High tea in Manchester isn’t just about sipping a fancy cup of tea; it’s a whole experience. From the ambiance to the bite-sized treats, each venue brings a unique flavor to the high tea scene. Whether you're looking for an upscale spot or a cozy nook, Manchester’s got you covered. Let’s dive into some of the top spots in the city, each with its own charm and signature offerings.
Top 7 High Tea in Manchester
- Richmond Tea Rooms
- Sugar Junction
- Cloud 23
- The Tea Room at The Midland
- Afternoon Tea at The Library, The Edwardian Manchester
- Grand Pacific
- Browns Manchester
1. Richmond Tea Rooms
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 697 4474
Website: www.richmondtearooms.com
Address: 46 Sackville St, Manchester M1 3WF, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Highlights: Beautiful decor, breakfast, afternoon tea, cocktails
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Reservations, Takeout
Richmond Tea Rooms feels like stepping into a whimsical world with Alice in Wonderland-inspired decor. The menu offers breakfast, classic afternoon tea, sandwiches, cakes, and cocktails. If you’re after a picture-perfect tea experience, Richmond’s ornate decor and vibrant setting make this an unforgettable choice.
2. Sugar Junction
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 839 4753
Website: www.sugarjunction.co.uk
Address: 60 Tib St, Manchester M4 1LG, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Highlights: 25 blended teas, shakes, cakes, home-cooked meals
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Delivery, Reservations, Takeout
Sugar Junction offers a cozy vibe with over 25 unique tea blends. Their freshly baked cakes, hearty home-cooked food, and signature shakes make this spot an all-rounder. Perfect for those who love variety, Sugar Junction’s extensive tea menu brings something new to the table.
3. Cloud 23
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 870 1688
Website: www.cloud23bar.com
Address: Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
- 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 – 10:00 PM
Price: Expensive
Highlights: 23rd-floor skyline view, Hilton hotel location, cocktail and champagne bar
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Reservations, Wheelchair-accessible
For a high tea experience with a view, Cloud 23 at Beetham Tower offers stunning city views from the 23rd floor. Part of the Hilton hotel, this luxurious cocktail and champagne bar is perfect if you’re looking to elevate your afternoon tea. Be prepared for an upscale experience with high-end service and a jaw-dropping skyline.
4. The Tea Room at The Midland
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 235 4782
Website: www.themidlandhotel.co.uk
Address: The Midland Hotel, Peter St, Manchester M60 2DS, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 – 4:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 4:30 PM
Price: Moderate
Highlights: Elegant tea room with timeless charm
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Reservations, Wheelchair-accessible
If classic elegance is what you’re after, The Tea Room at The Midland has you covered. Known for its refined setting, it combines sophistication with comfort, offering an impressive selection of teas and treats. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a traditional high tea experience in a charming, historical setting.
5. Afternoon Tea at The Library, The Edwardian Manchester
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 835 8959
Website: www.radissonhotels.com
Address: Free Trade Hall, Peter St, Manchester M2 5GP, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
Highlights: French-inspired dishes, modern dining room, book-lined walls
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Reservations, Wheelchair-accessible
Located in a modern, book-lined space, The Library in The Edwardian Manchester is a go-to for a stylish afternoon tea. The French-inspired dishes give a unique twist to the usual spread, making it ideal for a memorable experience. It’s not just about tea here; it’s about the entire atmosphere, with a dash of elegance and modernity.
6. Grand Pacific
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 839 9365
Website: www.grandpacific.uk.com
Address: 50 Spring Gardens, Manchester M2 1EN, UK
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: Moderate
Highlights: Opulent interiors, global cuisine, historical feel
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Reservations
Grand Pacific has an “old world meets new world” aesthetic that brings high tea to life. Inspired by the age of exploration, this venue serves high tea with a touch of exotic flair, blending tradition with an adventurous twist. With its opulent decor, Grand Pacific offers an escape to a bygone era with every sip.
7. Browns Manchester
Contact Details
Phone: 0161 819 1055
Website: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk
Address: 1 York St, Greater, Manchester M2 2AW, 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 – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price: Moderate
Highlights: British brasserie, lobster nights, all-day dining
Seating Options: Indoor and outdoor
Additional Perks: Delivery, Reservations, Takeout, Wheelchair-accessible
Known for its grand café vibe, Browns Manchester offers a high tea experience with a British twist. Perfect for fans of traditional brasserie fare, Browns combines the familiarity of a British cafe with elegant dining. Their menu is as diverse as it is delicious, featuring everything from afternoon tea to lobster nights.
Choosing the Right Tea Room for You
With 7 excellent tea rooms, here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Tea Room | Seating | Takeout | Delivery | Wheelchair | Reservation | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Richmond Tea Rooms | Yes | Yes | No | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Sugar Junction | Yes | Yes | Yes | - | Yes | Moderate |
| Cloud 23 | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| The Tea Room at The Midland | Yes | - | No | Accessible | Yes | - |
| Afternoon Tea at The Library, The Edwardian Manchester | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | - |
| Grand Pacific | Yes | No | No | Inaccessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Browns Manchester | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
FAQs on High Tea in Manchester
1. What’s the difference between high tea and afternoon tea?
High tea is traditionally a more substantial meal, often served later in the day with savory dishes like meats and vegetables, while afternoon tea is lighter, focusing on tea, scones, and finger sandwiches.
2. Do I need to make reservations?
Most of the venues listed recommend or require reservations, especially for weekend visits, to ensure seating availability.
3. Are these high tea spots family-friendly?
Yes, many of these venues welcome families. However, some places like Cloud 23 may have an atmosphere geared toward adults.
4. Is there a dress code for these tea rooms?
While most places don’t enforce a strict dress code, a smart-casual look is recommended, especially for upscale venues like Cloud 23.
5. Can I get vegan or gluten-free options?
Most of these tea spots can accommodate dietary needs if requested in advance. It's best to check with the venue when booking.
Manchester’s high tea scene has something for everyone, whether you want to relax in a cozy cafe or enjoy tea with a view. These spots combine tradition with a little extra, offering everything from classic teas to creative, fusion-inspired menus. Grab a friend, dress up a bit, and enjoy a tea experience that’s as charming as it is delicious.
