The Best Afternoon Teas in the Cotswolds
Celebrate Afternoon Tea Week (10–16 August) with a delicious treat in the Cotswolds.
Few traditions are as wonderfully British as afternoon tea. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply looking for an excuse to indulge, the Cotswolds is home to some of the country's most memorable afternoon tea experiences.
From elegant country house hotels and luxury spa retreats to charming cafés and royal gardens, you'll find everything from freshly baked scones and delicate finger sandwiches to handcrafted pastries, locally sourced ingredients and perfectly brewed tea.
So, whether you're planning a summer day out, a relaxing weekend away or marking Afternoon Tea Week this August, here are some of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in the Cotswolds.
The Old Bell Hotel, Malmesbury
Enjoy award-winning afternoon tea at The Old Bell Hotel, England's oldest hotel, located beside the magnificent Malmesbury Abbey. Renowned for its creative seasonal and themed afternoon teas, guests can tuck into a delicious selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an assortment of handcrafted cakes and sweet treats, all served with a choice of fine teas, including the hotel's own signature Old Bell Blend. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the elegant lounge, Abbey Row restaurant or on the outdoor terrace when the weather is fine. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available with advance notice, and four-legged friends are welcome too.
The Greenway Hotel & Spa, Cheltenham
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at The Greenway Hotel & Spa, a beautiful Elizabethan manor house on the outskirts of Cheltenham. Served in the light-filled Garden Room or on the terrace during the warmer months, afternoon tea includes a selection of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and preserves, seasonal cakes and pastries, and a choice of loose-leaf teas. For an extra touch of indulgence, upgrade to a Champagne Afternoon Tea with a glass of Veuve Clicquot.
Buckland Manor, Near Broadway
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon tea at Buckland Manor, a charming country house hotel surrounded by beautiful gardens in the Cotswolds. Served in elegant surroundings, afternoon tea features a selection of freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade cakes and warm scones with clotted cream and preserves, accompanied by freshly brewed tea or a glass of Collet Brut Champagne for an extra special treat. Whether enjoyed beside the warmth of a roaring fire or on the terrace during the summer months, afternoon tea at Buckland Manor is a wonderful way to slow down and savour a classic British tradition.
THE PIG - in the Cotswolds
Afternoon tea gets a fresh twist at THE PIG-in the Cotswolds with its delicious Buttered & Baked experience. Forget the traditional three-tier stand – this generous feast celebrates homemade, seasonal bakes, starting with warm buttery treats and savoury favourites, before moving on to freshly baked cakes and sweet delights. Served in the characterful surroundings of this rural retreat, it's a relaxed and contemporary take on a classic British tradition, perfect for anyone looking for something a little different during their visit to the Cotswolds.
The Bath Priory, Bath
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in the peaceful surroundings of The Bath Priory. Served in the hotel’s elegant lounges or beautiful gardens on warmer days, afternoon tea features a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of handcrafted cakes and pastries. Pair your treats with a choice of fine teas, or make the occasion extra special with a glass of Laurent-Perrier Champagne.
Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter
Enjoy a classic afternoon tea in the elegant surroundings of Lords of the Manor, a beautifully restored 17th-century country house in the picturesque village of Upper Slaughter. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and rolling Cotswold countryside, it's the perfect place to relax over a selection of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, and warm scones served with clotted cream and preserves, accompanied by a choice of fine teas. With seasonal menus and dietary options available, afternoon tea at Lords of the Manor is a wonderful way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the Cotswolds.
The Slaughters Manor House, Lower Slaughter
Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at The Slaughters Manor House, served from Tuesday to Saturday in the elegant bar, lounges or beautiful gardens. Enjoy a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, handcrafted pastries and cakes, all accompanied by a choice of Newby London teas. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply taking time to relax, it's a wonderfully refined way to enjoy one of Britain's favourite traditions in the heart of the Cotswolds.
Wild Thyme & Honey, Ampney Crucis
Treat yourself to afternoon tea at Wild Thyme & Honey, where beautifully presented finger sandwiches, freshly baked cakes and warm scones are served alongside your choice of tea or coffee in stylish surroundings. For an extra touch of indulgence, upgrade to a glass of Champagne and make the occasion even more memorable. If you're planning a Cotswolds getaway, the hotel's Cotswold Explorer stay package also includes afternoon tea, breakfast and a tour of the nearby Cotswolds Distillery, making it a wonderful way to experience the region's food, drink and countryside.
De Vere Cotswold Water Park & The Old Boathouse
With sweeping views across the sparkling lake, afternoon tea at De Vere Cotswold Water Park is a genteel and rewarding experience. Traditional afternoon tea is served in The Brasserie and the Lounge Bar, while an Italian-inspired afternoon tea can be enjoyed in The Old Boathouse. When the weather allows, guests can also dine al fresco on the beautiful lakeside terrace.
The menu changes with the seasons, but you’ll typically find traditional treats such as sun-blushed tomato tarts, cream cheese, cucumber and watercress sandwiches and scones with clotted cream and jam. The Italian-inspired afternoon tea includes open focaccia sandwiches, scones with mascarpone cream and zesty lemon curd and irresistible cakes. And, if the occasion requires a little something extra, embellish the experience with a glass of Champagne. Booking essential.
Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewksbury
Enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea in the elegant surroundings of Hilton Puckrup Hall Hotel & Golf Club, Tewksbury. Served daily in Coopers Tea Room or the Bar Lounge, this delightful experience includes a selection of freshly prepared finger sandwiches, warm homemade scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of delicate miniature cakes, all beautifully presented on traditional tiers. For an extra touch of celebration, add a glass of sparkling fizz and make the occasion truly special. Perfect for catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself.
Pond Cottage Garden, Near Berkeley
Enjoy a special garden tea experience at Pond Cottage, a beautiful private three-acre garden in the South Cotswolds, opening exclusively in support of the National Garden Scheme. Take time to explore colourful borders, wildflower meadows, an old orchard and a Mediterranean-style courtyard before relaxing with a generous slice of homemade cake and a cup of tea or coffee. Available for pre-booked group visits, this is a wonderful way to enjoy a peaceful Cotswold garden, delicious homemade treats and good company, while supporting a charity that helps fund nursing and health charities across the UK.
The Folk of Gloucester
Enjoy afternoon tea in one of Gloucester's oldest and most historic buildings at The Folk of Gloucester. Available on selected Fridays, afternoon tea is served in the cosy café within this beautifully preserved 500-year-old Tudor townhouse, featuring a delicious selection of homemade sandwiches, freshly baked scones and cakes, accompanied by tea or coffee. After your visit, take time to explore the historic rooms and peaceful garden, or chat to the knowledgeable volunteers to discover more about the building's fascinating past. Vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free and other dietary options are available with advance notice.
The Lygon Arms, Broadway
Enjoy a classic afternoon tea surrounded by more than 600 years of history at The Lygon Arms in the heart of Broadway. Served in the elegant restaurant, cosy lounges or picturesque courtyard when the sun is shining, it's the perfect setting to savour delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones and irresistible sweet treats.
Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham
Treat yourself to afternoon tea in the historic Great Hall or, on warmer days, relax on the South Lawn Terrace overlooking the estate. Choose from a selection of fine teas, homemade herbal infusions or freshly brewed coffee before enjoying handcrafted savouries, warm scones and beautifully presented cakes.
Dormy House, Broadway
Afternoon tea at Dormy House puts a contemporary twist on a timeless tradition. Relax in stylish surroundings while enjoying seasonal finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and an ever-changing selection of handcrafted pastries created by the talented kitchen team. Ideal for celebrations or simply slowing down and enjoying an afternoon in the Cotswolds.
Highgrove Gardens
Enjoy an afternoon tea fit for royalty at the beautiful Highgrove Gardens. Available as part of selected Champagne Tea Tours, you'll explore the stunning gardens before enjoying freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade cakes, warm scones, tea or coffee and a glass of Highgrove Champagne, accompanied by the gentle melodies of the resident pianist.
Huffkins Tearooms
No afternoon tea guide to the Cotswolds would be complete without Huffkins Tearooms. A much-loved Cotswolds institution, Huffkins has been serving freshly baked treats since 1890 and is renowned for its traditional afternoon teas. Enjoy a tempting selection of finger sandwiches, warm fruit scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of handmade cakes and pastries, all served with your choice of tea or coffee. With tearooms across the Cotswolds, it's the perfect place to pause and enjoy a classic British tradition during your visit.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway
Experience afternoon tea with a nostalgic twist aboard the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway. Relax in the comfort of a beautifully restored First Class carriage as a heritage steam train winds its way through the stunning Cotswold countryside. Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea featuring delicate finger sandwiches, a freshly baked scone with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of delicious cakes, all served as you take in the picturesque views. Your ticket also includes unlimited travel on the railway for the day, making it a memorable way to explore this beautiful corner of the Cotswolds.
Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, Chipping Campden
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at Cotswold House Hotel & Spa, located in the heart of Chipping Campden. Served daily in the Hidcote Brasserie, afternoon tea includes a tempting selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked seasonal cakes and pastries, warm scones with clotted cream and preserves, and a choice of loose-leaf teas. During the summer months, guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel's peaceful walled garden, while the cosy brasserie provides the perfect setting on cooler days. For an extra touch of indulgence, Champagne can be added, and four-legged companions are welcome in the Campden Cocktail Bar, making it a wonderful stop for both visitors and locals exploring the Cotswolds.
Looking for something a little different...
StarBistro at National Star, Cheltenham
Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with a difference at StarBistro, located at National Star in Ullenwood, near Cheltenham. During term time, afternoon tea is prepared and served by National Star students, who are developing valuable hospitality, life and social skills through the charity's social enterprise. Outside of term time, the StarBistro team continues to serve the same delicious selection. Choose from traditional, savoury and children's afternoon teas, and even bring your four-legged friend along, with treats available for dogs too.
Cotswold Canoe Hire, Lechlade
Looking for an afternoon tea with a difference? Cotswold Canoe Hire offers memorable experiences that combine delicious treats with time spent on the River Thames. Drift along the river on a traditional rowing boat with a luxury picnic hamper, complete with a premium picnic, cosy blankets and cushions, or paddle to the historic Kelmscott Manor by Canadian canoe, where you'll enjoy entry to the house and gardens, followed by a traditional cream tea before returning by minibus. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available with advance notice, and dogs are welcome to join the adventure too.
Cotswold Tours & Travel – Cotswold Cottage Tea Experience
Discover a unique taste of the Cotswolds with Cotswold Tours & Travel’s Cotswold Cottage Tea Experience, part of a private day tour exploring the beauty, history and charm of the region. Step inside a traditional Cotswold cottage and enjoy a hands-on baking experience with a local host, learning how to create classic afternoon tea favourites including homemade scones, cakes and other sweet treats.
After baking, sit down to enjoy your creations alongside a traditional afternoon tea of sandwiches and freshly brewed tea, all in the welcoming surroundings of a Cotswold home. Combining local hospitality, countryside charm and a delicious taste of British tradition, this is a memorable way to experience afternoon tea as part of a wider Cotswolds adventure.
Looking for more foodie inspiration?
From cosy cafés and traditional tearooms to award-winning restaurants and country pubs, there's no shortage of delicious places to eat and drink in the Cotswolds. Browse more places to eat, drink and indulge during your next visit.
