Cost guide
How much does afternoon tea catering cost?
Afternoon tea costs £15 to £30 per head from a caterer. Delivered boxes or stands sit at £15 to £25; a served tea with china, tea and staff runs £22 to £35. Tea and coffee are sometimes charged separately at around £2 to £4 per head.
Typical prices
Ranges, not quotes. A quote depends on your room.
| Work | Typical UK price |
|---|---|
| Boxed afternoon tea, delivered, per head | £15 to £22 |
| Afternoon tea on stands, delivered, per head | £18 to £25 |
| Served afternoon tea with china and staff, per head | £22 to £35 |
| Tea and coffee service, per head | £2 to £4 |
| Two staff to serve for an afternoon | £300 to £500 |
Ask whether the price includes tea and coffee, stands and china, and whether someone stays to serve and clear. A delivered box and a served tea can have the same menu and a very different price.
What moves the price
- Delivered or served. Staff to serve and clear, and china to serve on, are the largest additions to the food price.
- Boxes or stands. Tiered stands and china are usually hired and collected, which adds cost.
- The menu. Extra savouries, a glass of fizz, or gluten-free and vegan versions each add a little.
- Guest numbers. Small orders pay more per head, and some caterers set a minimum.
- Distance and timing. A delivery slot on a Saturday afternoon is in demand.
Who quotes for it
12 of the 2,162 caterers listed on this site take on afternoon tea catering.
Where they are: Bridport (1), Chatham (1), Horley (1), Scunthorpe (1), Stroud (1).
Questions about afternoon tea catering
Is afternoon tea suitable for a wake or christening?
Yes, it is a common choice for both, because they are often afternoon events with tea and lighter food. A served tea with staff and china suits a hall; delivered stands suit a home.
How far ahead should I order afternoon tea for a group?
A week ahead is usually enough for delivered boxes, and several weeks for a served tea with staff on a weekend. Final numbers are normally needed a few days before.