Salmon sandwiches, scones and some seriously tasty cakes - here in Colchester, we love afternoon tea! Whether you're on the hunt for the full spread or a no-frills cream tea, you have plenty of wonderful options for afternoon tea. With Afternoon Tea week quickly approaching (12th-18th August 2024), there isn't a better time to book yourself in for quintessentially British experience.
You can read about all of the great Afternoon Tea options in Colchester on our 'Cafes and Afternoon Tea' page, but keep reading for a selection to sink your teeth into! Lots of the outlets below offer vegan and vegetarian options, and gluten free options, but be sure to visit our pages for more information.
Experience Tangible Luxury at Greyfriars
This recently restored building is home to a hotel, a restaurant, a bar and also one of the city's most luxurious afternoon teas! Whether you dine in the historic cloisters, or the beautifully elegant Rose Room, you'll be served intricate pâtisserie and scrumptious scones, and treated to renowing JING teas at Greyfriars.
Alongside their traditional afternoon tea, Greyfriars offer a selection of alternative menus, featuring special ingredients and dietary adjustments. Why not try a choux bun, tartlets or lobster cocktails? The choices are endless.
Some of Greyfriar's tasty offerings, including intricate pâtisserie.
Enjoy Victorian Elegance and Tasty Tipples at Tea at the George
Located in the heart of the city centre, Tea at the George is a new spot which serves up not only tasty food and drinks, but also a great experience.
At the venue, inspired by Victorian Elegance, you'll find pretty-in-pink decor, fun teapots and lovely crockery, all specially chosen to compliment the aesthetic. Tea at the George boasts seasonal menu, with gluten free, vegan and traditional menus.
DIY Your Perfect Afternoon Tea at Guntons
Maybe you've got a busy schedule, or prefer to do things on your own terms. If so, Gunton's is the perfect spot for you as this traditional grocers is the one-stop shop for everything you need for a DIY afternoon tea.
With over 100 cheeses on offer at any one time, you'll find a broad selection of tea, coffees, cakes, Tiptree products, biscuits, rillettes and hamper baskets. All you need to bring is the bread!
Why not pick up a jar of Tiptree's finest jams and conserves? You can find this and more at Gunton's.
Take it back to the Classics at the Tiptree Tea Room
You know what they say, Guinness tastes better in Dublin! Did you know the same applies to jam?
Lots of visitors - and locals! - are surprised to learn that their favourite jam comes from a small village just outside of Colchester: Tiptree! Wilkin and Sons are all about quality, and have plenty of spots where you can enjoy their world-famous products. With tea rooms located in Dedham and Tiptree, you can sample their high-quality jams and conserves as part of a scrumptious afternoon tea.
Tiptree Tea Rooms serve a tasty afternoon tea in Dedham and Tiptree, made from their own produce.
If this blog has whet your appetite for Afternoon tea, you can read about all of the great Afternoon Tea options in Colchester on our 'Cafes and Afternoon Tea' page.
