Few things say “Oxford” quite like a charming high tea experience. Whether you’re looking to indulge in classic scones with clotted cream or explore more modern flavors, Oxford’s high tea spots promise to deliver. Let’s dive into the best places to savor tea, bite into decadent pastries, and soak up Oxford’s historic and cozy charm.
Top 10 High Tea Spots in Oxford
- The Rose Oxford
- The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
- The Grand Café
- The Folly Restaurant
- Vaults & Garden
- The Alice
- Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
- Browns Oxford
- Parsonage Grill
- Old Parsonage Hotel, by The Oxford Collection
1. The Rose Oxford
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 244429
Address: 51 High St, Oxford OX1 4AS, 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
Atmosphere: Contemporary tearoom with European-inspired dishes
Price: Moderate
Supports: Curbside pickup, delivery, indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, and takeout
The Rose Oxford is a must for any tea lover. This tearoom combines a modern look with classic offerings, serving breakfast, lunch, and – of course – afternoon tea with a twist. Their homemade scones are to die for, and you can choose from a variety of teas to complement them. The atmosphere is cozy yet chic, perfect for anyone wanting a relaxed yet memorable experience. Plus, curbside pickup and delivery options make it convenient if you’d prefer to enjoy your high tea at home.
2. The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
Contact Details
Website: ivycollection.com
Address: 120-121 High St, Oxford OX1 4DF, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:30 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Atmosphere: Glamorous, with Art Deco-inspired interiors
Price: Expensive
Supports: Delivery, indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Known for its luxurious setting, The Ivy Oxford Brasserie is a top choice for special occasions. With a high tea selection that includes both traditional and modern bites, it’s easy to feel pampered here. The menu has something for everyone, from classic finger sandwiches to unique desserts, and the cocktail options are a fun addition if you’re looking to elevate the experience. Accessibility is also a priority here, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance.
3. The Grand Café
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 204463
Website: www.thegrandcafe.co.uk
Address: 84 High St, Oxford OX1 4BG, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Atmosphere: Historic, gilded with mirror-clad walls
Price: Moderate
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
As the oldest coffee house in England, The Grand Café is a slice of history wrapped up in elegance. Their afternoon tea features fresh cream teas and half-price cocktails in the evening, making it a fantastic choice for any time of day. This spot is perfect for those who want a historic and glamorous high tea experience without an overwhelming price tag.
4. The Folly Restaurant
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 201293
Website: www.no1-folly-bridge.co.uk
Address: 1 Folly Brg, Oxford OX1 4JU, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Atmosphere: Charming riverside with a terrace and boat rentals
Price: Moderate
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations
Located by the river, The Folly Restaurant provides a scenic setting that feels like a countryside retreat. Their high tea offerings are infused with a modern British flair, including fresh, seasonal ingredients. If you want to add a bit of adventure, you can rent a boat right by the restaurant. This is a great spot if you want an authentic British high tea experience with a view.
5. Vaults & Garden
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 819098
Website: www.thevaultsandgarden.com
Address: University Church, 1 Radcliffe Sq, Oxford OX1 4AH, 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
Atmosphere: Historic, with a 1320s building and garden views
Price: Moderate
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, takeout
Vaults & Garden combines Oxford’s deep-rooted history with a commitment to organic and global lunches. Enjoy your tea in a 700-year-old setting with vaulted ceilings and a lush garden. Their high tea is on the simpler side, focusing on fresh, organic ingredients. It’s a charming spot for anyone interested in a sustainable, cozy high tea experience in a truly iconic Oxford location.
6. The Alice
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 256400
Website: www.thealiceoxford.com
Address: The Randolph Hotel, Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2LN, 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
Atmosphere: Upscale with a modern British charm
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations
The Alice at The Randolph Hotel offers an elegant high tea experience perfect for those who want a little luxury. Their tea selection is extensive, and they serve beautifully arranged platters with finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones. The ambiance is sophisticated, making it a great choice for celebrating a special occasion. It’s also accessible for all guests with wheelchair-friendly entrances.
7. Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 553823
Website: www.benugo.com
Address: Ashmolean Museum, Beaumont St, Oxford OX1 2PH, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Atmosphere: Fashionable, with rooftop views of the city
Price: Moderate
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations
If you’re in the mood for high tea with a view, head to the Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant. Located above the Ashmolean Museum, this spot blends Modern European and British flavors in their high tea selections. With a sweeping view of Oxford and fresh, seasonal ingredients, it’s an ideal place to unwind after exploring the city’s cultural treasures.
8. Browns Oxford
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 511995
Website: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk
Address: 5-11 Woodstock Rd, Oxford OX2 6HA, 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: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Atmosphere: Grand café vibe with a British brasserie twist
Price: Moderate
Supports: Delivery, indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
Browns Oxford is a lively spot with a distinctly British touch. With a variety of options like lobster nights and traditional afternoon tea, you can expect both creativity and tradition. Browns is great for families or larger gatherings due to its casual yet classy atmosphere. Their afternoon tea is all about British classics, so you’ll get a good range of savory and sweet delights.
9. Parsonage Grill
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 292305
Website: www.parsonagegrill.co.uk
Address: 1-3 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 6NN, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Atmosphere: Elegant, with elevated British cuisine
Supports: Indoor/outdoor seating, reservations, takeout
The Parsonage Grill is an excellent choice for high tea in a posh setting. Known for its elevated British dishes, it’s ideal if you’re looking for more than just a snack – the high tea here can double as a light meal. The setting is both classy and relaxed, making it a great pick for tea with friends or a quiet solo treat.
10. Old Parsonage Hotel, by The Oxford Collection
Contact Details
Phone: 01865 310210
Website: www.oldparsonagehotel.co.uk
Address: 1-3 Banbury Rd, Oxford OX2 6NN, UK
Directions: Open on Map
Opening Hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Atmosphere: Historic 17th-century parsonage with a luxurious twist
Supports: Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Old Parsonage Hotel offers a cozy yet upscale afternoon tea experience. With posh rooms and a 17th-century charm, it’s the perfect blend of Oxford’s history and modern comforts. Their high tea includes classic scones, finger sandwiches, and a selection of teas in a beautiful setting.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Rose Oxford | Yes | Yes | Yes | – | Yes | Moderate |
| The Ivy Oxford Brasserie | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Expensive |
| The Grand Caf̩ | Yes | Yes | No | Р| Yes | Moderate |
| The Folly Restaurant | Yes | – | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Vaults & Garden | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | No | Moderate |
| The Alice | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | – |
| Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant | Yes | No | No | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Browns Oxford | Yes | Yes | Yes | Accessible | Yes | Moderate |
| Parsonage Grill | Yes | Yes | No | Accessible | Yes | – |
| Old Parsonage Hotel, by The Oxford Collection | – | – | – | Accessible | – | – |
FAQs
What’s the best high tea spot for a riverside view?
The Folly Restaurant offers an amazing riverside terrace and boat rentals for a unique high tea by the water.
Is there a wheelchair-accessible high tea spot in Oxford?
Yes, several options like The Ivy Oxford Brasserie, Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant, and Vaults & Garden are wheelchair-accessible.
Where can I get the most affordable high tea in Oxford?
Most moderate-priced options, like The Rose Oxford and Vaults & Garden, offer high tea without breaking the bank.
Do any of these places offer delivery or takeout for high tea?
Yes! The Rose Oxford, Browns Oxford, and The Ivy Oxford Brasserie all support delivery and takeout, so you can enjoy high tea from home.
These high tea spots in Oxford offer diverse experiences, from riverside views to historic charm, and each has its own unique flair. Enjoy exploring these top choices and discovering your favorite!