Suffolk is home to some of the best cream teas in Britain – from country house hotels to chilled out coffee shops, we pick some places worth a visit
The Strawberry Teapot Tearoom & Cakery
This beautiful vintage tearoom with exposed wooden beams and mismatched chairs in Sudbury is a quintessentially British spot to enjoy afternoon tea. Think colourful bunting and vintage china teacups and cake trays piled high with sandwiches, cakes and scones.
Keep an eye out for fun, themed afternoon teas. Kids and teen party afternoon teas are available too. Afternoon teas and homemade cakes are also available to take away.
Salthouse Harbour Hotel
Pay a visit to this boutique hotel on Ipswich’s vibrant harbour quayside for an afternoon by the water. Relax in the waterfront restaurant with a cream tea or afternoon tea.
Expect sandwiches and other savoury treats including homemade sausage roll before scones with jam and clotted cream and decadent little sweet bites to finish. Add a glass of champagne for a spot of extra luxury.
The Swan at Lavenham
Well known in East Anglia for its Michelin-recommended food, the 15th-century hotel and spa sits in the heart of the beautiful medieval village of Lavenham.
Opt for a traditional afternoon tea with inventive treats such as an orange and lavender scone and mini Eton mess or choose the strictly savoury “gentleman’s” afternoon tea with cheese scones. Champagne is optional but highly recommended.
Hintlesham Hall
Over 400 years old, Hintlesham Hall is a Grade I listed Country House in Hintlesham, Suffolk. Just a 10-minute drive from Ipswich, the tranquil property is surrounded by broad front lawns and picturesque rear gardens, complete with a rose garden and orchard.
In addition to the usual treats expected with one’s afternoon tea, guests can also add a glass of champagne, prosecco or Bucks Fizz to really make it special.
Stoke by Nayland Golf, Hotel and Spa
The family owned golf hotel and spa in Leavenheath, on the Suffolk-Essex border, boasts a 2 AA Rosette restaurant. As well as the traditional afternoon tea, you can enjoy a fancy sparkling tea too.
Tea can be taken next to a roaring fire in the winter months or al fresco on the terrace when the sun is shining.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
A 20-minute drive from Ipswich, Kesgrave Hall is a four-star boutique hotel set in the beautiful Suffolk countryside. Enjoy a delicious-looking selection of sandwiches, scones and cakes in the relaxed lounge or the outside terrace on a sunny day.
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