Afternoon tea in Brighton is more than just a treat – it’s an experience. From indulgent cream teas with warm scones, clotted cream and jam to lavish tiered stands of sandwiches, cakes and pastries, Brighton, Hove and Sussex have it all. Whether you’re seeking a luxury afternoon tea with sea views, a vegetarian feast, Champagne afternoon tea, or a quirky twist on tradition, these are the best spots to enjoy afternoon tea in Brighton, Hove and the surrounding Sussex countryside. Perfect for celebrations, weekend treats or simply whiling away an afternoon in style.
Restaurant Brighton's guide to
Afternoon Tea Brighton and Hove
Our top picks
Afternoon Tea Brighton – The Best Cream Teas and Luxury Afternoon Teas in Brighton, Hove and Sussex
Something special | Brighton Afternoon Tea
Afternoon tea Brighton on a vintage bus while you take in Brighton’s historic attractions and the beautiful Sussex countryside…surely this is a dream! The Brighton Regency Routemaster afternoon tea tour is set on the restored decks of the RML 2333. You’ll be overcome with nostalgia as you enjoy an assortment of sweet and savoury patisseries, cakes and sandwiches presented as a tantalising feast. Sip from your china tea cup, Brighton cocktail or glass of prosecco as you sit back and enjoy a soundtrack of classic 1960s anthems.
Located at Brighton Marina, the Malmaison is renowned for its excellent Afternoon Tea…but not quite as we know it. It keeps with the beloved tradition of sipping tea or bubbles and enjoying dainty sandwiches there are a few delightful surprises to wow your group. With creative twists in seasonality and trends for the cakes and ‘sandwiches’, it makes for a very special afternoon of treats. On a colder or stormy day the sophisticated yet comfortable bar or dining room will be the best backdrop to say cheers and catch up. On sunny days, this boutique hotel’s terrace becomes the ultimate spot to relax, indulging in the afternoon tea delights with a scone and a glass of fizz in hand.
Brighton’s most influential vegetarian restaurant, terre à terre, offers an afternoon tea experience like no other. Their three-tiered feast blends sweet and savoury treats with an Asian umami twist- think miso, soy, and sesame mingling with classic afternoon tea favourites. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, and you can upgrade with a glass of fizz or a signature cocktail. Available Wednesday – Friday (12pm – 2:45pm) and weekends (3pm – 4:45pm).
The historic facade and architectural grandeur of The Metropole Bar are the perfect backdrop for a traditional afternoon tea by the seafront. As you sit in refined comfort, with a beautiful view of the Brighton seafront and iconic West Pier, you will be served tiers of perfectly cut finger sandwiches, fluffy scones and pretty cakes. You’ll be offered speciality tea or coffee but you might prefer a flute of champagne to accompany this special treat. A dedicated Children’s Afternoon Tea is also available, making it a great option for families. The Metropole Bar’s afternoon tea is seasonally themed, so come back to see what’s new. Make sure to book in advance.
Available Monday – Sunday, 12pm – 4pm.
Blossoms Brighton introduces a contemporary twist on afternoon tea, blending Japanese-inspired flavours with traditional favourites. Guests can enjoy an elegant selection of savoury sandos, delicate maki rolls, and indulgent sweets, including chocolate mochi and miso-chocolate brownies. A variety of teas, infusions, and coffee are included, with the option to add a glass of champagne.
Blossoms’ afternoon tea launches on 30th March 2025, just in time for Mother’s Day.
An afternoon tea in the resplendent surroundings of Hotel Du Vin is a huge favourite – layered plates festooned with Finger Sandwiches, Scones, cakes, and tea…champagne optional, but you’ll definitely want to get your pinky-fingers-out for this naughty yet nice treat. Bird & Blend are the tea of choice with flavoursome and light blends to wash down all the goodness. Or indulge in what Hotel Du Vin are experts in, champagne. A glass or two of bubbles whilst catching up with friends will set your afternoon up nicely.
Indulge in Afternoon Tea at Terra for any occasion. Enjoy Chef’s Choice finger sandwiches, sweet and savoury treats, and your choice of Hoogly Tea or coffee. Enhance your experience with a bottle of Sussex Sparkling wine or Prosecco, perfect for celebrations. In warmer months, relax on their pergola with uninterrupted views of the Downs. Hoogly Tea, exclusive tea suppliers to Terra and Tottington Manor, offer luxury whole leaf teas to elevate your experience.
What could possibly be more elegant than a spot of afternoon tea at The Grand Brighton? Book a table on the stylish Victoria Terrace overlooking the glorious Brighton seafront and choose from a selection of afternoon tea options, including the classic Victoria Terrace Grand afternoon tea. The epitome of decadence, the three perfectly crafted tiers are sure to delight. Gin fans will love the Brighton G&Tea, showcasing local artisan gin served with traditional sweet and savoury treats. But our favourite is definitely the Moet Moment Sussex afternoon tea.
Afternoon Tea by Sea, yes please. River Cafe and Bistro offer an exquisite afternoon tea daily between 2 and 5pm, so long as you book in advance. Treat yourself to a sumptuous spread of fresh warm scones with clotted cream and jam, alongside a selection of delicate and divine finger sandwiches with a tempting array of sweet treats like homemade fruit possett and trifle…and of course fresh cake for your last bite. Bottomless tea from Bird and Blend and knockout coffee from Horsham Coffee flow as you dine – and should you be in the mood, you can elevate your experience with a glass of chilled Prosecco for an extra special touch. Cheers.
Enjoy a Wabi Sabi afternoon tea for two which includes a selection of sweet and savoury treats, it’s the perfect introduction to Japanese cuisine and tasting a bit of everything. You will receive a selection of teas alongside the afternoon tea for two, or if you’re in the mood for some fizz, you can swap to a glass of prosecco at an additional charge.
Coffee and cake | Brighton Afternoon Tea Guide
Afternoon tea at Jacob’s Bakery is a treat that blends comfort, tradition, and creativity. Served in a relaxed and friendly setting, it features delicate, handmade bakes, seasonal cakes, and a thoughtful selection of teas. Every element is made from scratch, using high-quality ingredients and time-honoured techniques. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or just indulging in something lovely, Jacob’s afternoon tea feels personal, elegant, and full of care, the kind of experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Vios Cafe is the perfect spot to satisfy your coffee and sweet treat cravings. Whether it’s an iced Freddo coffee in the summer, a cosy Greek hot chocolate in the winter, or an organic cup of your favourite tea, they have you covered. Indulge in their mouthwatering baked goods from Brighton’s Real Patisserie. Whether you need a quick refuel or want to leisurely bask in the sun on their terrace, Vios Cafe has it all.
While not a traditional tea room, MEO Brighton offers an irresistible afternoon treat. Pop in for fresh pastries, flaky böreks, or a slice of homemade cake, perfectly paired with organic coffee or loose-leaf tea. Sweet and savoury options sit side-by-side, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed catch-up or mid-day indulgence. With its cosy atmosphere and friendly team, MEO offers the perfect alternative for those who like their afternoon tea with a modern Brighton twist.
Lost In The Lanes, situated in the heart of Brighton’s historic Lanes area, is a delightful cafe offering freshly roasted coffee from Pharmacie Coffee and a delectable selection of cakes, including vegan options. With a window seat ideal for people-watching, or comfortable tables to relax and unwind, Lost In The Lanes is the perfect spot for a coffee and cake break and provides you with one of the most enticing cake displays in the city.
Lost in the Lanes is not your typical 3 tiers of afternoon tea Brighton delivers at other venues. Lost in The Lanes provides you with the beating heart of the Lanes, arguably one of the best Brighton brunches around – plus the cakes are fantastic.
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea and cake at Nanima Kemptown, where you can enjoy a steaming cup of freshly ground Union coffee or a pot of their specialty tea blends alongside a delicious selection of homemade cakes and pastries. Choose from classic Victoria sponge, rich chocolate cake, or tangy lemon drizzle, among other tempting options. Nanima’s cosy and welcoming atmosphere is the perfect place to relax and treat yourself to some delectable sweets. So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just fancy a midday treat, come and savour the taste of Nanima’s irresistible cakes.
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Top picks include The Grand Brighton (luxury afternoon tea with sea views), Hotel du Vin (classic tiered stands), Metropole Bar (elegant seafront lounge), Malmaison Brighton (marina vibes), Terre à Terre (inventive vegetarian), Terra at Tottington Manor (Sussex countryside), and the Brighton Regency Routemaster for an on-the-move experience.
For luxury afternoon tea Brighton style, book The Grand on the seafront or the Metropole Bar for a refined lounge setting. Prefer harbour views? Malmaison Brighton serves afternoon tea overlooking the marina.
Yes—try the Brighton Regency Routemaster. This vintage bus serves afternoon tea as you tour the city, combining classic finger sandwiches, cakes and scones with a moving sightseeing experience. Look out for special experiences too like a Drag brunch.
Terre à Terre is renowned for creative vegetarian afternoon tea with imaginative savouries and sweets. Many hotels, including Hotel du Vin and The Grand, can often provide plant-based options with advance notice.
The Grand offers a Champagne upgrade to its luxury afternoon tea; Hotel du Vin also pairs classic tiers with bubbles. Metropole Bar and Malmaison frequently feature sparkling options for celebratory cream teas.
Head to Terra at Tottington Manor. This Sussex spot offers a relaxing countryside setting with a refined afternoon tea—perfect for a scenic escape just outside the city.
For a classic cream tea Brighton visitors love, try The Grand for warm scones with clotted cream and jam, Hotel du Vin for a cosy, heritage feel, or Metropole Bar for a seafront lounge experience.
The Grand’s lounges are ideal for milestone treats; Malmaison offers marina-side spaces; Metropole Bar suits stylish gatherings; Terra at Tottington Manor works well for countryside celebrations. The Brighton Regency Routemaster can also be hired for memorable group afternoon tea tours.
