Booking choice: The Royal High Tea, from $169 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Visitors ask about the dress code more than almost anything else. The short answer: there isn't a formal one. The longer answer depends on whether you are also walking through Kensington Gardens first.
The quick answer
There is no formal dress code at the Orangery; smart casual is ideal and jeans are fine. On a tour, comfortable shoes matter most, because you walk for about an hour first. Bring a light layer and an umbrella, since London weather changes fast.
Is there a dress code at Kensington Palace's afternoon tea?
No. The Orangery has no formal dress code, and visitors on the London Tripadvisor forum say you will be fine in everyday clothes.
One visitor went straight from an overnight flight in jeans and reported good service. Most guests choose smart casual because it feels right for the setting.
What does smart casual mean here?
Neat clothes you would wear to a nice lunch: a dress or skirt, chinos or smart jeans, a shirt or blouse, perhaps a light jacket.
No jacket and tie are needed, and nobody expects hats or fascinators, though you are welcome to make an occasion of it. Leave beachwear and gym kit at the hotel.
What shoes should you wear?
Comfortable flat shoes, because the tours walk about an hour through Kensington Gardens before tea.
Park paths are flat but long. Heels and brand-new shoes are a mistake. If you book tea directly and walk only from the station, you have more freedom.
Shoes sorted? Check dates for the Royal High Tea walk and tea.
Check dates for the Royal High TeaWhat about the weather?
Dress in layers and carry a small umbrella: the walk is outdoors, and tea is indoors.
In summer, guests report that the Orangery can feel warm in a heatwave, so light fabrics help. In spring and autumn, a light coat or trench is useful for the park.
Should children dress up?
Only if they enjoy it; comfortable clothes they can walk in are more important.
See Kensington Palace with kids for tips on the walk and the children's tea.
What else should you bring?
Your booking confirmation, any palace ticket, a light layer, an umbrella and an appetite.
Skip a big lunch: a full afternoon tea is a meal. If you have dietary needs, note them in the booking in advance.
Dressed for the gardens? The garden tour adds the Cradle Walk and the Sunken Garden.
Explore the gardens tour and royal teaIs it different for a special occasion?
Not officially, but birthdays, anniversaries and proposals are a good excuse to dress up.
The private tour, with your own guide and sparkling wine, suits a celebration best.
Celebrating? Check dates for the private royal high tea.
Check dates for the private royal high teaFrequently asked questions
Can I wear jeans to afternoon tea at Kensington Palace?
Yes. There is no formal dress code; smart jeans are fine.
Do I need a hat for royal high tea?
No. Hats are not expected, though some guests enjoy wearing one.
Can I wear trainers?
Yes, clean trainers are fine and practical for the garden walk.
Ready to book
Choose your tea
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Royal High Tea at Kensington Palace
- Guided walk from Queensway station: Italian Gardens, Peter Pan, Round Pond, Diana's stories
- Full afternoon tea at the Orangery: sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, cakes, tea
- Private table (not shared with strangers); small group of up to 12
Kensington Gardens Tour & Royal Tea
- Guided walk through Kensington Gardens, with the Cradle Walk and Sunken Garden
- Royal afternoon tea at the Orangery: pastries, cakes and sandwiches
- Timed Kensington Palace entry only if you select that option
Private Royal High Tea with Your Own Guide
A private guide, sparkling wine and your own pace
