English Afternoon Tea on the Great West Way

Is it possible to visit anywhere more English than the Great West Way? And is it possible to do anything more English than sitting down to afternoon tea? 

Tables piled high with cake stands, tea pots and pretty china cups. Scones smothered in thick, sweet cream. Dainty sandwiches layered with smoked salmon, or Wiltshire ham, or West Country cheese. Fresh homemade cakes and pastries. Copious refills of herbal teas or classic English Breakfast.

Whether you’re spending weeks exploring the length of the Great West Way and uncovering its secrets, or you’re here for a day trip, there’s always time for afternoon tea. And there are many, many options for partaking in this beloved English ritual as you travel the route. You can enjoy afternoon tea whilst floating down the Thames on a leisurely boat cruise, snug besides the fire in a Cotswolds tea room, or living the life of luxury at an award-winning historic hotel.

Experience an authentic afternoon tea whilst enjoying views over the landscaped gardens and lakes from the Drawing Room at The Langley or surrounded by glorious Cotswold Gardens on the terrace at Whatley Manor. Enjoy a quintessentially English afternoon tea at Bowood House or delve into the decadence of yesteryear at boutique hotel Roseate House.

If you're in Bath, there are options for afternoon tea galore, beginning with a truly decadent offering at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa. Apex City of Bath Hotel and Roseate Villa Bath also offer delectable afternoon teas - or head to the grand Pump Room to feel like Jane Austen and take your tea where high society has been meeting since the 18th century.