12 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in the Cotswolds

When I think of the Cotswolds, I think of quintessentially English villages and, of course, picturesque tea rooms.

While Devon and Cornwall may be home to the cream tea, there aren’t many places in England that quite encapsulate the afternoon tea vibe in the way that the Cotswolds does.

It’s one of my favourite ways to pass an afternoon in this beautiful part of the UK – sipping on a delightful cup of tea while indulging in some delectable treats.

A classic afternoon tea is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the Cotswolds, especially considering that this area of the country is bursting with fine hotels in historical houses and estates.

So, where is the best place for afternoon tea in the Cotswolds? With so many contenders, that’s tricky to answer. But here are my personal favourites, ranging from grand country house teas to quiet village tea rooms, along with everything you need to know about pricing and booking.

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Quick picks: best afternoon tea in the Cotswolds

Short on time? Here’s how my recommendations compare at a glance.

Map of afternoon tea spots in the Cotswolds

Cotswolds afternoon tea spots are spread across a wide area, from Broadway and Stow-on-the-Wold in the north to Tetbury and Malmesbury in the south.

Use the map below to see which recommendations are closest to where you’re staying.

1. Lygon Arms, Broadway

Set against a backdrop of immense history, afternoon tea at the Lygon Arms doesn’t disappoint.

Tuck into fluffy freshly baked scones, dainty finger sandwiches and tasty sweet cakes and bakes while soaking up the incredible heritage of the place.

Offering a boozy option for celebrations with some house Champagne, this establishment knows how to blend the historical classic British pastime with modern flavours.

👉🏼 Book a stay at the Lygon Arms Hotel

2. Blenheim Palace, Woodstock

If grand is what you’re after then you aren’t going to do better than afternoon tea at Blenheim Palace in The Orangery. You’ll feel completely at home in the luxury style, sipping Champagne and snaffling a macaroon or two.

As you’d expect, the afternoon tea here is formal, delicate and beautiful. Expect an afternoon of indulgence. I also love that the service is second to none and the atmosphere is impossibly impressive.

You can always walk off some of the calories by exploring the 11,500-acre estate of formal gardens and characterful parkland.

Note that Blenheim Palace sits on the very edge of the Cotswolds, but the afternoon tea is more than worthy of a place on this list.

3. Huffkins, Various Locations

Huffkins dates back to 1890, and you can expect to find one of the best afternoon teas in the Cotswolds in any of its branches – Stow-on-the-Wold, Cheltenham, Witney and Stratford-upon-Avon.

Classic homemade goodies are the order of the day here, and it’s no surprise that this afternoon tea was named by Country Life Magazine as one of the top afternoon teas in the area.

Huffkins is also a great spot for a delicious brunch in the Cotswolds – I’ve tested it in both the Stow-on-the-Wold and Cheltenham locations.

I particularly recommend the Stow-on-the-Wold branch. The bakery is housed in a wonderful 17th century building within one of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds.

4. The Painswick Hotel, Stroud

A gorgeous boutique hotel in Stroud, The Painswick serves up a wonderful afternoon tea.

The setting is classic, with 18th century architecture and interiors, but they take a modern pick-and-mix approach to afternoon tea.

This is fantastic, as you get to eye up what you fancy most from the delectable buffet. Then enjoy it with a glass of fizz or a pot of tea, whatever takes your fancy.

I’d recommend this option if the classic sandwiches, scones and cakes leave you uncomfortably full and you’d rather be more selective with your choices.

5. Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Chippenham

Just outside of Bath, nestled in the rolling Cotswolds landscape, you’ll find a luxury afternoon tea in the grand mansion of Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa.

Expect dainty delights and exquisite tastes as you imagine this being your country home. Every element of the experience is considered and you’ll feel very spoilt.

👉 My recommendation: If you’re going to splurge on one Cotswolds afternoon tea, make it this one. In the summer, sit out on the terrace for a memorable setting.

👉🏼 Book a stay at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa

6. Whatley Manor, Malmesbury

For a truly luxurious afternoon tea, you won’t go wrong by selecting Whatley Manor in Malmesbury.

The characterful 18th century house offers a remarkable setting to enjoy this classic feast.

With delicate finger sandwiches and perfectly hand-crafted treats, this is a wonderful afternoon tea. Elegance is the order of the day here.

After tea, make sure you leave time to amble through the gardens steeped in old world charm. Gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian menus are also available.

👉🏼 Book a stay at Whatley Manor

7. Lords of the Manor, Upper Slaughter

Enjoying afternoon tea here, in pretty Upper Slaughter, you’ll certainly feel like lords and ladies of the manor. I’d recommend visiting early to explore the gardens and grounds, and work up an appetite.

Everything is beautifully made at Lords of the Manor, which is no surprise given that this hotel kitchen has been awarded a Michelin star.

Many would say this is the best afternoon tea in the Cotswolds, so make sure you book well in advance.

The loose leaf tea menu will have you amazed, so even the biggest tea drinkers will have ample choice. Or choose a glass of Taittinger instead – count me in!

Be sure to explore the beautiful villages of Upper Slaughter and Lower Slaughter while you’re there.

👉🏼 Book a stay at Lords of the Manor

8. Highgrove House, Tetbury

Highgrove is the private home of Their Majesties The King Charles III and The Queen Camilla, and it offers one of the most unusual afternoon teas anywhere in the Cotswolds.

The Champagne Afternoon Tea is now only available as part of a guided 1.5-hour Garden Tour, taking in the Stumpery, the Thyme Walk and the Chelsea award-winning Carpet Garden. Before finishing with tea in the elegant Orchard Room Restaurant.

It’s no longer possible to book afternoon tea on its own.

Tours run on selected dates between May and July, and they’re popular – the 2026 season had already sold out at the time of writing. If it’s on your wish list, keep an eye on the Highgrove Gardens website and book as early as you can for the following year.

9. The Close Hotel, Tetbury

A peaceful retreat nestled in Tetbury, The Close Hotel offers a wonderful afternoon tea option for those needing a break from the hustle and bustle of the market town.

Prioritising locally-sourced ingredients, this spot serves up treats like mini pavlovas, crab and citrus tarts, and a variety of delicious sandwiches.

👉🏼 Book a stay at The Close Hotel

10. Tisanes Tea Rooms, Broadway

Tisanes Tea Rooms, snugly housed in a classic 17th century stone building, offer a classic way to enjoy afternoon tea in the pretty village of Broadway.

There’s a small stone-walled garden if you’d prefer to tuck in outside. Boasting a menu of 40 loose leaf teas, choose afternoon tea here for fabulous flavours, a warm welcome and one of the most affordable teas on this list.

Don’t expect refinement, but do expect afternoon tea done generously and deliciously.

11. Ellenborough Park, Cheltenham

Describing itself as the finest afternoon tea in Cheltenham, you’re certainly in for beautifully crafted treats that look almost too good to eat.

Ellenborough Park is a stately venue, with much of its 15th century charm retained, but contemporary elegance at its finest.

Afternoon tea is served daily at this luxurious hotel and spa. Your cakes are even served up on silver cake stands for an extra touch of refinement.

👉🏼 Book a stay at Ellenborough Park

12. Rixy’s Cotswold Tearoom, Moreton-in-Marsh

Tucked into a Grade II listed building on Moreton-in-Marsh’s high street, this friendly, family-run tearoom is one of the best-kept secrets for afternoon tea in the Cotswolds.

Everything is made to order, so sandwiches arrive properly fresh rather than pre-plated hours in advance. Expect classics like egg mayonnaise and chive, and smoked salmon and cucumber, followed by scones and a rotating selection of homemade cakes.

There’s a walled garden at the rear if you’d like to enjoy it outside. Booking ahead is essential, as this is a small space with limited seating.

👉 My recommendation: If Tisanes in Broadway is fully booked, or you’d simply like something more low-key and less grand, Rixy’s is a lovely alternative that doesn’t skimp on quality.

Frequently asked questions

How much does afternoon tea cost in the Cotswolds?

Prices vary enormously. Simple village tea rooms like Tisanes or Rixy’s Cotswold Tearoom start from around £12.50–£21.50pp, mid-range hotel teas typically sit between £30–£45pp, and the grandest country house experiences, such as Lucknam Park, can reach £96–£136pp. 

Highgrove’s Champagne Tea and Garden Tour, at £118pp, is a special case, since it includes a guided tour of the gardens.

How far in advance should I book afternoon tea in the Cotswolds?

For popular spots such as Lords of the Manor, Lucknam Park and Whatley Manor, book at least two to three weeks ahead, especially for weekends. 

Highgrove’s Garden Tour and Champagne Tea sells out months in advance, so check the website as soon as dates for the next season are released. 

Smaller tea rooms like Tisanes and Rixy’s can often take bookings just a few days out, but it’s still worth calling ahead.

Is afternoon tea in the Cotswolds suitable for children?

Yes, most of the hotels on this list, including Lygon Arms, Ellenborough Park and Blenheim Palace, offer a dedicated children’s afternoon tea menu. 

Village tea rooms are generally relaxed and welcoming for families too, though it’s worth checking if you have a larger group.

Can I request vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free options?

Most venues on this list, including Whatley Manor, Lygon Arms and The Painswick, can cater for dietary requirements if you let them know when booking.

It’s best to mention any allergies or preferences in advance rather than on arrival, particularly at the smaller tea rooms.

Booking your Cotswolds afternoon tea

A visit to the Cotswolds is surely not complete without a decadent or homely afternoon tea thrown in. There is so much choice – from elegant boutique hotels and grand country estates to classic tea rooms with welcoming hosts.

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