The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex
Anyone who knows me, will know I love Afternoon Teas! Essex has so many amazing Afternoon Tea venues, from quaint tearooms to lavish boutique hotels. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, seeking an unusual themed afternoon tea or celebrating a special occasion; Essex offers an abundance of options to satisfy your cravings for a quintessentially British afternoon tea.
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As an afternoon tea blogger, I’ve visited many great Afternoon Tea venues in and around Essex and I thought it was time to share some of The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex! I’ve personally visited and reviewed all of these venues across Essex, from Country House Hotels, charming tea rooms, modern restaurants or themed afternoon teas. We have the perfect venue for an afternoon tea near you in Essex. If you are looking for delivery afternoon tea rather than at a venue then please check out my post ‘Afternoon tea delivery in Essex‘ or if you are looking for a Festive Afternoon Tea.
Want to your afternoon tea into a break away in Essex? Then check out these Essex Hotels & Accommodation available.
Having explored numerous fantastic Afternoon Tea venues in and around Essex, here are The Best Afternoon Teas that Essex has to offer for 2025:
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This is the Complete and Ultimate Guide to over 100 of the Best Afternoon Teas in Essex in 2025
Wivenhoe House, Colchester
Wivenhoe House is a beautiful 18th Century four-star hotel near to the pretty quayside village of Wivenhoe and minutes from Britain’s oldest recorded town Colchester.
Afternoon Tea is served 12-4pm every day in their beautiful Brasserie. You’ll enjoy delicious sandwiches, freshly baked scones and beautifully presented cakes and pastries. Tea and coffee will be served and replenished as required. Read our full review of the afternoon tea at Wivenhoe House. This is a first class afternoon tea, you will not be disappointed!
Priced at £27pp. Prosecco Afternoon Tea is £35.50pp, Cocktail Afternoon Tea £39 and Champagne afternoon tea is £40.50 pp. Kids afternoon tea is £13.75 per child.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan and gluten free options available upon request.
To book your afternoon tea at Wivenhoe House contact them on 01206 863666, email info@wivenhoehouse.co.uk‘ or visit Wivenhoe House Hotel website for more information.
Location: Wivenhoe Park, Park Rd, Colchester CO4 3FA.
Namaste Village, Southend
For an afternoon tea with a twist, Namaste Village Southend offers a flavour-packed, Indian-inspired experience like no other! This vegan and vegetarian afternoon tea swaps traditional finger sandwiches for spiced chick’n wraps, crispy plant-based prawns, Bombay grilled sandwiches, and more. Expect bold flavours, fragrant teas, and indulgent Indian sweets like Jalebi Royal Delight and creamy Vermicelli Pudding. Oh, and don’t worry, there are scones with vegan cream and jam too!
If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, afternoon tea or just love trying something different, this is a must-visit.
- Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan
- Location: Namaste Village Southend, Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea
- Price: £29.95 per person
- When: Saturdays & Sundays, 12-4pm
➡️ Read my full review here
Heidi’s Runwell, Wickford
Heidi’s based at St Lukes Park in Runwell is a delightful spot to enjoy an afternoon tea. A pretty and modern pink cafe, with a cherry tree in the centre and floral decorations throughout. It really is beautiful and I had a wonderful experience there. Read my full review of afternoon tea at Heidi’s.
Heidi’s in Runwell offers an afternoon tea experience that is truly remarkable. The café boasts a stunning ambience, creating the ideal setting for indulging in a delightful afternoon tea. The atmosphere is complemented by a selection of freshly prepared savoury and sweet treats. My time there was absolutely delightful and Heidi’s rightfully earns its place on The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex list. It’s the perfect venue to pamper yourself with afternoon tea or to celebrate a special occasion. Rest assured, you won’t be disappointed.
Visit Heidi’s website to book. Classic Afternoon Tea is £29.95 per person and Afternoon Tea & Bubbles (Served with a glass of Prosecco) is £35.00 per person, You can add on 2 hours of bottomless prosecco for £30 or £40 for bottomless cocktails.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan and gluten free options available upon request.
Location: 71 St Lukes Way, Runwell, Wickford SS11 7JJ.
Mary Green Manor Hotel, Brentwood
If you are looking for a special afternoon tea in Essex within a beautiful period property, then Mary Green Manor Hotel in Brentwood is the perfect choice. The venue is a fine example of early sixteenth century architecture with so much charm. Mary Green Manor Hotel afternoon tea is a wonderful experience, the home baked scones and selection of cakes really stole the show, they really were most enjoyable. The service was impeccable, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring our every need was met. My time spent savouring the delights of afternoon tea here was truly delightful, solidifying Mary Green Manor’s well deserved spot on the coveted list of The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex. Read my full review of Mary Green Manor’s Afternoon Tea.
Visit Mary Green Manor Hotel’s website to book or call 01277 225252. Classic Afternoon Tea is £27.50 per person. Sparkling Afternoon Tea is £36.50 per person or Celebration Afternoon Tea is £37 per person.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian and other special dietary requirements can be catered for however alterations to the menu will be necessary.
Location: Marygreen Manor Hotel, London Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4NR.
Tiptree Tea Rooms, Essex
Tiptree Tea Rooms have 8 great tea rooms across Essex where you can enjoy their afternoon Teas. They are: Tiptree, Dedham, Heybridge Basin, Writtle, Saffron Walden, Cressing Temple, Billericay, Chelmsford and they also have a tea room in Southwold in Suffolk.
They offer a great value afternoon tea in Essex, just £20 per person. Tiptree Tea Rooms charge £40 for an afternoon tea for two. English Afternoon Tea is served on a three tier cake stand with two freshly made sandwiches of your choice, homemade fruit scones, Tiptree Little Scarlet Strawberry preserve and Rodda’s classic Cornish cream and a selection of miniature individual patisserie items to finish. Or £50 for two with a glass of Prosecco for each person. To see our full reviews of the Afternoon Tea at Tiptree Tea Rooms here along with their Festive Afternoon Tea and Savoury Afternoon Tea.
To book or for further information please visit Tiptree Tea Rooms Website.
Dietary Requirements: The Tea Rooms offer Gluten Free options but it is always preferred to call ahead to ensure they have fresh options at the time of your visit.
Scotts of Southend
Scotts of Southend Nursery & Garden Centre not only have a gorgeous restaurant to enjoy your afternoon tea, but they also have outdoor seating which is dog friendly and offers heated outdoor pods for alfresco dining. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.
Their restaurant has a rustic, botanical feel which is very cosy and makes the perfect spot to enjoy an afternoon tea in Southend. The savoury course is a lovely selection… salmon croissant, cream cheese and cucumber sandwich, prawn vol au vent, mini cheese and balsamic onion quiche and the crowning glory the mini Coronation Chicken brioche! It’s a varied and interesting selection of savouries.
The scones are baked fresh every day and were really good, followed by the sweet course! I loved the creamy orange and cardamom cheesecake and the classic Victoria sponge is always a winner.
Scott’s of Southend can adapt their afternoon tea for most dietary requirements including, vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, etc.
Afternoon tea is £28 per head or you can make it sparkling for£35. This comes with unlimited English Breakfast Tea or Americano coffee. Kids afternoon tea is £15.
Book on the Scotts of Southend Website.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy Free and gluten free options available upon request.
Location: Scotts of Southend Garden Centre, Sutton Rd, Rochford SS4 1LQ.
The County Hotel, Chelmsford
The County Hotel is an elegant and classic hotel situated in Chelmsford Town Centre. Afternoon Tea at The County Hotel is served in the award winning Samphire Restaurant. You can opt for either the traditional afternoon tea for £26 per head or their Great British savoury afternoon tea for £28 per head. They also serve children’s afternoon teas at £15 per head.
The traditional afternoon tea came with a selection of freshly made finger sandwiches, two warm hand made scones per head and a wonderful selection of handmade sweet treats. It was a really nice traditional afternoon tea and enjoyed it very much. Read our full review of the afternoon tea at The County Hotel Chelmsford.
The Best of British afternoon tea was simply amazing! It consisted of roast beef and coronation chicken sandwiches, welsh rarebit and some hot savoury delights. We enjoyed a scotch egg, chunky sausage roll, mini fish and chips, and some pork crackling sticks. The sweet stuff didn’t disappoint either, some of my most favourites were on offer! A chocolate brownie, carrot cake and two warm scones. I thought the Great British Afternoon Tea at The County Hotel was an excellent twist on the usual afternoon tea. I would definitely recommend trying it out!
For further information or to book please visit their website.
Location: The County Hotel, 29 Rainsford Rd, Chelmsford CM1 2PZ.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian available
Kittea Cakes Cat Cafe, Southend
Kittea Cakes in Southend Essex, are an Afternoon Tea Venue with a difference! They are a cat cafe! An adorable pink and turquoise cafe with lots of friendly cats to chill with, play with and just enjoy being around. Their delicious afternoon tea was really impressive, everything baked by their talented resident cake master Jas. It was amazing!
Read our full review of the Afternoon Tea at Kittea Cakes cat cafe. We received freshly made finger sandwiches and a sausage roll, followed by a super cute selection of cat themed cakes and treats and delicious home made scones served with Roddas clotted cream and jam. They were very nice scones, they were lovely and soft inside and dusted with icing sugar!
This was an amazing experience, enjoying our afternoon tea whilst hanging out with the cats. They all had their own funny personalities. It was so interesting and fun getting to know them. This was such an unusual afternoon tea in Essex, I’d thoroughly recommend and it.
The afternoon tea at Kittea Cakes is £29.50 per person. For more information or to book, visit Kittea Cakes website or call 07399 042403.
Location: 57 Queens Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1LT.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian upon request.
Merrymeade Tea Room, Brentwood
Merrymeade Tea Room is set within Merrymeade House in Brentwood, Essex. A quaint traditional tea room with views over the gardens and opening onto a Terrace with outdoor seating. I felt Merrymeade Tea Room deserved their place on ‘The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex’ list as the tearoom is a lovely traditional setting with the added bonus of outdoor dining on the terrace. It is the perfect spot to to relax and enjoy afternoon tea in brentwood whilst enjoying the gardens.
The luxury afternoon tea is £24.95 weekdays and £29.95 first saturday of the month and includes a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, cupcake, fruit scone served with butter, clotted cream and tiptree jam garnished with seasonal fruit. Unlimited tea and filter coffee is included. With an option to add a glass or bottle of prosecco.
You can choose 3 options from a good selection of sandwiches, we opted for coronation chicken (a favourite of mine), chicken, bacon & avocado and Brie & cranberry. The sandwiches were incredibly fresh, generously filled and very tasty.
Merrymeade Tea Room bake all of their own cakes and scones, they offer a good selection of traditional homemade cakes. I can personally vouch for the lemon drizzle cake, it was moist and full of flavour. If you don’t fancy a full afternoon tea, you can choose a cream tea for two for £14.95. A pot of tea and two scones with cream and jam.
Merrymeade House offer a children’s afternoon tea which is £15. For further information or to book please visit Merrymeade Tea Room website.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian afternoon tea available.
Location: Merrymeade Chase, Brentwood CM15 9FE.
Stifford Hall Hotel, Thurrock
Stifford Hall Hotel in Thurrock is an elegant 18th century Georgian mansion set amongst pretty grounds. Our afternoon tea was set up in the library. Cosy and relaxed it had a great feel to it with a beautiful stained glass window. They also serve afternoon tea in their Garden Suite which is light and airy with pretty views over the gardens. They have now added a Pagoda in the gardens and shelter across their patios so you can enjoy your afternoon tea outside.
I was blown away by the amount of sandwiches we received with Stifford Hall Hotel’s afternoon Tea. I received a cake stand full of sandwiches with a huge selection of fillings, a tier of meat, fish and vegetarian. They were all very fresh and extremely delicious. It’s not often I am outdone by the sandwiches but this was a feast and even beat me!
The cakes were a good and varied selection and very nice. There were some amazing custard and fruit tarts and the scones came all ready topped with a huge dollop of clotted cream, jam and a strawberry. You can read a full review of the afternoon tea at Stifford Hall Hotel here.
I really enjoyed my visit to Stifford Hall Hotel, it’s a real hidden gem and absolutely deserves its place on The Best Afternoon Teas In Essex list. Afternoon Tea at Stifford Hall Hotel is £24.95 which is excellent value for money. For further information or to book please call them on 01708 719988 or visit their Stifford Hall Hotel’s website.
Location: High Rd, North Stifford, Grays RM16 5UE.
Mulberry House, Ongar
Mulberry House is one of the finest award winning wedding and events venues, situated in the heart of the Essex countryside and set within 22 acres of beautiful grounds. Visitors can enjoy afternoon tea in the Garden Room Restaurant overlooking a beautiful lake. Read our full review of their Christmas Afternoon Tea.
The High Tea at Mulberry House is £33.50 per person and includes a selection of Cocktail Finger Sandwiches, warm fruit and cinnamon scone and plain scone with Tiptree Strawberry Jam and Cornish clotted cream. Followed by a variety of fresh Dainty Cakes. Included is unlimited loose leaf tea or speciality coffees.
You can upgrade to the Royal High Tea at £39.50 which includes a glass of fine Prosecco. They offer Children’s High Tea at £10.95 which includes a warm homemade scone with Tiptree strawberry jam and Cornish clotted cream, half round of cocktail Sandwiches and a cake. Tea, Coffee, Hot Chocolate or a soft drink is also included.
For more information visit Mulberry House website.
Location: Chelmsford Rd, High Ongar, Ongar CM5 9NL.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian afternoon tee available.
Little Channels Bistro at Channels Estate, Chelmsford
Little Channels Bistro at Channels Estate is set in the Essex countryside, close to Little Waltham. A beautifully restored barn is the perfect spot to enjoy afternoon tea. They have heated patios for alfresco dining. This is a wonderful place to visit for an afternoon tea in Chelmsford. Read our full review of the afternoon tea at Little Channels Bistro.
Afternoon tea at Little Channels is served upon a mini picnic bench containing your selection of sweet and savoury treats. Served with unlimited Tea & Coffee. The balance of savoury and sweet at Little Channels Bistro at The Waltham’s Barn is absolutely perfect. Some really nice additions to the savoury course with the quiche and sausage roll.
Traditional afternoon tea is £25.00 per head, Luxury £29.00 per head and includes a glass of Prosecco.
They also have an option for a Bottomless Afternoon Tea for £45.00 per person (Includes unlimited Prosecco for 2 hours). They also offer Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free Afternoon Tea options. Also available is a Children’s Afternoon Tea which is £12.50 per child.
To book visit Little Channels website or call 01245 362210. Please note a £5pp deposit is required.
Location: Pratt’s Farm Ln, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR.
Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan, and gluten free afternoon tea menus available.
Orsett Hall Hotel, Orsett
Orsett Hall Hotel is such a pretty venue, a stylish boutique hotel and wedding venue with Spa. They serve their afternoon teas in the beautiful Garden Brasserie with floral-inspired décor and lovely views of the hotel grounds. Its really is a spectacular room with the most stunning multi-coloured chandeliers.
Afternoon Tea at Orsett Hall feels like a luxury affair, gorgeous surroundings and attentive staff. Sandwiches are filled with the traditional afternoon tea fillings and comes with a warm mini quiche. The sweets and scones are always very good at Orsett Hall. I had enjoyed the most delicious white chocolate and ginger cheesecake. It blew my mind, it was absolutely amazing!
Afternoon Tea at Orsett Hall Hotel is on offer of £25 per person midweek and normally £29 and weekends £34 with the option to upgrade to a Champagne afternoon tea for £9 extra. A children’s afternoon tea is £16.
To book visit Orsett Hall website.
Location: Prince Charles Ave, Orsett, Grays RM16 3HS.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free option available.
Bonnie’s Cafe, Hutton
Bonnie’s Cafe in Hutton is based at Hunters Chase Garden Centre. A quaint and charming tea room serving breakfast, lunches and wonderful cakes with outdoor dining available. Bonnie’s are famous for their amazing home made cakes. There is always a great selection of cakes available to suit all tastes. An afternoon tea at Bonnie’s Cafe includes a selection of sandwiches, home made scone with cream and jam, a selection of home made cakes, a lemon possett and a pot of tea or coffee.
Afternoon tea at Bonnies Cafe is great value at £19.50 per person. Read our full review of the amazing afternoon tea at Bonnie’s Cafe.
To book contact Bonnie’s Cafe facebook page or call them on 01277 659351.
Location: Hunters Chase Garden Centre, Hutton, Brentwood CM13 1SN.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free option available.
Stoke by Nayland, Colchester
Stoke by Nayland Golf, Spa & Lodges Resort is a environmentally friendly & family run hotel situated in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Colchester. Guests can enjoy Afternoon Tea al fresco on the newly expanded terraces overlooking a lovely lake and stunning Constable Country or inside the newly refurbished Lakes Restaurant. You can read our full review of the Stoke By Nayland Afternoon Tea here.
Afternoon tea is £22.95 per person and is served 7 days a week between 12pm and 3:30pm. Their afternoon tea includes a sumptuous array of mini sandwiches, cakes, fresh homemade scones with clotted cream and Tiptree Jam, alongside freshly brewed artisan tea or coffee.
For more information or to book at afternoon tea, visit Stoke By Nayland Website.
Location: Stoke By Nayland Resort, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester, Essex, CO6 4PZ.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free afternoon teas menus are available.
Morley Nurseries Tearoom, Wakering
The Tearoom at Morley Nurseries in Great Wakering Essex offers a great food menu that not only provides excellent afternoon tea but a selection of all-day breakfasts, light lunches and homemade cakes. They also serve Illy Coffee and TeaPig Teas. At Morley Nurseries Tearoom. They have a reputation for their wide range of homemade cakes and scones which are baked daily by their very talented in house baker Ryan.
The Classic Afternoon Tea at Morley Nurseries Tearoom is £26.95 per person, Kids is £12.95 per child and takeaway is £24.95 per person. They also do a Themed afternoon tea those extra special occasions such as: Birthdays, Mothers Day, Baby Showers, Valentines Day. They can be personalised and have a few added extras to give your Afternoon Tea that special ‘WOW’ factor! These are £28.95 per person or takeaway is £26.95 per person. You can read the our full review of the afternoon tea at Morley Nurseries Tearoom here. It was absolutely delicious, a real treat!
You can visit the Morley Nurseries website for more information, or book by calling: 01702 585668 ext. 8017 or email tearoom@morleynurseries.co.uk
Location: Southend Rd, Great Wakering, Essex SS3 0PU.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.
Wildflower Teas on the Bus, Battlesbridge
Wildflower Teas on the Bus is really fun and unusual spot to enjoy your afternoon tea. An original Routemaster Double Decker bus is situated amongst gorgeous grounds to enjoy your afternoon tea. You can enjoy your afternoon tea aboard the bus! They have plenty of outdoor space, with 2 undercover areas plus indoor space for rainy days which is heated in the winter. Read our full review of Afternoon Tea at Wildflower Teas on The Bus.
They offer so many themed afternoon teas at Wildflower Teas on the Bus, their Classic Afternoon Tea at Wildflower Teas on the Bus is £25 per person and includes freshly made sandwiches, quiche, large fruit scone served with strawberries, strawberry preserve and lashings of clotted cream, followed by a selection of home made cakes. Each afternoon tea is served with bottomless pots of tea or coffee. They offer lots of brilliantly themed afternoon teas in Essex starting from £30, ranging from: Lotus biscuits, wizards, dinosaurs and seasonal afternoon teas.
Visit Wildflower Teas website for further information.
Location: Beeches Road, Wickford, Essex SS11 8TG.
Magic Mushroom Restaurant, Billericay
The Magic Mushroom Restaurant in Billericay is a bright modern restaurant which offers first class freshly cooked food. Their afternoon tea includes freshly made sandwiches, homemade sausage roll, fruit and plain scones with Tiptree Strawberry jam and clotted cream, a selection of sweet treats and a choice of tea for £30 per person. Their scones are huge, freshly baked and served warm, they really stole the show!!! See our full review of their wonderful afternoon tea at The Magic Mushroom Restaurant.
You have the option to upgrade to a Champagne afternoon tea. They also offer a children’s afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and pastries for £15 per person.
For more information or to book, visit The Magic Mushroom Restaurant website.
Location: Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.
Downham Hall, Billericay
Downham Hall is located in a tranquil spot between Billericay and Wickford in Essex. A boutique country house hotel and wedding venue, nestled in the Essex countryside with views across the rolling fields. Downham Hall offers breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as their Afternoon Tea, which runs from 12pm to 3pm, Wednesday thru to Saturday.
Afternoon Tea is served in the Orangery or dining room, all with stunning views. Presented on a traditional three tier stand, they offer a selection of delicate finger sandwiches with some savoury extras, a plain and a fruit scone, Cornish clotted cream and tiptree jam, followed by home made cakes and patisserie selection. Read our full review of Afternoon Tea at Downham Hall.
Classic afternoon tea is £30pp, you can upgrade to a Sparkling or G&T pairing afternoon tea as an optional upgrade and the Children’s afternoon tea (up to the age of 12) is £15.00pp.
For more information or to book, please visit Downham Hall’s website.
Location: Castledon Rd, Downham, Billericay CM11 1LG.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options available upon request.
The Inn at Belfairs, Leigh on Sea
The Inn at Belfairs in Leigh on Sea in Essex is situated on the outskirts of the picturesque Belfairs park. A premium pub restaurant that offers a great food menu. Not only offering afternoon tea but a selection of breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday roasts. At The Inn at Belfairs you will be greeted with beautiful cherry blossom trees, floral displays and a stunning canopy of flowers. They have a terrace and a garden to enjoy alfresco dining in the warmer months. It really does make the prettiest spot to enjoy an afternoon tea.
The afternoon tea at The Inn at Belfairs is served Monday to Saturday 12pm until 4pm and is £29 per person Mon – Fri (12pm – 4pm) and £35 per person Sat (12pm – 4pm) and includes unlimited tea or coffee. Without a finger sandwich in sight, you’ll instead receive a selection of generously topped crostinis. Alongside these you receive a hearty homemade sausage roll and the most delicious savoury muffin!
The savouries were followed by large home made scones, served with plenty of clotted cream and Tiptree Jam. Alongside your scones, you receive a gorgeous array of sweet treats including a chocolate orange mousse, lemon drizzle cupcake, a generously sized shortbread biscuit and the most incredible Biscoff cheesecake.
You can read our full review of the afternoon tea at The Inn at Belfairs here.
You can visit the The Inn at Belfairs website for more information or to book, or by calling: 01702 470000 or email theinnatbelfairs@gmail.com.
Location: Eastwood Rd N, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 4LR.
Tymperleys, Colchester
Tymperleys gets my vote for its historic charm. It is an ‘oasis of calm’ in the bustling town of Colchester. Set in a courtyard within a large walled garden, the historic building is very quaint. You would just walk right by if you didn’t know it was there. The afternoon tea is £27.50 per person and consists of one plain scone, one fruit scone with jam and clotted cream, 4 miniature cakes or fancies, 4 fingers sandwiches served with unlimited tea or cafetiere of coffee. They also serve Prosecco afternoon tea at £32.50 per person or Champagne Afternoon Tea at £37.50 per person. Children’s afternoon tea is £12.50.
You can enjoy your traditional afternoon tea in their tranquil garden.
To book and afternoon tea at Tymperleys please email info@tymperleys.co.uk or call them on 01206 765034. You can visit Tymperleys website for further information.
Location: Trinity St, Colchester CO1 1JN.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.
The Parlour Tea Room at Mad Dogs & Englishmen, Leigh-on-Sea
The Parlour Tea Room at Mad Dogs and Englishmen are famous locally for their themed afternoon teas. It appears that they do not do things by halves and go ‘all out’ decorating the whole venue as well as theming food and costumes to match! This is why they Mad Dogs and Englishmen feature on our list of Best Afternoon Teas in Essex. Read my review of the Beauty and the Beast Afternoon Tea.
Prices for their themed Afternoon teas are; Week day £45pp inc service. Weekends £50pp including service. This includes a full afternoon tea of beautifully themed savouries, scones & cakes with unlimited tea. Some of the themed afternoon teas that Mad Dogs and Englishmen offer are: Breakfast at Tiffany’s, ‘Be our Guest’ Afternoon Tea (inspired by Beauty & the Beast), Narnia, The Secret Garden, Grease, Snow White… check out their website for more information and the dates.
Please contact them for further information and booking via the Mad Dogs & Englishmen website.
Location: 1349, 1353 London Rd, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2AB.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available upon request.
Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend
The Roslin Beach Hotel is a fabulous spot for afternoon tea in Southend Essex, is a stylish and luxurious hotel in a quiet location overlooking the sea. From the moment I arrived at The Roslin, I was excited. Greeted by the most beautiful floral display at the entrance, as soon as you step inside the Roslin Beach Hotel, you know it is going to be a good experience. The doorways are decorated with gorgeous floral displays and the venue decor is modern and classy. I felt that everything had a luxurious feel to it. The staff couldn’t be more helpful and the Afternoon Tea certainly lived up to my expectations.
Afternoon Tea at The Roslin Beach Hotel was enjoyable from start to finish. The sandwiches had a great selection of fillings, from roast beef and horseradish to coronation chicken, they were generously filled and extremely fresh. A quiche is served alongside the savouries. The Roslin Hotel invites you to replenish your sandwiches at no extra cost which is always a nice touch.
The selection of cakes were some of the best I have tried during my tour of the Best Afternoon Teas in Essex. We were served a delicious array of mini sweet treats and the creme brûlée was simply to die for!
I felt The Roslin Beach Hotel was an amazing experience, from start to finish. I really enjoyed my luxurious experience, I’m sure you wouldn’t be disappointed! Afternoon Teas at The Roslin Beach Hotel start at £36.50 per person week days and £41.50 weekends with the option to add a glass of Prosecco. Children’s afternoon teas are also available. For more information or to book please visit Roslin Hotel website.
Location: Thorpe Esplanade, Thorpe Bay, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3BG.
Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.
Other great Afternoon Teas in Essex to try
Whilst I have personally visited all of the above venues and can recommend them, there are also lots of other great afternoon tea venues in Essex available which I hope to visit soon, they are:
- Aurum Restaurant – The Seven Hotel, 7 Clifton Terrace, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1DT.
- Blackmore Tea Rooms – The Green, Blackmore, Ingatestone CM4 0RL.
- Braintree Garden Centre – Cressing Rd, Cressing, Braintree CM77 8DH.
- Butts Green Garden Centre & Café – Mayes Lane Sandon, Chelmsford CM2 7RW.
- Camelia Hotel – 178 Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3AA.
- Casa Mia Coffee – 136 Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch, RM11 1DP
- Chantilly Brentwood – 14 Crown St, Brentwood CM14 4BA.
- Coffee at the Close – 10 Meon Cl, Springfield, Chelmsford CM1 7QQ.
- Crafty Bear Kitchen – 128 Newland Street, Witham, CM8 1BA.
- Down Hall Hotel & Spa – Matching Road, Hatfield Heath, Essex, CM22 7AS.
- Engine Tea Room – Coalhouse Fort, Princess Margaret Road, East Tilbury, RM18 8PB.
- Fete Lounge – 6 Station Rd, Upminster RM14 2UB.
- Flamingo – 48 High St, Billericay CM12 9BS.
- Forge Cottage Tea Room – The Forge, Chequers Rd, Romford RM3 7NA.
- Forget Me Not Tea Rooms – Tom’s Farm Shop, Maldon Rd, Tiptree, Colchester CO5 0QA.
- Fox in The Stables Tea Rooms – Petersfield ln, Gosfield, Halstead CO9 1PU.
- Frasers Tea Room – Frasers Guest House, 5 Maltings Road, Battlesbridge, Essex, SS11 7RF.
- Gemma’s of Leigh – 95-97 Broadway West Leigh on Sea SS9 2BU.
- Grandma Lilly’s Tea Rooms – 34-36 Frinton Rd, Holland-on-Sea, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 5UL.
- Greenwoods Hotel – Stock Rd, Stock, Ingatestone CM4 9BE.
- Hylands Estate – London Rd, Writtle, Chelmsford CM2 8WQ.
- La Petite Petanque – Cambridge Square Gardens, The Bowling Green Pavilion, Cambridge Road, Clifftown, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1EY.
- Le Bouchon Brasserie & Hotel – The Square, Heybridge CM9 4LT.
- Lemon Witch – 115 The Broadway, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 1PG.
- Little Easton Manor – Park Rd, Dunmow CM6 2JN.
- Loubees Tea Room – 56 Moulsham St, Chelmsford CM2 0JA.
- Malina Patisserie – 45 Kings Rd, Brentwood CM14 4DJ.
- Marygreen Manor Hotel – London Rd, Brentwood CM14 4NR.
- Mason Noir – 285-287 London Rd, Hadleigh, Benfleet SS7 2BN.
- Masons Restaurant – 155-157 Ingrave Rd, Brentwood CM13 2AA.
- Mayfield Farm Bakery & School – Mayfield Farm, Sheering Road, Harlow, CM17 0JP.
- Mrs Salisbury’s Famous Tea Rooms – 63 High Street, Maldon CM9 5EP & 2 The Street, Wickham Bishops CM8 3NN.
- Muthu Westcliff Hotel – 18-20 Westcliff Parade, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7QW.
- On the Latch – Burnham Rd, Althorne, Chelmsford CM3 6BL
- Owl’s Hill Tearoom – Owl’s Hill Tearoom, Owl’s Hill, Terling, Essex, CM3 2PW.
- Pear Tree Pantry – Spring Ln, Hatfield Peverel, Chelmsford CM3 2JW.
- Petals Tearoom – Ridgewell Rd, Great Yeldham, Halstead CO9 4RG.
- Pontlands Park – W Hanningfield Rd, Great Baddow, Chelmsford CM2 8HR.
- Potash Garden Centre and Tea room – 9 Main Rd, Hawkwell, Hockley SS5 4JN.
- Queen Bee’s Tea Room – 18 The High Street, Shoeburyness SS3 9AH.
- Remedy Tea Rooms – 57 High St, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1HZ.
- Rheas Bespoke Bakes – 2 Furtherwick Rd, Canvey Island SS8 9AA.
- Robyns Nest Writtle – 44 The Green, Writtle, Chelmsford, CM1 3DU.
- Roseylea Tea Rooms – Merlin Way, North Weald Airfield, North Weald, Essex CM16 6HR.
- San Fairie Ann – 43 Alexandra St, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1BW.
- Sands by the Sea – Southend-on-Sea SS1 1EE.
- Saras Tea Gardens – High St, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2EP.
- Sconch Tea Rooms – Unit 11, Blake House Craft Centre, Blake End, Braintree CM77 6SH.
- Serendipity Gift and Tea Shop – 106 High St, Maldon CM9 5ET.
- Small Talk Tea Rooms – Chelmsford Branch – 25 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6JE. Colchester Branch – 27 Eld Lane, Colchester, CO1 1LS and Romford Branch – The Liberty, 17 Laurie Walk, Romford, RM1 3RT.
- Sophie’s Kitchen – 2, King George’s Place, High St, Maldon CM9 5BZ.
- Springfield Cafe – Springfield Parish & Community Centre, Chelmsford CM16GX.
- Squires Coffee Shop – 11 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex, SS6 7EW.
- Stewarts Deli and Tea Room – 4 Tindal St, Chelmsford CM1 1ER.
- Sweet Pea Café – 74 Springfield Rd, Chelmsford CM2 6JY.
- Sweet Rose Cakery Upminster – 162 St. Marys Ln, Upminster RM14 3BS.
- Talliston House and Gardens – Talliston Newton Green, 51 Newton Green, Great Dunmow, Dunmow CM6 1DU.
- Tea Island – 168 High St, Hornchurch RM12 6AF.
- Tea on the Green – 3 Eves Cor, Danbury, Chelmsford CM3 4QF.
- Temple Café – 815 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 9SY.
- The Bee Shed at Lathcoats Farm – Beehive Lane, Galleywood, CM2 8LX.
- The Bread Box – 8 Heralds Way, South Woodham Ferrars, Chelmsford, CM3 5TQ.
- The Copper House – 121 Main Road, Danbury, Chelmsford, CM3 4DL.
- The Fancy Fox Patisserie – 49 Broadway W, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2BX.
- The Glass House Tea Room – 118 High St, Braintree CM7 1LA.
- The Hideaway Tearooms – The old Granary, Battlesbridge, Wickford SS11 7RE.
- The Hive Café – Chelmsford Museum, Oaklands park, Chelmsford CM2 9AQ.
- The Pier at Harwich – The Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3HH.
- The Potting Shed Hanging Gardens – A414 Ongar Rd, Writtle, Chelmsford CM1 3NT.
- The Rosey Lea Westcliff – 137 Hamlet Ct Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7EW.
- The Royal Hotel – 1 High St, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1JE.
- The Royal Rose – 390 Ongar Rd, Pilgrims Hatch, Brentwood CM15 9JH.
- The Secret Garden Tea Rooms – 7 Writtle Rd, Chelmsford CM1 3BL.
- The Strawberry Tea Room – Olivers Nurseries, Maldon Rd, Witham CM8 3HY.
- The Sunflower Bistro – 75 Queens Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1NL.
- The Tea Cosy – 83 Corbets Tey Rd, Upminster RM14 2AH.
- The Tea Room – South Essex Crematorium, Upminster RM142UY.
- The Tea Rooms – 46 Newland Street, Witham CM8 2AR.
- The Tea Rose Café – 10 Sir Isaac’s Walk, Colchester CO1 1JJ.
- The Village Tea Room – Heath Cottage, Stortford Road, Hatfield Heath, Bishop’s Stortford, CM22 7EB.
- The Vintage Rose Tea Room – 32 Quest Pl, Maldon CM9 5AG.
- The Waffle Bar – 144, High Street, Maldon, CM9 5
- The Waffle Bar – 189 Ardleigh Grn Rd, Hornchurch RM11 2SD.
- The Windmill Café Mountnessing – 265 Roman Rd, Mountnessing, Brentwood CM15 0UH.
- Venecci Coffee Lounge – 199 Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3AD
- Village Stores & Betty B’s Tea Room – Doddinghurst Rd, Doddinghurst, Brentwood CM15 0QP.
- Willow Tree Tea Room – 35 High St, Billericay CM12 9BA.
- Winners Tea Rooms – The Green, Finchingfield, Braintree, Essex CM7 4JX.
- Wood Cottage Tea Room & Patisserie – Braintree Road, Felsted CM6 3DJ.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is afternoon tea?
An Afternoon tea or high tea is a meal served mid afternoon, traditionally normally around 3-4pm. It consists of a selection of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a range of cakes and pastries. An afternoon tea would not be complete without a pot of Tea.
What is the history of afternoon tea?
Afternoon Tea is a quintessential British tradition that originated in the 19th century. Lady Bedford would often get hungry between lunch and dinner and would request a snack of sandwiches served with cakes and tea. It gradually became a social affair.
Can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated during afternoon tea?
Most venues are able to accommodate dietary requirements for an afternoon tea. Please enquire direct with your chosen venue, most venues offer vegan afternoon teas, vegetarian afternoon teas and gluten free afternoon tea.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for afternoon tea?
It is always recommended to make a reservation for afternoon tea at the majority of venues. You do not need to prebook an afternoon tea at a Tiptree Tearoom.
How much does afternoon tea typically cost?
The cost of an afternoon tea can vary greatly from venue to venue. In Essex afternoon tea can range from approximately £20 to £40 per head. In London they would be typically be around £50 to £90 per person, depending on the theme or venue.
Are children allowed to attend afternoon tea?
Yes, children can attend an afternoon tea at many venues. It has been increasingly popular for venues to offer a specific children’s afternoon menu. Checking with the venue would be advisable.
Can afternoon tea be hosted at home or is it primarily offered in hotels and tearooms?
Afternoon Tea can be served at home as well as in restaurants, hotels and tea rooms. An afternoon tea at home can make for a lovely celebration whilst making it more affordable. There are also a range of companies that offer afternoon tea for delivery if you didn’t want to make your own.
Are there any themed or seasonal variations of afternoon tea?
It has been increasingly popular for venues to offer themed and seasonal variations of afternoon tea. Christmas time can be a popular season for a themed afternoon tea. Many venues also offer an afternoon tea themed using popular film or book themes, either using themed cakes and sandwiches or decorating the venue itself.
Can afternoon tea be served for special occasions or events?
Afternoon Tea can be served for a number of special occasions. It can make the perfect celebration for baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, hen parties, even weddings.
Are there any alternative options for people who don’t drink tea?
You don’t have to drink tea at an afternoon tea, many venues are happy to offer you an alternative drink.
Can I purchase afternoon tea gift vouchers for others?
Purchasing an afternoon tea gift voucher can make a perfect gift for a special occasion.
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Thank you for reading ‘The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex and Afternoon teas near me’. As an afternoon tea blogger and my love of afternoon teas, I had such a wonderful time visiting each of these venues and would happily recommend each and every one. If you know of an amazing afternoon venue in Essex that I need to try, please pop me a note in the comments!
Written in collaboration with the above venues, afternoon teas are provided on a gifted basis for review, please note all comments and opinions are my own. All prices are correct at time of publishing.
You need to go to the cup and saucer vintage tea rooms walton hall farm Walton’s Hall, Linford, Stanford-le-Hope SS17 0RH. Beautiful place family run tea room, people are so lovely and would go above and beyond for their customers.
Thank you so much for your recommendation 🙂
Another recommendation for The Cup and Saucer Visit brave Tea room at Walton Hall Farm, Walton’s Hall, Linford, Stanford-le-Hope SS17 0RH.
It’s a lovely family run little business that puts their customers first and a great atmosphere!!!