Afternoon Tea in the New Forest
Afternoon tea in the New Forest is a laid-back treat with plenty of charm. Whether you’re sitting in a country hotel, a cosy tearoom, or a garden overlooking the forest, it’s an experience worth slowing down for. Tuck into freshly baked scones, dainty sandwiches, and sweet treats, all served with a pot of tea or something a little stronger. It’s a perfect way to catch up with friends, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a peaceful afternoon in this beautiful corner of Hampshire.
Best Afternoon Tea Experiences in the New Forest
Why not enjoy your afternoon tea from one of the garden terraces, or overlooking open Forest where you may even get to spot one of our resident New Forest ponies grazing?
An afternoon tea is also an excellent way to relax and unwind after a day exploring the New Forest’s various footpaths and activities.
Book in advance for the traditional full afternoon tea at Montagu Arms in Beaulieu, who won the Top Country House Hotel Tea Award in 2013/14. Upgrade your afternoon tea to a champagne one with a glass of Taittinger.
Try Lime Wood’s special blend of tea when experiencing afternoon tea at this luxury hotel. Or why not upgrade your afternoon tea to having a ‘G&Tea’ - afternoon tea with a gin and tonic! Gluten free afternoon teas are also on offer at this hotel.
Chewton Glen is another top location to enjoy a relaxed afternoon consisting of sipping tea and grazing through a delightful afternoon tea. Soak up the sun with an added glass of champagne in the garden, or catch up with close friends in The Dining Room restaurant.
Indulge in the ‘Old Station Afternoon Tea’ at The Old Station Tearooms in Holmsley, near Burley. As its name suggests, this tearoom was in fact an old railway station. Take a walk or a cycle along the old railway line before stopping here for a tasty treat! The tearoom can also be hired out for private functions and bike hire is available from nearby Burley.
Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea at Careys Manor’s chic restaurant, Cambium, or in the comfort of the cosy lounge in front of a roaring log fire. Gluten free afternoon teas and vegan afternoon teas are also available when booked in advance.
Book an afternoon tea with an exciting twist at New Park Manor Hotel, with their fun themed tea experiences that are ideal for both adults and kids! Their current afternoon tea theme is Matilda, with Bruce’s chocolate cake, Lavender’s macarons and break-time bread and butter!
From a traditional afternoon tea to a champagne afternoon tea, Balmer Lawn offers the perfect place to indulge whatever the occasion. Make your way through homemade savoury and sweet treats while gathering with family and friends. Whether you choose Beresfords Restaurant or The Lodge, Balmer Lawn’s dining settings are wonderful.
Make a visit to one of the New Forest’s attractions and you can often include an afternoon tea as part of your day out. Cream teas are served at Eddy’s Café at Exbury Gardens, don’t miss the tiered afternoon tea at Furzey Gardens Tea Rooms or try the Towey Tea at The Captain's Cabin Tearoom at Buckler’s Hard. Make a trip to Lymington, Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst and Beaulieu for other cafes and tea rooms where you can enjoy an afternoon or a cream tea.
With so many places offering superb luxury afternoon tea it may be difficult to know where to start. Discover many of the hotels offering afternoon tea or check out the local New Forest tea rooms in the listings below and book your afternoon tea treat today.
Afternoon Tea with a Twist: Gin, Themes & More
Some of the hotels in the New Forest have taken afternoon tea to new lavish heights by creating luxury afternoon tea, served with a flute of Champagne or Prosecco for a spot of added indulgence.
Afternoon tea is the perfect way to treat someone special for a birthday, a romantic treat or perhaps for a family get-together. Look out for places in the New Forest that offer afternoon tea gift vouchers making a lovely day out for a loved one. It is also possible to have hen party afternoon teas or baby shower afternoon teas at some of our locations.
Gluten-Free & Vegan Afternoon Tea Options
Dietary restrictions shouldn’t mean missing out on a delicious afternoon tea. Many New Forest venues offer gluten-free and vegan versions, with creative twists on the classics. Enjoy scones, cakes, and sandwiches made with alternative ingredients that are just as tasty. Places like Careys Manor and Lime Wood provide gluten-free and plant-based selections when booked in advance, ensuring everyone can indulge.
Afternoon Tea with Scenic Garden Views
For a peaceful afternoon, choose a spot with a garden view. Sip tea on sunlit terraces or relax on lawns surrounded by wildflowers. Hotels like Chewton Glen and Balmer Lawn offer outdoor seating, where you can enjoy a gentle breeze and maybe even spot a New Forest pony grazing nearby. It’s the perfect setting for a laid-back treat.
Family-Friendly Afternoon Tea Experiences in the New Forest
Afternoon tea can be fun for the whole family. Several venues offer child-friendly menus with smaller portions and themed treats. New Park Manor Hotel is a popular choice, with its playful, themed teas that kids love. Some tearooms also have outdoor play areas or nearby walking trails, making it easy to turn your afternoon tea into a family day out.
Save Money on Afternoon Tea with New Forest Card
Remember if you are going to come and enjoy the fabulous afternoon tea that the New Forest has to offer - then bring your New Forest Card for our great afternoon tea offers. For just £10 you can save money off a range of places to eat, stay and shop here in the New Forest.