The very British tradition of afternoon tea is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon with your nearest and dearest. If you live in or are visiting Bristol and fancy a spot of high tea (finger sandwiches and all!) then you’re definitely going to want to check out the following places.
Head back in time with this gorgeous tea room, located on bustling North St. With pink cabinets, floral cushions and cute, kitsch crockery, this is the perfect setting for afternoon tea. There are 15 varieties of teas on offer and everything is freshly baked to perfection – there’s even a selection of gluten, dairy-free and vegan options!
Nestled in the city centre, down a quiet road, lies Mercure The Grand. Stay overnight in this charming hotel, spending the day at the adjoined spa before heading for a spot of cream tea. With the option to add a glass of bubbly, expect the traditional afternoon tea set-up: finger sandwiches, tea or coffee, pastries and scones with lashings of clotted cream. This is a really indulgent offering to complete your pamper day.
Just next to the huge shopping centre, Cabot Circus, Harvey Nichols is a plush setting for a spot of afternoon tea. This stylish setting serves up an equally stylish offering of sandwiches, homemade cakes and scones, with Harvey Nichols’ own preserves. And, of course, you can add a glass of Champagne to really up the luxe factor. Just be careful if you’re planning on a spot of shopping afterwards though, or you may end up spending more than you intended to…
Take in arguably the best view of Bristol that the city has to offer, as you enjoy lunch at the Avon Gorge Hotel. Weather permitting, sit outside on the spacious terrace practically neighbouring the famous Suspension Bridge and soak in the culture of the city. An excellent traditional afternoon tea is available here, but it really is the atmosphere that puts this venue as a must-visit.
If you’re after a vintage-style setting to enjoy afternoon tea in, Cox and Baloney is the place to be. Renowned for its cream teas, stacked high with fresh homemade goods, expect comfy armchairs, retro chino and friendly staff. There are even teapot cocktails on the menu – now, that’s something we can get on board with!
The Lido in Bristol is a truly indulgent place to enjoy a meal. With a gorgeous heated outdoor pool, you can really make a day of using the spa facilities before enjoying afternoon tea. Freshly roasted coffee and a choice of teas are served up poolside, with smoked salmon on toast washed down with a glass of Prosecco, followed by fresh scones, clotted cream and jam.