Charming bakery-cafés across London famous for spectacular cakes, cupcakes, and brownies. American-style treats alongside British favorites and excellent coffee in cozy vintage settings.
Bea's of Bloomsbury is a London bakery-café group founded in the Bloomsbury area, England, and now operating several branches across the capital, including sites near St Paul's, Heathrow and other central areas. The business is known for generous, decorated cakes and cupcakes that blend American-style baking with British afternoon tea traditions. Signature items include the red velvet cupcake, brownies, tall layer cakes, scones and the afternoon tea set, which pairs sandwiches, scones with jam and cream, and a selection of cakes with a pot of tea. The savoury menu is light, with sandwiches, soups, salads and breakfast items available for those who want more than a sweet treat. Coffee is a regular feature, alongside loose-leaf teas and cold drinks. The interiors are cosy and vintage-inspired, with pastel tones, floral touches and display cases of cakes at the counter, and the atmosphere is relaxed and chatty, popular with friends meeting for tea, small celebrations and shoppers taking a break. There is no dress code. Branches are mostly walk-in, though afternoon tea and larger groups are best arranged in advance, especially on weekends. Typical spend is roughly £5 to £10 for a cake and a drink, and about £25 to £35 per person for a full afternoon tea. Custom celebration cakes can also be ordered through the bakery. Opening hours and menus vary by branch, so check the specific location before visiting. Weekday mornings tend to be calmer than weekend afternoons, when queues for tables can form.
| Price | $ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily 08:00-19:00 |
| Reservations | Walk-in |
| Address | Multiple London locations |
Signature dishes
- Red velvet cupcake — $4
- Brownies — $4
Location
Multiple London locations
51.5194, -0.1293 View on map
Highlights
- Red velvet cupcakes and brownies in an American-British baking style
- Afternoon tea sets with scones, sandwiches and cakes
- Cosy, vintage-style café interiors
- Multiple branches across central London
- Custom celebration cakes available
Tips for visiting
- Book afternoon tea in advance, especially at weekends
- Weekday mornings offer easier seating than weekend afternoons
- Cakes and cupcakes can be boxed to take away
- A cake and coffee is the budget route at roughly £5 to £10
- Check the specific branch for hours and menu differences
When to visit
Weekday mornings for quiet seating; afternoons for afternoon tea.
Accessibility
Branches vary in layout, and some are in older buildings with steps or tight seating. Wheelchair users should contact the specific branch for confirmed step-free access.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Does Bea's of Bloomsbury take reservations?
Everyday visits are mostly walk-in. Afternoon tea and larger groups are best booked in advance.
What is it known for?
The bakery is known for decorated cakes, red velvet cupcakes, brownies and afternoon tea.
How much is afternoon tea?
A full afternoon tea typically costs about £25 to £35 per person, depending on the branch and menu.
Can cakes be ordered for events?
Yes. The bakery offers celebration and custom cakes, which are normally ordered ahead.