Is there anything more British than afternoon tea? Sitting down with a tier of cakes, sandwiches, and scones to accompany your cup of tea (or coffee if you’re that way inclined) has to be one of the most luxurious ways to spend an afternoon. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, taking time out of a busy week, or just treating yourself, Birmingham is full of places to live out your royal fantasies, from grand houses to hidden gems.
Qavali
Check out our in-depth review!
So, you’ve had a traditional English afternoon tea before, and you’re starting to get bored of it, but you don’t want to stop treating yourself to the odd cuppa, cake, and sandwich combination just yet. You’re in luck, because an incredible Indo-Persian restaurant and bar opened up in Brindley Place. Qavali feels as though you are stepping into a different universe. The dark, atmospheric ambience is heightened by the décor inspired by Indo-Persian art.
The menu is like you have never seen before. The tea selection includes rose and fresh mint tea, the Turkish coffee is much richer than what you may be used to, and they have champagne or non-alcoholic champagne options too. Speaking of which, instead of the usual cakes, you have the options of less common goodies such as baklava and Turkish delight (although, don’t worry, you’ll still get scones). The sandwiches too are a little out of left field, with a choice of chicken or paneer tikka as fillings. This is absolutely a must-visit.
60 Broad St, Brindley Place, Birmingham B1 2HJ
Winterbourne Tea Room
Birmingham has a lot of hidden gems, but Winterbourne has to be one of the best. Built in the early 20th century, the house has stood for over a century, and has been owned by the University of Birmingham since 1944 – so, students, you can get in for free! The garden has been Grade II listed by English Heritage, backs on to Edgbaston reservoir, and can be walked through and explored, or overlooked from the tea room terrace.
Although there is a sizable indoors café area, which is perfect when you need to escape the almost inevitable English rain, the terrace is the best place to enjoy your afternoon tea. This is another location with the traditional triple threat of scones, sandwiches, cake and a delicious pot of tea or a small americano! Hidden away behind the university, Winterbourne is like a tiny oasis, despite being so close to the city centre, so it is a great place to take friends, family, or just yourself and enjoy a slice of cake.
58 Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham B15 2RT
Centenary Lounge
A train station isn’t what you might think of as a typical place to have tea, but don’t overlook this one! Moor Street Station is possibly the most beautiful station in Birmingham, having been refurbished in a 1930s style and incorporating exposed brickwork and iron beams into its mix of art deco and industrial decoration. It is surprisingly quiet for a train station in the centre of Birmingham, and is the perfect place to watch the world go by.
Their Express Afternoon Tea gives you the option to have a toasted bagel, crumpet, or a scotch pancake instead of the usual sandwich, and you always have the option to upgrade your drink to prosecco if your journey needs a little pep.
Moor St Station, Birmingham B4 7UL
The Ivy
While not known traditionally for their afternoon tea, The Ivy is a fantastic spot for that classical experience. From just £29.95 per person you will receive a three tired stand filled with scones, finger sandwiches, sweet treats, and your choice of tea or coffee (Or swap this out for champagne to celebrate that special occasion in style!). The experience is served daily from 3 pm to 4:45 pm and bookings can be made online to avoid any disappointments.
67-71 Temple Row, Birmingham B2 5LS
Marco Pierre White
Our final top pick for afternoon tea experiences has to be Marco Pierre White. Their afternoon tea starts at £23.95 per person and is one of the most luxurious afternoon tea’s you will ever indulge in. The afternoon tea is served beautifully and will include items such as Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Sandwiches, Carrot Cake, Scones with Cream and Preserves, and some hot tea. You can also add prosecco or champagne to your tea for a small extra cost.
