Fancy a little afternoon tea as a treat? Here are five of the best in Staffordshire
Now we are on the other side of lockdown, the world is slowly finding its feet in the new normal. And we can be forgiven for needing to treat ourselves once in a while after everything that’s been going on over the last few months. We have a perfect idea. Grab your bestie – or get the whole gang together – and indulge in a little afternoon tea in Staffordshire.
There’s just something about bite-sized cakes and a good cup of tea that soothes the soul and makes you feel like royalty all at the same time. Check out our top-rated tea rooms for the finest in finger sandwiches and more (all pronunciations of scone welcome!).
Due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions make sure that you call and book in advance at each venue.
1. Vintage Tea Emporium, Uttoxeter
If vintage vibes is what you’re looking for in your afternoon tea then you have to check out the Vintage Tea Emporium in Uttoxeter. This hidden gem pairs mismatched crockery with delicious petit fours prepared by a Ritz-trained chef to create a deliciously unique experience.
Husband and wife team, Matt and Samantha have run the cute café since 2017 – and were fortunate enough to win a ‘Finest Tea Rooms in England’ award from This England magazine back in 2018.
For the quintessential, vintage tea experience, head to Uttoxeter and indulge in a traditional spread from £14.50pp.
2. World of Wedgewood, Stoke-on-Trent
Does it get anymore ‘Stoke’ than this? See where your china is made before you sip your tea from it – afternoon tea at the World of Wedgewood is a full-day experience in itself. Take a tour of the famous factory and V&A Collection before sitting down for a spot of Wedgewood Loose Leaf and a selection of treats.
Highly recommended for its great service and added activities, the World of Wedgewood is a great gift idea or a perfect unique day out. Get a gift experience voucher for Afternoon Tea for Two from £59 and also includes entry to the V&A Collection and Factory Tour.
3. The Red Lion, Stafford
Exposed brick, wooden beams and leather chairs – The Red Lion in Bradley, Stafford is the rustic alternative to fine china and petit pretention. Neighbour to the historical Church of All Saints and St Marys, The Red Lion is a firm favourite for family dinners; taking traditional ‘pub grub’ to the next level.
Enjoy a ‘Classic Afternoon Tea’ from £15.95pp or upgrade to a ‘Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea’ served with mini pints of ale and gourmet scotch eggs from £17.95pp.
4. Totally Delicious, Trentham
Looking for an afternoon tea with a twist? Totally Delicious has the Trentham Garden Tea Rooms and offers an Afternoon ‘Tapas’ Tea including bread, olives, sweet and savoury tapas options and cup of your favourite hot brew. What could be better then finishing a long day’s shopping with quesadillas, halloumi, fresh strawberries and chocolate churros? You can even add bottomless prosecco to really step up your afternoon tea game.
Enjoy afternoon tapas from Enjoy Staffordshire’s ‘Tourism and Good Food’ Silver Award for 2019 from £19.95pp.
5. Rambler’s Retreat, Alton
Nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Dimmingsdale, a visit to the Rambler’s Retreat in Alton is a great option for anyone who isn’t a fan of rollercoasters. Now a walk in the gorgeous Dimmingsdale Valley is treat enough, but when you’ve finally exhausted yourself, why not indulge in one of the takeaway afternoon tea boxes available.
For just £12.95 per person, you can enjoy a cup of tea, coffee or juice, a choice of sandwiches with crisps, a savoury quiche, homemade sausage roll and a choice of dessert.
Ramblers Retreat Afternoon Teas must be pre-ordered and paid for in advance, Afternoon Teas cannot be ordered on the day. Visit ramblersretreat.co.uk for more information.
Anyone else feeling peckish?