By Parkdean Resorts on 04/04/2018
With Afternoon Tea Week running from 12th-18th August 2019, now's the perfect time to treat yourself to an indulgent day out. We've rounded up some of the UK’s top regional afternoon teas, just the ticket for an unforgettable sweet treat! We’ve gone off the beaten track of big city hotels in favour of hidden gems near our holiday parks.
Have you got a recommendation for amazing afternoon tea? We’d love to hear about it on our Facebook page.
Fleur de Thé, Kent
If you live nearby or are heading on , then a stop at Fleur de Thé in Rochester is essential on the itinerary. This unique and cosy teahouse offers a touch of French elegance served up with a dash of shabby chic quirk. With a fabulous selection of cakes and scones presented on delicate and colourful porcelain, as well as a range of gifts and homeware to browse, it’s the ideal place to catch up with family and friends.
You’ll be able to choose from a range of afternoon teas on offer, including traditional or luxury afternoon tea with hot drinks or a refreshing Pimm's afternoon tea, perfect for a boozy summer's day! Or to really celebrate, why not indulge in their sparkling afternoon tea option, which comes with a bottle of prosecco or pink Moscato. All options feature freshly prepared sandwiches and delicious scones and many also come with additional sweet treats, offering a daily selection of freshly baked cakes to choose from.
You’ll even find a children’s afternoon tea menu, perfect for kids under 8, with cheese and ham finger sandwiches and the choice between a scone and a slice of homemade cake. Sure to be a hit, even with the fussiest of eaters!
Image courtesy of Fleur de Thé
LoveBrew Café, Yorkshire
A classic British seaside holiday doesn’t get much sweeter than Scarborough – that is, until you’ve been to LoveBrew Café. Tucked away, just steps from the sights and sounds of Scarborough’s lively sea front and harbour, this quaint little café packs a big punch when it comes to tasty treats. And, at just over 10 minutes’ drive from Cayton Bay Holiday Park, it’s an absolute must if you’re staying nearby.
LoveBrew serves up fresh coffee and hearty savoury dishes, ranging from fluffy quiches to chicken kebabs and burgers, freshly baked cakes and, of course, afternoon tea. With gluten-free options available too, it’s the ideal stop off for a warm cuppa and slice of cake after a morning spent walking the beach.
Image courtesy of LoveBrew Café
The Camel Trail Tea Garden, Cornwall
When it comes to afternoon tea in the South West, the scuffle for the prize of best cream tea is hotly debated between Cornwall and Devon. That being said, no list of top afternoon teas would be complete without including the Cornish classic. You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to cream teas in Cornwall, however, The Camel Trail Tea Garden offers so much more than just tea and scones.
Situated half way along North Cornwall’s 18 mile camel trail, this disused railway line passes spectacular scenery, making it incredibly popular with walkers and cyclists. All that exercise works up an appetite, and The Camel Trail Tea Garden is just the remedy! Set in the beautiful apple orchard with garden terraces and picnic benches, this relaxing haven is a feast for the eyes, too.
Indulge in a traditional cream tea with freshly baked scones, smothered in jam and clotted cream, or if you’re extra hungry – why not go for the Cornish High Tea Special, complete with miniature crab sandwiches and Cornish pasties as well as a selection of tempting homemade cakes. If you really want to push the boat out, why not treat yourself to their luxurious Champagne High Tea option. If you’re staying at nearby St Minver Holiday Park, a day out along The Camel Trail is an absolute must.
Image courtesy of The Camel Trail Tea Garden
Holden Clough Nursery, Lancashire
Holden Clough Nursery is sure to be a hit for those with green fingers. Situated in the spectacular Lancashire countryside, just 15 minutes from Todber Valley Holiday Park, this garden centre has specialised in Alpine plants since 1927! Now offering a wide range of perennials, shrubs and climbing plants it’s a great place to get some garden inspiration or pick up some greenery to decorate your holiday home’s veranda if you’re lucky enough to own your own caravan at Todber Valley.
As well as plants galore, you’ll also find Holden Clough Nursery is home to the Garden Kitchen, known locally for their delicious picnic style afternoon teas. Prepared using locally sourced ingredients and served up on a miniature picnic bench – the Garden Kitchen prepares a changing seasonal menu.
Their Summer Afternoon Picnic is a delectable assortment of savoury and sweet options, from butternut squash and roasted red pepper soup to mouthwatering banoffee pie and a scrumptious Black Forest cupcake. There are gluten-free and vegetarian versions available, with the option to add extra fizz with a glass of prosecco for just £3.
Image courtesy of Holden Clough Nursery
The Running Fox Bakery, Northumberland
Northumberland’s Running Fox Bakery is a North East institution when it comes to afternoon tea – famed across the region for its hearty portions and distinctly Northern twist. You won’t find any dinky finger sandwiches or miniature cupcakes here!
Instead, this artisan bakery serves up a choice of delicious sandwiches on freshly baked bread and the selection is guaranteed to tantalise your taste buds. If that doesn’t fill you up, the generous slice of pie or quiche to follow is sure to hit the spot – not forgetting the tasty scone or enormous wedge of delicious cake to top it off. To wash it down, you’ll be served endless tea and coffee, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a walk through Northumberland’s stunning countryside. A visit is a must if you’re holidaying with us on the beautiful Northumberland Coast.
Image courtesy of Running Fox Bakery
We’d love to hear where you've had your most delicious afternoon tea! Share your recommendations and photos with us on Facebook or Twitter.