Afternoon tea has become a hugely popular British pastime, and its appeal certainly doesn’t appear to be waning.
First introduced to the UK in 1840 by the seventh Duchess of Bedford, it has only grown in popularity over the years, now cemented as a beloved British tradition.
To celebrate National Tea Day today (April 21) here is a list of afternoon tea spots in Bristol that cater for every occasion.
READ MORE: Why is Turbo Island in Stokes Croft called Turbo Island?
No.4 Clifton Village
In the heart of leafy Clifton, and located in a beautiful Georgian mansion house, this award-winning restaurant offers a haven from the bustle of the city.
With the option of dining in their secluded walled garden on sunny days, and with traditional afternoon tea from £15 a head, this is a perfect wallet-friendly choice for spending a relaxing afternoon with friends and family.
The restaurant offers three afternoon packages, with classic afternoon tea alongside Hendrick's Gin and prosecco options for groups celebrating an occasion.
No.4 is located at The Rodney Hotel, 4 Rodney Place, Bristol BS8 4HY. For more information, and booking options, click here.
Hotel Du Vin Bristol Avon Gorge
Boasting unparalleled views of the Clifton Suspension Bridge, the Avon Gorge Hotel has been an institution in Bristol for many years, recently taken over by the Hotel Du Vin chain.
Floor to ceiling windows open out onto a terrace, overlooking the vista across the Avon Gorge. The menu includes an extensive range of different flavoured tea, Bristol fruit cake, madeleines and seasonal fruit tarts.
Percy K on TripAdvisor said: “We had plenty of tea, sandwiches, cakes and scones with clotted cream for us all. The scones were freshly made, large and warm and very tasty with the cream and jam.”
Hotel Du Vin Bristol Avon Gorge is located at Sion Hill, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4LD. For more information and booking options, click here.
Ashwell & Co
Set within a vintage bridal and clothing boutique, the Ashwell & Co. tea room, formerly Heartfelt Vintage, is often described as one of the quirkiest places to have afternoon tea.
With its cosy setting amongst vintage dresses and crockery, homemade menu, and signature clotted cream, the café has become a firm favourite amongst Bristolians and visitors alike.
Caroline Darren on TripAdvisor called it a “magical find”.
She said: “A real quirky café with vintage clothes and cute crockery. This was absolutely one of the best afternoon teas we have ever had and an absolute delight at £18.50 each.
“We will be returning! Thank you so much for a lovely afternoon, delicious food and delightful service.”
Ashwell & Co. is located at 32 Alma Vale Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2HY. For more information and booking options, click here.
Thornbury Castle
Once the retreat of Henry VIII and Ann Boleyn, the rich history of the castle speaks for itself, as do the palatial settings and extensive gardens.
Located in the quaint market town of Thornbury, the sweeping driveway and panelled corridors wouldn't look out of place in a period drama.
Although on the more expensive side at £32.50 for traditional afternoon tea, the chance to dine like royalty is a unique experience. Most of the ingredients are sourced from the castle’s kitchen garden, and features classic offerings such cucumber sandwiches, sweet macarons and apple choux pastries.
Thornbury Castle is located at Castle St, Thornbury, Bristol BS35 1HH. For more information and booking options, click here.
Browns
After a day of shopping or sightseeing in Bristol city centre, Browns in perfectly located on Queens Street.
Based in the beautiful building that formerly housed Bristol museum in a grand café setting with high ceilings and mirrored walls, afternoon tea is reasonably priced, and served on traditional cake stands.
2Chill user Nia Dalton said: “Afternoon tea for two and only £19.50 per person! Also includes a hot drink. Browns had amazing service, a beautiful building and really good value food. Loved the mini scones and macarons.”
Browns is located at 38 Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1RE. For more information and booking options, click here.
Sign up for our weekly What's On in Bristol newsletter packed with essential stories to help you make the most of living in the city.
