The quintessential English tradition of afternoon tea first emerged in the mid-19th century courtesy of Anne, Seventh Duchess of Bedford. At around four o’clock each afternoon, she would become hungry as supper was not served until eight o’clock; to satisfy her appetite, she requested a tray of tea with bread and butter.

By the late 19th century, afternoon tea had become a major social event, with upper-class women gathering to enjoy an array of dainty sandwiches, scones lathered with cream and jam, cakes, pastries and, of course, fine tea from India or Ceylon. 

Over the centuries, afternoon tea has become a highly prized pastime and is still today a much-loved luxury, one that Kent has perfected in both style and taste. Whether it is enjoyed in historic settings or with lakeside views, one thing remains certain – everything stops for tea.

Port Lympne

From £37pp

For a unique afternoon tea experience, Port Lympne Wildlife and Safari Park offers afternoon tea experiences in the historic Port Lympne Hotel or on the Western Terrace at the heart of the reserve. Taking tea where historical figures such as Winston Churchill, Charlie Chaplin and others once dined, afternoon tea is served on traditional tiered crockery with a selection of finger sandwiches and savoury bites, pastries and, of course, freshly made scones with dollops of clotted cream and jam all made from locally sourced ingredients in Kent. Finish off your experience by exploring the grounds and discover many of the exotic animal species residing in the park. 

Eastwell Manor

From £36pp

©Fleur Challis Photography

For the quintessential experience, Eastwell Manor boasts one of the best afternoon teas in Kent. Here you can sip tea from china cups and dine on freshly made scones in the very same room as Queen Victoria did over 100 years ago. Perfect for a memorable treat, the seasonal menu offers freshly cut finger sandwiches and warm scones with clotted cream and jam, alongside petit fours and a range of speciality teas to choose from ranging from a classic Earl Grey to a refreshing green tea; alternatively, choose to sip sparkling wine for an extra special experience. 

SIP at the Signal Box

From £29pp

A new feature to the much-loved coffee house on Folkestone Harbour’s old railway station, the new SIP Tea Room is available to enjoy on Saturdays and Sundays, offering a traditional afternoon tea experience. Take in views of the old station train line with panoramic sliding glass windows and a large glass roof before being served your afternoon tea on a tiered platter adorned with vintage crockery with a welcome glass of bubbles when you arrive. This will be followed by a speciality tea of your choice, a range of finger sandwiches and a tier of cakes and sweets, all freshly made and utterly delicious.

Tudor Rose

From £24.95pp

Set in an enchanting, traditional tea room, Tudor Rose has been serving afternoon teas since the 1890s. The Victorian tradition continues to be a favourite at the tea room; with a quirky, cosy feel, you can enjoy a selection of bite-sized delights served on an ornate tiered china platter. Enjoy mini quiches, freshly made sandwiches and filled croissants alongside a selection of miniature cakes and macaroons, all made using locally sourced ingredients for an authentic Kentish afternoon tea.

Hotel du Vin

From £29.95pp

An afternoon spent at Hotel du Vin offers a classic British afternoon tea, with three versions available to try ranging from traditional and vegetarian to gluten-free. Each menu offers a bespoke selection of carefully prepared delights, with the traditional menu offering finger sandwiches including smoked salmon and cream cheese in a brioche roll, and ham and Gruyère on a mini croissant. Sweet treats include crème brûlée and fine apple tarts, which can be paired with tea from Bird & Bird Teas, Champagne or a signature Hotel du Vin cocktail.

Bekesbourne Farm

From £30pp 

From a scene straight out of Bridgerton, Bekesbourne Farm is a family-fun fruit farm set in the rural Kentish countryside. Hosting a number of events every month, afternoon tea can be enjoyed amongst the rows of fruit trees; with ornate furniture and delicate crockery, the setting is perfect for a summer’s afternoon spent soaking up the sun and enjoying a tiered platter of delectable treats. From bottomless tea and coffee and fresh sandwiches to fairy cakes, tiffins, fondant fancies and an array of fruit picked fresh from the farm.

Chilston Park Hotel

From £35pp

A luxury afternoon tea can be found at Chilston Park Hotel – recognised for having one of the finest experiences in Kent, the hotel is the perfect setting for a special occasion. Set in the Marble Lounge, with beautiful chandeliers and a tranquil feel, you can enjoy a selection of carefully prepared pastries, sandwiches and the finest leaf tea. Served with care, you can choose to have a glass of bubbles to elevate the experience while you spend the afternoon in a setting similar to that of 19th-century high society.

Inn on the Lake

From £25pp

Set in 12 acres of ancient woodland and picturesque lakes, the Inn on the Lake offers afternoon tea all year round. During the summer, you can enjoy tea by the lake with a menu offering finger sandwiches including honey-roast ham and wholegrain mustard and the classic cucumber and cream cheese alongside freshly baked fruit or plain scones and the chef’s selection of finger desserts and patisseries. Your delectable afternoon tea can be enjoyed with bottomless tea and coffee while taking in the serene lake views.