“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea. ” Henry James
What a marvellous ceremony it is! The sandwiches, the scones, the cakes- afternoon tea is one of life’s utter pleasures. In Cambridge, we are lucky enough to have plenty of choice for a top quality tea too. Here are our favourite 5 afternoon tea in Cambridge experiences.
Fitzbillies
51-52 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG or 36 Bridge St, Cambridge CB2 1UW
Fitzbillies has been serving delicious cakes to the people of Cambridge since 1920 and is still going strong with two shops. Home of the famous Chelsea Buns, the afternoon tea is a tasty and traditional serving of sandwiches, sultana scones and cakes, freshly baked on the premises. You can book ahead for larger groups, but smaller groups can call in and take a chance at the weekend. The Chelsea buns don’t feature in the afternoon tea so be sure to take a box home with you- you won’t be sorry! Featured in our foodies guide to Cambridge.
Parker’s Tavern
52-42 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD
For a treat and a really decadent afternoon tea, head to Parkers Tavern. The tea has a Cambridge theme so brush up on your Cambridge history as you feast on delicious cakes, scones and sandwiches. ,The setting is also beautiful as the restaurant is situated inside the grand University Arms Hotel, over looking Parkers Piece. You must book ahead. The hotel is beautiful too!
The Orchard Tea Garden
47 Mill Way, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9ND
Choose between two different afternoon teas here at the Orchard Tea Garden. Both options give you the classic combination of scones, sandwiches and well made cake. The larger option coming with a selection of mini cakes. Enjoy a pre or post tea walk from this beautiful location. Complete with deckchairs in good weather, or take your tea indoors in the Pavilion for chillier days, the setting for this experience is top notch. Book ahead.
The Ivy
16 Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TB
Tasty twists on the classics, the The Ivy Brasserie offer a delicious afternoon tea with filled brioche rolls, cheesecake and doughnuts. Afternoon tea is served from 2 must be booked ahead. Centrally based, why not enjoy a spot of shopping pre of post tea? A lovely day out! There are plenty of Ivy brasseries around the country, so a gift voucher is also a great option.
The Stove
14 Alms Hill, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2SH
A little out of the city but completely worth the trip. The Stove serves a delicious afternoon tea at the wonderful price. Freshly made sandwiches, scones and lovely cakes- all made on the premises to order. A glass of elderflower fizz is served alongside too, making it feel like such a treat. A must visit so do book ahead.
Have you visited any other wonderful places for afternoon tea in Cambridge? Do let us know in the comments below. A little further from the city but Bedford Lodge serve a delicious afternoon tea too, as well as having a luxurious spa.
More ideas for honouring afternoon week here. Our other local food recommendations here.
