Afternoon tea has always been as much about the setting as it is the sandwiches. Scones served on fine china somehow taste better in the right surroundings, conversations linger longer and another pot of tea (and dollop of clotted cream) is almost always justified. Sip at The Signal Box understands that beautifully and has executed the afternoon tea space of heritage dreams in its new Sip Tea Room. BY SAMANTHA READY

Already one of Folkestone Harbour’s most popular spots for speciality coffee, homemade cake and great sandwiches, Sip has unveiled an elegant new dining space; part orangery-style extension, part heritage railway waiting room, it of course feels wonderfully fitting and pays a lovely homage to the destination’s past as a way point for the grand era of Victorian escapism and the delightful British pastime of proper afternoon tea. 

The space itself is beautifully executed. A light-filled conservatory-style room sits alongside the original signal master’s cafe, which is finished in Folkestone Harbour’s signature bright green palette. Visitors would be forgiven for believing that it had always been there, rather than custom built this summer, yet the addition of carefully curated antiques (chosen with love by co-owner Perrie) that look as though they’ve always belonged give the space that lived-in feel. Vintage suitcases are stacked beside vintage teacups and saucers displayed in an antique dresser, each little touch subtly reinforcing the destination’s story without tipping it into trying-too-hard territory. It feels charming, comfortable, entirely in keeping with the creative spirit that now defines the regenerated harbour and, thanks to cleverly spaced tables and sittings, just a little bit exclusive too.

We settled into one of the windowside tables as glasses of chilled bubbles arrived to begin the experience; a lovely addition that always elevates an afternoon tea. Afternoon tea is available by advance booking across two daily sittings, with unlimited filter coffee or tea included throughout, encouraging exactly the leisurely pace the tradition deserves.

Our two-tier stand (thoughtfully chosen for a shape that works with the table size and is very cleverly reminiscent of railway sleepers) arrived looking every inch the classic afternoon tea. The lower tier offered an appealing selection of freshly prepared finger sandwiches. Smoked salmon and cream cheese, egg mayo with chives, ham and mustard, and mature Cheddar with chutney, proved that simple classics done right will always hit the right note. 

The top tier belonged to the scones and sweet treats. Served still slightly warm and, much to the delight of my dried-fruit disliking tendencies, plain, they carried a light, tender crumb beneath gently golden tops. Thick clotted cream and local jam accompanied them, leaving the age-old debate of cream or jam first entirely up to us. We may never settle that argument, but we made light work of both regardless.

Sweet treats completed our indulgent afternoon. A beautifully soft Victoria sponge was delivered exactly how it should be – light vanilla sponge, generous layers of raspberry jam and cream, and finished simply with a dusting of icing sugar. Alongside this sat a vibrant lemon drizzle cake with bright notes of citrus that cut through the richness perfectly. Delicate macarons added colour, texture and just enough contemporary flourish to round off the selection without losing sight of afternoon tea’s traditional roots.

As coffees were quietly replenished and fresh pots of tea appeared without asking, the pace of the afternoon slowed naturally. Outside, visitors wandered the Harbour Arm (occasionally stopping in awe of our tower of treats), while the sea rolled gently beyond. Inside, the atmosphere remained calm and unhurried, helped not only by the thoughtful design of the new tea room but by the effortless service provided by Perrie and Brad.

What Sip has created is far more than simply another afternoon tea offering. It feels entirely connected to its surroundings, drawing on the Harbour Arm’s railway heritage while providing a relaxed, elegant space that is completely juxtaposed to the frenetic energy of the Goods Yard beyond. It is perfect for a catch up with friends, a celebratory outing (it’s an ideal private-hire space for birthdays and baby showers!), a cute date afternoon or simply just to indulge in one of Britain’s most enduring dining traditions. 

At £29 per person, including a glass of bubbles and unlimited tea or filter coffee, it also represents excellent value. Vegetarian and vegan afternoon teas are available too, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.

For somewhere that already excels at coffee and cake, this feels like an entirely natural next stop. One that, judging by the conversations around us, Folkestone has been waiting for!