London's best alternative afternoon teas

For a Scandinavian delight within St James's Market, Aquavit London has launched their own take on the traditional afternoon tea with a range of sweet and savoury Nordic dishes. Developed in collaboration with Danish design company Georg Jensen, Aquavit has created a menu featuring a smørrebrød of shrimp skagen and gravlax, while those with a sweet tooth will be thrilled by the almond paste-filled cardamom buns topped with whipped cream. £40 with a glass of Ruinart, NV Champagne 

Inspired by the opening of the V&A's newest exhibition-masterpiece, Frida Kahlo: Making Her Self Up, The Lanesborough London has created a new afternoon tea menu "inspired by the colours, shapes and textures" of the Mexican artist's life. Flavours of agave and dulce de leche make their way into pastries, while finger sandwiches of guacamole and chicken tinga break tradition. Those wanting something a bit stronger than the hibiscus-flavoured water, can indulge in tasting flights of tequila and mezcal. £49 per person including a glass of champagne or a Margarita 

This summer, just in time for American Independence Day, Dorchester Collection's 45 Park Lane has launched an American-style afternoon tea at Wolfgang Puck's restaurant CUT. Appropriately named CUTcakes & Tea, executive chef David McIntyre and pastry chef Niamh Larkin have created a menu unlike any to be found on this side of the Atlantic. Fried chicken on buttermilk biscuits with jalepeño jam and a Lobster Po'Boy on fresh brioche make up a few of the savoury 'American Bites,' while macarons (in the shape of mini cheeseburgers) and peanut butter and jelly "Twinkies" will leave you with a delectable sugar high. Alongside the classic English teas and champagne, the menu offers a selection of American craft beers. From £55 per person 

Adding a little spice to its menu, this summer The Landmark London has taken their classic tea menu and infused it with a Middle Eastern flair with the addition of a course of warm mezze including limb kibbeh and falafel. Scones and clotted cream are replaced with flatbreads and tahini, and a selection of fruit-infused iced teas welcome London's heat wave. Served later in the day than the traditional Afternoon Tea, the three courses are are closer to dinner than afternoon tea, though classic sandwiches and pastries are still served. £55 per person