The Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Bath

Enjoy your afternoon tea with all the style of an 18th century English lady in Bath’s Pump Rooms. Regarded as the social heart of Bath for centuries, this salon and ballroom still retains all the glory of its past. Sumptuous interiors, live classical music every day, and a fountain for guests to try Bath’s Spa water, celebrated throughout history for its healing properties. The Pump Rooms offer guests the most luxurious, and most authentically Georgian experience of afternoon tea in the world. Expect impeccable service and only the finest quality champagne.

Opening hours: daily 9.30 am – 5 pm

Address & telephone number: The Pump Room, Abbey Church Yard, Bath, England, +44 1225 444477

One of the world’s most well-known cafes, visitors flock here to taste the notorious Sally Lunn bun. Half-way between brioche and a bun, topped with a unique range of spreads, including coffee and walnut butter and the cafe’s special dulce de leche milk jam, the Sally Lunn bun is a true experience, and the secret recipe for this utterly unique bun is known by just five people. Located down a quaint side street in one of the oldest buildings in Bath, the city’s historic atmosphere penetrates every nook and cranny of this antique venue, with its different floors representing different time periods. Dining at Sally Lunn’s also gives visitors the chance to enter the cafe’s museum for free to discover the history of the bakery and story of the renowned bun.

If the sweepingly magnificent Georgian architecture isn’t enough to bowl visitors over at The Royal Crescent Hotel, the panoramic view of the whole city from Bath’s landmark Royal Crescent will certainly do the trick. One of Bath’s classiest hotels, the Royal Crescent’s building is an exquisite example of 18th century architecture and the work of the famous John Wood the Younger. Nestled behind this Grade I listed building are the hotel’s tranquil gardens which stretch out for over an acre. Enjoy your afternoon tea in this oasis of calm.

#afternoontea #RCHBath

A photo posted by The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa (@royalcrescent_hotel) on May 29, 2016 at 9:38am PDT

Conveniently located next to Bath’s Assembly Rooms and fashion museum, this tearoom is just a stone’s throw away from some of the city’s best sites and most breathtaking buildings. Wartime posters, dainty tea sets, and patterned table cloths all work together to create Bea’s Tearoom‘s enchantingly vintage atmosphere. Admire the retro clothing of the staff, peruse the wartime recipe books, and tap your foot to the contagious music as you enjoy a whole host of sweet delights.

Tea and cake in the cutest place🍰☕️

A photo posted by Mary Mortimer ＊ (@marybeatricex) on Oct 20, 2016 at 8:03am PDT

Set just behind Bath’s landmark abbey, The Bath Bun lies at the heart of the city’s buzzing center. It’s location behind the central streets and nestled in a tranquil square removes it from the hustle and bustle of the main shops and tourist traps. Outdoor tables allow diners to sit and relax under the luscious canopy of Abbey Green’s ancient trees and soak up the sight of the Bath Abbey. The old character of the teashop’s fabulous building, the waiters dressed up in true Georgian style, and the authentic taste of the Bath Bun blend to create a delightful afternoon tea experience.