A whimsical new afternoon tea inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved story
London | October 13, 2026 – London’s cultured, independent hotel One Aldwych in Covent Garden invites guests to enjoy a reimagined Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea. Inspired by Roald Dahl’s much-loved story in partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company, the refreshed experience takes guests on an adventure through Willy Wonka’s extraordinary world, where fizzy lifting drinks, chocolate dip from Mr Wonka’s river and playful surprises transform the traditional afternoon tea into an unforgettable treat.
Curated by newly appointed Executive Chef Edward Dutton and Head Afternoon Tea Chef Christoph McGuire, the experience introduces a completely new collection of savouries and sweets, while retaining the signature drinks and theatrical touches that have made it one of London’s most popular afternoon teas. A perfect afternoon for families, friends, and kids at heart.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea has become one of One Aldwych’s most loved experiences,” notes the hotel’s Managing Director, Janine Marshall. “This refreshed menu marks a new chapter, while preserving the sense of culinary theatre and escapism that has made the afternoon tea such a favourite over the years. We hope every guest leaves having experienced a little of the magic that has made Roald Dahl’s story so timeless.”
Head Afternoon Tea Chef Christoph McGuire adds, “Each sweet and savoury item has been inspired by the story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, with familiar flavours presented in unexpected ways. We wanted every course to bring a sense of discovery to the afternoon tea experience.”
Descending into One Aldwych’s dedicated Charlie and the Chocolate Factory setting, guests have their tastebuds immersed in a world of sweetness, creativity and invention. The new afternoon tea takes guests on a journey through Mr Wonka’s extraordinary world, where every course combines classic tea elements with moments of surprise and illusion to delight children and grown-ups alike.
The adventure begins with Mr Wonka’s chocolatey chariot, where a rich hot chocolate arrives with toppings galore, before a selection of playful savouries including Classic Cucumber Cream Cheese Sarnie, Magnificent Mushroom Melt, the Entire Roast Dinner in a Sandwich, and Mr Wonka’s Smoked Salmon Quiche.
The sweet course is equally imaginative, with Raspberry with White Chocolate and Plain Scones, served with ‘Snozzberry’ Jam, Clotted Cream and warm Chocolate Dip from Mr Wonka’s river, before guests discover an artistic collection of sweet creations. Highlights include Violet Beauregarde’s Marshmallow Marvel, ‘Blue as a Blueberry’ Éclair, Pineapple Cream ‘Whipped with Whips’, ‘Nutty Crunch Surprise’ and a Caramel Chocolate Milkshake (mixed by waterfall), finished with Fabulous Fluffy Floss (strictly not for dentists!). Young guests can enjoy a menu created especially for them, featuring playful Roald Dahl-inspired creations including the ‘Green Caterpillar’ Crunch and a ‘Square Sweet That Looks Round’, served alongside a choice of colourful fizzy lifting drinks.
Alongside the new food menu, returning favourites include the hotel’s signature Fizzy Lifting Drinks, a selection of bespoke teas including Chocolate Noir, Caramel Noir, Lemon Verbena, Berries & Hibiscus and Lychee & Rose, as well as smoking cocktails and Champagne pairings.
The Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea is served Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 4:30 p.m. and is priced from £75 per person. A Children’s Afternoon Tea, priced at £55 for children aged 12 and under, is also available, alongside Cocktail Afternoon Tea and Champagne Afternoon Tea options. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menus are available to accommodate a range of dietary requirements.
Please note: A special festive edition of the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea will be served Nov. 11, 2026, through Jan. 2, 2027, excluding Dec. 25 and 26. Festive Afternoon Tea is priced at £95 per person, including a glass of Champagne, a cocktail or a mocktail. Children’s Afternoon Tea is priced at £65 per child for ages 12 and under.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Afternoon Tea | One Aldwych
For further information on One Aldwych or to make a reservation, please visit www.onealdwych.com/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-afternoon-tea-reservations.
One Aldwych Press Office
Laura Davidson Public Relations | onealdwych@ldpr.com
About One Aldwych
One Aldwych is Covent Garden’s cultured, independent hotel – a true modern oasis, privately-owned, standing proud within the distinctive, stand-alone, triangular building, former home of the great Morning Post newspaper, at the point where the City meets the West End. The hotel features stunning, contemporary interiors by Fabled Studio and Robert Angell, embellished with Art Nouveau flourishes inspired by the building – and spirited English touches – warm, welcoming and a little unconventional. The result is an exquisite, expressive, original style as befits a truly independent London hotel. Covent Garden’s neighbourhood restaurant, Indigo, is the home of simply delicious dishes by Chef Edward Dutton, using ingredients from the best British independent producers – while the hotel’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory inspired afternoon tea is a firm favourite with young and old alike. Other facilities include the Lobby Bar, The Library, and Health Club with an 18-metre / 59-foot chlorine-free swimming pool, spa and gym. One Aldwych is the proud recipient of One Key in the Michelin Guide in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
About Roald Dahl Story Company
The Roald Dahl Story Company (RDSC) is the home of Roald Dahl’s much-loved stories and characters. With over 300 million books sold globally and translated into 68 languages, our stories have entertained generations of kids and adults with their unique mix of mischief, irreverence and full-hearted hope.
Together with our parent company Netflix, and united by our love of these great stories, we’re working with some of the world’s best storytellers and creative minds to bring them to life in new ways that will delight fans. Our plans include animated and live-action films and series, publishing, theatre, immersive experiences, games, consumer products, brand partnerships, and more.
