The Best Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh: Where to Indulge in a Classic British Tradition

Afternoon tea is a great British tradition that also has deep roots in Scottish culture. In fact, there are tons of fantastic historic venues, elegant hotels, and charming tearooms to include in an Edinburgh food tour.  

What Makes Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh Special?

Afternoon tea in Edinburgh is a cherished British tradition that started as a 19th-century refined social ritual and included finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. The ritual of afternoon tea has since spread to every level of Edinburgh society. Today it’s enjoyed as everything from an afternoon break on a job site, to a refined afternoon occasion in an elegant tearoom.

What sets Edinburgh’s afternoon tea apart is its variety and creativity. Depending on where you are, you can choose from classic offerings with delicate sandwiches and buttery scones to luxury spreads that include champagne and Scottish delicacies like smoked salmon or haggis bonbons. Edinburgh also offered themed tea experiences, such as literary-inspired tea times, seasonal menu pairings, and tearooms with a touch of whimsy. 

Enjoy your stay in Edinburgh in a comfortable motorhome, combining flexibility and economy. You’ll have more budget left over to sample the capital’s specialties!

The Best Afternoon Tea Spots in Edinburgh

Here, I list a curated selection of the top venues offering afternoon tea, from high-end hotels to charming cafés and some of the best restaurants in Edinburgh.

The Balmoral Hotel Tearoom

 

 

Photo credit: The Balmoral Hotel Tearoom

The Palm Court in Edinburgh’s Balmoral Hotel offers an elegant if not opulent afternoon tea service that is the height of sophistication. It’s also conveniently close to major attractions such as Edinburgh Castle, Calton Hill, and some of the city’s premier shopping destinations.

The award-winning Afternoon Tea, at Palm Court provides a serene and sumptuous experience under a stunning glass dome. They offer a premium selection of loose-leaf teas. You can pair them with finely cut finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and pastries. All are perfectly crafted by master chefs. The ambiance is enhanced by live harp music, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.

Afternoon Tea at Palm Court is priced at £70 per person, with the option to add a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier Champagne for an additional £20. Reservations are highly recommended as it’s extremely popular with limited seating.  

Balmoral Hotel (£70-90) – 1 Princes St, Edinburgh EH2 2EQ, United Kingdom.

Prestonfield House

Photo credit: Prestonfield House

Nestled within the luxurious Prestonfield estate, this tearoom offers an opulent afternoon experience. The tearoom is part of the historic 17th-century mansion, surrounded by lush gardens with peacocks roaming the grounds. It makes you feel as if you’re stepping back in time to the Victorian age.

Prestonfield House is known for its lavishly curated afternoon tea experience, which offers traditional teas with an indulgent twist. You’ll find gourmet finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, as well as an array of intricate pastries and cakes.

Afternoon tea at Prestonfield House typically falls within the luxury price range of around £35–£50 per person. Reservations are highly recommended. Especially on weekends and holidays.

Prestonfield House (£35–£50) – Priestfield Rd, Edinburgh EH16 5UT, United Kingdom.

Mimi’s Bakehouse

Photo credit: Mimi’s Bakehouse

Mimi’s Bakehouse has several locations in the Edinburgh area, but their flagship café in the heart of the Leith district is my favorite. It’s near the scenic Shore providing you with nearby views of the Water of Leith and the chance to explore nearby attractions like the Royal Yacht Britannia.

Mimi’s Bakehouse has a casual welcoming atmosphere along with an indulgent selection of baked goods. Their afternoon tea service includes savory sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a staggering array of cakes and pastries. The casual vibe and bountiful sweets on hand make it a great option for introducing your kids to an afternoon tea experience.

Afternoon tea at Mimi’s Bakehouse is affordably priced, around £22–£30 per person, with options to add a glass of Prosecco or specialty cocktails for a little extra. While walk-ins are welcome, I’d still consider a reservation on the weekends or holiday season.

Mimi’s Bakehouse (£10–£20) – 63 Shore, Leith, Edinburgh EH6 6RA, United Kingdom. 

Lovecrumbs

Photo credit: Lovecrumbs

You’ll find Lovecrumbs tucked away in Edinburgh’s vibrant West Port area, where they offer a quirky and charmingly artistic take on tea service. This café is a short walk from Grassmarket and the iconic Edinburgh Castle, making it an easy place to enjoy afternoon tea.

Lovecrumbs stands out with its distinctive, no-frills approach to afternoon tea. As a café their tea service heavily features freshly baked cakes, tarts, and pastries displayed enticingly in their signature vintage wardrobe. The cozy, mismatched furniture and relaxed atmosphere exude a bohemian charm, which makes it especially attractive for creative minds who enjoy a spot of tea.

I also appreciate that Lovecrumbs offers an affordable afternoon tea experience, with most items priced individually. Depending on what you choose, you might only spend around £15–£25 per person, and you typically don’t need to make reservations.

Lovecrumbs (£10–£20) – 155 West Port, Edinburgh EH3 9DP, United Kingdom.

Luxury vs. Budget-Friendly Afternoon Tea Experiences

Edinburgh offers the full spectrum of afternoon tea experiences, from the heights of luxury in elegant tearooms to humble budget-conscious cafes and bakeries. High-end venues like The Balmoral and Prestonfield House provide opulent settings, complete with fine China, live music, and indulgent menus with optional champagne or sparkling wine. These luxurious affairs can easily cost as much as £40–£70 per person.

On the other end of the spectrum, cozy tearooms like Mimi’s Bakehouse and Lovecrumbs offer more affordable options. They tend to offer homemade pastries in a welcoming atmosphere, with modest prices ranging from £15–£25 per person.

Some of Edinburgh’s tearooms even offer weekday discounts or special deals, making luxury tea more accessible. Whether indulging in grandeur or enjoying a relaxed outing, there’s an afternoon tea experience in Edinburgh to suit every budget and taste.

Dietary & Themed Afternoon Tea Options

Edinburgh’s afternoon tea experiences cater to a variety of dietary preferences so that everyone can indulge in this beloved tradition. Venues like Mimi’s Bakehouse and Lovecrumbs stand out for their inclusive menus, offering vegan, gluten-free, and other allergen-friendly options.

For a more whimsical twist, themed afternoon teas based on popular franchises like Harry Potter offer magical tea experiences. Complete with enchanted treats and Hogwarts-themed decor. Many family-friendly venues like Mimi’s Bakehouse and other cozy tearooms offer child-sized portions and playful menus designed for younger guests.

Tips for Enjoying Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh

Timing is key, for making the most of your afternoon tea experience in Edinburgh. Peak hours tend to be in the early afternoon, especially on weekends. High-end venues like The Balmoral often have a dress code and a formal ambiance. Whereas cozier spots like Lovecrumbs embrace a more casual vibe, where any style of clothes is appropriate.  

At more popular tearooms and luxury hotels, reservations are wise. Booking in advance ensures you’ll secure a table, particularly during busy seasons or special events. When you arrive, expect a refined yet welcoming experience. 

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best restaurants in Edinburgh. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-restaurants-in-edinburgh/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Edinburgh. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/edinburgh/

Rocco Forte Hotels. (n.d.). The Balmoral Hotel. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/the-balmoral-hotel/

Prestonfield House. (n.d.). Afternoon tea at Prestonfield. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.prestonfield.com/eat-drink/afternoon-tea/

Mimi’s Bakehouse. (n.d.). Retrieved December 5, 2024, from http://mimisbakehouse.com/

Lovecrumbs. (n.d.). Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.lovecrumbs.co.uk/