From England’s oldest hotel beside Malmesbury Abbey to Japanese‑inspired tiers, Georgian Bath townhouses and golden‑valley manor houses, this corner of the Cotswolds does afternoon tea with real flair. At these handpicked spots you can move from cordon bleu bites and mango macarons to sushi‑style teas, French‑pastry tiers and country house classics with sweeping views.
The Old Bell, Malmesbury
The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury, located next to the town’s historic abbey, has been looking after visitors since 1220.
Its full afternoon tea is an elegant fusion of traditional favourites and modern flavours. There’s a list of teas from which to choose and an inviting selection of things to eat, including savouries such as cordon bleu bites with chicken and Emmental and fish pie tartlets; finger sandwiches filled with smoked salmon mousse and homemade brisket with Bovril butter and gherkin and tempting sweets like strawberry choux bun, mango macaron and raspberry frangipane tart. There’s a ‘Little Angels’ menu for under-12s too. Afternoon tea is served in the historic Abbey Row Restaurant, in the cosy lounge areas or beautiful outdoor spaces.
oldbellhotel.co.uk
Kibou, Cheltenham and Oxford
For afternoon tea with a Japanese twist, look no further than Kibou, which has branches in Cheltenham’s Regent Street and in Oxford’s Little Clarendon Street.
Here finger sandwiches and macarons are swapped for the likes of prawn hosomaki, salmon tataki, a selection of mochi ice cream and cinnamon and apple gyoza, to name just a few of the tempting items to pick up with a pair of chopsticks. There is also a vegetarian option.
All are enjoyed with Japanese-inspired teas or infusions, such as hojicha, a smoky and calming roasted green tea.
Afternoon tea at Kibou is for a minimum of two people sharing and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
kibou.co.uk
The Gainsborough, Bath
The Gainsborough’s impressive architecture and imposing Georgian façade makes it a perfect setting for an indulgent and unforgettable afternoon tea while taking a break from exploring the historical streets in the heart of the spa city of Bath.
The menu offers a selection of speciality blended teas from around the world, including the signature Gainsborough blend, along with delicate finger sandwiches, hot savoury treats, perfectly crafted miniature pastries and warm scones with clotted cream and homemade jams. Afternoon teas are served in The Canvas Room, a space with a character and charm that’s quintessentially British and irrefutably modern with an understated elegance.
thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk
Burleigh Court, near Minchinhampton, Stroud
Beautiful views over Stroud’s Golden Valley, a French pastry chef and ingredients fresh from the Cotswolds: afternoon tea at Burleigh Court is a treat few would want to miss.
Freshly baked scones with clotted cream and homemade jams, delectable artisan cakes and pastries and savoury delights are served in the oak-panelled dining room, the garden lounge or al fresco on the front or rear terrace.
There are gluten-free and vegan options and, for those in the mood for celebrating, afternoon teas with a glass of fizz.
Build up an appetite by going on a walk using a route supplied by the hotel.
burleighcourtcotswolds.co.uk
Ellenborough Park, near Cheltenham
Taking afternoon tea can be a family affair at the country house hotel Ellenborough Park near Cheltenham, with a special mini version for children.
Grown-ups get to enjoy a pick of teas, including homemade infusions of ginger or mint, to accompany sandwiches and savouries, handmade sweet treats and oven-fresh scones. It’s even possible to add a glass of fizz, a gin and tonic or a cocktail.
The five-star Ellenborough Park is a country house dating back more than 500 years that opened as a hotel in 1973. It sits within 90 acres of grounds, between the Cotswolds’ highest point and Cheltenham Racecourse..
ellenboroughpark.com
The Slaughters Manor House, Lower Slaughter
Nestled in the picture-perfect village of Lower Slaughter – where the gentle River Eye meanders through one of England’s prettiest Cotswold settings – The Slaughters Manor House offers the perfect summer escape. Relax in the tranquil gardens or elegant lounges and savour a quintessential Afternoon Tea, featuring delicate finger sandwiches, warm homemade scones with clotted cream and preserves, and beautifully handcrafted pastries, all accompanied by a carefully curated selection of fine teas.
For an extra touch of indulgence, add a glass of chilled champagne and while away a leisurely summer afternoon in timeless country house style.
slaughtersmanor.co.uk
Knead, Elkstone
Afternoon tea is a seasonal offering at Knead Bakery, winner of the 2025 Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards Bakery of the Year.
Visit Knead at Elkstone Studios to celebrate special dates such as Mother’s Day and Christmas, with two dates planned for festive celebrations on December 19 and 20.
The bakery also offers a bespoke afternoon package for parties of 15-plus.
The teas feature a tempting selection of savouries, freshly baked fruit scones with jam and clotted cream and decadent sweet pastries.
They’re perfect for catching up with friends, celebrating or spending a relaxing afternoon.
Visit the website for more information and to book:
kneadbakery.co.uk
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