Award Winning Afternoon Tea in Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly

Please note, leading restaurant guides issue awards to restaurants based on dining from a full menu and will not normally consider afternoon tea when deciding how highly to rate a restaurant. Therefore the above restaurants are not ranked, although it's a safe bet that any restaurant serving award winning food in Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly is also likely to provide some of the best afternoon tea in Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly! Please also note that for the restaurants listed above, afternoon tea may be offered within the parent hotel/venue the restaurant resides in, rather than in the restaurant itself.

Cornwall and The Isles of Scilly, situated in the southwestern reaches of England, offer not only stunning coastal landscapes but also a delightful selection of afternoon tea experiences that are perfect for both locals and visitors seeking a taste of tradition. In Cornwall, one cannot ignore the famous Cornish cream tea, which showcases freshly baked scones served with lashings of clotted cream and fruity jam, typically strawberry. The order of the cream and jam is fiercely debated, but in Cornwall, it is customary to slather the cream first, followed by the jam. A wonderful venue to enjoy this local delicacy is the charming Hotel Tresanton in St Mawes, where the afternoon tea is served with breathtaking sea views. The tea selection is equally impressive, offering everything from classic Earl Grey to more adventurous herbal blends. For a more secluded and tranquil experience, the Isles of Scilly offer some hidden gems for afternoon tea lovers. The Star Castle Hotel, located on St Mary's, serves a perfect afternoon tea in a 16th-century star-shaped castle with panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The offering here includes a mix of traditional and modern delights, with scones, clotted cream, and local preserves sourced from island producers. If you find yourself exploring the far reaches of Tresco, The New Inn is a delightful spot to enjoy a relaxed cream tea, often made with ingredients sourced from the island's lush gardens. Whether near the rugged cliffs of Cornwall or the idyllic islands of Scilly, these afternoon tea venues seamlessly blend tradition with the natural beauty of the region.