Do I need to book in advance or can I walk in?

Advance booking is strongly recommended. Time slots are reserved, and the restaurant can fill up quickly, particularly at weekends and during school holidays.

Is the British Museum entrance included in the ticket price?

The British Museum has free general admission, so you can explore the galleries before or after your tea at no extra cost.

Can I see the menu before I book?

Yes — the current afternoon tea menu is available to view at bit.ly/3EIXIix so you know exactly what to expect.

I have a dietary requirement. Can the kitchen accommodate me?

Vegetarian, pescatarian, and nut-free options are available on request, subject to availability. Contact the restaurant ahead of your visit to arrange this.

What is the difference between the two ticket options?

The standard option includes the full afternoon tea with loose-leaf teas. The champagne upgrade adds a glass of champagne to your experience — ideal for a celebration.

Is the Great Court Restaurant wheelchair accessible?

The British Museum is committed to accessibility, and the Great Court is reachable by lift. Contact the museum directly if you have specific accessibility requirements to confirm arrangements in advance.

Afternoon Tea at the British Museum

4.1Popular choice · in high demand

Duration

1 hour 30 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation 48hrs

Ticket type

Mobile ticket

Confirmation

Instant

What's included

Traditional afternoon tea

Selection of loose-leaf teas

Freshly baked scones with butter, clotted cream, and strawberry jam

Cakes and finger food

Champagne (Afternoon Tea with Champagne option only)

Not included

British Museum general admission (free, no ticket required)

Additional drinks beyond the tea selection (standard option)

Gratuities

How to redeem

The Great Court Restaurant, British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG

Enter the British Museum via the main entrance on Great Russell Street. The Great Court Restaurant is located on the upper level of the Great Court, accessible by staircase or lift. Present your booking confirmation at the restaurant reception.

Open in Google Maps

What to bring

Your booking confirmation (mobile or printed)
Any dietary requirement notes you have pre-arranged

Know before you go

View the current afternoon tea menu at bit.ly/3EIXIix before booking

Dietary options (vegetarian, pescatarian, nut-free) must be requested in advance and are subject to availability

The Great Court Restaurant is inside the British Museum — allow time to pass through the main entrance

Smart-casual dress is appropriate for the restaurant setting

Good to know

AccessibilityLift access to the Great Court Restaurant; contact the museum for specific requirements

Suitable forAdults, couples, families, and groups; ideal for celebrations

LanguagesMenu and service in English

Afternoon Tea at the British Museum

Afternoon Tea at the British Museum

What's included

How to redeem

Know before you go

Good to know

Highlights

Full description

Frequently asked questions

What travellers say