7 of the best afternoon tea venues in the local area

Aug 18, 2026 | 0 comments

Afternoon tea is hugely popular, turning simple tea, sandwiches, and cakes into a special experience.

Proper teapots, tiered cake stands, finger sandwiches, and bite-sized desserts all add a sense of occasion, and it can be a great alternative to formal dining for a birthday or anniversary meal.

The naturally slow-paced nature of afternoon tea makes it the perfect occasion to linger over with family, or to enjoy as a social get-together with friends.

Read on to discover seven of the best afternoon tea venues in the local area, and what to expect from them.

Taking tea and cake to the next level, more and more venues are offering afternoon tea

Part of the appeal of afternoon tea is that it’s more than just a bite to eat or a quick cuppa. Every venue has its own unique take and offers a different menu, so there’s always somewhere new to visit and something new to try. Most venues will ask you to book ahead for afternoon tea, so make sure to double-check this to ensure you reserve your table if necessary.

1. The Lavender Tea Rooms, Bakewell

This independent tearoom in Bakewell offers classic afternoon tea in traditional surroundings. Find it in Hebden Court, a charming courtyard in the heart of Bakewell.

Afternoon tea is described as its speciality, and includes Traditional and Deluxe, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options also available. All can be enjoyed in the comfort of the shabby-chic tearoom, while alfresco seating is also available.

Dogs are welcome in the courtyard, and water is provided for them. Please book ahead.

2. Edensor Tea Cottage, Chatsworth Estate

This is the perfect choice if you’re out and about with your pooches, as the tearoom welcomes dogs both inside and outside. Enjoy exploring and walking around the Edensor and Chatsworth area with your pets, before heading over for your afternoon tea.

As well as the traditional range of sweet and savoury items, you can also add a bottle of prosecco for an extra-special treat for £7 more.

3. World of Wedgwood, Barlaston

If you’ve got little ones with you, then World of Wedgwood combines lots of fun children’s activities with a delicious afternoon tea later on.

Their Clay Club includes pottery painting, a potter’s wheel class, and a free family trail so you can all explore the V&A Wedgwood Collection housed there.

The Hedgwood’s afternoon tea for children includes vegetable batons, sandwiches, fruit, a chocolate plant pot, and a choice of drink, and there’s an adult menu with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options for you.

4. The Rabbit Hole Tea Room, Stoke-on-Trent

For a quirky afternoon tea with a twist, the Rabbit Hole Tea Room takes you all the way to Wonderland! This unique and cosy tearoom is themed around the Lewis Carroll classic Alice in Wonderland, and you’ll be surrounded by whimsy and wonder as you enjoy your experience.

The three-course afternoon tea is served on a traditional tiered stand, with sandwiches and salad garnish on the bottom, scones, fruit preserves, and cream in the middle, and sweets and desserts at the top.

5. Weston Hall, Stafford

For a more grandiose venue for your afternoon tea, you could try Weston Hall in Stafford. This historic Grade II-listed Elizabethan manor dates back to 1550, and is set within 20 acres of Staffordshire countryside.

Alongside the traditional afternoon tea and vegetarian and vegan options, you’ll find a few more unusual choices. The Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea is served with a pint of Guinness or cask ale, the Platinum package includes Champagne and a balloon display, and the Guilt-Free option offers nutritious, delicious wholefood recipes as an alternative.

6. Bygones Tearoom, Newcastle-under-Lyme

Step back in time as you enter Bygones, filled with lovingly restored furniture and memorabilia from the 1930s through to the 1970s.

Their extensive afternoon tea menu includes the 1940s Threepenny Bit, 1950s Silver Sixpence, 1960s Shilling, and 1970s Half Crown. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options are available, and they also have a dedicated selection for children.

7. The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse, Ockbrook

This cosy, multi-award-winning teahouse is found in the heart of the village.

Choose to sit inside the pretty tearoom interior, or in the relaxed undercover heated barn, which has both indoor and outdoor seating. This space is perfect for walkers, cyclists, and dog owners, with no need to worry about muddy boots or paws!

However, while the full menu is served in the barn, if you’re planning an afternoon tea, this is for indoor dining only. The traditional offering can be adapted for vegans and vegetarians, and there’s also a prosecco option for an extra £5, or a two-hour bottomless option for an extra £20.

Get in touch

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