Kate Atkin
26 March 2022
Enjoying a spot of ‘afternoon tea’ is one of the UK’s finest and long-standing British traditions. In the past few years, it has become increasingly more popular, with establishments across the country adding new exciting twists to make this indulgent treat even more special.
Afternoon Tea Week is held annually in August and is a celebration of this delightful tradition; the wonderful combination of savoury and sweet refreshments, accompanied by a warm pot of tea and perhaps a glass of bubbling champagne to be enjoyed with friends and family. We are, therefore, bringing you a roundup of Northumberland’s most enticing afternoon tea spots. From decadent delights in boutique surroundings to hearty finger food in casual cafes, the North East has its fair share of high tea destinations.
The Running Fox Bakery, Felton
Felton’s Running Fox Bakery has become something of a Northumberland institution when it comes to afternoon tea. Serving up their infamous belly-busting portions of cake and pie alongside a tower of legendary sandwiches on freshly baked artisan bread, we recommend warming up prior to taking on this afternoon tea challenge.
- Afternoon tea is served seven days a week from midday
- Prices for two start at £25.
- Location: 2-4 Riverside, Felton, Morpeth, NE65 9EA
- Cottage nearby: The Oaktree Cottage | sleeps 2
Jesmond Dene House, Newcastle
If you’re in the mood to treat yourself, nowhere does luxury better than Jesmond Dene House. This sumptuous boutique hotel is set amongst the lush greenery of Jesmond Dene, offering an idyllic backdrop for an afternoon spent sipping champagne and nibbling macaroons. From delicate finger sandwiches to melt-in-your-mouth quiche, three types of scone and a cornucopia of cakes, these afternoon teas are all about indulgence.
Doxford Hall, Doxford
Built in 1818, Doxford Hall Hotel offers the quintessential British country house experience. This 4-star hotel is just a stone’s throw from the popular market town of Alnwick, making it a perfect afternoon tea escape in the countryside. Whether you choose to dine in the Morning Room in front of a roaring log fire or al fresco in the sunshine on the manicured lawns, you can look forward to a fine array of fancies with freshly brewed tea or a glass of bubbly. Why not combine lunch with a spot of rest and relaxation in the on-site spa?
- Afternoon tea is served seven days a week between 2pm - 5pm.
- Afternoon tea starts at £17.50 per person.
- Location: Chathill, Alnwick, NE67 5DN
- Cottage nearby: Pottergate Tower | sleeps 2
The White Swan, Alnwick
Visitors will find The White Swan in the heart of Alnwick, making it an ideal place to stop for lunch after a morning spent exploring the famous castle and gardens. A local favourite, The White Swan offers a wide menu alongside its afternoon tea - where diners can sample the chef’s cake of the day as they sip Earl Grey and take in the warm and welcoming dining room.
- You can enjoy afternoon tea on Sundays from 2pm - 5pm.
- Deluxe afternoon tea, complete with sweets and savouries, starts at £17.50 per person.
- Location: Bondgate within Alnwick, NE66 1TD
- Cottage nearby: Thornbrae Lodge | sleeps 4
Matfen Hall, Matfen
This luxurious countryside retreat is a firm favourite with local ladies and gentlemen who lunch. Boasting an on-site spa and golf course, a day trip to Matfen Hall is guaranteed to keep everyone happy. With their very own executive pastry chefs serving up classic scones, sweets and sandwiches - all prepared using local ingredients, alongside carefully selected loose leaf teas from Newcastle based company, Ringtons, you’re guaranteed a great lunch.
The Cookie Jar, Alnwick
This is a cosy establishment in the heart of Alnwick which offers a trendy bistro to the back which is a lovely place to enjoy a bite to eat. You can relax in the atmospheric Cookie Jar dining room or in the summer months bask in and enjoy your food with the warm fire pit. Sample an elegant selection of flavoured tea, from citrus red berries to lemon. The sandwiches are second to none with melt-in-your-mouth fillings and the treats include, tarts, scones and cakes!
- Afternoon tea is served Thursday to Saturday, 12pm - 3.30pm.
- Prices start at £16.50 per person.
- Location: 12 Bailiffgate, Alnwick, NE66 1LU
- Cottage nearby: Campden | sleeps 6 | 2 dogs welcome
We hope you are planning your next afternoon tea in the northeast after reading this. There is no nicer way to spend some chilled time with your loved ones. If you are a real foodie when on holiday you might find our guide to the top ten pubs in Northumberland handy. And don't forget to check out our guide to the best places to eat in Northumberland! Take the glamour home and stay in our luxury cottages in Northumberland too - they make the perfect base to come home to.
Fancy treating yourself to a holiday in Northumberland? Discover our wide range of holiday cottages and apartments. From city breaks in Newcastle-upon-Tyne to a week spent on the stunning Northumberland Coast, Cottages in Northumberland is your first port of call for accommodation in the region.
*Prices are correct at the time of publishing; however, they are subject to change.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.