Afternoon tea is quite possibly the most British tradition going ☕
In our top picks for the best places to enjoy afternoon tea, there is something to suit every taste, from vibrant city centres to quaint countryside spots. We’ve collated the finest selection of the best afternoon tea experiences in the UK!
The Orangery at Blenheim Palace – Woodstock
Fancy a delightful afternoon spent surrounded by history and delicious treats? Then you need to check out Afternoon Tea at The Orangery at Blenheim Palace. Imagine yourself sipping on tea in an elegant setting, sunlight streaming through the grand windows of this Grade I listed building that has had a range of roles on the Blenheim Estate – from a greenhouse and art gallery to a theatre.
Recently restored to its former glory, The Orangery is now home to a delightful afternoon tea spread, filled with dainty finger sandwiches, warm, fluffy scones with jam and clotted cream and, of course, an assortment of tempting pastries! It’s the perfect way to treat yourself to a little indulgence in a truly grand setting.
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Ochre at the National Gallery – London
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Browsing masterpieces and indulging in delightful treats inside the National Gallery. Tucked away in this iconic London art gallery, Ochre is a charming spot for an outstanding afternoon tea. From delicate finger sandwiches that will tantalise your taste buds to freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, Ochre’s pastry chefs are masters of luxurious cakes and sweet treats.
Whether you’re catching up with a friend or treating yourself to a solo art expedition, Ochre’s afternoon tea is a wonderful choice in central London. Their menu changes seasonally, so you’re always in for a surprise and the elegant setting adds a touch of sophistication to your experience.
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Panoramic 34 – Liverpool
Afternoon tea with a side of stunning citywide views? Panoramic 34 in Liverpool might just be your cup of tea (quite literally!). This gorgeous restaurant perched on the 34th floor of the West Tower skyscraper offers an exciting afternoon tea experience.
With sweeping views of the entire city, afternoon tea at Panoramic 34 guarantees lavishness. Featuring a delightful spread of sandwiches, delightful cakes and of course, a selection of perfectly brewed tea, afternoon tea is the perfect way to relax, catch up with friends and create fantastic memories.
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Browns – Cambridge
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Indulge in a quintessentially British traditional afternoon tea at Browns Brasserie and Bar in Cambridge. Served daily between 3pm and 5pm, tuck into a splendid selection of warm scones and hand-blended teas, or why not treat yourself to various fruity cocktails? Perhaps a Cosmopolitan or a Black Forest Martini will take your fancy?
With a dedicated gluten-free menu available, Browns has become a favourite afternoon tea experience in the city of Cambridge. And best of all, you’re only a stone’s throw away from the idyllic River Cam.
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Tisanes Tea Rooms – The Cotswolds
Located in the picturesque village of Broadway in the Cotswolds, Tisanes Tea Rooms is packed with olde worlde charm and tasty delights. Housed in an enchanting 17th-century stone building, Tisanes Tea Rooms serves afternoon tea daily from 12pm to 4.30pm with a round of freshly prepared sandwiches, warm scones and cake.
Surrounded by some of the prettiest scenery in southwest England, Tisanes Tea Rooms holds plenty of charming personality and atmosphere. Plus, Tisanes Tea Rooms is also home to a gorgeous café garden, perfect for those spring and summer days.
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The Alan – Manchester
Craving a delightful afternoon tea in Manchester? The Alan has you covered! This chic hotel restaurant puts a modern spin on this beloved British tradition. Overflowing with scones, sandwiches and seasonal pastries you and your party can enjoy a warming pot of their delicious Bohea tea or upgrade to Telmont Champagne for £10pp.
Menu highlights include the sandwich menu featuring a succulent smoked ham and celeriac on blini, Burford brown egg mayo with watercress and cucumber and cream cheese on farmhouse bread.
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Fortnum & Mason – London
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Dubbed the ‘undisputed home of afternoon tea’, Fortnum & Mason is renowned for their expertly-baked cakes, precisely-cut sandwiches and glorious pots of tea. If you’re looking for an afternoon tea experience that’s steeped in history and overflowing with delicious treats, Fortnum & Mason is your best bet.
Step into the Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon, named by Queen Elizabeth II herself in 2012, and prepare to be wowed. With various menus to choose from, including Afternoon Tea, Savoury Afternoon Tea, High Tea, Vegetarian Afternoon Tea and a Gluten Free menu, the exquisite tea selection is Fortnum & Mason’s pièce de résistance. Choose from a vast array of loose-leaf blends to find your perfect cuppa!
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The Dome – Edinburgh
In Edinburgh for a spot of sightseeing? Afternoon tea at The Dome is a dining experience that cannot be missed off your itinerary. This historic landmark building isn’t just about grand architecture. The Dome’s extraordinary Georgian Tea Room is the perfect place to unwind.
Engulfed in splendid architecture, picture yourself sipping endless cups of tea from The Dome’s loose-leaf tea menu, featuring a Scottish Brew and Moorish Mint, whilst dining from a gorgeous three-tiered delight. Or choose the Tipsy Tea which includes a stunning cocktail with each tier of your scrumptious afternoon tea.
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Bakers Tea House – Cardiff
If you’re in the mood for a charming afternoon tea in Cardiff, then look no further than Bakers Tea House! Tucked away in the historic High Street Arcade, this delightful spot offers one of the best afternoon tea experiences in Wales.
From savoury finger sandwiches on soft bread to a fabulous selection of over 20 loose-leaf teas and warm scones slathered with clotted cream and jam. Bakers Tea House afternoon tea has been expertly crafted by their in-house team and even features delicate homemade cakes, pastries, cupcakes and even rich chocolate cake.
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