High tea in Lancaster, PA, is a delightful experience filled with charming atmospheres, delicious treats, and, of course, a fantastic selection of teas. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or just enjoy a cozy afternoon, Lancaster has some wonderful spots to enjoy this British tradition. Let's explore everything you need to know about high tea in this beautiful town!
What is High Tea?
High tea is more than just sipping tea; it’s an experience! Traditionally served in the late afternoon or early evening, high tea includes a variety of teas paired with sweet and savory treats. Think scones, finger sandwiches, pastries, and cakes. It’s a lovely way to unwind and indulge with friends or family.
Why Choose Lancaster for High Tea?
Lancaster is known for its rich history and warm hospitality, making it a perfect place for a high tea experience. The mix of quaint tea rooms, local flavors, and beautiful settings creates an inviting atmosphere. Plus, many places incorporate the area’s culture and traditions into their menus, adding a unique twist to the high tea experience.
Best 10 Places for High Tea in Lancaster, PA
Here’s a look at some of the top spots to enjoy high tea in Lancaster:
- Sugarplums and Teas
- A Tea Affair Tea Room
- Passenger Coffee & Tea Showroom
- La Petite Patisserie
- Hippo Bubble Tea
- Manchester Teas and Tarts
- Aura Espresso Room
- Front Porch Tea Room and Gathering Place
- The Spice & Tea Exchange of Lancaster
- Buboo Smoothie & Tea House
1. Sugarplums and Teas
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 394-9166
Website: www.sugarplumsandteas.com
Address: 403 Bank Barn Ln, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Price: Moderate
- Features: Delivery, indoor and outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
At Sugarplums and Teas, you can expect a cozy setting with a variety of tea options. Their menu features delightful finger sandwiches and pastries, making it a great spot for a classic high tea.
2. A Tea Affair Tea Room
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 627-1776
Website: ateaaffairlititz.com
Address: Tearoom Located @ 8 Sturgis Lane, Retail Tea Shop located @, 36 E Main St, Lititz, PA 17543, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Price: Moderate
- Features: Curbside pickup, delivery, indoor and outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
A Tea Affair offers a charming atmosphere and an extensive tea selection. Their high tea service includes beautifully crafted sandwiches and delicious scones, perfect for a lovely afternoon treat.
3. Passenger Coffee & Tea Showroom
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 455-3633
Website: passengercoffee.com
Address: 7 W King St, Lancaster, PA 17602, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Price: Moderate
- Features: Indoor and outdoor seating, takeout
While primarily a coffee shop, Passenger also serves tea and light snacks. It’s a great place to enjoy a more casual high tea experience in a modern setting.
4. La Petite Patisserie
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 424-1631
Website: petitedessert.com
Address: 621 Harrisburg Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Features: Indoor and outdoor seating, takeout
This delightful patisserie specializes in French-inspired pastries. Although they don’t offer a traditional high tea, you can create your own with their selection of baked goods and teas.
5. Hippo Bubble Tea
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 984-6803
Website: hippo-bubble-tea.company.site
Address: 2050 Fruitville Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Price: Inexpensive
- Features: Delivery, indoor and outdoor seating, takeout
If you’re looking for a fun twist on traditional tea, Hippo Bubble Tea offers a variety of bubble teas. It’s a casual spot where you can enjoy some sweet treats with friends.
6. Manchester Teas and Tarts
Contact Details
Website: www.facebook.com
Address: 33 E High St, Elizabethtown, PA 17022, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Features: Indoor and outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
This quaint tea room is perfect for a relaxed high tea experience. Their menu includes an assortment of pastries and tarts, perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.
7. Aura Espresso Room
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 391-2872
Website: www.auraespresso.com
Address: 44 N Queen St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Price: Inexpensive
- Features: Curbside pickup, delivery, indoor and outdoor seating, takeout
Aura is known for its coffee, but they also serve a selection of teas. It’s a great place for a laid-back tea time, especially if you’re in the mood for something casual.
8. Front Porch Tea Room and Gathering Place
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 755-7510
Website: frontporchtearoom.com
Address: 25 W Market St, Hallam, PA 17406, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Features: Indoor and outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
This lovely tea room offers a cozy ambiance and a delightful menu. Their high tea service is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a variety of sandwiches and pastries.
9. The Spice & Tea Exchange of Lancaster
Contact Details
Phone: (717) 394-4328
Website: www.spiceandtea.com
Address: 20 W Orange St, Lancaster, PA 17603, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Features: Curbside pickup
While primarily a retailer, The Spice & Tea Exchange offers a variety of exotic teas that you can purchase to enjoy at home. This is a great stop for tea enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors.
10. Buboo Smoothie & Tea House
Contact Details
Address: 142 Park City Center, Lancaster, PA 17601, USA
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Features: Indoor and outdoor seating, takeout
At Buboo, you can enjoy smoothies and a selection of teas. It’s a fun and casual spot to grab a quick drink and a snack.
Planning Your High Tea
Making Reservations
Many tea rooms offer reservations, especially for high tea services. It's a good idea to book ahead, especially on weekends or during special occasions. This way, you can ensure you get the best experience without any wait.
Dress Code
While there's usually no strict dress code for high tea, it’s a nice touch to dress up a bit. Think smart-casual or even a bit more formal if you’re heading to a more upscale tea room. It adds to the experience and makes it feel special!
Timing
High tea is traditionally served in the late afternoon, usually between 3 PM and 5 PM. Check with the specific tea room for their hours, as some may have set times for high tea service.
FAQs About High Tea in Lancaster, PA
What’s typically served at high tea?
High tea usually includes a variety of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of pastries and cakes. Of course, tea is the star of the show!
How much does high tea cost?
Prices can vary depending on the location and menu, but you can expect moderate pricing at most tea rooms in Lancaster.
Do I need to dress up for high tea?
While it’s not always required, dressing nicely can enhance the experience. Smart-casual attire is generally a good choice.
Can I bring kids to high tea?
Absolutely! Many tea rooms welcome families and even offer special menus for children. It’s a great way to introduce them to the tradition of high tea.
Is high tea gluten-free?
Some tea rooms may offer gluten-free options, but it’s best to check in advance when making your reservation.
Conclusion
High tea in Lancaster, PA, is a charming experience filled with delicious treats and delightful company. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to explore the various tea rooms that the area has to offer. With cozy atmospheres and unique menus, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy this lovely tradition. So gather your friends, pick a place, and enjoy a delightful afternoon of high tea!
