13 Places to Enjoy Afternoon Tea
Leicestershire is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the timeless elegance of Afternoon Tea. And this is only right and proper because Afternoon Tea is thought to have been invented in the county in the mid-1840s by the Duchess of Bedford, who, while visiting Belvoir Castle, needed something to douse her mid-afternoon hunger pangs.
The quintessential Afternoon Tea experience revolves around a few key ingredients: freshly brewed tea, delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. A delectable and elegant affair, it has become synonymous with relaxation and conversation amid a busy day.
In Leicestershire, you can choose between grand, spectacular countryside venues such as Belvoir Castle, Stapleford Park near Melton and Kilworth House near Lutterworth. These properties promise not only a lovely spread but also breath-taking views of the idyllic English countryside.
Alternatively, if you seek a more intimate setting, opt for comfortable tearooms like Miss B’s in Melton Mowbray, Softleys in Market Bosworth or Beardsley’s in Rearsby. These charming spots offer a cosy atmosphere for sharing stories and laughter over a steaming pot of tea.
For those who prefer an urban setting, Leicester boasts a variety of options such as Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms (as quaint as they come), The City Rooms, Winstanley House, or – for an Indian afternoon tea experience – Cafe Delhi. After a day of exploring the city, there’s no better way to unwind than with a fragrant cup of Earl Grey with cakes or, for something more exotic, a masala chai with a pistachio kheer.
So sit down, relax, delicately pluck a dainty finger sandwich from the bone china plate and indulge in the oh-so-civilised ceremony of Afternoon Tea!
Afternoon Tea at Belvoir Castle
Belvoir Castle, the birthplace of afternoon tea, offers an enchanting setting in their newly refurbished Regency-styled tea room, ‘The Aviary.’
Afternoon Tea at Cattows Farm
Take in beautiful views of Leicestershire’s countryside while treating yourself to a delightful afternoon tea at the licensed Cattows Tea Room.
Afternoon Tea at Cocco and Delilah
Cocco & Delilah is a new boutique restaurant and café inspired by storybooks and creative illustrations.
Afternoon Tea at Kilworth House Hotel
Revel in timeless elegance and delectable treats with afternoon tea at Kilworth House.
Afternoon Tea at The Belmont Hotel
Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea experience at the historic Belmont Hotel in the heart of Leicester.
Afternoon Tea at The City Rooms
The City Rooms is a historic Georgian property built in 1800.
Afternoon Tea at Winstanley House
Discover the best of both worlds with afternoon tea at Winstanley House – the convenience of a city location and the luxury of a country house.
Beardsley’s Tea Room
Beardsley’s is the very definition of the word “quaint”. Entering is like walking into your favourite grandma’s house
Cafe Delhi
Indulge in a unique twist on afternoon tea at Cafe Delhi in Leicester with their Indian-inspired offering, ‘High Chai’.
Miss B’s Tea Rooms
Miss B’s Tea Rooms in Melton Mowbray is a charming and cosy venue that offers a quintessentially English afternoon tea occasion.
Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms
Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms offers a memorable 18th-century setting in the heart of Leicester’s historical lanes.
Softleys
Softleys is an intimate restaurant in the centre of Market Bosworth named after the Reverend Derek Softley
