Posted on August 07, 2026
There are few things more quintessentially English than afternoon tea, and there is perhaps no better setting for it than The Cotswolds. From grand country houses and historic hotels to cosy lounges and countryside terraces, the region offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, settle in and enjoy something sweet. With Afternoon Tea Week taking place from 10th - 16th August, there’s no better excuse to gather with friends, celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in an afternoon of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and delicate cakes. Here are some of our favourite places to enjoy afternoon tea across the Cotswolds.
The Lygon Arms
Few settings are a Cotswold staple like The Lygon Arms. Sitting at the heart of Broadway, this historic hotel has been welcoming guests for centuries, making it a particularly charming setting for a traditional afternoon tea. Served in the elegant surroundings of the hotel, the afternoon tea features homemade sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a tempting selection of cakes and sweet treats. For those looking to make the occasion feel a little more special, a Champagne afternoon tea is also available.
Lords of the Manor
For afternoon tea surrounded by some of The Cotswolds' most beautiful countryside, Lords of the Manor is difficult to beat. Set within a former rectory in the peaceful village of Upper Slaughter, this elegant country house offers afternoon tea with a choice of settings depending on the season. During warmer weather, guests can enjoy their tea on the lawn, while cooler days invite you to settle into the lounge beside a crackling log fire. The traditional spread includes finger sandwiches, a savoury quiche, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, alongside a selection of pastries and cakes. A glass of Champagne can also be added for an extra touch of indulgence.
Whatley Manor
For something a little more refined, Whatley Manor offers a beautifully presented take on the traditional afternoon tea. This elegant country house hotel near Malmesbury serves its afternoon tea in the Garden Room, Drawing Room or, weather permitting, on one of its terraces. The menu combines savouries and classic finger sandwiches with freshly baked scones and an elegant selection of cakes and sweet treats. There is also an impressive choice of teas to accompany the experience, while those celebrating a special occasion can add a glass of Gusbourne English sparkling wine.
Ellenborough Park
Set within a magnificent 15th-century manor house on the edge of Cheltenham, Ellenborough Park offers afternoon tea with plenty of history and character. Its afternoon tea combines sandwiches and savouries with handmade sweet treats and freshly baked scones, alongside a choice of teas, homemade infusions or coffee. For an extra indulgence, guests can add a glass of fizz, an Ellenborough Park gin and tonic or one of the hotel's cocktails.
The Painswick
For a more relaxed and contemporary take on afternoon tea, The Painswick is well worth a visit. Overlooking the picturesque village of Painswick, this boutique Cotswold hotel serves a generous afternoon tea that combines traditional favourites with a few more substantial savoury additions. Expect sandwiches alongside local pork pies, Scotch eggs, cakes of the day, freshly baked scones and plenty of tea. You can settle into one of the hotel's cosy lounges or, when the weather allows, enjoy your afternoon tea outside on the balcony or terrace.
Burleigh Court
Tucked away in the South Cotswolds, Burleigh Court offers a countryside setting with a distinctly French influence. Served on Thursday to Saturday afternoons, its afternoon tea is created by French pastry chef Gilles, bringing a little je ne sais quoi to the traditional combination of sandwiches, scones and cakes. Freshly baked plain scones are served with clotted cream and homemade jam, alongside artisan cakes and freshly made sandwiches. There are also dedicated gluten-free and vegan afternoon tea options, making it a particularly flexible choice for groups with different dietary requirements.
The Swan
For a truly postcard Cotswold setting, afternoon tea beside the River Coln at The Swan in Bibury is hard to resist. This former Cotswold coaching inn sits in one of the region's most celebrated villages, with riverside gardens and plenty of traditional character. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed by the river, surrounded by the peaceful scenery that makes Bibury such a popular Cotswold destination. Offering freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam alongside a selection of sweet and savoury treats, all served in the relaxed surroundings of The Swan.
The Hare & Hounds
Just outside Tetbury and close to Westonbirt Arboretum, The Hare & Hounds offers another beautiful countryside setting for a traditional afternoon tea. The hotel combines classic Cotswold character with elegant interiors, while its gardens and terraces provide a lovely place to relax when the summer weather makes an appearance. Afternoon tea is served with all the traditional favourites, making it a wonderful choice after a countryside walk or a visit to the nearby Westonbirt Arboretum.