and was even a favorite of Her Majesty the Queen, as she herself opened Fortnum's Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in 2012. Fortnum's is known for its pristinely crafted sandwiches, superior scones, and, of course, exceptional tea. This location also offers a wealth of options for taking home teaware.

2 Tea With A Japanese Flair

Those looking to shake up their afternoon tea outings or fans of Japanese cuisine should pay a visit to Ginza St. James's. This afternoon tea experience brings the spirit of Japan into classic tea time with enticing offerings like the smoky and nutty Bancha tea to accompany maki rolls and wagyu burgers before Japanese favorites like matcha or mochi. This is a truly unique and delicious tea experience that should not be missed.

1 Celebrate Peter Rabbit's 120th Birthday At The Dilly

The Official Peter Rabbit Afternoon Tea at The Dilly brings guests into the fanciful world of Peter Rabbit with unique bunny-centric dishes like Mr. McGregor’s Garden, a baguettini sandwich filled with carrots, radishes, red pepper hummus, and special "120 Years of Mischief" birthday cakes in honor of Peter Rabbit's 120th. This fantastic place for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience includes a wide variety of other desserts, meals, and teas along with a great view across Piccadilly.