Afternoon Tea, or Cream Tea, is synonymous with Devon. So, it goes without saying that Exeter is somewhat of a mecca for the famous British delicacy, renowned worldwide. Afternoon Tea isn’t just about whether you’re a jam-over-cream or a cream-over-jam person, it’s also about pleasant company, a tranquil setting, and a cosy atmosphere. Exeter is arguably the best city in the country to enjoy Afternoon Tea, so sit back, relax, and take your pick of some of our favourite spots serving Cream Teas in the heart of Devon.
Eat On The Green
The Cathedral Green is the centrepiece of Exeter’s historic old town, and the quiet, traffic-free, cobbled area is the perfect setting to enjoy a spot of Afternoon Tea. The restaurant is located inside a Grade II-listed 16th Century building, with gorgeous views of the tranquil Green outside.
While the menu at the restaurant is varied, it attracts visitors from far and wide for its showstopping main event: Cream Tea. The Cream Teas are all made with locally sourced ingredients and Devon cream, and at only £11.95 you won’t break the bank enjoying a Devon speciality.
Location: 2 Cathedral Cl, Exeter, EX1 1EZ
The Ivy Exeter
Exeter has undoubtedly undergone an extensive amount of sophistication over the years, with new fine-dining restaurants popping up all over the city. The Ivy certainly falls into the sophisticated bracket and attracts locals and tourists alike to experience a more refined way of dining out.
The Ivy’s menu draws on inspiration from both home and abroad, with British classics to Asian-inspired cuisine. Nothing says classic British cuisine than enjoying Afternoon Tea, and the Ivy produces one of the best Cream Tea’s in Exeter. Book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Location: 65-67 High Street, Exeter, EX4 3DT
Winslade Manor
There’s no better place to enjoy Afternoon Tea than in the regal surroundings of Winslade Manor. In warmer months, the Manor’s restaurant even offers to opportunity to enjoy Cream Tea al fresco on its gorgeous terrace.
If the Afternoon Tea doesn’t manage to satiate the stomach to a satisfactory level, Winslade Manor also offers an extensive, perfectly curated menu to accommodate all dietary requirements and palettes, while their Sunday Lunch is also not to be missed.
Location: Winslade Park Ave, Manor Drive, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, EX5 1FY
Hotel Indigo
Hotel Indigo is a relatively new, boutique hotel situated in Exeter’s vibrant city centre. As well as catering to their guests, the hotel also offers an Afternoon Tea and Spa treatment, ensuring that you leave the premises in a suitably relaxed mood.
The Spa treatments are in high demand, so it is advisable to book well in advance to avoid disappointment. However, Hotel Indigo’s Afternoon Tea is just as enjoyable with or without a trip to the spa, so if it’s just scones and jam you’re after then the Hotel can accommodate that too!
Location: 3 Catherine St, Exeter, EX1 1EU
Wear Park Restaurant
Located in the idyllic surroundings of Wear Park Golf and Country Club, Wear Park Restaurant in Countess Wear serves up some of the most delicious Afternoon Teas in the Exeter area. Sit back, and relax in the luxurious, Georgian surroundings of the club’s restaurant where the Afternoon teas are as elegant as the decor.
The Country Club at Wear Park also offers a spa treatment with their Afternoon Tea packages for those looking for a Christmas treat, so if you’re scratching your head about what to treat your Mum or partner to this Christmas, then Wear Park’s Afternoon Tea ticks all the right boxes.
Location: Topsham Road Golf and Country Club, Countess Wear, Exeter, EX2 7AE
Tea At The Quay
Exeter’s quay is among the city’s most calming and tranquil settings and is undoubtedly one of the best places to enjoy a spot of Afternoon Tea. The aptly named Tea At The Quay delivers on all fronts, serving up the dish made famous in Devon, in the heart of Devon.
Tea At The Quay is a charming, friendly, and cosy café, while the surrounding quay is the perfect place to enjoy a brisk afternoon walk after finishing off your Afternoon Tea.
Location: 6 Piazza Terracina, Exeter, EX2 8GT
Riverside Café
Walking along Exeter’s famous River Exe, you will uncover some hidden gems. The Riverside Café is among the very best family-owned café’s in Exeter, perfectly encapsulating the community spirit of the area.
Situated within an antiques shop, this charming café serves some outstanding Afternoon Teas, where you and your loved ones can sit and watch the river run by whilst enjoying a truly Devonshire delicacy.
Location: The Antique Centre 2, The Quay, Exeter, EX2 4AP
The Coffee Cellar
Situated in the idyllic heart of Exeter’s popular Quayside, The Coffee Cellar doesn’t just specialise in coffee, it also serves a brilliant Afternoon Tea. The scones are always moist, while the cream is fresh and locally sourced.
Exeter’s quay is a fantastic place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city’s teeming city centre, so while it’s a short walk away from Exeter’s inner city delights, it’s well worth the trip for the Afternoon Tea alone!
Location: 22 The Quay, Exeter, EX2 4AP