Enjoy National Cream Tea Day in Colchester

The Cream Tea was first eaten in Devon in the 11th century - but it wasnt until the 1850s, a time when people started to travel, and tourism became an industry that it grew into the popular & traditional afternoon treat that we know and love today.

Cream Teas throw up alot of questions - scone as in gone or scone as in own? jam first? clotted cream or butter? strawberry or raspberry jam? The most important question is... Where can we get one in & around Colchester?

For the quintessential British Cream Tea

(ie - Fruit Scones, Strawberry Jam, Butter, Clotted Cream and a pot of tea)

Tymperleys Tea Room- This gorgeous timber framed building on Trinity Street serves traditional fayre and their homemade scones (and cakes) are a delight. They can also be enjoyed out in the beautiful walled garden.

The Essex Rose - 'Tiptree' Tea Room - One of a plethora of tea rooms operated by famous Jam makers Wilkin & Sons of Tiptree, the Essex Rose serves cream tea in the heart of the pictureques village of Dedham. You can also find a tearoom at the farm and factory in Tiptree itself.

Jacquelines Tea Room - With a vintage themed interior, Jacquelines is one of the quirkier tea rooms in Colchester Town Centre. Enjoy your cream tea with a serving of the Glen Miller Band.

For the more substantial Afternoon Tea

(Finger Sandwiches, a selection of small cakes PLUS a cream tea)

The Rose Room at Greyfriars - alongside a traditional Afternoon Tea, GreyFriars offer a Gentlemans Tea (Savory) as well as options for vegetarians & vegans, just give them 24hours notice before you arrive.

Wivenhoe House - The grand building and its surrounds were made for you to enjoy afternoon tea. It's splendour is not just reserved for hotel guests, just make sure to book in advance.

T at The George - newly refurbished, the George Hotel will be opening their dedicated afternoon tea lounge SOON - and we can't wait to go and try it out!

Wherever you pick for you cream tea, be sure to ask for the finest local Tiptree Jam! Perhaps you could even pick some up in your local supermarket (or the Visit Colchester Gift Shop!) and enjoy your own at home? It doesn't have to be #NationalCreamTeaDay to have a cream tea!