5 Cotswolds afternoon teas worth the drive this autumn
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From a historic coaching inn in Broadway to a family-run tearoom on Stow’s market square, these five afternoon teas offer a reason to explore the Cotswolds this autumn. Our Selection brings together distinctive settings, traditional menus and a few less conventional touches, with the practical details to help you plan an afternoon worth the drive.
The Lygon Arms
Image: Afternoon Tea at The Lygon Arms. © 2026 Palates & Miles
Broadway, Worcestershire
The Lygon Arms has welcomed travellers to Broadway for centuries, with an inn recorded on the site as early as 1377. Its predominantly Tudor buildings stand on the village’s High Street, and its history includes Charles I meeting supporters here and Oliver Cromwell staying before the Battle of Worcester in 1651.
It’s one of our favourites and a go-to for afternoon tea in the Cotswolds. The historic setting adds to the occasion, with time to explore Broadway’s shops and galleries before or afterwards. Afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and cakes, with the option to add Champagne.
Before booking: Share any dietary requirements when booking, allowing at least 24 hours’ notice.
Buckland Manor
Buckland, near Broadway, Worcestershire
Set within ten acres of gardens beneath the Cotswold hills, Buckland Manor offers a country-house afternoon with the opportunity to explore the countryside before or afterwards.
Afternoon tea is served with views across the gardens, bringing together traditional sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delicate pastries. The setting lends itself to slower occasions: a family gathering, a birthday, a weekend treat or simply time together with loved ones this autumn.
Before booking: Book ahead and discuss any dietary requirements with the hotel.
Ellenborough Park
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
At the foot of Cleeve Hill, close to Cheltenham Racecourse, Ellenborough Park brings more than 500 years of history to the table. Its Great Hall, among the earliest parts of the 15th-century manor house, provides a distinctive setting for afternoon tea on the Cheltenham side of the Cotswolds.
The menu combines sandwiches and savouries with freshly baked scones and handmade sweet treats, accompanied by tea, coffee or ginger and mint infusions. A children’s mini tea is also available, making this an option for a family celebration as well as an afternoon for two.
Before booking: Afternoon tea is served from 2pm to 4.30pm. Book ahead and discuss any dietary requirements with the hotel.
Lucy’s Tearoom
Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire
Independent and family-run, Lucy’s sits on the market square in the heart of Stow. Exposed beams, flagstone floors and an inglenook fireplace give this traditional tearoom its character, with dogs welcome inside too.
The appeal is its relaxed approach. Settle in for a full afternoon tea, choose a cream tea or simply stop for a pot of loose-leaf tea and a slice of homemade cake. There’s no need to make a formal occasion of it. Plant-based and gluten-free options are also available.
Before booking: Tables are first come, first served, with no advance bookings. Kitchen last orders are at 3.30pm; discuss any dietary requirements when ordering.
Dormy House
Above Broadway, Worcestershire
High above Broadway on the Farncombe Estate, Dormy House offers a countryside setting for afternoon tea. Served in The Back Garden, its light-filled restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows, tea comes with views across the gardens and a relaxed sense of occasion.
The offering combines sweet and savoury treats with a choice of teas, finishing with a macaron trolley brought to the table. That playful touch makes it an appealing choice for a birthday, a catch-up with friends or a weekend afternoon treat.
Before booking: Afternoon tea is available Friday to Sunday, from 2pm to 4pm. Vegan and gluten-free menus are offered. Discuss other dietary requirements before booking, as adjustments cannot be made on the day.
Before you book
Menus, prices and serving times can change, particularly as autumn gives way to festive offerings. Confirm current prices, dietary arrangements and any access or parking needs directly with the venue before travelling.
This is an independently researched Selection, rather than a review of each individual afternoon tea.
Venue information checked in October 2026.
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