Nestled within the picturesque streets of Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, lies a delightful tradition waiting to be savored: cream tea.
A quintessentially British experience, cream tea is a charming ritual that promises a delectable combination of freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and fruity preserves, all accompanied by a piping hot pot of tea.
In Edinburgh, this cherished tradition takes on a unique flair, blending the city's rich history with its vibrant culinary scene.
Whether enjoyed in a cozy tearoom overlooking the iconic Edinburgh Castle or amidst the hustle and bustle of the Royal Mile, indulging in cream tea is a must for visitors seeking a taste of local culture and hospitality in this enchanting Scottish city.
So, come along on a journey to discover the delights of cream tea in Edinburgh, where each bite tells a story of tradition, warmth, and unparalleled flavor.
1. The Tea Rooms At Edinburgh Castle
Perched atop Edinburgh Castle, The Tea Rooms offer a charming retreat with stunning views.
Indulge in a delightful assortment of treats including scones, sandwiches, and pastries.
The inclusive hot drinks menu adds to the warmth of the experience, making it a memorable visit for all ages.
2. The Colonnades at the Signet Library
The Colonnades at the Signet Library offers a delightful cream tea experience in a historic setting.
The service is impeccable, with friendly and knowledgeable staff ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable visit.
Indulge in a selection of delicious treats that put a unique spin on classic dishes.
From freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam to delicate pastries and finger sandwiches, every bite is a delight.
Don't miss out on the refreshing teas and expertly crafted cocktails to complement your experience.
3. Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield
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Indulging in Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield is a must for tea enthusiasts seeking a delightful experience.
The charming atmosphere and talented chefs make it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon.
Treat your taste buds to tantalizing leaf teas and extraordinary homebaking curated by the talented chefs.
While the salmon sandwich finger stands out, some dessert items and the scones may not meet expectations.
However, the overall experience, coupled with the inviting atmosphere, makes Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield a worthy visit for tea lovers.
4. Clarinda's Tearoom
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Clarinda's Tearoom is a charming escape into a bygone era.
The quaint decor, adorned with vintage china, creates an enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a visit to your old auntie's place.
The tearoom's proximity to the royal residence adds a touch of regal charm to the experience.
Indulge in the delightful array of homemade sweet treats and light bites at Clarinda's Tearoom.
The impressive display of cakes offers a tempting selection, making it hard to resist trying more than one.
Don't miss out on the unique experience of handling the largest teapot, delivering generous pours of specialty teas.
Whether it's a leisurely afternoon or a weekend treat, Clarinda's Tearoom promises a delightful journey through time with its delightful offerings.
5. The Cafe at the Palace
Located on the historic Royal Mile, The Cafe at the Palace offers a charming setting to indulge in a delightful cream tea experience.
Whether you choose to sit inside amidst the elegant decor or outside in the serene backyard with views of Arthur’s Seat, the ambiance adds to the overall enjoyment.
Indulge in a classic cream tea featuring freshly baked pastries and a selection of fine teas.
While the cappuccino may be a tad bland, the extensive tea options are sure to please.
6. The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, The Ivy On The Square offers a delightful cream tea experience that's a must for locals and tourists alike.
The charming ambiance, coupled with impeccable service, sets the stage for a memorable afternoon treat.
Indulge in their scrumptious scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam, paired perfectly with a steaming pot of freshly brewed tea.
The delicate pastries and sandwiches complement the tea, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize the taste buds.
Don't miss out on their exquisite selection of cakes for a sweet ending to your cream tea affair.
Whether you're catching up with friends or enjoying a leisurely afternoon, The Ivy On The Square promises a quintessential cream tea experience that exudes elegance and charm.
7. Royal Deck Tearoom
Royal Deck Tearoom offers a delightful experience complemented by its relaxed ambiance and stunning views aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Whether you're seeking a break from touring or simply craving a scrumptious treat, this tearoom is the perfect haven.
The light-filled space and charming atmosphere make it an ideal spot to unwind and indulge in a traditional cream tea.
Indulge in a quintessentially British cream tea experience with freshly baked scones served alongside clotted cream and preserves.
Pair it with a selection of fine teas or opt for a glass of champagne for a touch of luxury.
Additionally, don't miss out on their delectable sandwiches and soups, such as the flavorful cheese sandwich with spring onion mayo and Arran chutney or the piping hot roasted red pepper and tomato soup.
Each bite is a delightful symphony of flavors that perfectly complements the serene surroundings of the tearoom.
8. Palm Court
The elegant ambiance, attentive staff, and live harp music create a delightful atmosphere.
The extensive tea selection, with over 50 options listed in a charming book, ensures there's something for every palate.
Their cream tea offering includes scrumptious scones, delectable sandwiches, and mouthwatering desserts.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to take home some of their exquisite teas in beautiful tins.
9. L'Etoile Salon de Tea
L'Etoile Salon de Tea in Edinburgh's West Port is a charming haven for tea enthusiasts.
The cozy setting invites relaxation, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a delightful cream tea experience.
The tea selection is extensive, ensuring that every sip complements the sweetness of the treats.
Don't miss the opportunity to savor this delightful Cream Tea experience in the heart of Edinburgh.
10. Honeycomb Tearoom
Honeycomb Tearoom is a delightful gem nestled near Edinburgh's west end, offering an unforgettable cream tea experience.
The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
With its incredible value and generous portions, this tearoom guarantees a memorable indulgence.
Indulge in their scrumptious cream tea featuring freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam.
Don't miss out on their vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone can enjoy their delectable offerings.
11. Bon Tea
Bon Tea, located at 279 St John's Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh, EH12 7XF, is a charming spot that offers a delightful afternoon tea experience.
The cute and pink ambiance adds to the authenticity, making it a perfect setting for a leisurely tea time.
Despite being closed on Mondays, the accommodating staff goes the extra mile to squeeze in last-minute reservations, ensuring a warm welcome.
The afternoon tea at Bon Tea includes a variety of sandwich fillings – we opted for cheese & ham, tuna & mayo, and egg & mayo, served on a choice of brown or white bread.
The generously portioned sandwiches were accompanied by scones with soft and tasty interiors, complemented by jam and perfectly textured clotted cream.
The top layer featured a selection of small sweet treats, showcasing attention to detail.
Personalize your tea experience with a pot of your preferred tea from the available options.
The overall value for money, friendly service, and the option to take away homemade cakes make Bon Tea a standout destination for cream tea enthusiasts.
12. Mimi's Bakehouse - Corstorphine
If you're in Edinburgh, Mimi's Bakehouse in Corstorphine is a must-visit for a delightful cream tea experience.
The cozy ambiance coupled with impeccable service makes it a charming spot to relax and indulge.
Indulge in their scrumptious cream tea featuring freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and homemade jam.
Pair it with a pot of their finest loose-leaf tea for a truly authentic British treat.
Don't miss out on their delectable selection of cakes and pastries, which perfectly complement the tea experience.
13. Tigerlily
Tigerlily is a must-visit spot in Edinburgh for a delightful cream tea experience.
The attentive service adds to the overall charm, making it an enjoyable escape from the city bustle.
The delicate sandwiches and freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam are a true delight.
While I didn't explore beyond the tea menu, the selection promises to tantalize taste buds.
Tigerlily's prime location adds to the allure, making it a top choice for a memorable cream tea outing.
14. Grand Cafe
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh, Grand Cafe offers a charming ambiance perfect for indulging in a delightful cream tea experience.
From its elegant decor to the soothing live piano music, this cafe exudes a timeless charm that sets the stage for a memorable afternoon treat.
Savor the classic combination of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, paired perfectly with a pot of fragrant loose-leaf tea.
For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss out on their selection of delectable pastries and cakes, crafted with precision and presented with elegance.
15. Gran Caffe
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Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh at 1-6 Parliament Square, Gran Caffe is a charming haven for tea enthusiasts.
The splendid architecture and central positioning make it the perfect pitstop after exploring the Royal Mile.
Gran Caffe offers a delightful cream tea experience that stands out in Edinburgh.
From 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM every day, indulge in a perfect blend of flavors with their afternoon tea.
The scrumptious treats are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a rejuvenating reward for tired legs.
Don't miss the chance to savor the best cream tea in the city – a tempting reason to plan a return visit.
16. Afternoon Tea at Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen
Afternoon Tea at Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen is a delightful experience that combines tradition with modern flair.
Whether you're catching up with friends or treating yourself to a solo indulgence, this cream tea room offers a charming setting for any occasion.
Indulge in a selection of freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves, alongside an assortment of finger sandwiches and delicate pastries.
Pair your treats with a steaming pot of fine tea or opt for a glass of bubbly for a touch of luxury.
Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors, making every visit a memorable culinary experience.
17. Fun Tea
If you're seeking a cozy spot to enjoy a delightful cream tea experience in Edinburgh, Fun Tea offers a quaint ambiance and quick service.
Despite mixed reviews on other beverages, their cream tea selection stands out for its quality and presentation.
Indulge in their classic cream tea, featuring freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and preserves.
Pair it with your choice of tea from their extensive menu for a truly satisfying afternoon treat.
While other options may vary in taste, Fun Tea's cream tea remains a reliable choice for locals and visitors alike.
18. Mimi's Bakehouse
Mimi's Bakehouse is an absolute gem for anyone seeking a delightful cream tea experience in Edinburgh.
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Leith, this quaint café boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere with its camp 40s decor, making it the perfect spot for a cozy afternoon treat.
Indulge in their heavenly tray-bakes, freshly baked scones, and a tempting array of cakes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings.
Don't miss out on their scrumptious savories, like the mouthwatering pot pie, which are hailed as some of the best in town.
With impeccable service and thoughtful touches, such as crackers placed on the table, Mimi's Bakehouse ensures a truly memorable cream tea experience that comes highly recommended.
19. Cafe Portrait
Nestled within the National Portrait Gallery, Cafe Portrait is a charming spot for indulging in a delightful cream tea experience.
With a cozy ambiance and friendly service, it's the perfect respite after exploring the gallery or wandering through Edinburgh's streets.
Savor the traditional pleasure of warm, craggy scones paired with a piping hot pot of tea.
While they lack clotted cream, the scones are fresh and generously sized, reminiscent of Scotland's rugged landscapes.
Pair them with a variety of salads, sandwiches, or an espresso for a satisfying treat amidst Edinburgh's cultural treasures.
20. HI TEA
TEA is a delightful spot in Edinburgh that captivates with its warm ambiance and friendly staff.
The charming location at 25, 23 Frederick St, EH2 2ND, UK, welcomes visitors with open arms.
What sets this cream tea room apart is its consistent excellence in customer service, making each visit a joy.
Indulge in the heavenly experience of their Cream Tea offerings, where freshness and quality shine.
The scones are a standout, perfectly baked and accompanied by clotted cream and jam.
Pair this with their aromatic tea selections for a truly comforting and satisfying treat.
HI TEA ensures a delightful blend of flavors and a memorable cream tea experience.
20 Best Cream Tea in Edinburgh, United Kingdom for 2024
- The Tea Rooms At Edinburgh Castle
- The Colonnades at the Signet Library
- Afternoon Tea at Prestonfield
- Clarinda's Tearoom
- The Cafe at the Palace
- The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh
- Royal Deck Tearoom
- Palm Court
- L'Etoile Salon de Tea
- Honeycomb Tearoom
- Bon Tea
- Mimi's Bakehouse - Corstorphine
- Tigerlily
- Grand Cafe
- Gran Caffe
- Afternoon Tea at Itchycoo Bar & Kitchen
- Fun Tea
- Mimi's Bakehouse
- Cafe Portrait
- HI TEA
