Afternoon tea is my happy place, especially if it’s in a grand hotel. The velvet chairs, the delicate chime of silver on china, the pastries, finger sandwiches and fresh pots of tea — I’m obsessed. Whether you’re celebrating or simply escaping normal life, these five splendid spots all do afternoon teas to remember.
1. Cromlix Hotel, Dunblane
Team Murray’s bouji country house hotel has been given a boutique makeover, and it now does a refined afternoon tea in its light-filled Glasshouse restaurant. A selection of savoury bites, freshly baked scones and indulgent cakes are complemented by an extensive range of Canton teas or Alfie’s coffee.
Details: £47.50 + £15 for champagne, cromlix.com
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2. The Balmoral Hotel, Edinburgh
Afternoon tea at the Balmoral’s Palm Court is a refined Edinburgh tradition. Beneath a striking glass dome and Venetian chandelier, guests enjoy a classic selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones and beautifully crafted pastries, all served with a wide range of premium loose-leaf teas. Service is attentive and elegant, matching the grandeur of the setting. Located on Princes Street, it’s a serene escape in the heart of the city.
Details: £67.50 + £15 for champagne, roccofortehotels.com
3. Cameron House, Luss
Nestled on the banks of Loch Lomond, the Scots baronial mansion hotel’s opulent afternoon tea is taken in truly regal surroundings. Served n the elegant chinoiserie-style drawing room, tea comes with uninterrupted views across the loch and landscaped gardens. The menu includes dainty finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam, and exquisite patisserie. With more than 20 loose-leaf teas and flawless service, it’s a tranquil, luxurious escape steeped in Scottish grandeur.
Details: £50 + £20 for champagne, cameronhouse.co.uk
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4. Gleneagles, Auchterarder
Step into timeless elegance with afternoon tea served in the stunning Glendevon room, with sweeping views up the glen to the Ochil Hills. Guests are treated to a refined selection of delicate finger sandwiches, handmade pastries, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, and an extensive list of teas. As with everything at Gleneagles, tea is impeccably presented, with attentive service that strikes the ideal balance between warmth and discretion.
Details: £75 + £17 for champagne, gleneagles.com
5. Old Course Hotel, St Andrews
For views alone afternoon tea at this famous East Neuk hotel is hard to beat, served in the conservatory overlooking the 17th hole and West Sands Beach. The menu features delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of handcrafted pastries, accompanied by a selection of premium teas. A children’s afternoon tea is also available for £18.
Details: £40 + £25 for Veuve Clicquot champagne, oldcoursehotel.co.uk
