The Zetter Marylebone

"When you book a table at this rustic townhouse hotel in Marylebone, you’ll want it to be the one directly in front of the fireplace. Because while the whole dining area of the Zetter is charming in a mismatched chairs, grandfather clocks, and paintings of people who were alive hundreds of years ago type of way, nibbling at smoked salmon finger sandwiches in the warmth of the wood-burning fireplace is an experience in itself. And when it comes to afternoon tea, this spot is an excellent choice. For the savouries, you can opt for the classic finger sandwiches or a pastry option, with things like a truffle sausage roll and a goat's cheese and red onion jam pasty. The sandwiches and pastries are both excellent choices, so mix and match with whoever you’re with so you get to try both. This is a chilled-out spot where your tea will come from the cocktail bar and you’ll be pouring it yourself, but you’ll also be eating some of the best scones in London. Yes, we’re talking about you, raisin spiced scone." - Rianne Shlebak

"From £45 per person When you book a table at this rustic townhouse in Marylebone, ask for the one in front of the wood-burning fireplace. Nibbling at roast beef finger sandwiches in the warm room is a real country-esque British experience. For the savouries, there’s an option of classic finger sandwiches or a pastry menu with things like a truffle sausage roll and salmon and spinach en croûte. This is a chilled-out spot, so your tea will come from the cocktail bar and you’ll be pouring it yourself, but you’ll also eat some incredible cinnamon-spiced scones." - rianne shlebak, eileen twum

"From the months of October to May, our sole purpose is to find things—or people (hello cuffing season)—that make us feel warm and fuzzy inside. And it’s physically impossible to not feel warm and fuzzy when you’re sitting directly opposite a fireplace. Yes, your body temperature physically rises too, but it’s the mental cosy feeling that we’re after. You’ll find both while having afternoon tea at The Zetter in Marylebone. Enjoy the excellent spiced raisin scones while sipping on earl grey in front of the fire. Have you ever heard a more snug sentence in your life? Didn’t think so." - heidi lauth beasley, rianne shlebak, sinead cranna

"Step inside this Marylebone townhouse and head for whichever free table is closest to the wood-burning fireplace. Not only will your clothes dry faster, but you’ll also get to check ‘eat finger sandwiches and demolish a pot of Earl Grey’ off your London bucket list. Afternoon tea is essential when visiting this cuppa-obsessed country, and it’s also extremely useful when the weather is trying to sabotage your trip. Spend a couple of hours in this rustic, mismatched tea room and tell them to keep the raisin scones coming until you see the sun reappear or they kick you out—whichever comes first." - rianne shlebak, sinead cranna

"Staying at this Marylebone hotel is like visiting the home of an endearingly eccentric aunt and uncle. Stylish and warm, the Georgian property, located near Marble Arch, is a mad jumble of candelabras and curios, full of fun and character. Spread across five floors, the 24 rooms and suites are a mix of the Victorian and modern: frilly lamps and drapes that smell of old silk, yes, but also rain showers and chic White Company bath products. For a top British afternoon tea with a twist, try the truffle sausage rolls and espresso martini macaroons with a pot of wild cherry. Doubles from $348." - Travel + Leisure Editors