Anyone who knows me, will know I love Afternoon Teas! Whether it’s to celebrate a special birthday, a baby shower, to catch up with friends or spend time with my family, a quintessentially British afternoon tea is the perfect option. 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 afternoon tea venues, 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‘. So without hesitation and in no particular order, here they are: The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex for 2023:
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This is the Complete and Ultimate Guide to over 100 of the Best Afternoon Teas in Essex in 2023
Prested Hall Hotel, Colchester
Prested Hall in Colchester Essex is a gorgeous 15th century Manor House set at the end of a long and impressive driveway. I absolutely loved the relaxed and comfortable feeling I had when I entered Prested Hall. It’s a wedding venue, boutique hotel and spa, traditional crossed with modern, makes for a great experience.
Our afternoon tea at a Prested Hall was set within the cosy library, a lovely room where I felt as if I were ‘Lady of the Manor’. They also serve afternoon tea in The Garden Room and The Orangery.
This afternoon tea in Colchester was very impressive. The sandwiches included some more unusual fillings from your regular afternoon teas which was a really nice addition. They were very fresh and generously filled.
The scones were some of the best I have tasted, lightly spiced and served warm with a choice of jams and clotted cream. They were a real delight. The cakes and sweets were all very good. A really nice selection of cheesecake and other perfectly sized sweet treats.
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Prested Hall, from the sweeping driveway, traditional and classy venue to the very enjoyable afternoon tea! It’s definitely one for our list of the Best Afternoon Teas in Essex! The menus are changed regularly and available online. They are priced at £21 per head for their Traditional Afternoon Tea or £28 for the Champagne Afternoon Tea. They now also offer a ‘Gentleman’s Savoury Afternoon Tea that comprises of sandwiches with a savoury cheese scone, sausage roll, steak and mushroom parcel, minted lamb kofta and a quiche. Prested Hall also offers a children’s afternoon tea. Read my full review of Prested Hall’s Traditional and Savoury Afternoon Teas.
Prested Hall do offer outdoor dining for afternoon tea but is weather dependant. For further information or to book please visit Prested Hall’s website.
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 £22pp. Prosecco Afternoon Tea is £29.50pp and champagne afternoon tea is £34 pp. Kids afternoon tea is £12.45 per child. Vegetarian and Vegan 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.
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 £17.95 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.
Tiptree Tea Rooms, Essex
Tiptree Tea Rooms have 9 great tea rooms across Essex where you can enjoy their afternoon Teas. They are: Tiptree, Dedham, Heybridge Basin, Writtle, Saffron Walden, Cressing Temple, Billericay, Osea, Chelmsford and they also have a tea room in Southwold in Suffolk.
Tiptree Tea Rooms charge £30 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. To see our full review of the Afternoon Tea at Tiptree Tea Rooms here.
To book or for further information please visit Tiptree Tea Rooms Website.
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 £32.50 per person 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.
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.
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 £22.95 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 a very generous portion. For further information or to book please visit Merrymeade Tea Room website.
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 £24 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.
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 £25.95 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 £31.95 which includes a glass of fine Prosecco. They offer Children’s High Tea at £7.95 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.
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 £18.50 per head, Luxury £23.00 per head and includes a glass of Prosecco.
They also have an option for a Bottomless Afternoon Tea for £30.00 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 £10 per child.
To book visit Little Channels website or call 01245 362210. Please note a £5pp deposit is required.
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 starts at £22.50 midweek and £25.95 at weekends with the option to upgrade to a Champagne afternoon tea for £8 extra. They offer a savoury afternoon tea and a children’s afternoon tea which is brilliant. It is served on its own mini cake stand! My daughter loved all of it!
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 is £19.50 per head. 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.
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 £19.95 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.
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.
Prices for their themed Afternoon teas are; Week day £38.50pp inc service. Weekends £44pp including service. This includes a full afternoon tea of beautifully themed savouries, scones & cakes with unlimited tea. They have the following themes available throughout the year: Aladdin – A Genie-us Afternoon tea, running from 14th January 2023 to 5th March 2023. Other themes they offer are: Breakfast at Tiffany’s, ‘Be our Guest’ Afternoon Tea (inspired by Beauty & the Beast), Narnia, The Secret Garden… check out their website for more information and the dates.
Please contact them for further information and booking via the Mad Dogs & Englishmen website. They do not have any outdoor dining space.
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 £18.95 per person, Kids is £10.95 per child and takeaway is £15.95 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 £22.95 per person or takeaway is £19.95 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
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 a marquee for rainy days which is heated in the winter. Read our full review of Afternoon Tea at Wildflower Teas on The Bus.
The 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, ranging from: Lotus biscuits, wizards, dinosaurs and seasonal afternoon teas.
Visit Wildflower Teas website for further information.
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 £25 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 from £35. 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.
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.
Afternoon Tea at Scotts of Southend is £19.95 per person and consists of a fantastic range of sweet treats, scones and sandwiches served on a mini picnic bench cake stand. The in-house bakers make lots of the sweet treats from scratch and the chef’s freshly prepare your sandwiches. This comes with unlimited English Breakfast Tea or Americano coffee.
They also offer a standard tea, vegan afternoon tea or gluten free afternoon tea. (Please mention this whilst booking). Book on the Scotts of Southend Website.
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 £25.95pp, Sparkling or G&T pairing afternoon tea £32.00pp 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.
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.
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 £20 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 £25 per person or Champagne Afternoon Tea at £28 per person.
You can enjoy your traditional afternoon tea in their garden, where they have parasols and there are plans to add an awning too.
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.
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.
- Bourgee Chelmsford – 4-5 Exchange Way, Chelmsford CM1 1XB.
- 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.
- 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.
- Heidi’s Coffee & Eatery Runwell – 71 St Luke’s Way, Runwell, Essex, SS11 7JJ.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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 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.
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 £15 to £40 per head. In London they would be typically be around £30 to £80 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’. 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.
3 Comments
Penny Philpot
atYou 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.
littlemissedenrose
atThank you so much for your recommendation 🙂
Elana Major
atAnother 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!!!