Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel

Description

Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel
London’s most royal-adjacent afternoon tea experience

Step into one of London’s most elegant afternoon tea settings at The Rubens at the Palace Hotel — where British tradition, refined hospitality, and an unforgettable backdrop combine to create a truly memorable experience. Located directly opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace, this is afternoon tea with a sense of place and purpose — perfect for celebrations, sightseeing treats, and timeless British indulgence.

 

About the experience

Enjoy a classic Royal Afternoon Tea in the sophisticated Palace Lounge or the beautifully appointed English Grill, both offering elegant settings with views over historic London. Delight in a tiered selection of:

  • Hand-crafted finger sandwiches
  • Freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and fruit preserves
  • Delicate, artfully plated pastries and sweets — including the signature crown pastry
  • A curated choice of teas, coffee or soft drinks

Every aspect is crafted to honour the tradition of English afternoon tea while adding flair and contemporary touches.

 

Afternoon Tea options & prices

  • Royal Afternoon Tea: from £70 per person
  • Champagne Afternoon Tea: from £90 per person
  • Halal Sparkling Afternoon Tea: from £87 per person
  • Vegan Champagne Afternoon Tea: from £90 per person
  • Prince & Princess Afternoon Tea (under 12): from £45 per child

(Specific variants may have seasonal availability)

Dietary inclusivity: Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and halal menus are thoughtfully prepared — just let the team know at booking

 

Unique & premium experiences
Golden Tips Afternoon Tea

Elevate your tea with a truly exclusive experience: rare handcrafted Sri Lankan tea leaves showcased in a velvet-lined mahogany box and prepared with white-glove presentation. Includes a bottle of Champagne and sabrage at your table — perfect for special occasions.

 

Special seasonal menus & occasions

The Rubens brings seasonal creativity to afternoon tea throughout the year, including:

  • Valentine’s Royal Afternoon Tea, with limited-edition romantic pastries and sweets inspired by the season of love.
  • Mother’s Day Champagne Afternoon Tea is a warm and elegant way to celebrate with those you love.
  • Festive & Christmas Afternoon Tea: Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea

Celebrate the season with an indulgent festive take on the classic afternoon tea. Available from the 16th of November 2026 through to the 3rd of January 2027, Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea features seasonal flavours and festive touches inspired by Christmas traditions.

  • Seasonal savoury sandwiches and festive pastries
  • A warming glass of mulled wine on arrival
  • Special desserts reflecting festive flavours and winter spice
  • On Christmas Day itself, enjoy your tea with a glass of Champagne (pricing varies on key dates)
  • This special edition afternoon tea blends classic British ritual with seasonal creativity and is ideal for holiday outings with friends, family, or visiting guests.

 

Special Offers

New Year Offer: For a limited time, indulge in the Royal Afternoon Tea, offered exclusively for £52.50 per person or Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea for £67.50 per person. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, gift voucher or at weekends. Available until the 31st of March 2026, Monday to Friday only. T&C's apply.

 

Perfect for celebrations & group bookings

Whether you’re marking a birthday, hen party, baby shower or other special event, afternoon tea at The Rubens can be tailored to your occasion.

Groups of 10+ enjoy exclusive pricing, celebratory perks like bespoke cakes and prosecco, and private dining options.

 

Takeaway & delivery options

Enjoy the Rubens afternoon tea experience beyond the lounge with takeaway or delivery options — ideal for family gatherings, office events, or celebrations at home.

 

Why book this afternoon tea

✔ Directly opposite the Royal Mews of Buckingham Palace — a London landmark setting
✔ Elegant traditional service with modern pastry creativity
✔ Inclusive menu options for many dietary needs
✔ Experiences for couples, families, groups and celebrations
✔ Premium upgrades for special occasions (Champagne, Golden Tips, seasonal menus)

 

Plan your visit

Location: 39 Buckingham Palace Road, Westminster, London, SW1W 0PS

  • Available: Daily afternoon service
  • Booking: Reserve online or make an enquiry to speak to one of The Rubens Hotel Events Team

Celebrate British tradition, elevate special occasions, or simply savour a classic afternoon tea with a uniquely London backdrop.

 

What's on

Offers
Offer Availability
Afternoon Tea Special Offer
For a limited time: Indulge in our Royal Afternoon Tea, offered exclusively at £52.50 per person or Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea for £67.50 per person. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or gift voucher or at weekends. Excludes service charge. 		Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday

Vouchers
Golden Tips Tea Experience for Two
Experience
View
Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea For Two
Experience
View
Monetary Gift Voucher
£10 - £500
View
Royal Afternoon Tea For Two
Experience
View
Sparkling Halal Royal Afternoon Tea for one person
Experience
View
Vegan Champagne Royal Afternoon Tea for one person
Experience
View
Princes & Princess Royal Afternoon Tea
Experience
View

Info
  • Daytime
  • Taking Bookings
  • Wheelchair Access, Disabled Toilets

Hours
Day Open Close Notes
Monday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm
Tuesday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm
Wednesday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm
Thursday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm
Friday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm
Saturday 10:00 19:30 Last dining time is 6pm
Sunday 10:00 19:00 Last dining time is 5pm

Location

Address

Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel, 39 Buckingham Palace Road, SW1W 0PS

Area

Westminster

Nearest Station

Victoria (Tube)

Royal Afternoon Tea at The Rubens at The Palace Hotel

Getting there

Website Citymapper Google Maps

Menus
  • Cuisines

    This venue serves Afternoon Tea and Vegan/Vegetarian Afternoon Tea food.

Private Hire
Name Type Capacity
Seated		 Capacity
Standing		 Cost Min spend
Midweek*		 Min spend
Weekend*
The Leopard Room Private Room 29 40 - £1500 -£8.000 £1500 - £8.000

Set in the heart of London Victoria, just opposite Buckingham Palace's Royal Mews, The Leopard Room boasts its own private entrance and facilities, bringing a new level of sophistication and elegance to your next event. The Leopard Room offers an indulgent experience, serving mouthwatering canapés, finger foods, and a diverse selection of creative cocktails and beverages. It's also possible to elevate your occasion with optional live music, performed on a permanent stage.

Whether it's a birthday party, corporate function, private meeting, anniversary celebration, or engagement party, The Leopard Room provides the ideal setting for a memorable event. With a maximum standing capacity of 40 people or 29 people seated, The Leopard Room offers an intimate yet vibrant space for your private event, ensuring an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

AFTERNOON TEA PARTIES
The Rubens are excited to welcome guests celebrating a baby shower, bridal shower, or any special occasion to the Leopard Room. Their dedicated events team will be on hand to help organise every detail.

 
Da Vinci Private Room 10 20 - £850 - £5.000 £850 - £5.000

The Da Vinci room is situated on the ground floor with simulated lighting as well as natural lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. 

Event facilities include:
A dedicated coordinator expertly attends to every detail
Function rooms with natural daylight
Private dining and banqueting facilities

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
Rembrandt Suite Private Room 36 80 - £850 - £8,000 £850 - £8.000

The Rembrandt Suite offers abundant natural daylight and a fireplace. It is fully air-conditioned and has adjustable lighting. The suite is situated on the ground floor of the hotel and is ideal for parties up to 80 guests.

Event facilities include:

  • A dedicated co-ordinator expertly attends to every detail
  • Full secretarial support
  • Function rooms with natural daylight

 

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
The Rubens Room Private Room 10 20 - £850 - £5,000 £850 - £5,000

The Rubens Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting as well as natural lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. 

Event facilities include:
A dedicated co-ordinator expertly attends to every detail
Function rooms with natural daylight

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
The Rubens Suite Private Room 20 50 - £850 - £8,000 £850 - £8.000

The Rubens Suite is situated on the ground floor with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. It has an extra exit door through to the English Grill. Décor is of a traditional style. Maximum of 60 guests based on reception style layout.

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
Van Dyke Room Private Room 27 60 - £850 - £8,000 £850 - £8.000

The Van Dyke Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style.

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
The Van Dyke Suite Private Room 70 150 - £850 - £8,000 £850 - £8,000

The Van Dyke Suite is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style. The Van Dyke Suite can accommodate up to 130 guests in a reception style layout. The Suite is a combination of the Van Dyke Room, the Buckingham Room and the Van Gogh Room so it can be adjusted into smaller rooms if required.

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.
The Van Gogh Room Private Room 18 60 - £850 - £8,000 £850 - £8.000

The Van Gogh Room is situated on the ground floor of the hotel with simulated lighting and is fully air-conditioned. Décor is of a traditional style.  The Van Gogh Room can accommodate a maximum of 60 guests in a reception-style layout.

Private Hire fees: 

£150 for one and a half hours
Subsequent hours can be added for £85 per hour
No minimum - maximum 70 people seated at round tables

DINING OPTIONS: Royal Afternoon Tea (£70) (From time to time seasonal menus and respective prices may apply)

Dietary variations of the menus are available to include Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free and Halal Please make the team aware at the point of booking

Children’s Afternoon Teas are also available (£35 for those under 12 years)

ADDITIONAL EXTRAS:

Expression of Interest: Pre-ordering drinks. Price upon discussion

Our experienced Events Team would be happy to organise pre-ordering of drinks including Champagne, Prosecco and cocktails Non-alcoholic drinks can also be organised

Expression of Interest: Decorations. Guests are welcome to bring decorations for the room

Alternatively, our experienced Events Team can assist with:

Flower requests

Personalised celebration cake

Uplighters

Organising supply of music

 

Expression of Interest: Sabrage (£130)

Allow our expert sommelier to teach you the skilful art of Sabrage using a sabre to open a bottle of Champagne. Includes one bottle of Champagne.

Prices are available on request.

* The minimum spends are a guideline only and vary according to the day and time of the year.

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