Are you in the mood for a delightful afternoon treat in the heart of Cardiff, UK? Welsh hospitality is renowned for its warmth and charm, and one of the quintessential British experiences you can enjoy in Cardiff is afternoon tea. Whether you’re a local resident or a tourist exploring the Welsh capital, I’ll take you on a journey through the best places for afternoon tea in Cardiff, allowing you to savor delectable treats, aromatic teas, and the city’s rich culture that offer a delectable escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Best Afternoon Tea in Cardiff
1- Pettigrew Tea Rooms
Location: West Lodge, Bute Park, Castle St, Cardiff CF10 1BJ
Cost: Starting at £17.50 per person
Pettigrew Tea Rooms, is renowned for its accommodating approach to dietary preferences. They cater to standard, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, and low-sugar diets. You can customize your tea experience by selecting sandwich fillings and choosing between warm scones with or without fruit. Scones with fruit were so yummy! Clotted cream and homemade jam comes with the scones. The cake cabinet was all freshly baked on-site.
They have a variety of loose-leaf teas, locally roasted coffee, and hot chocolates, but I brought my own prosecco for corkage, and they charged £5.50, which was worth it. The standard afternoon tea includes two rounds of sandwiches, or you can opt for a shared experience at £32.50 for two people, including three rounds of sandwiches.
Everything was up to the mark. I couldn’t finish my treats, and Pettigrew provided a compostable box to take them home.
2- Barker Tea House
Location: High Street Arcade, 8-9 High St, Cardiff CF10 1BB
Cost: £19.99 per person
For a vintage afternoon tea experience, Barker Tea House is the place to be. Housed in an antique tea house. It was truly an enchanting experience with homemade cakes, delectable brownies, and an extensive selection of over 55 tea varieties. Tea was served in elegant cast iron pots, complemented by delicate china cups and saucers.
Their Classic Afternoon Tea, priced at £19.99 per person, includes miniature sandwiches, two scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an assortment of sweet treats. They also provide options for vegans, ensuring a delightful tea experience for all.
3- Waterloo Gardens Tea House
Location: 5 Waterloo Gardens, Penylan, Cardiff CF23 5AA
Cost: £13.50 per person
Located next to the picturesque Waterloo Gardens, the Waterloo Gardens Tea House offers a traditional afternoon tea experience. Their menu includes a selection of cakes, pastries, scones with clotted cream and jam, sandwiches, and chocolate truffles, all served on a three-tier cake stand.
Every item is freshly made to order, so make sure you have made an advance booking. The tea house offers gluten-free bread and dairy-free spreads and provides other dietary requirements upon request. Their afternoon tea is priced at £13.50 per person, making it an affordable yet delightful option.
4- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
Location: St Mary Street, Cardiff CF10 1GD
Cost: £21.95 per person
Located in the heart of Cardiff City Centre, Clayton Hotel Cardiff offers a splendid afternoon tea experience with an attractive price tag.
Inclusions:
- A glass of prosecco.
- Fresh finger sandwiches.
- Warm scones with fruit compotes and cream.
- Hot savoury bites.
- A selection of speciality teas and coffee.
- An array of sweet treats.
Whether you’re celebrating an occasion or enjoying a leisurely day in the city, Clayton Hotel Cardiff provides an inviting setting with scenic views of Cardiff.
5- The Orchard
Location: 25 Heol-y-Deri, Radyr, Cardiff CF15 8DN
Cost: £17.95 per person
The Orchard in Radyr offers a unique twist on afternoon tea by including savoury bites such as bruschetta with fresh tomatoes and basil, mini pizzas, and mini Welsh rarebit alongside the classic finger sandwiches and scones with whipped cream and jam.
Guests can also enjoy a selection of cakes and tarts while sipping on a wide range of loose-leaf teas and organic fair trade coffee. Everything at The Orchard is freshly made on-site, and they offer gluten-free and vegan options when notified in advance. Their afternoon tea is priced at £17.95 per person, providing a diverse and delicious tea experience.
Explore these delightful venues in Cardiff and savor the tradition of afternoon tea in this charming Welsh city. Whether you prefer classic or contemporary, there’s a tea experience to suit every palate and occasion.
6- Park Plaza Cardiff
Location: Greyfriars Rd, Cardiff CF10 3AL
Cost: Starting at £26 per person
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The Laguna Kitchen & Bar at Park Plaza Cardiff offers a luxurious afternoon tea experience. Indulge in a selection of loose-leaf teas and a tempting array of cakes and pastries. The elegant surroundings and attentive service make it a popular choice for those seeking refinement. Their tea selection is diverse, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
7- The Deck
Location: 20 Harrowby St, Cardiff CF10 5GA, United Kingdom
Cost: Starting at £20 per person
For a modern twist on traditional afternoon tea, head to The Deck. Their menu incorporates international flavors and contemporary presentations. You can enjoy delightful treats with panoramic views of Cardiff Bay, creating a memorable combination. Explore their exotic tea options for a unique tea adventure.
Related article: 28 Places to Enjoy the Best Afternoon Tea in Southampton
Conclusion
From the rich history of this tradition to the delightful pastries and teas, Cardiff’s afternoon tea will leave you with a taste of elegance and a longing for more. So, book your table, sip your tea, and savor the moments in this charming city.