Nothing says quintessential English experience quite like a proper high tea, and Cambridge has some of the finest spots to indulge. With options ranging from chic, contemporary tea rooms to classic, historic cafes, Cambridge’s high tea scene is as rich as the flavors in your teacup. Let’s dive into the best high tea spots in Cambridge, ideal for both locals and visitors who want to sip, nibble, and unwind in style.
Top 9 High Tea in Cambridge
- The Orchard Tea Garden
- The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
- Fitzbillies
- Le Patissier
- Six
- Carriages of Cambridge
- Browns Cambridge
- Afternoon Tea at Parker’s Tavern
- Parker’s Tavern
1. The Orchard Tea Garden
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 840230
Website: www.theorchardteagarden.co.uk
Address: 47 Mill Way, Grantchester, Cambridge CB3 9ND, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
This hidden gem in Grantchester is a cozy tea spot with a sprawling outdoor garden shaded by apple trees. Known for its relaxed ambiance, The Orchard is perfect for sipping tea surrounded by nature. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a year-round destination. Guests can reserve a spot, and with wheelchair accessibility, everyone can enjoy this classic tea experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
Imagine a lazy afternoon surrounded by towering trees, sipping tea with scones and clotted cream. Perfect for an outdoor high tea on a sunny day or a cozy indoor experience during cooler months.
2. The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie
Contact Details
Website: ivycollection.com
Address: City Centre, 16 Trinity St, Cambridge CB2 1TB, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: Expensive
For those looking for a luxe high tea experience, The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie offers a chic and colorful ambiance. This spot blends traditional tea service with international flair, and they also cater to vegetarian diets. Weekends bring an extra treat with brunch offerings, but high tea here is always a classy affair.
Why You’ll Love It:
It’s the perfect place for a special occasion or a fancy treat. Think modern vibes with a traditional high tea twist, and plenty of photo ops in their vibrant space.
3. Fitzbillies
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 352500
Website: www.fitzbillies.com
Address: 51-53 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1RG, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Moderate
An institution in Cambridge, Fitzbillies is famous for its old-school charm and delicious pastries. This spot serves a traditional high tea with locally sourced ingredients, including some East Anglian specialties. They offer indoor and outdoor seating and support takeout and delivery, so you can even enjoy their treats at home.
Why You’ll Love It:
From artisan coffee to classic pastries, Fitzbillies brings a taste of local history with every bite. It’s like stepping back in time while enjoying one of the most authentic high tea experiences in Cambridge.
4. Le Patissier
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 568336
Address: 11 St John’s St., Cambridge CB2 1TW, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Inexpensive
Le Patissier is a cozy cafe perfect for a budget-friendly high tea. Their homemade cakes, English breakfast, and freshly baked baguettes make for a delicious yet affordable option. With wooden tables and a warm vibe, it’s a delightful spot to relax with tea and snacks.
Why You’ll Love It:
Le Patissier is perfect for those looking for quality without a high price tag. The atmosphere is inviting, and the menu is simple yet tasty—ideal for a casual afternoon break.
5. Six
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 308030
Website: www.sixcambridge.co.uk
Address: 24 Thompsons Ln, Cambridge CB5 8EQ, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Open 24 hours
- Tuesday: Open 24 hours
- Wednesday: Open 24 hours
- Thursday: Open 24 hours
- Friday: Open 24 hours
- Saturday: Open 24 hours
- Sunday: Open 24 hours
Price: Expensive
For a high tea experience with a view, Six is an unbeatable choice. Located on the rooftop of the Varsity Hotel, it offers a chic dining experience with panoramic views of Cambridge. Ideal for a late afternoon, their menu includes classic tea accompaniments with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love It:
Six provides a unique combination of sophistication and scenery. If you’re up for splurging a little, this is where you’ll want to enjoy your tea with an amazing view of the city.
6. Carriages of Cambridge
Contact Details
Phone: 01954 233279
Website: www.carriagesofcambridge.co.uk
Address: Bannold Supplies, Capability Barns, Huntingdon Rd, Fen Drayton, Cambridge CB24 4SD, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Price: Moderate
Carriages is a delightful high tea destination for those looking to escape the city. Nestled in a rustic setting, this spot offers a unique experience, serving tea and treats in vintage railway carriages. With indoor and outdoor seating options, it’s a charming and peaceful location.
Why You’ll Love It:
Carriages takes high tea to another level with its vintage vibes and serene atmosphere. Perfect for a memorable experience outside the bustling city center.
7. Browns Cambridge
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 461655
Website: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk
Address: 23 Trumpington St, Cambridge CB2 1QA, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Browns is a classic British brasserie with a grand ambiance, serving high tea with all the traditional accompaniments. They offer delivery, takeout, and a comfortable setting for dining in. Known for its lobster nights and elegant decor, Browns gives you a refined yet cozy high tea experience.
Why You’ll Love It:
With its grand setting and traditional menu, Browns is ideal for those looking to enjoy high tea in style. It’s like having tea in a timeless British setting with a modern edge.
8. Afternoon Tea at Parker’s Tavern
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 606266
Website: parkerstavern.com
Address: Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 5:00 PM
Parker’s Tavern offers a refined afternoon tea experience with classic British elements. The relaxed yet upscale setting is perfect for an afternoon of sipping and savoring traditional tea treats. Their menu focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, offering a taste of Cambridge’s flavors.
Why You’ll Love It:
If you’re after a high tea with Cambridge charm, Parker’s Tavern offers it in spades. With a strong emphasis on quality, every item on the menu is crafted to perfection.
9. Parker’s Tavern
Contact Details
Phone: 01223 606266
Website: parkerstavern.com
Address: 52-42 Regent St, Cambridge CB2 1AD, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Price: Expensive
Parker’s Tavern is more than just tea—it’s an experience. This historic venue, dating back to 1834, offers an elegant dining room with an impressive high tea menu. From scones to cocktails, you can indulge in a full spread in a luxurious atmosphere.
Why You’ll Love It:
Parker’s Tavern is ideal for a grand high tea experience. With its sophisticated setting and curated menu, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 9 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Orchard Tea Garden | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| Fitzbillies | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Le Patissier | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | – | Inexpensive |
| Six | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| Carriages of Cambridge | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Browns Cambridge | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Afternoon Tea at Parker’s Tavern | Yes | – | No | Accessible | Yes | – |
| Parker’s Tavern | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
FAQs About High Tea in Cambridge
What is the best time to go for high tea?
Most tea spots serve high tea between early afternoon (1-4 pm). It’s wise to check specific hours and make a reservation if possible.
Is high tea in Cambridge kid-friendly?
Yes, many tea spots in Cambridge offer family-friendly settings and cater to various dietary preferences, making it easy to bring along little ones.
Are there vegan or gluten-free options?
Many Cambridge high tea spots, such as The Ivy Cambridge Brasserie, offer vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. It’s always best to ask in advance.
How much should I expect to pay?
Prices vary by venue, with moderate spots like Fitzbillies costing less than upscale locations such as Parker’s Tavern or Six. Generally, prices range from £10-£30 per person.
Do I need a reservation?
While it’s not always required, reserving a table is recommended, especially during weekends or at popular spots.
Can I get high tea to go?
Yes! Places like Fitzbillies and Browns offer takeout options, allowing you to enjoy high tea from home.
With Cambridge’s rich array of high tea options, you’re sure to find the perfect spot that matches your mood and budget. Whether it’s a luxurious outing or a charming, quaint tea experience, these ten spots have you covered. Enjoy a quintessentially British treat, and explore the city one cup of tea at a time!