There's something relaxing about heading out for a spot of afternoon tea.
Whether it's a mini sandwich, cake or a good cup of coffee, you can't really beat it.
So, with next week marking Afternoon Tea Week, running from August 8 until August 14, we wanted to share some places in and around the city that we think are worth taking a seat in.
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And with the rise of people taking to TikTok and Instagram to share their latest food finds, we're sure these will most certainly make the list. So if you're out and about and want to treat yourself - or friends and family - to an afternoon tea, here's some places you should consider visiting.
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Soup's On and The Cake Lady
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Thoughts: Glasgow Live reported on this eatery in May of this year after it was voted to be a 'hidden gem' café. It's run by a husband and wife duo, and typing the eatery into Google followed by TripAdvisor, the first search comes up with 'afternoon tea perfection' — which should tell you everything you need to know. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, as is their name.
TripAdvisor ranking and review: Soup's On and the Cake Lady is currently ranked as number 19 of 1,702 restaurants in Glasgow. One TripAdvisor review reads: "These guys really know what they are doing! I ordered afternoon tea for 4 for this week, and I cannot fault it. Perfect in every way.
"Generously filled tasty sandwiches (none of your boring cucumber sandwiches in sight here!), and a huge selection of perfectly baked cakes, scones and biscuits. This was actually the second time I’ve ordered from them and both times they far exceeded my expectations. Their service is second to none, every interaction has been so friendly! I’m a baker myself, so I’m picky with where I eat cake. This is by far the best afternoon tea I’ve ever had! Thank you Pete and Anne."
'Excellent' reviews: 128
Location: 115 Clarkston Road, Glasgow, United Kingdom
Cranachan
Thoughts: Located in the beautiful surroundings of Princes Square, Cranachan is a great place to visit after shopping and taking a stroll down Buchanan Street. Located on the top floor and accessible from the high street, the place is a great eatery to unwind. From a variety of sandwiches to lovely cakes and scones, there's not many ways you can go wrong with this combo.
TripAdvisor ranking and review: The eatery is ranked as number 417 of 1,702 restaurants in Glasgow. One review reads: "Visited here with my mum and toddler for afternoon tea today which we had booked through itson. The selection was great, 6 different cakes and sweet treats (x2) and plentiful sandwiches. We chose the roast chicken with lemon mayo and rocket, cheese and plum chutney and the roasted veg and hummus ones. All were fresh and filled to the edges. The hot chocolate was perfect as we're the pots of tea. The staff were attentive and friendly. Will definitely return."
'Excellent' reviews: 212
Location: 2nd Floor, Princes Square, 48 Buchanan St, Glasgow G1 3JN
Grand Central Hotel
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Thoughts: If you want to grab a spot of afternoon tea but also want to be on time for your train ride home, you may want to pop in here to get the best of both worlds. Located directly adjoining Glasgow Central station, voco® Grand Central Glasgow is one of the city’s most historic buildings. If you like to people watch, this is the perfect place whilst you wait, and the décor is sure to impress — with people being able to tuck into their afternoon tea in the Champagne Lounge.
TripAdvisor ranking and review: It currently ranks as number 58 of 102 hotels in Glasgow. One review reads: "Very pleasant welcome, shown straight to a table, tea and coffee arrived within 5 minutes followed quickly by the Prosecco and very fresh sandwiches, scones and cakes, plenty of very efficient staff, wouldn’t hesitate to recommend!"
'Excellent' reviews: 2,091
Location: 99 Gordon St, Glasgow G1 3SF
Cup Tea Rooms at Gin 71
Thoughts: This is another top spot which we reported on in June of this year. So if you have a sweet tooth and want to sit down for some excellent cakes, it seems this is the place to go, with it having been described by customers as 'a 'lovely haven on a dreich day'. And as we all know, a dreich day isn't exactly uncommon in Scotland. According to TripAdvisor, Glasgow's top-rated dessert spot is 'a wee gem in the heart of the city', an award-winning tea room which serves up the likes of choux buns, mini macarons and all manner of cupcakes, as well as much-raved about afternoon teas.
TripAdvisor ranking and review: This takes the top spot, ranking first out of 61 dessert spots in Glasgow. One review reads: "This was my 5th time at this restaurant Cup in Renfield Street Glasgow. Every time I come here it’s always very good, with very fresh cakes and rolls, the hot chocolate is to die for!!! Staff are very attentive and very friendly, nothing is too much bother. Would highly recommend 11 out of 10. See you all soon. I will be back next month."
'Excellent' reviews: 1,278
Location: 71 Renfield Street, Glasgow, G2 1LP.
The Butterfly and the Pig
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Thoughts: Located in Glasgow's west end, this place is a must-visit and is loved by visitors and locals alike. From their delicious cakes and sandwiches to the cosy and relaxed atmosphere, there's not much more you can ask for than this. As the name suggests, it's off the beaten track so you could miss it, but the location is all part of its charm and character - so keep an eye out for it when you're next in the west end.
TripAdvisor ranking and review: This place also comes ranked pretty highly, taking third spot out of 61 dessert spots in Glasgow. One review reads: "Went for my mums 85th. So ages 5 to 85 there. Amazing pre-service phoned me to check for allergies etc. on the day, great could not fault in any way. Well looked after, staff relaxed, friendly combined with professionalism. Food obviously freshly prepared suited everyone- even asked for preferences. Towards the end we were offered boxes to take uneaten home ( lunch for hubs next day!) Choice of teas amazing, lucky we are family (even if extended) so got to try each other’s!!! - honest covid sensible!
"Regular check to see if we needed anything but not intrusive - felt very welcomed and had a great day. Thank you so much. Also shops on hidden lane amazing - real gems and great find (wish I lived closer I would be there every day!) - love gallery. Really if you want a chilled atmosphere small tea or a full afternoon. One - nowhere better. Trying to work out how next to go to Glasgow ( live on Skye) to go back. Really envious of those who have it as a local. A must do for everyone."
'Excellent' reviews: 266
Location: 1103 Argyle St, G3 8ND
As always, if there are any gems we haven't mentioned, let us know in the comments!
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