Did you know that 12th – 18th August is Afternoon Tea Week? Well, now that you do, it’s the perfect excuse for indulging in one of Britain’s best loved delicacies and where better to do so than in North Devon, where you are surrounded by beautiful coastline and stunning countryside?
If you’re up for settling down somewhere picturesque and enjoying a freshly brewed cuppa with some dainty sandwiches, home made scones and lots of little cakes, here are some suggestions of great places to enjoy a tasty treat.
One of the best places to stop off for afternoon tea is a hotel and luckily, in North Devon, you’re never too far away from some of the most luxurious hotels in England. Hotels tend to have comfortable places to sit, with bright, airy spaces and top notch cuisine, which is why we love indulging in afternoon tea in them. In Barnstaple, the Imperial Hotel, which is part of the Brend Collection, Afternoon Tea is served daily but that doesn’t make it any less special. It is always served on crisp linen dressed tables and with vintage crockery. You can even make it a little more special by adding a glass of champagne alongside your tea!
The Royal and Fortescue, also in Barnstaple, is another great option for an Afternoon Tea experience. Head to their lounge and choose from a selection of leaf teas, an assortment of finger sandwiches, baked scones, a selection of cakes and pastries and of course, local Devonshire cream.
Or combine your trip out to enjoy an Afternoon Tea with a day out by enjoying a summer afternoon tea at RHS Rosemoor. Until 30th September you can enjoy their summer-themed afternoon tea in the garden restaurant surrounded by peace and tranquillity. This indulgent Afternoon Tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, scones and sweet treats, like chocolate strawberries and homemade fudge.
Another place we love for Afternoon Tea is farm shops – with their freshly baked goods and ingredients sourced right from the farm itself, it’s a great way to enjoy a real taste of Devon. One farm shop where you can get Afternoon Tea is Blackberry Farm Shop. Not only do you have the incredible local ingredients but on a clear day, you can enjoy far reaching views across Dartmoor.
We did say one great way to spend Afternoon Tea Week was to have a tea near the stunning North Devon Coast, and if that sounds like something you’d like to experience, head to John’s of Instow. Still in their original location and with the beach and ferry connecting you to Appledore right on the doorstep, pop in for one of their special Afternoon Teas. With a range of sandwiches and savoury treats all locally sourced and of course home made scones, you can enjoy the sea breeze and a delicious treat all at the same time.
Wondering where else you can enjoy tasty food in North Devon this month? Check out some of our other food and drink options here.
