Afternoon Tea in Windsor is an indulgent and elegant respite after walking the Long Walk, visiting the castle or viewing the changing of the guard. Here our top five spots for Afternoon tea in Windsor.
Cup of Rosie
You have to hunt for this gem as it is hidden down an alley off Thames Street but you’ll be rewarded with historic charm, friendly service, and delicious homemade treats.
The building date to 1628 and it is rumoured to have been the site where Oliver Cromwell signed Charles I’s death warrant. At one time, a secret tunnel in the basement ran underneath Thames Street and straight into Curfew Tower at Windsor Castle.
Today, the building a glorious and romantic swath of pink with touches like garden seating under twinkle lights and fresh flowers on the tables.
All of Cup of Rosie’s cakes are made on site and baked daily and if tea isn’t your thing, coffee beans are locally roasted by Coopers Trading Company in Marlow.
Afternoon tea is by pre-order only. Cream tea with homemade scones is offered every day.
https://www.cup-of-rosie.com/coffee-house/
Clarence Brasserie
This grand-ma core, shabby chic tea house is located steps from the castle down the cobbled alley known as Church Street.
Clarence Brasserie is Italian owned but they embrace the tradition of British tea with reverence and deep respect. They proudly offer three tea experiences. Traditional cream tea, “Duchess of Bedford” Afternoon tea, named for the woman credited with the invention of the ritual that includes finger sandwiches, scones and tea or coffee. A “Sparkling tea” adds a glass of prosecco.
Ivy Windsor
Yes, it’s a chain, but it’s usually the first place Windsor locals think of for a special occasion in the city center. The windows look out to the castle and the ambience is elegant.
Hours: Afternoon tea is only offered between the hours of 3:00 to 4:45pm. Cream Tea offered all day.
£29.95 per person. £39.95 with a glass of bubbly.
Reservations through open table.
Leaf at the Castle Hotel
Served from 12:00 to 5:00 daily.
Vegan and gluten free available.
£40 per person. £11 for a glass of fizz. £22.50 per child.
If you are have a car:
Great Fosters
This historic Tudor estate set of 50 acres of lush gardens is 5 miles from Windsor Central, but cannot be left off the list if you are wanting the ultimate luxury afternoon tea.
Remember to book your afternoon tea in Windsor in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Each of these venues offers its own unique ambiance and culinary delights, providing a memorable afternoon tea experience in Windsor.
If you just want cream tea
If you are just looking for scones, clotted cream and jam to go alongside your cuppa, you’ll find plenty of charming spots and none require a booking.
Enigma
After strolling Eton’s high street and popping into it’s bookshops, printshops and antique stores you find this charming little spot on the far end near the college.
Undercroft Café
You’ll need a castle ticket to get into this café, located in what was once the munitions store of the castle and is in one of the oldest surviving spaces in the castle. You’ll need to use your imagination; it’s now a bustling café with tray service. As it’s the only spot to grab food and drink other than a coffee kiosk and ice cream stand in the summer months, it’s often quite busy.
The Savill Garden Cafe
You’ll need a car to get to here, but if walking the Great Park is in your plans, this light filled modern café is a lovely spot to rest and refuel.
Windsor Farm Shop
Yes, this is where Kate had her outing. The adjacent café is not glamorous, but it’s where the locals hang for simple fare including cream tea.