Tea has been a central part of British culture for centuries, ever since it was first imported from China in the 1650s. Following royal endorsement and the transformation of tea shops into accessible, public spaces, a cup of tea is close to a national tradition.
Though you can enjoy a cuppa at any time of the day, there’s nothing quite like afternoon tea with cakes or scones on a sunny afternoon.
That’s why we’re celebrating Afternoon Tea Week this August. And you can too, with these five top spots dotted around East and West Sussex.
1. Indulge in a traditional British afternoon tea at Chiddingstone Castle
The tea rooms at Chiddingstone Castle offer as traditional an afternoon tea as they come.
With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, plus areas available for larger groups, there’s a space to suit everyone at the quaint castle tearoom.
You can access both the tearoom and gift shop without paying castle admission, but Chiddingstone often hosts live music afternoons, vintage markets, children’s workshops, and more.
Pets are also welcome on a lead in the courtyard seating area. So, it could be a fun day out for the whole family.
See more about the castle and tearoom by visiting their website and booking a sweet summer experience.
2. Visit Chez Mal Brighton for a reimagined classic afternoon tea
Chez Mal Brighton is a boutique hotel situated on the waterfront of Brighton Marina.
If you’re looking for something a little bit less traditional, explore their modern and creative take on the classic afternoon tea menu at their sushi and cocktail bar, Sora.
They combine Asian tea with food such as chicken yakitori and salmon sashimi, and sweet treats including a passion fruit and miso brûlée and matcha scones. Try it with one of their signature cocktails, such as the Yuzu Mojito, and enjoy an experience like no other.
They also offer a vegan option.
Explore their menu and be sure to book in advance to secure your place for the afternoon.
3. Enjoy a tour with your tea at the Pallant House Gallery
If you want to take in some art before or after your afternoon tea, be sure to visit Pallant House Gallery.
You can enjoy your traditional afternoon tea in the courtyard under a canopy of trees or alongside one of their seasonal art exhibitions.
They offer fruit scones with jam and clotted cream, handmade sweet treats, and tasty savoury bites. You can also pair it with their house blend of coffee or Twinings tea selection, or upgrade for a local sparkling Wiston wine.
As is tradition, Pallant House Gallery serves their afternoon tea at 4 pm every Saturday. Be sure to book in advance.
4. Float the afternoon away with a Cream Tea Cruise
The Chichester Cream Tea Cruise offers scones with locally made fruit jam and clotted cream as you drift along the canal for a two-hour round trip.
The canal has uninterrupted views of the countryside, and you’ll have the opportunity to spot local fauna and flora as you cruise. Be on the lookout specifically for kingfishers, herons, mallards, and swans.
See more and book ahead for a lovely afternoon out, and take in the fresh air, shimmering waters, and hot summer days.
5. Visit a local spot at the Little Cottage Tea Room
For a quintessentially British afternoon tea, visit the Little Cottage Tea Room in Lewes. Nestled in the South Downs National Park, you can enjoy the gardens and sunshine as you eat and drink.
Feel free to bring your dogs along to join you outside, as the tearoom is just a stone’s throw away from some beautiful walks in and around Glynde. There is also plenty of free parking in the village.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just fancy a treat, add a glass of sparkling wine and enjoy an afternoon in the peaceful surroundings.
Be sure to book in advance for a delightful afternoon at the Little Cottage Tea Room.
Get in touch
Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life is important, and we understand the value in easing your mental load.
Our goal is to help you out with just that.
We’re here to support you with your financial planning, and our team of independent financial advisers in Lewes makes it easier to set aside your worries and enjoy a cup of tea.
To find out more, please get in touch by emailing us at financial@barwells-wealth.co.uk or by phone on 01273 086 311.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
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