Located between the rolling hills of the South Downs, and the picturesque coastline, Sussex is a hidden gem for afternoon tea enthusiasts. From indulging in delicate pastries in a 900-year-old castle, to partaking in sweet treats in the Ballroom of a quintessentially English estate, to sipping fine wines along the seafront while you enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches prepared from locally sourced ingredients, there’s no end to unique experiences on offer in this part of the world.
And in this ultimate guide to the best afternoon tea in Sussex, we’ll explore only the most special of spots to enjoy afternoon tea during your visit to this most picturesque of counties – so you can focus on what afternoon tea is all about: sheer indulgence and connection with those who join you.
After you’ve engaged in the fiercest debate of them all first, of course: cream or jam first?
What is afternoon tea?
Afternoon tea is a quintessential British tradition that has truly stood the test of time. Typically consisting of delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of sweet pastries and cakes, all served on a multi-tier stand, and accompanied by a pot of tea or a glass of champagne, it makes for a wonderful treat.
But afternoon tea is more than just the exquisite flavours and various treats on offer – the real focus is placed on the social occasion, where those partaking pause their day to enjoy a spot of conversation, relaxation and indulgence while relishing the food on offer.
Where to find the best afternoon tea in West Sussex
Amberley Castle, Amberley nr Arundel
Enjoy a traditional afternoon tea within the historic walls of the 900-year-old Amberley Castle for an unforgettable experience while visiting West Sussex.
With plentiful finger sandwiches, warm scones, pastries and cakes on offer, all prepared by the in-house chefs, you won’t go home hungry.
Prices start at £50 per head, with optional upgrades featuring sparkling wines and champagnes available. Book your afternoon tea in Amberley Castle here.
Goodwood House, Goodwood Estate
Enjoy a tour of the Goodwood House, before settling down for a delicious afternoon tea, served in the Ballroom. Made from award-winning ingredients produced on the estate, there’s no finer backdrop for an afternoon spent enjoying a decadent offering of sweet and savoury treats.
Prices start from £34 per person, with additional upgrades available, including champagne options. Book your afternoon tea here.
Cobblestone Tea House, Steyning
Nestled in the heart of Steyning, but tucked away just off the main high street, you’ll find the cosy 15th Century Cobblestone Tea House. Ingredients are sourced locally, the scones are baked fresh that morning, and there are plenty of vegan options available on the menu. There’s also a menu for your furry friend – with dog food and ice creams on offer. For a truly dog-friendly break, discover the best dog friendly cottages in Sussex here.
Prices start at £7.50 for a cream tea, walk-ins only.
The Old Piggery Tea Room, Chichester
Traditional afternoon tea meets modern finishing touches at The Old Piggery Tea Room in Chichester. A hit with locals, the atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients make it a fantastic option for those visiting Chichester.
Priced at £19.95, it’s an affordable offering in a beautiful setting. Book your table here (24 hours notice required).
Where to find the best afternoon tea in East Sussex
Wealden Rambler Afternoon Tea, Uckfield
For a truly unique experience, enjoy a tasty afternoon tea as you travel through the Sussex countryside on ‘The Wealden Rambler’ steam train.
With a selection of traditional treats on offer, along with luxury teas and coffee, your trip lasts 1 hour 45 and sees you taking in some of the most beautiful sights on offer in the county. Priced at £65 per person, you can book your tickets here.
The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne
What could be more decadent than enjoying a traditional afternoon tea while an orchestra plays for you? Because when you book in for a Grand Hotel Palm Court Strings Quartet Afternoon Tea, that’s exactly what you can expect. Prices start at £44 per person, or £55 with a glass of Champagne, but make sure to check their calendar before booking.
Other options are also available in their beautiful lounges, starting from £34 per person. Click here to find out more and book your afternoon tea.
Badgers Tea House, Alfriston
Silver teapots, fine china, traditional treats freshly baked that morning, and exceptional service are all things that spring to mind when talking about Badgers Tea House – and for good reason: they’ve won multiple awards for their service and are a TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice winner.
Their afternoon tea is priced at £21.95, and served until 3pm. They don’t take bookings in advance, so it’s walk-in only.
Harbour Hotel, Brighton
With beautiful views of the Brighton seafront, it only seems fitting that Harbour Hotel’s twist on the traditional afternoon tea is Brighton Pier inspired. Think sweet cocktails, mini fish and chips, candyfloss and fresh doughnuts.
Prices start at £30 per person, and can be booked here.
Where to find the best afternoon tea in Mid Sussex
The Nutmeg Tree, Ditchling
With a 1940s theme (including uniformed waiters and waitresses, and music from the era), The Nutmeg Tree in Ditchling offers a welcome respite to those who have spent the morning exploring the South Downs.
If temperatures allow, make sure to venture out into the garden.
Prices start at £23, and we recommend booking ahead of time here to avoid disappointment.
The Tea Garden, Lewes
Step back in time in the beautiful Tea Garden tea rooms in Lewes. Featuring finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea and coffee refills, all served on a traditional three-tier stand, it’s the perfect way to wind down after a morning perusing the antique shops of Lewes.
Priced at £19.50, book your afternoon in advance here.
Christina’s Afternoon Tea, Henfield
Dine in (under a ‘birdcage’, no less!) or take away, Christina’s Afternoon Tea shop in Henfield offers a range of sandwiches, scones and cakes – along with providing gluten free alternatives.
Prices start at £25 per person, more information can be found here.
Wherever you’re staying in Sussex, one thing is for certain: you’ll never be too far from a high-quality, traditional afternoon tea.
If you’re ready to plan a getaway to this historic and picturesque county, peruse our property collection to find your luxurious holiday let, and let us help you make it a trip to remember.
