The Best Afternoon Teas in Lincolnshire

Published on 2024-03-04

What better way to spend a few hours than savouring one of the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire? Offering delicious bites of moreish-ness, afternoon teas have been a favourite British pastime since the middle of the nineteenth century and have earned themselves an immovable place on our plates and in our hearts.

But where exactly are the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire? Whether you’re looking for sweet or savoury treats, we’ve compiled some of the best places to go in beautiful settings for the most delicious experience. Let’s tuck in.

Washingborough Hall

Heading up our list of the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire just had to be our very own Washingborough Hall. Dating back to 1750, our stunning Grade II listed Georgian manor house sets a dreamy scene within 3 acres of woodland-framed gardens. Surrounded by countryside, yet less than 3 miles from the historic city of Lincoln, we are perfectly placed for drawn-out afternoon teas throughout the year.

Take a seat on the alfresco terrace on sunny days or head inside for a place by the fire in winter, making the most of the array of beautiful indoor and outdoor seating. Once you’ve found the perfect spot for you, get ready to indulge in the finest flavours. With a menu that updates every quarter and refreshes in tandem with the season’s offerings, we offer a range of sweet and savoury delicacies for you to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee or a glass of bubbles. Just remember to book ahead to secure your reservation.

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The Mill Cottage

Nestled just outside the village of South Willingham on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds National Landscape, Mill Cottage Gardens is a true delight. A seasonal haven that is open from spring until autumn, this rural café is surrounded by well-kept gardens that can be explored by patrons and boasts reaching views over rolling fields and the picturesque Lincolnshire countryside.

Sit outside in the gardens in the sunshine or find a window-side table in the French room if the clouds roll over and make the most of the setting, ready to tuck into a homemade afternoon tea in this verdant pocket of Lincolnshire. Composed of fresh finger sandwiches with generous fillings, pastries, tarts, fluffy scones and more, all served alongside hot tea and coffee, the afternoon teas here offer plenty to pique the appetite.

Marco Pierre White Lincolnshire

The first British chef to be awarded three Michelin stars, Marco Pierre White has long had a reputation as being one the most talented in the business. A chef and TV presenter, his culinary repertoire also extends across several restaurants peppered across the UK – one of which resides in Lincolnshire on Brayford Wharf.

If you are looking for somewhere enticing to enjoy one of the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire, why not consider a trip to this culinary gem? Serving traditional afternoons for solo connoisseurs, duos, and groups of friends, it proposes a delightful foodiescape in which to while away the afternoon. Treat yourself to a luxurious afternoon tea crafted with tasty sandwiches, homemade cakes, and warm sultana scones dolloped with clotted cream and jam for heavenly taste sensations. To accompany your food, you can choose from a selection of TeaPigs tea or Musetti coffee, or upgrade to a luxury prosecco or Champagne afternoon tea for an added sense of occasion. Well, why not?

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Steep Hill Afternoon Teas

Tucked along Steep Hill in the heart of Lincoln are two beloved tea rooms offering winsome afternoon tea experiences in Lincolnshire. Spend some time exploring the historic city centre, including a tour of the thousand-year-old Lincoln Castle and Lincoln Cathedral, before heading over to take your pick.

The first, the beautiful, Tudor façade of Bells Tea Shop creates a charming welcome as you arrive. Inside, cute tables and chairs await to take the weight as you settle in and sit back. To satisfy the savoury palate, a medley of sandwiches feature on the menu, layered with favourite fillings such as local ham and mustard, cheese with home-made chutney, local free-range egg and cress, and tuna and cucumber. Meanwhile for sweetness, homemade cakes and scones, local preserves and clotted cream can be enjoyed alongside unlimited Yorkshire tea or Americano coffee – all served atop pretty Cath Kidston crockery.

Further down the road, the award-winning, Grade II listed Buntys Tearoom proffers an equally lovely setting for afternoon teas in Lincolnshire. On the menu of this Great Taste 2023 vintage tea room, an assortment of sandwiches and cakes can be chosen for your delectation, as well as a variety of scones including fruit, plain and gluten-free. Absorb the quirky character and welcoming ambience of this café and enjoy some of the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire.

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Stokes Coffee Shop

Stokes Coffee Shop in Lincoln offers not only one of the best afternoon teas in Lincolnshire but also one of the most unique. Situated within a historic building atop the Medieval High Bridge in Lincoln, this incredible coffee shop has roots dating all the way back to the 12th century and boasts one of the most unusual locations in the UK. Filled with history and steeped in atmosphere, it’s a must-visit for those looking for an afternoon tea and a stepping stone through time.

For the ultimate experience, relish the atmosphere of Stokes and opt for a lovingly-curated afternoon tea – be it The Classic, The Lush (with prosecco), The Duchess (with a Royal twist), or the Little Darlings (for children). For the coffee aficionados, an extensive selection of freshly roasted, single origin beans and blends will delight the taste buds. Meanwhile for tea fans, a choice of 30 loose-leaf teas promise heaven in a cup. Reserve in advance to avoid disappointment.

Looking for somewhere luxurious to stay? Wherever your hunt for the best afternoon tea in Lincolnshire takes you, nothing will be finer than returning to luxury accommodation at the end of each day. Located just outside of Lincoln, at Washingborough Hall we provide the most idyllic base for long weekends and drawn-out holidays. Promising the highest customer service and the most comfortable rooms, our gorgeous, 18th century manor house has everything you need for true relaxation. To find out more or book your room, please don’t hesitate to get in touch today.