Afternoon Tea in the South West

Afternoon tea is one of Great Britain’s most delicious traditions, best accompanied with a side of sunshine.

The origin of the cream tea is disputed, although there is evidence to suggest that the tradition of eating bread with cream and jam existed at Tavistock Abbey in Devon in the 11th century. There is also much rivlery  between the regional variations as to how a cream tea should preferably be eaten.

• The Devonian, or Devonshire, method is to split the scone in two, cover each half with clotted cream, and then add strawberry jam on top.
• With the Cornish method, the warm 'split' or a 'scone' is first split in two, then spread with strawberry jam, and finally topped with a spoonful of clotted cream.

To celebrate the great British Summer we’ve rounded up some of the best spots for afternoon tea in the South West.

The Tudor Rose Tearooms & Garden

26 New Street, Plymouth, PL1 2NA

Located on New Street in the historic Barbican, The Tudor Rose Tearooms and Garden is celebrated for its traditional Devonshire cream teas, freshly baked scones, Rodda’s clotted cream, and Tiptree strawberry jam, served with Drake blend Plymouth tea. The venue features a quaint tearoom, elegant patio, and a historic walled garden, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon. They also offer gluten-free and vegan cream teas, and full afternoon tea experiences with finger sandwiches and cakes.

Woods Cafe

Cardinham Woods, Bodmin PL30 4AL

Nestled amongst the beautiful trails of Cardinham Woods, Woods Café is a family-run gem that's popular with walkers, cyclists and dog owners alike. Serving homemade food crafted from fresh, local ingredients, it's best known for its freshly baked cakes, legendary cream teas and ever-changing Scone of the Week. Whether you're refuelling with a locally roasted Yallah coffee or relaxing after a woodland adventure, this welcoming café is the perfect place to unwind with family, friends and four-legged companions.

Lympstone Manor

Courtlands Lane, Exmouth, EX8 3NZ

For a truly special afternoon tea experience, Lympstone Manor offers Michelin-starred dining in a stunning setting overlooking the Exe Estuary. Guests can enjoy beautifully crafted patisserie, freshly baked scones and delicate finger sandwiches, all served with exceptional attention to detail. Perfect for celebrations and special occasions - a truly luxury cream tea!

Rumwell Farm Shop

Rumwell, Taunton, Somerset, TA4 1EJ

A popular destination between Taunton and Wellington, the award-winning Rumwell Café is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, excellent service and delicious home-cooked food. Using produce sourced from the farm shop, family farm and local suppliers, the café serves indulgent afternoon teas, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Dr Fox's Tearoom

Knightstone Causeway, Weston-super-Mare, BS23 2AD

Nestled on Knightstone Island in Weston-super-Mare, Dr Fox’s Tearoom offers a traditional afternoon tea experience in a charming Victorian setting overlooking the sea. Known for its handmade cakes, freshly baked scones and carefully prepared finger sandwiches, this independent tearoom prides itself on using high quality ingredients and supporting local producers. Guests can enjoy a classic afternoon tea complete with unlimited tea or filter coffee, alongside gluten-free and vegan options, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing coastal treat in the South West.