Best Afternoon Tea in Durham

Enjoy a truly charming afternoon tea in Durham, where rich history, scenic beauty, and delicious treats come together for the ultimate relaxing experience!

Whether you’re exploring the majestic Durham Cathedral, strolling along the River Wear, or browsing the cobbled streets, a delightful afternoon tea is the perfect way to take a well-earned break.

Indulge in a tiered selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, and a tempting variety of cakes and pastries, all served with a pot of freshly brewed tea—or even a glass of fizz if you’re celebrating!

From elegant spots like Hotel Indigo and Crook Hall to cosy cafés and tearooms tucked away in the city centre, Durham offers afternoon tea experiences for every taste and occasion.

Whether you’re treating yourself, catching up with friends, or marking a special day, afternoon tea in Durham is a delicious way to relax and savour the moment.

Best Afternoon Tea Durham Has To Offer

The Undercroft

5 The College, Library (Heritage Collections), Durham DH1 3EH

The Undercroft Cafe is a unique space within Durham Cathedral which offers freshly prepared food and a range of hot and cold drinks.

Located just off the west side of the Cloister, the Undercroft Cafe is known for its delicious range of scones, cakes and biscuits.

The lunch offer is constantly changing, but you’ll always find a selection of cold sandwiches, soup and savoury scones.

Please visit the website for further details

Vennels Cafe

71 Saddler St, Durham DH1 3NP

Taking their name from the ancient alleyways leading to this 16th century building, Vennels is a truly unique venue.

They bake and prepare quality ingredients on a daily basis, at affordable prices. Absolutely everything is made on the premises.

Their internationally renowned scones are baked fresh every morning.

Please visit the website for further details

Clarendon’s

29 Market Pl, Barnard Castle DL12 8NE

A trip to Barnard Castle would not be complete without visiting Clarendon’s.

As well as the Traditional afternoon tea for two, a children’s menu is also available and a gluten free and vegetarian option.

Parties and large groups can be catered for in their upstairs tearoom.

Please visit the website for further details

Lumley Castle

Ropery Ln, Chester-le-Street DH3 4NX

Enjoy a delicious Afternoon Tea in the timeless surroundings of Lumley Castle.

In dry weather they serve afternoon tea in the Inner Courtyard, or on the South East Terrace which enjoys beautiful park views.

Limited seating is available within the Knights Restaurant.

Please visit the website for further details

Coghlan’s at Barningham

Barningham Park Coach House, Barningham DL11 7DW

Take a step back in time at Coghlans Tearoom and enjoy the tranquil countryside at Barningham.

Coghlans Classical Tearoom is situated in the old coach house serving delicious food on vintage china in beautiful surroundings.

They offer morning coffee and cake, lunches, indulgent afternoon teas, and all of their bread and pastries are baked in the in-house bakery.

Please visit the website for further details

1744 at Redworth Hall Hotel

The Lodge Redworth Hall, Surtees Rd, Newton Aycliffe DL5 6NT

Celebrate a British tradition at Redworth Hall Hotel. Their afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches.

Traditional cakes inspired by Queen Victoria herself, and freshly baked scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream, served alongside homemade sweet treats.

Please visit the website for further details

Seaham Hall

Lord Byrons Walk, Seaham SR7 7AG

Take your pick from a bite size selection of the best of British sweet and savoury treats.

All accompanied by your choice of loose leaf tea, artisan coffee, or even a glass of fizz if you fancy at Seaham Hall.

And where better to enjoy this British classic than at a contemporary Georgian country house?

Please visit the website for further details

South Causey Inn

South Causey Inn, Stanley DH9 0LS

Indulge in a selection of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a mouth-watering range of homemade goodies.

Enjoy this British tradition with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Add a touch of sparkle, by adding a glass of fizz, or a cocktail.

Please visit the website for further details

Ramside Hall Hotel

Ramside Hall, Carrville, Durham DH1 1TD

The Afternoon Tea menu features homemade scones, cream cakes and sandwiches plus tea and coffee.

Ramside Hall Hotel’s afternoon tea menu changes regularly to ensure they are using the best of our seasonal, local produce.

They also serve a range of teas, coffees, sandwiches, light bites and refreshments from the bar/lounge menu each day.

Please visit the website for further details

Slug and Lettuce

7 Walkergate, Durham DH1 1SQ

Perfect for special occasions or catching up with friends, the Slug and Lettuce Afternoon Tea comes in a beautiful bird cage filled with tasty treats.

Indulge in tasty savouries alongside scones served with Tiptree strawberry jam, clotted cream and a range of delicious miniature desserts.

Please visit the website for further details

Treats Tea Room

27-28 Silver St, Durham DH1 3RD

Treats Tea Room is the No1 visited Tea room and café in the heart of historic Durham.

They offer a wide selection of award winning sweet treats and desserts for all ages, from cakes, scones, and our traditional British Afternoon Teas.

There is something for everyone.

Please visit the website for further details

Hardwick Hall Hotel

Hardwick Hall Hotel Sedgefield TS21 2EH

A hotel isn’t complete without a traditional Afternoon Tea!

Served in the Lounge which features vintage style décor which has recently been refurbished;- the perfect setting for Afternoon Tea.

Served on fine bone china designed by Ted Baker, the excellent menu also features a wonderful selection of loose leaf teas and herbal infusions.

Please visit the website for further details

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