Few rituals are as deeply woven into British life as afternoon tea. First popularised in the early 19th century, the tradition began as a simple pause between meals and quickly grew into a beloved social occasion. Today, it remains a familiar and comforting practice, known for its carefully arranged tiers of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delicate cakes, often enjoyed in elegant surroundings.
To celebrate National Afternoon Tea Week, running from 11 to 17 August, six venues across the UK are offering their own distinctive take on this time-honoured tradition. From floral collaborations in central London to vineyard views in Sussex and countryside refinement in the Cotswolds, each setting brings something unique to the table. Whether enjoyed aboard a yacht, in a Victorian manor or within castle walls, these experiences demonstrate how the ceremony of afternoon tea continues to evolve while holding firmly to its cultural roots.
Inspired by the British flora, fauna and pollinators on their doorstep, Royal Lancaster London’s ‘Blooming British Afternoon Tea’ is a floral twist on a quintessential British tradition and has been created in collaboration with the Natural History Museum.
Delicately crafted sandwiches, bespoke Camellia’s Tea House teas, warm crumbly scones and delicious sweet treats brought to life by Head Pastry Chef, Scott Villacora, and his team. Vegan and children’s versions of the afternoon tea are available too.
Prices: £49 Monday to Friday, £55 Saturday and Sunday, £30 Children’s Afternoon Tea
A vineyard located in the South Downs, just an hours drive from London, Tinwood Estate is not only renowned for its award winning English sparkling wine but also its delicious foodie offering. Take your afternoon tea al fresco and dine amongst the vines for a truly memorable experience.
Tinwood’s afternoon tea includes three glasses of their English sparkling wine. Price: £49 per person
Afternoon tea at a castle? Yes please! Nestled in the rolling valleys of Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle is a Devon gem. Indulge your taste buds and tuck into freshly baked scones, delicate sandwiches and homemade sweet treats served alongside fine teas in the elegant castle setting.
Prices: £45 Traditional Afternoon Tea, £60 Champagne Afternoon Tea, £15 Children’s AfternoonTea
A quintessential British treat, where better to enjoy afternoon tea than in the city of London. At Sunborn, enjoy a delightful selection of sandwiches and sweets with stunning views of the Canary Wharf skyline and the surrounding Docklands.
The only superyacht hotel in the UK, afternoon tea at Sunborn is a unique treat in the heart of the city, where decadence and glamour go hand in hand.
Price: £40 per person
Jersey’s most renowned 5* hotel, a Relais & Chateaux property boasting a 3AA rosette restaurant, vast Victorian Kitchen Garden, large outdoor pool and sundeck. Enjoy their elegant afternoon tea poolside or in Longueville Manor’s recently refurbished drawing room.
Homemade plain and fruit scones are accompanied by Longueville’s home grown strawberry jam and fabulous Jersey clotted cream.
Prices: £40 per person, add a glass of Taittinger champagne for £17.50
The Greenway Hotel and Spa, Cheltenham
The Greenway is a 16th century Elizabethan manor house hotel and spa in the Cotswolds, perfect for a countryside escape away from the city.
Afternoon Tea at The Greenway is a tasty and timeless tradition, to elevate the experience, host an exclusive afternoon tea party in The Hide, The Greenway’s outdoor hideaway, available for hire for up to 12 guests.
Prices: £35 Traditional Afternoon Tea, £49 Veuve Clicquot Champagne Afternoon Tea
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