Where to Eat: Afternoon Tea in Bristol

Looking for a leisurely afternoon treat? Take a trip in time and explore the quintessentially British delight of afternoon tea in Bristol…

image of afternoon tea at Berwick Lodge Bristol, cakes on a stand & a teapot

It doesn't matter if you struggle to tell the difference between a Devonshire and a Cornish, we can’t either, but there’s one thing we’re sure we can agree on- there’s always time for a spot of afternoon tea in Bristol. It’s been over 150 years since the Duchess of Bedford introduced this delightful mid-meal treat and although the best Afternoon Tea in Bristol is tricky to narrow down we’ve managed to select the top spots to enjoy this wonderful past-time in.


Ashwell & Co

Ashwell & Co Afternoon tea Bristol - scones and cakes on a cake stand

32 Alma Vale Road, Bristol, BS8 2HY

Welcome to one of Bristol’s longest running independent Ashwell & Co tearooms where you can enjoy a truly unique, homemade afternoon tea experience, along with one of the largest collections of vintage and antique wedding gowns in the UK! Nestled within the vintage boutique in Clifton, Bristol this tearoom offers an unforgettable setting blending timeless charm with homemade delights.

From freshly baked scones to homemade clotted cream every element of the afternoon tea is crafted with care and quality. So much so that Prima Magazine have named Ashwell & Co the Best Place for Afternoon Tea in Bristol. 

Where this unique tearoom excels is its devotion to freshly baked produce. Using the finest, seasonal ingredients, every item is created in-house with great care and attention to detail. The menu is vegetarian as standard and Gluten Less and Vegan options are also available. 

Looking for a unique memorable way to celebrate? Ashwell & Co exclusive tea party packages offer the perfect setting for a special occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday, hen party, baby shower or simply a get together with friends Ashwell & Co provide a beautifully styled space and relaxed atmosphere. From a complimentary glass of fizz on arrival to exquisitely laid tables and the option to add your own decorations every detail is thoughtfully curated to make the experience truly special. For those looking to add an extra touch of creativity a range of activities are on offer to suit a variety of ages and abilities – from flower crowns to macramé and Lino printing to bunting making.  


No 4 at Clifton Village

No 4 at Clifton Village afternoon tea Bristol

4 Rodney Place, Bristol, BS8 4HY

A gorgeous Grade II listed Georgian townhouse with its very own Secret Garden, No 4 is a rare jewel in Clifton’s crown. Menus and interiors that champion local suppliers, a dedication to seasonal dishes, and unrivalled service set No.4 Clifton Village apart from its local counterparts. Serving up a wonderful, quintessential afternoon tea, visitors can enjoy the delights in either their regal restaurant, or their secluded walled garden.

Chefs at No 4 have perfected the quintessentially British art of High Tea, serving up the finest finger-foods, sweet treats, and loose-leaf teas. From delicate cakes to savoury sandwiches, each bite is more delectable than the last.

However, It wouldn’t be No.4 without a twist on a classic – enjoy one of the many hand-crafted Afternoon Tea Packages on offer, including Tipsy Tea add-ons, filled with deliciously wicked cocktail concoctions and Prosecco Packages, to bring some bubbles and fun to your afternoon.

Starting from just £18 per person, the menu is both delicious and affordable. There’s also a vegan afternoon tea option. 


The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

The Ivy Clifton Brasserie - two people at a table for afternoon tea, Cakes scones and tea

42-44 Caledonia Place, Bristol, BS8 4DN

London’s famous restaurant, The Ivy opened its Bristol doors in 2016. Overlooking the Mall Gardens, the Ivy Clifton Brasserie restaurant brings relaxed and sophisticated dining to the chic Clifton Village.

The expert afternoon tea comes in a glamorous setting and is truly a way to make an experience out of the occasion. Immerse yourself in the remarkable 1920’s art deco surroundings in the heart of leafy Clifton.

Classic afternoon tea costs £35.75, with a glass of Champagne the price goes up to£45.75. The menu boasts delicious vegan and vegetarian options. including, classic crème brûlée with berry compote, mini chocolate truffles with a liquid salted caramel centre, The Ivy 1917 Cure smoked salmon and cream cheese choux bun and the sublime Chicken Milanese and truffle cream brioche roll - delicious.   


Hotel Du Vin

Hotel Du Vin afternoon tea in Bristol, two classes of prosecco and tea and cakes

The Sugar House, Narrow Lewin’s Mead, BS1 2NU

Hotel du Vin Bristol City Centre, a fusion of luxury and comfort nestled within one of England's most lively cities. Renowned for delivering unrivalled facilities and remarkable dining experiences including the perfect spot to indulge in quality time and some afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea at Hotel Du Vin is the perfect combination of sweet and savoury, although a little naughty, it’s worth every bite. Washed down with a cup of tea from the outstandingly good tea infusions created for us by Bird & Blend Teas focus on developing unique blends of tea. Why not add Champagne to mark the occasion? After all it's all about indulging...

To help cater for special dietary requirements we offer three versions of afternoon tea service. As well as our standard offering, we also offer alternative menus for vegetarians/vegans and for those with gluten allergies.

Classic cream tea £15.95 consists of a selection of plain and fruit scones served with Paysan butter, Bonne Maman strawberry conserve and Rodda’s Cornish clotted cream, along with two of the Chef’s patisseries of the day! Afternoon tea £29.95pp consists of an array of finger sandwiches and a selection of delicious classic cakes & desserts.


Berwick Lodge Boutique Hotel

Berwick Lodge Boutique Hotel afternoon tea Bristol, cake and glasses of drink

Berwick Drive, Bristol, BS10 7TD

Berwick Lodge offers three fantastic Afternoon Tea experiences in a tranquil setting with acres of stunning grounds offering uninterrupted views of Wales whilst still being conveniently accessible (just off of Bristol’s M5). With a rich history having been built in 1890 the lodge offers character, a unique dining experience and wonderful hotel to spend the weekend at.

The afternoon tea can either be set in the beautiful panelled lounge or on the grounds (weather permitting) with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free menu options to choose from. There is the  choice of switching the traditional to the boozy with a champagne version or you can dive into the delight of the classic Berwick Afternoon Tea.

Afternoon tea is served Monday - Sunday 12pm - 5.00pm, Cream Tea - £12.95 per person,  Fruit and Plain Scone. Traditional Afternoon Tea - £34.95 per person with a selection of sandwiches. Champagne Afternoon Tea - £46.95 per person. Children’s Afternoon Tea - £14.95 per person and the very special Bridgerton Inspired Afternoon Tea - £41.95 per person. To partake in such an offering is to embrace the art of true indulgence. However, beware for once sampled one’s expectations for afternoon tea may never be the same again!