The best places for afternoon tea in the UK

It’s said that Anna Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford, invented afternoon tea in 1840 to satisfy her peckishness during the long wait between lunch and dinner. Today, the age-old tradition lives on across the UK. People love catching up over some tea, indulging in delicious sandwiches before treating themselves to an abundance of sweet things. Deciding where to go next can be tricky as there are so many choices. Fear not, because in this guide we’ll be exploring some of the UK’s finest offerings in afternoon tea, making your next decision a bit easier.

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill
cuisinesAfternoon Tea, British
locationMarker200 Wharfside Street, The Cube, Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom, B1 1PR

The Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill in Birmingham distinguishes itself as the premier destination for afternoon tea in the city, thanks to its celebrated culinary pedigree and exceptional offerings. Helmed by the legendary chef Marco Pierre White, known for his Michelin starred expertise and innovative approach to cuisine, the establishment promises a culinary experience like no other. The afternoon tea menu is a testament to this reputation, featuring a delightful selection of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves, a variety of artisanal finger sandwiches with gourmet fillings, and an assortment of delectable pastries and cakes meticulously crafted to perfection. The beverage options are equally impressive, with a choice of fine teas sourced from around the world, ensuring each sip complements the flavours of the meticulously prepared food. The combination of Marco Pierre White’s culinary vision, impeccable service, and a sophisticated ambiance makes the Steakhouse Bar & Grill a standout venue for indulging in the quintessential British tradition of afternoon tea in Birmingham.

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Cup
cuisinesBrunch, Afternoon Tea
locationMarker9 Little Belmont Street, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom, AB101JG

Cup Tea Salon in Aberdeen stands as the epitome of excellence in afternoon tea across Aberdeenshire, earning its reputation through a blend of meticulous attention to detail and a passion for exceptional flavours. Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen, Cup Tea Salon exudes charm with its inviting decor and cosy atmosphere, creating the perfect backdrop for indulging in a traditional afternoon tea. The salon’s offerings are a feast for the senses, featuring freshly baked scones served warm alongside clotted cream and homemade preserves, a selection of delicate finger sandwiches with premium fillings, and an array of exquisite pastries and cakes that showcase the finest local and seasonal ingredients. What truly sets Cup Tea Salon apart though is its dedication to providing a memorable experience with every visit, from carefully curated tea selections to impeccable service. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a nice catch up with a loved one, Cup consistently delivers an unparalleled afternoon tea experience that embodies the essence of Aberdeenshire’s culinary excellence.

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The Orangery at Balbirnie House Hotel
cuisinesAfternoon Tea
locationMarkerBalbirnie House Hotel, Balbirnie Park, Markinch, Fife, United Kingdom, KY7 6NE
The Orangery offers classic Scotland on a plate and has become one of Fife’s most special destination restaurants. Alongside a delightful menu and a relaxed and informal service is an unmissable afternoon tea. Voted one of Scotland’s five most romantic restaurants by The Scotsman newspaper and past recipient of Scotland’s Hotel Restaurant of the Year, this is a good option if you want to spoil someone.
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The Culloden Estate and Spa
cuisinesIrish, Fine Dining, Afternoon Tea
locationMarkerCulloden Estate and Spa, 142 Bangor Road, Holywood, United Kingdom, BT18 0EX

What can be more traditional than a Bridgerton Inspired Afternoon Tea? Guests are cordially invited to dust off their hats, lace up their corsets and don their finest attire to experience the splendour of high society with a scandalously decadent Bridgerton Inspired Afternoon Tea featuring a host of delightful treats in a stunning setting.

Stimulate your taste buds with a demi-tasse of soup, followed by a truly elegant selection of finger sandwiches. Savour warm freshly baked scones, served with indulgent homemade jam and lashings of cream and satisfy your sweet tooth with a delicious array of dainty pastries and cakes. This fabulous experience is complimented with your choice of tea or coffee or enhance your experience with an optional glass or two of the finest Champagne.

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The Cwrt Lounge
cuisinesBritish, Bar
locationMarkerThe Parkgate, Westgate Street, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom, CF10 1DA

In the grand rooms of the old Post Office, once filled with handwritten letters and brown-paper packages, are glittering chandeliers and plush leather sofas, where elegant lunches are enjoyed and sumptuous dinners savoured in the most glamorous surroundings. Nothing says elegance though quite like an indulgent rendezvous for afternoon tea, served with a heady blend of bygone glamour, grace and occasion.

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The Oak House
cuisinesAfternoon Tea, British, Bistro
locationMarker10 Station Rd, Chapeltown, Sheffield, Yorkshire, United Kingdom, S35 2XH

The Oak House in Sheffield stands out as a gem among afternoon tea venues in the city, blending quality and affordability seamlessly. Nestled in a historic setting, The Oak House offers a charming ambiance that enhances the traditional afternoon tea experience. Guests are treated to a delightful assortment of freshly baked scones accompanied by clotted cream and preserves, alongside a selection of carefully crafted finger sandwiches with classic fillings. The highlight of the afternoon tea, however, is the array of homemade pastries and cakes, each bursting with flavour and beautifully presented. What sets The Oak House apart is its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and supporting the community. Combined with reasonable pricing, this makes it a favoured choice for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable afternoon tea experience without compromising on quality. Whether for a special occasion or a leisurely afternoon treat, The Oak House continues to uphold its reputation as one of Sheffield’s finest destinations for afternoon tea.

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Carlyon Bay Hotel
cuisinesAfternoon Tea
locationMarkerSea Road, Carlyon Bay, St Austell, Cornwall, United Kingdom, PL25 3RD
Image: Facebook

At the luxurious Carlyon Bay Hotel, it’s renowned for great food and fine dining, as well as amazing sea views from the Bay View Restaurant and Terrace Lounge. Book a table here for the amazing afternoon tea and you can expect exquisite bites, beautifully prepared by a talented team of chefs, who put great emphasis on those fresh, local ingredients that make fine dining in Cornwall such a wonderful experience.

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Arnotdale House & Cafe
cuisinesAfternoon Tea
locationMarkerDollar Park, Camelon Road, Falkirk, United Kingdom, FK1 5SQ
Image: Facebook

From a quiet coffee paired with a luxurious cake, to a selection of Brodies Tea and homemade empire biscuits, Arnotdale House & Cafe boasts a full breakfast and lunch menu, as well as an unmissable afternoon tea. It’s family-friendly and welcomes your canine friends too – what’s not to love?

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The Plough Hotel & Restaurant
cuisinesAfternoon Tea, Bistro
locationMarkerRhosmaen, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, United Kingdom, SA19 6NP
Image: Facebook

The Plough has an excellent nationwide reputation for its commitment to using the best local ingredients, cooked in new and exciting styles, and a menu with choices of the old favourites or dishes a little more imaginative, complemented by an extensive wine cellar and a great range of coffees to finish. The ‘Welsh Afternoon Tea’ served here comprises a selection of finger sandwiches, wraps and savoury bites, as well as a homemade selection of cakes and scones.

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The Curious Fox
cuisinesAfternoon Tea, British
locationMarker70 Drumnabreeze Road, Craigavon, Armagh, United Kingdom, BT67 0RH
Image: Facebook

The Curious Fox is a unique and memorable dining experience situated on the first floor within Edenmore Golf and Country Club. Catch up with friends and family, and indulge in the outstanding afternoon tea served at The Curious Fox – an experience that will leave you wanting to return time and time again.

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