Afternoon tea in Essex is a delightful experience that combines tradition with modern culinary delights. Essex offers a variety of venues that cater to every taste. From quaint tea rooms in historic settings to contemporary cafes offering innovative tea menus, afternoon tea in Essex is a treat for anyone looking to indulge in this quintessentially British tradition. This blog explores the top places where you can enjoy afternoon tea in Essex, ensuring that your next tea experience is as memorable as it is delicious.
Top 10 places for afternoon tea in Essex
Indulge your inner tea connoisseur with these 10 Essex delights for an unforgettable afternoon tea experience.
The Tiptree Tea Room
The Tiptree Tea Room offers a quintessential British experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy traditional afternoon tea in Essex. Known for their selection of homemade jams and fresh, local ingredients, Tiptree provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels both comforting and luxurious. Guests can enjoy a range of scones, sandwiches, and cakes, all served with a pot of your choice of fine teas. The décor, inspired by English country gardens, makes every visit memorable.
Address: Wilkin & Sons Ltd., Factory Hill, Tiptree, Essex, CO5 0RF
Price Range: £15 – £25 per person
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Layer Marney Tower
Enjoy your afternoon tea in Essex with a touch of historical elegance at Layer Marney Tower. This venue is not just about the delicious food but also about immersing yourself in the grandeur of England’s tallest Tudor gatehouse. The tea room offers a selection of artisan teas and delectable treats, such as freshly baked scones and delicate finger sandwiches, all served in a beautifully restored area that resonates with historical significance and charm.
Address: Layer Marney, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9US
Price Range: £20 – £30 per person
The Minories Tea Room
Located next to a contemporary art gallery, The Minories Tea Room is a delightful spot to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea in Essex. This charming café serves a variety of teas, accompanied by scrumptious scones and sandwiches, all made with locally sourced ingredients. The garden setting provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, where guests can unwind and savour the artful surroundings and exquisite tastes.
Address: 74 High Street, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1UE
Price Range: £12 – £20 per person
Prested Hall
Prested Hall offers a more refined afternoon tea experience set against the backdrop of a historical manor house. Here, afternoon tea in Essex is celebrated with a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked cakes, and scones, complemented by some of the finest teas available. The hall’s traditional décor and views of the beautiful grounds add a sense of tranquillity and timelessness to your tea experience, making it perfect for those special occasions or a luxurious treat.
Address: Prested Hall, Feering, Colchester, Essex, CO5 9EE
Price Range: £20 – £35 per person
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The Chichester Hotel
The Chichester Hotel mixes rustic charm with modern sophistication, providing a perfect setting for afternoon tea in Essex. This hotel prides itself on serving up a sumptuous spread that includes classic sandwiches, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of cakes and pastries. The tea room overlooks beautifully landscaped gardens, offering a picturesque view that enhances the overall experience of dining in this historic setting.
Address: Old London Road, Rawreth, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8UE
Price Range: £15 – £25 per person
Audley End House and Gardens
Experience a regal afternoon tea at Audley End House and Gardens, where the grandeur of a historic mansion meets the delicacy of traditional English refreshments. Here, afternoon tea in Essex is served in a setting that rivals the palaces, with meticulously landscaped gardens as your backdrop. Enjoy a variety of teas accompanied by an assortment of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of pastries that are as beautiful as they are delicious. The elegant surroundings and attentive service make this more than just a meal; it’s an experience to cherish.
Address: Off London Road, Saffron Walden, Essex, CB11 4JF
Price Range: £18 – £28 per person
The Beth Chatto Gardens
The Beth Chatto Gardens provides a serene and nature-filled setting for a delightful afternoon tea. This unique location emphasises sustainability and the use of locally sourced, seasonal produce, which is reflected in the freshness of their menu offerings. As you enjoy your afternoon tea in Essex at this ecological wonder, you can explore the famous gardens after savouring treats like organic cucumber sandwiches, homemade cakes, and scones, all served alongside a range of specialty teas. It’s a perfect escape for those who appreciate the beauty of nature and a slower pace of life.
Address: Elmstead Market, Colchester, Essex, CO7 7DB
Price Range: £15 – £22 per person
Orsett Hall
Orsett Hall is an ideal destination for those seeking a luxurious afternoon tea experience in Essex. Set in a beautifully restored historic hall, this venue offers a sophisticated menu that includes classic British tea favourites with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy an assortment of artisan sandwiches, fine pastries, and scones, complemented by a selection of exquisite teas. The elegant dining room and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside provide a tranquil and opulent setting that enhances the enjoyment of every bite.
Address: Prince Charles Avenue, Orsett, Grays, Essex, RM16 3HS
Price Range: £25 – £40 per person
Wivenhoe House
Located near the picturesque town of Colchester, Wivenhoe House is a stunning 18th-century manor that offers a classic afternoon tea with a contemporary edge. This location combines tradition with innovation, offering a menu that includes mini brioche rolls, gourmet quiches, and an assortment of sweet treats, all crafted with local ingredients. The afternoon tea in Essex here is complete with a choice of teas or a glass of champagne for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their dining experience. The elegant décor and attentive service make this an unforgettable venue for relaxing and indulging.
Address: Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ
Price Range: £20 – £30 per person
Also Read: Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Surrey
Le Talbooth
Set by the tranquil River Stour, Le Talbooth provides a picturesque setting for enjoying afternoon tea in Essex, reminiscent of the charming tea rooms in East Sussex. This restaurant is known for its exceptional service and culinary excellence. Guests can indulge in a sumptuous selection of sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and handcrafted desserts, all served on fine china and accompanied by your choice of specialty teas. The riverside location offers a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal spot for those special occasions or a leisurely afternoon out with friends or family.
Address: Gun Hill, Dedham, Colchester, Essex, CO7 6HP
Price Range: £22 – £35 per person
Conclusion
Exploring the best afternoon tea in Essex offers a wonderful blend of tradition, luxury, and local flavour. Whether you’re seeking a cosy spot for a relaxing afternoon or a luxurious setting to celebrate a special occasion, Essex has it all. From the historic charms of Layer Marney Tower to the modern elegance of Wivenhoe House, the variety ensures that there’s a perfect match for anyone looking to enjoy an afternoon tea in Essex, UK.
Also Read: What is Afternoon Tea? – Exploring the Delights of Afternoon Tea
Each venue we’ve highlighted provides a unique experience that caters to different tastes and preferences. Whether you are interested in the ecological serenity at The Beth Chatto Gardens or the decadent luxury afternoon tea Essex offers at Orsett Hall, you’re guaranteed to find something special. These establishments not only serve delicious food and a great selection of teas but also provide enchanting atmospheres that enhance every visit.
So, whether you are a local or a visitor, taking the time to indulge in an afternoon tea in Essex is sure to offer a memorable experience. The settings are splendid, the food is scrumptious, and the attention to detail is impeccable. Treat yourself to one of these exquisite locations and discover why Essex is renowned for offering some of the best afternoon tea experiences in the region