Looking for copious amounts of tea, cake, and maybe even a bit of fizz? Leicester offers some of the finest and most elegant spots for afternoon tea, perfect for retirees who want to relax in style. Whether you’re catching up with friends and family or treating yourself to a peaceful afternoon, these venues provide a charming setting to unwind with delicious treats. Explore these top locations and find the ideal spot for your next tea-time indulgence.
The Best Afternoon Teas in Leicester
1. The Belmont Hotel
The Belmont Hotel, located in Leicester city centre, is perfect for those looking to enjoy a classic afternoon tea in a charming setting. Their menu includes a selection of teas, sandwiches, savouries, cakes, and pastries. The Belmont offers both traditional and vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice.
- Website: The Belmont Hotel
- When: 2 pm to 5 pm, Monday to Sunday.
- Price: From £22.50 per person.
2. Winstanley House
This Grade II listed Georgian house combines elegance and history, offering a delightful afternoon tea experience. Expect finely crafted finger foods, delicate pastries, and an impressive tea selection in a beautiful setting. Upgrades are available to include prosecco or champagne. There’s even an option for bottomless prosecco. Children’s afternoon teas are available as well – perfect for those catching up with grandchildren.
- Website: Winstanley House
- When: Available from 12 pm to 3 pm, weekends only.
- Price: From £26 per person.
3. The City Rooms – Indian Afternoon Teas
Experience a delightful Indian twist on traditional afternoon tea at The City Rooms, a beautiful grade I historic venue in the heart of Leicester. Enjoy an array of delicious sweet and savoury treats, including hare bara green chutney burgers, crisp jalebi, and layered bhel puri pots. Complement your meal with a refreshing sweet mango lassi and unlimited aromatic masala tea.
- Website: The City Rooms
- When: Available by booking only, from 1 pm to 4 pm.
4. Badgers Mount
Nestled in the Leicestershire countryside, Badgers Mount offers a relaxing and scenic venue for a classic afternoon tea. Enjoy a selection of sandwiches, scones, and cakes in their cosy dining area or take in the views from the terrace at this charming boutique hotel with heartfelt personal service and a welcoming at-home atmosphere. This is another establishment that caters for children if you’re looking to treat the small person in your life.
- Website: Badgers Mount
- When: Available daily from 12 pm to 4 pm.
- Price: From £26.50 per person.
5. Belvoir Castle
For a truly regal afternoon tea experience, Belvoir Castle provides a majestic setting. Afternoon tea here is served in the opulent surroundings of the castle’s tearoom, offering finger sandwiches, scones, and beautifully crafted pastries.
- Website: Belvoir Castle
- When: Available from March 29th.
6. Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms
A traditional tearoom located in Leicester city centre, Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms is perfect for those who want a cosy, intimate setting for afternoon tea. Expect freshly prepared finger sandwiches, homemade scones with clotted cream, and an array of cakes.
- Website: Mrs Bridges Tea Rooms
- When: Daily, 11 am to 4 pm. Afternoon tea is always on the menu and there’s no need to book.
7. The Tea Room in Oadby
Situated within The Cow & Plough pub in Oadby, not far from our retirement homes in Glen Parva, this rustic tearoom offers a wonderful afternoon tea experience. Their menu includes a variety of sandwiches, scones, and indulgent cakes, served with a selection of teas or even a glass of Prosecco.
- Website: The Cow & Plough
- When: Afternoon tea is served from 3 pm to 6.30 pm, Monday to Saturday. Booking is essential.
- Price: From £19.95 per person.
8. The Waterbridge, Blaby
Located just outside Leicester in Blaby, not too far from Glen Parva Retirement development, The Waterbridge is known for its generous portions and warm hospitality. Their afternoon tea includes a variety of traditional sandwiches, scones, and an impressive selection of cakes and pastries. If you don’t fancy going out but would like afternoon tea at home – the Waterbridge offer takeaway afternoon tea.
- Website: The Waterbridge Blaby
- When: Served daily from 12 pm to 4 pm.
- Price: From £21.95 per person.
9. The Waterbridge, Blaby
Located just outside Leicester in Blaby, not too far from Glen Parva Retirement development, The Waterbridge is known for its generous portions and warm hospitality. Their afternoon tea includes a variety of traditional sandwiches, scones, and an impressive selection of cakes and pastries. If you don’t fancy going out but would like afternoon tea at home – the Waterbridge offer takeaway afternoon tea.
- Website: The Waterbridge Blaby
- When: Served daily from 12 pm to 4 pm.
- Price: From £21.95 per person.
The Origin of Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea is a beloved British tradition dating back to the 19th century when Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, introduced the custom to stave off hunger between lunch and dinner. It has since evolved into a luxurious ritual, with an array of teas, finger sandwiches, cakes, and scones often served with clotted cream and jam. Today, Leicester’s best afternoon teas maintain this tradition, offering a tranquil escape and a chance to indulge.
Afternoon tea continues to be a cherished activity, particularly for older generations, evoking memories of the past and providing a delightful way to reminisce. Its timeless appeal makes it a comforting and sociable event, perfect for bringing people together and sparking conversations over shared memories.
Discover Retirement Living at McCarthy Stone in Leicester
Here at McCarthy Stone, we offer a selection of beautiful retirement homes for sale in Leicester, each designed for comfort, community, and an enriching lifestyle, such as Glenhills Court in Glen Parva.
Whether you’re looking to downsize or seeking a vibrant community atmosphere, our Leicester retirement homes provide the perfect balance of independent living with support services tailored to your needs.
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Contact us today to arrange a visit and explore the facilities and lifestyle options available at McCarthy Stone in Leicester.
