Afternoon tea in Edinburgh has become increasingly popular, with people across the city gathering together to delicately sip tea from china cups and nibble cakes off beautifully decorated stands.
If you’re looking to indulge in some afternoon tea – either for a special occasion or just for fun – you’ll be spoilt for choice in Edinburgh. We’ve picked some of the best for you to try, from swanky hotels to quirky cafes.
Eteaket
41 Frederick St, Edinburgh EH2 1EP, www.eteaket.co.uk
The staff at this sweet and cosy shop have a passion for all things tea-related, making it the perfect place to indulge in a tea and cake-filled afternoon. Enjoy sandwiches, scones and a selection of mini-patisserie served on a vintage cake stand plus a pot of tea of your choice. £11.95 per person.
Loopy Lorna’s
33a and 372 Morningside Road, Edinburgh EH10 4DR & EH10 5HS, www.loopylornas.com
A much-loved hangout for those who love tea and cakes, Loopy Lorna’s is sure to impress on the afternoon tea front. ‘Loopy’s Fabulously Famous Afternoon Tea’ is served each day from 2pm, and includes a selection of dainty sandwiches, scones and other home-baked treats – as well as a pot of tea, of course. £14.95 per person (or £16.95 if you choose a ‘speciality tea’).
Mimi’s Bakehouse
63 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA, www.mimisbakehouse.com
Relatively new on the scene, Mimi’s Bakehouse is a family-run cafe that’s already built up a solid reputation for fabulous, lovingly-made baked goods. Their ‘Awe Inspiring Afternoon Tea’ consists of ‘scrumptious sandwiches’, ‘devilishly good baked delights’, ‘homemade traybake treats’ and an array of ‘titillating teas’ – perfect for satisfying those sugar cravings. £12.95 per person.
Centotre
103 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3ES, www.centotre.com
For afternoon tea with an Italian twist visit this beautiful, airy restaurant situated in the premises of an old bank. Enjoy buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil crostini, rosemary and garlic toast, as well as homemade sweet treats like tiramisu and chocolate shortbread – all served with Scottish Blend Tea. Available 3-6pm, £14.95 per person.
Tigerlily
125 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 4JN, www.tigerlilyedinburgh.co.uk
This stylish George Street bar offers not one but two afternoon tea choices, perfect for hungry, parched shoppers in need of a cuppa. Decide between ‘Tigerlily Tea’ – sandwiches, scones and baking (£12.95 per person), or ‘Chocolate Tea’ – sandwiches and a range of delicious chocolaty treats like chocolate tart and white chocolate éclair (£9.95 per person). Those seeking something stronger than tea can upgrade to a glass of bubbly.
The Sheraton
1 Festival Square, Edinburgh EH3 9SR, www.sheratonedinburgh.co.uk
Afternoon tea is served with a timer here, so you know exactly when your loose-leaf tea is ready to drink. Enjoy assorted finger sandwiches, Viennoise bridge rolls and beautiful cakes in the opulent surroundings of The Exchange Bar. Prices may vary.
The Caledonian Hilton
Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 2AB, www.hilton.co.uk/caledonian
For an afternoon tea with wonderful views of the castle and Princes Street, look no further than The Caley. Exquisite sandwiches, scones and fancies are served on a silver stand alongside your choice of tea or herbal infusion. For special occasions upgrade to the ‘Celebration Afternoon Tea’, complete with a glass of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne. Kids are also welcome to join the tea-party. £15.95 per person (£19.95 with champagne), or £7.50 for children.
The Balmoral
1 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, www.thebalmoralhotel.com
If you’re feeling flush you might like to indulge in afternoon tea at The Balmoral. Fancy sandwiches, homemade scones, shortbread and pastries are served in the stylish Drawing Room from 2.30-5.30pm, and can be taken with tea or champagne depending on your preference. £23 per person (£37 with a glass of Bollinger champagne).
To read more about eating out in Edinburgh click here.
