the best afternoon teas in essex, Emma Mitchell

Best Afternoon Teas in Essex

Looking to indulge in the best afternoon teas in Essex? Whether you’re planning a luxurious treat for a special occasion, searching for a unique themed tea experience, or simply craving scones and clotted cream in a cozy setting, Essex offers an impressive selection of charming tea spots across the county. From seaside escapes in Southend-on-Sea, stylish venues in Brentwood, and hidden gems in Billericay to tranquil tea rooms in Basildon and beyond, there’s something for every tea lover.

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Ideal for baby showers, hen parties, birthday celebrations, bridal showers, or even a spontaneous weekend catch-up, these afternoon tea experiences range from traditional and elegant to quirky and Instagram-worthy. Whether you prefer a classic cream tea, a Prosecco upgrade, or a bottomless brunch-style twist, this guide covers the top venues to enjoy afternoon tea in Essex and its most-loved towns.

Read on for the ultimate list of Best Afternoon Teas in Essex destinations, complete with pricing, dietary options, and booking tips to help you plan your perfect outing or celebration.

Want to your afternoon tea into a break away in Essex? Then check out these Essex Hotels & Accommodation available.

Having explored numerous fantastic Afternoon Tea venues in and around Essex, here are The Best Afternoon Teas that Essex has to offer for 2024:

Afternoon Tea in Essex: The Ultimate 2025 Round-Up of the Best Venues

Afternoon Tea at Wivenhoe House in Colchester in Essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Wivenhoe House, Colchester

Set within an 18th-century four-star hotel near the picturesque village of Wivenhoe, Wivenhoe House offers afternoon tea daily from 12-4 pm in their elegant Brasserie. Guests can indulge in freshly prepared sandwiches, warm scones and an assortment of delicate pastries, complemented by a selection of teas and coffees. Prices start at £27 per person, with options to add Prosecco or Champagne for an enhanced experience.

  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan and gluten free options available upon request.
  • To book your afternoon tea at Wivenhoe House contact them on 01206 863666, email info@wivenhoehouse.co.uk or visit Wivenhoe House Hotel website for more information.
  • Location: Wivenhoe Park, Park Rd, Colchester CO4 3FA.
namaste village indian afternoon tea, vegan and vegetarian
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Namaste Village, Southend

Namaste Village Southend offers a vibrant Indian-inspired afternoon tea with a fully vegan and vegetarian menu. Expect bold flavours, spiced wraps, plant-based treats, and indulgent Indian desserts like Jalebi and Vermicelli Pudding – plus classic scones with vegan cream and jam. A must-visit for foodies and afternoon tea lovers looking for something refreshingly different.

  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan
  • Location: Namaste Village Southend, Eastern Esplanade, Southend-on-Sea
  • Price: £29.95 per person
  • When: Saturdays & Sundays, 12-4pm
afternoon tea at heidi's runwell in essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Heidi’s Runwell, Wickford

Heidi’s in Runwell is a pretty and modern pink café adorned with floral décor and a central cherry tree, creating a whimsical atmosphere. Their afternoon tea features a variety of savoury and sweet treats, including freshly made sandwiches and exquisite pastries. The Classic Afternoon Tea is priced at £29.95 per person, with options to add Prosecco or opt for bottomless cocktails. You can add on 2 hours of bottomless prosecco for £30 or £40 for bottomless cocktails.

  • To Book: Visit Heidi’s website to book.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan and gluten free options available upon request.
  • Location: 71 St Lukes Way, Runwell, Wickford SS11 7JJ.
Afternoon Tea at Mary Green Manor Hotel in Brentwood Essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Mary Green Manor Hotel, Brentwood

For a touch of historical charm, Mary Green Manor Hotel offers afternoon tea in a 16th-century setting. Guests can enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of pastries. The Classic Afternoon Tea is priced at £27.50 per person, with sparkling options available.

  • Visit Mary Green Manor Hotel’s website to book or call 01277 225252.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian and other special dietary requirements can be catered for however alterations to the menu will be necessary.
  • Location: Marygreen Manor Hotel, London Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4NR.
cake stand with afternoon tea at tiptree tea rooms in essex
Photo credit Emma MItchell

Tiptree Tea Rooms, Essex

With multiple locations across Essex, including Dedham, Heybridge Basin, and Chelmsford, Tiptree Tea Rooms offer a traditional afternoon tea experience. For £20 per person, guests can enjoy freshly made sandwiches, homemade fruit scones with Tiptree jam, and a selection of miniature patisserie items.

  • To book or for further information please visit Tiptree Tea Rooms Website.
  • Dietary Requirements: The Tea Rooms offer Gluten Free options but it is always preferred to call ahead to ensure they have fresh options at the time of your visit.
Scotts of southend afternoon tea
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Scotts of Southend

Located within a nursery and garden centre, Scotts of Southend provides a rustic, botanical setting for afternoon tea. The menu includes a variety of savory items like salmon croissants and prawn vol-au-vents, as well as freshly baked scones and sweet treats. Afternoon tea is priced at £28 per person, with a sparkling option available for £35.

  • Book on the Scotts of Southend Website.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan, Dairy Free and gluten free options available upon request.
  • Location: Scotts of Southend Garden Centre, Sutton Rd, Rochford SS4 1LQ.
afternoon tea at the county hotel in chelmsford
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

The County Hotel, Chelmsford

Situated in the heart of Chelmsford, The County Hotel serves afternoon tea in its award-winning Samphire Restaurant. Guests can choose between the traditional afternoon tea for £26 per person or the Great British Savoury Afternoon Tea for £28 per person. Children’s afternoon teas are also available at £15 per child.

  • To Book: For further information or to book please visit their website.
  • Location: The County Hotel, 29 Rainsford Rd, Chelmsford CM1 2PZ.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian available

The afternoon tea at kittea cakes cat cafe in southend.
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Kittea Cakes Cat Cafe, Southend

For a unique experience, Kittea Cakes combines the joy of a cat café with the indulgence of afternoon tea. Guests can enjoy a selection of sandwiches, scones, and cakes while interacting with resident felines. All items are baked in-house, ensuring freshness and quality.

  • For more information or to book, visit Kittea Cakes website or call 07399 042403.
  • Location: 57 Queens Rd, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1LT.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian upon request.

Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Merrymeade Tea Room, Brentwood

Merrymeade Tea Room in Brentwood is a charming, traditional spot set within the beautiful grounds of Merrymeade House. With views over the gardens and a terrace for outdoor seating, it’s a peaceful location to enjoy a classic afternoon tea in a relaxed, picturesque setting.

Their luxury afternoon tea is available for £24.95 on weekdays and £29.95 on the first Saturday of each month.

  • For further information or to book please visit Merrymeade Tea Room website.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian afternoon tea available.
  • Location: Merrymeade Chase, Brentwood CM15 9FE.
stifford hall hotel afternoon tea in thurrock
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Stifford Hall Hotel, Thurrock

Stifford Hall Hotel in Thurrock offers a charming afternoon tea experience within a stunning 18th-century Georgian mansion surrounded by beautiful gardens. Afternoon tea is served either in the cosy, characterful library or the bright and airy Garden Suite, which boasts picturesque garden views. Guests can also enjoy tea outdoors, thanks to the addition of a pagoda and sheltered patio areas. Afternoon Tea here is priced at just £24.95.

  • To book: For further information or to book please call them on 01708 719988 or visit their Stifford Hall Hotel’s website.
  • Location: High Rd, North Stifford, Grays RM16 5UE.

The christmas afternoon tea at Mulberry House in Ongar
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Mulberry House, Ongar

Mulberry House, an award-winning wedding and events venue in the heart of the Essex countryside, offers a refined afternoon tea experience surrounded by 22 acres of scenic grounds. Guests can enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant Garden Room Restaurant, which overlooks a serene lake – perfect for a peaceful and picturesque afternoon. Their afternoon tea is priced at £33.50 per person.

  • To Book: For more information visit Mulberry House website.
  • Location: Chelmsford Rd, High Ongar, Ongar CM5 9NL.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan and Vegetarian afternoon tea available.
Afternoon tea in Chelmsford at Little Channels at channels estate
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Little Channels Bistro at Channels Estate, Chelmsford

Little Channels Bistro at Channels Estate offers a charming afternoon tea experience in the Essex countryside near Little Waltham, just outside Chelmsford. Housed in a beautifully restored barn, it’s an inviting and relaxed setting for afternoon tea all year round. Afternoon tea is served creatively on a mini picnic bench. Traditional afternoon tea is £25.00 per head, Luxury £29.00 per head and includes a glass of Prosecco. Also available is a Children’s Afternoon Tea which is £12.50 per child.

  • To book: visit Little Channels website or call 01245 362210. Please note a £5pp deposit is required.
  • Location: Pratt’s Farm Ln, Little Waltham, Chelmsford CM3 3PR.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegetarian, Vegan, and gluten free afternoon tea menus available.
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Orsett Hall Hotel, Orsett

Orsett Hall Hotel offers a luxurious afternoon tea in the elegant Garden Brasserie, with floral décor, eye-catching multi-coloured chandeliers and garden views. Enjoy traditional sandwiches, a warm mini quiche, and selection of sweets and scones. Prices start from £25 midweek, with upgrades for Champagne and children’s options available. A perfect spot for a stylish treat in Essex.

  • To book visit Orsett Hall website.
  • Location: Prince Charles Ave, Orsett, Grays RM16 3HS.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free option available.

Afternoon Tea at Bonnie's Cafe in Hutton Essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Bonnie’s Cafe, Hutton

Bonnie’s Café in Hutton, located within Hunters Chase Garden Centre, is a quaint and charming tea room known for its warm atmosphere and delicious homemade treats. Serving breakfast, lunch, and a fantastic selection of cakes, it also offers outdoor seating for guests to enjoy the garden surroundings. Afternoon tea at Bonnies Cafe is great value at £19.50 per person.

  • To book contact Bonnie’s Cafe facebook page or call them on 01277 659351.
  • Location: Hunters Chase Garden Centre, Hutton, Brentwood CM13 1SN.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free option available.
Stoke by Nayland Afternoon Tea in restaurant
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Stoke by Nayland, Colchester

Stoke by Nayland Golf, Spa & Lodges Resort is a environmentally friendly & family run hotel situated in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Colchester. Guests can enjoy Afternoon Tea al fresco on the newly expanded terraces overlooking a lovely lake and stunning Constable Country or inside the newly refurbished Lakes Restaurant. You can read our full review of the Stoke By Nayland Afternoon Tea here.

Afternoon tea is £22.95 per person and is served 7 days a week between 12pm and 3:30pm. Their afternoon tea includes a sumptuous array of mini sandwiches, cakes, fresh homemade scones with clotted cream and Tiptree Jam, alongside freshly brewed artisan tea or coffee.

  • For more information or to book at afternoon tea, visit Stoke By Nayland Website.
  • Location: Stoke By Nayland Resort, Keepers Lane, Leavenheath, Colchester, Essex, CO6 4PZ.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free afternoon teas menus are available.

the Afternoon Tea at Morley Nurseries Tearoom in wakering essex
Photo credit Emma MItchell

Morley Nurseries Tearoom, Wakering

The Tearoom at Morley Nurseries in Great Wakering offers a delicious Classic Afternoon Tea for £26.95 per person, alongside a full menu of breakfasts, light lunches, and homemade cakes. Known for their daily baked treats by in-house baker, the tearoom also serves themed afternoon teas for special occasions like birthdays and baby showers. A delightful spot for a tasty and beautifully presented afternoon tea experience in Essex.

  • You can visit the Morley Nurseries website for more information, or book by calling: 01702 585668 ext. 8017 or email tearoom@morleynurseries.co.uk
  • Location: Southend Rd, Great Wakering, Essex SS3 0PU.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.

the best christmas afternoon teas in essex

Wildflower Teas on the Bus, Battlesbridge

Wildflower Teas on the Bus offers a quirky and memorable afternoon tea experience aboard a vintage Routemaster double-decker bus, set within beautiful grounds. With outdoor seating, covered areas, and cosy indoor space for colder months. A must-visit for a fun twist on a tradition in Essex! Their Classic Afternoon Tea is £25 per person and themed afternoon teas start at £30.

Afternoon tea at the magic mushroom in essex

Magic Mushroom Restaurant, Billericay

The Magic Mushroom Restaurant in Billericay is a stylish, modern venue known for its high-quality, freshly prepared food. Their afternoon tea is priced at £30 per person and includes a generous spread of freshly made sandwiches, a homemade sausage roll, fruit and plain scones served warm with Tiptree strawberry jam and clotted cream, and a tempting selection of sweet treats, all paired with your choice of tea. The freshly baked, oversized scones are a true highlight.

You have the option to upgrade to a Champagne afternoon tea. They also offer a children’s afternoon tea with sandwiches, scones and pastries for £15 per person.

  • For more information or to book, visit The Magic Mushroom Restaurant website.
  • Location: Barleylands Rd, Billericay CM11 2UD.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.

Afternoon tea at Downham hall

Downham Hall, Billericay

Downham Hall, a boutique country house hotel and wedding venue, is set in a peaceful countryside location between Billericay and Wickford. Surrounded by rolling fields, it offers a serene setting for enjoying Afternoon Tea. A perfect escape for a relaxing and refined afternoon in the Essex countryside. Classic afternoon tea is £30pp, you can upgrade to a Sparkling or G&T afternoon tea and the Children’s afternoon tea (up to the age of 12) is £15.00pp.

  • For more information or to book, please visit Downham Hall’s website.
  • Location: Castledon Rd, Downham, Billericay CM11 1LG.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options available upon request.

The afternoon tea at the inn at belfairs in leigh on sea in essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

The Inn at Belfairs, Leigh on Sea

The Inn at Belfairs in Leigh-on-Sea is a stylish pub restaurant located on the edge of Belfairs Park, offering a beautiful floral setting with cherry blossom trees, vibrant displays, and a terrace for alfresco afternoon tea in warmer months. Known for its varied menu including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday roasts, it’s a charming spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Afternoon tea on a table in Temperleys garden in colchester
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Tymperleys, Colchester

Tymperleys in Colchester is a hidden gem full of historic charm, tucked away in a peaceful walled garden courtyard—a true oasis of calm in the heart of the town. This quaint venue offers a traditional afternoon tea for £27.50 per person or upgrade with a Prosecco afternoon tea. Children’s afternoon tea is £12.50. Enjoy your tea in the tranquil garden setting, perfect for a relaxing and elegant experience in Colchester.

  • To book and afternoon tea at Tymperleys please email info@tymperleys.co.uk  or call them on 01206 765034. You can visit Tymperleys website for further information.
  • Location: Trinity St, Colchester CO1 1JN.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.

The sweet treats at the beauty and the beast inspired afternoon tea at Mad Dogs and Englishmen in essex
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

The Parlour Tea Room at Mad Dogs & Englishmen, Leigh-on-Sea

The Parlour Tea Room at Mad Dogs and Englishmen is renowned for its immersive themed afternoon teas, where the décor, food, and even staff costumes are all part of the experience. From Beauty and the Beast to Narnia, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Snow White, each event is a theatrical treat.

Prices are £45 per person on weekdays and £50 on weekends, including a fully themed afternoon tea with savouries, scones, cakes, and unlimited tea. A must-visit for those looking for a whimsical and unforgettable afternoon tea in Essex.

  • Please contact them for further information and booking via the Mad Dogs & Englishmen website.
  • Location: 1349, 1353 London Rd, Leigh-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea, Leigh-on-Sea SS9 2AB.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available upon request.

Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Roslin Beach Hotel, Southend

The Roslin Beach Hotel in Southend offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience in a stylish seafront setting. From the elegant floral displays to the modern décor and attentive service, everything feels indulgent from the moment you arrive. Afternoon tea includes fresh complimentary sandwich refills. Prices start at £36.50 on weekdays and £41.50 on weekends, with Prosecco upgrades and children’s afternoon teas available. A truly refined spot for afternoon tea in Essex.

  • To book visit Roslin Beach Hotel Website.
  • Location: Thorpe Esplanade, Thorpe Bay, Southend-on-Sea SS1 3BG.
  • Dietary Requirements: Vegan, vegetarian or gluten free options are available.

Other great Afternoon Teas in Essex to try

Whilst I have personally visited all of the above venues and can recommend them, there are also lots of other great afternoon tea venues in Essex available which I hope to visit soon, they are:

afternoon tea at downham hall in wickford
Photo credit Emma Mitchell

Thank you for reading ‘The Best Afternoon Teas in Essex and Afternoon teas near me’.

These venues represent just a selection of the many delightful places in Essex where one can enjoy the tradition of afternoon tea. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a leisurely afternoon, Essex offers a plethora of options to suit every taste.

As an afternoon tea enthusiast and blogger, I’ve truly enjoyed exploring each of these wonderful venues and can wholeheartedly recommend them all. If you know of a fantastic afternoon tea spot in Essex that I haven’t visited yet, I’d love to hear about it – feel free to share it in the comments!

Written in collaboration with the above venues, afternoon teas are provided on a gifted/paid basis for review, please note all comments and opinions are my own. All prices are correct at time of publishing.

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