Spots for afternoon tea in Bath

Where better to indulge in the fine art of afternoon tea than the historic city of Bath? From trad to contemporary, here are five of our favourite settings for afternoon tea in Bath

Robun

Acclaimed for its contemporary take on Japanese cuisine, Robun (pictured top) has set the Bath food scene alight, and its afternoon tea offering is every bit as illuminating. A distinctive menu brings together an eclectic collection of beautifully crafted Japanese-inspired delights.

Sushi dishes such as akami sashimi and panko smoked salmon maki are presented on sleek modular-tiered stands alongside bowls of fried treats like crispy chicken karaage and bao buns brimming with aromatic pork and chicken. They’re accompanied by your choice from an exquisite selection of specialist Japanese teas that includes genmaicha, sencha and bancha, jasmine blossom, and ginger and lemongrass.

When: 12pm – 4pm, Saturday and Sunday
Price: £32 per person
Book here

No.15 by GuestHouse, Bath

A loving homage to South West produce, afternoon tea at No.15 is quintessentially English cuisine at its bite-sized best. The elegant boutique townhouse hotel is swathed in period charm, with contemporary design details every bit as innovative and intricate as its culinary creations. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed in the restaurant or the chic front-room bar, both of which are as much of a feast for the eyes as they are the appetite.

Dainty sandwiches, canapés, cakes and scones layered with Devonshire clotted cream and strawberry jam are packed with local ingredients. The accompanying tea selection is absolutely divine but if you’re celebrating then a glass of Bolney bubbly will add extra effervescence to the occasion.

When: 12pm – 5pm, Monday – Saturday and 2.30pm – 5pm, Sunday
Price: £30 – £38 per person
Book here

The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa

Traditional afternoon tea can be enjoyed alfresco in The Royal Crescent’s acre of tranquil grounds but, even in the winter, the garden view from the windows of the award-winning Dower House restaurant is every bit as delightful a backdrop.

Cake stands cascade with freshly baked scones, delicate pastries, perfectly petite cakes, and classic fillings sandwiched between precision-cut fingers of pillow-soft bread. This micro feast is served with a choice of Ronnefeldt teas and the option to add a little extra sparkle with a flute of Taittinger Champagne.

When: 1.30pm – 4.30pm, every day
Price: £39.50 per person (£19.50 per child)
Book here

The Bird

If you’re all for living a life less ordinary, join those flocking to The Bird for afternoon tea. Creativity is the order of the day, from the playful vibe to the spectacular edible creations on the menu. Partake in the gregarious Plate bar and restaurant, or head outdoors to enjoy the view of Bath Abbey on the terrace or cosied up in a private dining dome.

The Bird’s not-so-traditional afternoon tea is homemade and baked fresh daily. It features a flight of sandwiches and scrumptious sweet things, including treats like smoked salmon on sourdough, dark chocolate and honeycomb tart, and scones served with Plate’s strawberry jam and Somerset clotted cream. Take things up a notch with a glass of Taittinger, or opt for the top-notch Kaleidoscope gin and tonic, and Jaywing tea, aka ‘G&Tea’.

When: 3.00pm – 4.30pm, every day
Price: £25 – £40 per person
Book here

The Bath Priory

The Bath Priory’s sumptuous lounges with open fires and indulgent sofas are winter magnets for afternoon-tea seekers. In summer, the call of the wisteria-adorned terrace with beguiling views over the beautiful gardens is almost irresistible. But resist you might, in favour of enjoying a stroll and an afternoon tea hamper in your own oasis within the four acres of glorious grounds.

A vast collection of teas and coffee, or an optional glass of Champagne if the occasion calls for bubbles, accompany the beautifully assembled spread. Delicate finger sandwiches and warm scones, filled with clotted cream and homemade preserve, are joined by delicious homemade seasonal cakes such as salted caramel tart, spiced orange and vanilla macaroon, and mango and passionfruit choux.

When: 2.00pm – 4.30pm, Wednesday – Sunday
Price: £40 – £52 per person
Book here

Like 5 of the best spots for afternoon tea in Bath? Check out our collection of Bath cocktails bars here.

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