Leiden is a charming city in the Netherlands, filled with cozy cafés, quaint streets, and historic buildings. And one of the best ways to enjoy a leisurely afternoon here? High tea, of course! Whether you’re a fan of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones, or a variety of teas, there’s something magical about sitting down for a traditional high tea experience.
But where are the best spots in Leiden to enjoy this delightful tradition? Let’s take a deep dive into the top 10 places for high tea in Leiden that combine great flavors, cozy atmospheres, and top-notch service.
Top 10 Places for High Tea in Leiden Netherlands
- Pakhuis Leiden
- Blossom by KP | Café Restaurant
- Teahouse ‘De Leidsehout’
- Kopje van Leiden
- Anne&Max Leiden
- ROOS -Taste & Smile
- Aan de Rijn
- Teds Leiden – All Day Brunch
- Barista Cafe Leiden
- Hortus Grand Café
1. Pakhuis Leiden
Contact Details
Phone: 071 513 6666
Website: www.pakhuisleiden.nl
Address: Doelensteeg 8, 2311 VL Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Pakhuis Leiden offers a beautiful blend of industrial chic décor and cozy vibes, making it a perfect spot for afternoon tea. They offer traditional high tea with an impressive selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones with jam, and delicious pastries. Whether you sit inside or enjoy their charming terrace, you’ll feel right at home. Plus, if you’re in the mood for something extra, they also serve wine to pair with your treats. Accessibility is also a bonus, with the entrance being wheelchair-friendly.
Why it’s great: Cozy atmosphere, great selection of teas, and outdoor seating for sunny days.
2. Blossom by KP | Café Restaurant
Contact Details
Phone: 06 17189739
Website: www.blossomleiden.nl
Address: Botermarkt 26, 2311 EN Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Blossom by KP is a trendy café with a menu that combines modern dining with classic comfort. Their high tea is a standout, with delicious homemade scones, cakes, and savory treats. It’s an ideal place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a wide variety of teas. They also offer curbside pickup if you’re in a hurry but still craving a high tea experience.
Why it’s great: Fresh, modern twist on classic high tea and an inviting atmosphere with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating.
3. Teahouse ‘De Leidsehout’
Contact Details
Phone: 071 515 3476
Website: www.deleidsehout.nl
Address: Houtlaan 100, 2334 CL Leiden, Netherlands
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: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
If you want a peaceful and serene setting for your afternoon tea, Teahouse ‘De Leidsehout’ is the place to be. Nestled in a green area, this teahouse offers a calm escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. They serve high tea with a variety of sweet and savory items, including delicate pastries and finger sandwiches. The ambiance is cozy, and the tea selection is top-notch.
Why it’s great: Tranquil setting surrounded by nature, ideal for a relaxing afternoon.
4. Kopje van Leiden
Contact Details
Phone: 071 204 8478
Website: www.kopjevanleiden.nl
Address: Haarlemmerstraat 1, 2312 DJ Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:45 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Moderate
For a high tea experience in the heart of Leiden, Kopje van Leiden is a must-visit. This café serves a delicious afternoon tea with a variety of treats to satisfy your sweet and savory cravings. They focus on using fresh ingredients, making each bite a treat. The cozy vibe of the café makes it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy their tea in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Why it’s great: Centrally located with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
5. Anne&Max Leiden
Contact Details
Phone: 071 240 1863
Website: www.annemax.nl
Address: Gangetje 2, 2311 ER Leiden, Netherlands
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: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Anne&Max is a wonderful spot for high tea, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their afternoon tea features a wide range of delicacies, including fresh scones with clotted cream and jam, small sandwiches, and cakes. If you’re looking for something healthy alongside your tea, they also offer a selection of salads and smoothies. The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating, making it perfect for any weather.
Why it’s great: Healthy options and cozy seating, perfect for a laid-back afternoon.
6. ROOS -Taste & Smile
Contact Details
Phone: 071 785 1294
Website: www.roosleiden.nl
Address: Botermarkt 12, 2311 EM Leiden, Netherlands
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: Moderate
This easygoing café offers a high tea experience with a focus on homemade treats, including fresh sandwiches, baked goods, and a variety of teas. Known for its friendly vibe and delicious cakes, ROOS is a great place to relax with friends or family. Their smoothies and coffee are also highly recommended if you’re in the mood for a little extra caffeine alongside your tea.
Why it’s great: Homestyle baked goods and smoothies for a unique twist on your high tea.
7. Aan de Rijn
Contact Details
Phone: 071 512 6668
Website: www.aanderijnleiden.nl
Address: Nieuwe Rijn 37, 2312 JG Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
For a cozy riverside setting, Aan de Rijn offers a high tea that’s as delightful as the view. Enjoy your afternoon tea with a beautiful view of the water, making it a peaceful experience. The high tea here includes a nice selection of finger foods, scones, and sweet treats, all served with a variety of teas. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to pair their high tea with some scenic relaxation.
Why it’s great: Riverside location with a great atmosphere for outdoor seating.
8. Teds Leiden – All Day Brunch
Contact Details
Phone: 071 889 5391
Website: teds-place.nl
Address: Lange Mare 60, 2312 GS Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Teds Leiden is famous for its all-day brunches, but their high tea is also a crowd-pleaser. Offering a variety of teas and a selection of savory and sweet bites, it’s a casual yet tasty spot for afternoon tea. Whether you’re sitting inside or out on the terrace, you can enjoy your tea while indulging in a variety of treats. With curbside pickup available, Teds makes it easy to enjoy a delicious high tea on the go.
Why it’s great: Fun, casual atmosphere with a mix of savory and sweet options.
9. Barista Cafe Leiden
Contact Details
Phone: 071 529 2970
Website: www.baristacafe.nl
Address: Catharinasteeg 5, 2311 DE Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Barista Café is a great place to grab a quick yet satisfying high tea. They offer a delicious selection of pastries, finger sandwiches, and teas, all served in a warm, inviting space. The café is well-known for its great coffee, but their high tea is also a hit. If you’re a coffee lover who also enjoys tea, this is the perfect spot for you.
Why it’s great: A mix of great coffee and tea options, plus a cozy, intimate space.
10. Hortus Grand Café
Contact Details
Phone: 071 527 5084
Website: hortusleiden.nl
Address: Rapenburg 73a, 2311 GJ Leiden, Netherlands
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price: Moderate
For a touch of elegance, Hortus Grand Café offers an exquisite high tea experience. Located within the famous Hortus Botanicus, it’s a place where you can enjoy your tea surrounded by stunning gardens. The high tea features a delightful array of savory and sweet treats, along with a fine selection of teas. The peaceful garden setting makes it an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to combine a beautiful atmosphere with delicious food.
Why it’s great: Gorgeous garden setting in the Hortus Botanicus, perfect for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 10 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pakhuis Leiden | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Blossom by KP | Café Restaurant | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Teahouse ‘De Leidsehout’ | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Kopje van Leiden | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | – | Moderate |
| Anne&Max Leiden | Yes | Yes | – | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| ROOS -Taste & Smile | Yes | Yes | No | – | No | Moderate |
| Aan de Rijn | Yes | Yes | – | – | Yes | Moderate |
| Teds Leiden – All Day Brunch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Barista Cafe Leiden | Yes | Yes | No | – | Yes | Moderate |
| Hortus Grand Café | Yes | – | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is included in a traditional high tea?
A traditional high tea usually includes finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, cakes, and a selection of teas. Some places may also offer small savory bites like quiches or pies.
Do I need to make a reservation for high tea?
Many places in Leiden recommend making a reservation, especially during peak hours or weekends. Some of the more popular spots can get busy, so booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out.
Is high tea suitable for special dietary needs?
Yes! Many cafés in Leiden offer options for gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan diets. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or mention your dietary needs when making a reservation.
Can I take high tea to go?
Yes, some places offer takeout or curbside pickup for high tea. Check the café’s website or call ahead to find out if they offer this service.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or just visiting Leiden, the city’s high tea offerings are top-notch. From cozy cafés with a modern twist to elegant venues with stunning views, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxing afternoon. So grab a friend (or two), sip on some tea, and indulge in the best high tea Leiden has to offer!