Afternoon Tea in Buxton & The Peak District

The English tradition of afternoon tea is something many of us love, so here’s our pick of the best places for Afternoon Tea in Buxton and the Peak District – updated with some new additions! The best in scones, cakes and perfectly cut sandwiches – some traditional, some with a modern twist.

Afternoon Tea in Buxton

Ideal for celebrating a special occasion or unwinding after a day of walking or sightseeing, Buxton offers the perfect setting to indulge in a classic English afternoon tea, from quintessential tea rooms to luxury 5-star hotels. Prepare to make some key decisions about your afternoon tea: which type will you select, and what will you spread on your scone first, cream or jam?

Aquae Arnemetiae Vintage Tearooms and Wine Bar

Best for: Cosy setting and perfect with a group for a special celebration 

Welcome to Aquae Arnemetiae Vintage Tearooms and Wine Bar, (formerly Vintage Tea Rooms) next to Everythings Rosy Interiors, which re-opened on 18th July 2024 Traditional Afternoon Tea features a selection of freshly made sandwiches, homemade scones, homemade cakes, served with tea/coffee. Perfect for special occasions or a treat, there is a cosy vibe here and there’s a small booth you can hire too which is lovely. While you’re here, you can have a look at the lovely Everything’s Rosy Interiors, which offers a superb range of gifts, homewares and new for 2024 – a ladies clothing range.

How to book: Contact directly by phone

Website: explorebuxton.co.uk/aquae-arnemetiae-vintage-tearooms

T: 01298 78778

Palace Hotel Buxton

Best for: Value for money and one of Buxton’s most historic hotels

Enjoy the grand surroundings of one of Buxton’s well loved hotels. Afternoon Tea in Buxton at the Palace Hotel is ideal for celebrating a special occasion – particularly if you’re in a large group, the hotel is huge. When you step over the threshold, you’ll quickly discover the history of the building itself. Suddenly you are transported back in time, some 150 years ago. You’ll see historic characteristics as you explore. The gorgeous Victorian grandeur is sure to provide the most elegant backdrop to your stay. Afternoon Tea includes sandwiches, clotted cream and jam with freshly baked scones and beautiful mini cakes.

How to book: Contact directly by phone

Website: theelitevenueselection.co.uk/Palace-hotel-buxton

T: 0871 221 0253

Buxton Crescent Hotel

Best for: The decadent surroundings of the historic Grade I listed hotel

Enjoy the decadent surroundings of this Grade I listed building. Afternoon Tea at Buxton Crescent Hotel is served in the beautifully decorated restaurant, presented on a traditional 3-tier stand with freshly cut finger sandwiches such as Honey glazed roast ham with sun blush tomato mayonnaise, Snowdonia Black Bomber cheese with classic pickle relish Cucumber and cream cheese Oak smoked salmon with crème fraiche. Warm scones are served with jam and clotted cream along with an array of sweet treats. There’s a wide range of teas to choose from too such as Earl Grey, Lapsang Souchong, Green tea and Assam. Sparkling afternoon tea allows you to mark the occasion with a glass of bubbles alongside your sweet and savoury treats.

How to book: Contact Buxton Crescent Hotel directly via phone or email [email protected]

Website: ensanahotels.com/en/hotels/buxton-crescent

T: 01298 808999

No.6 The Square, Buxton

Best for: A quintessential English tea room experience with glorious views

Close to the town centre in Buxton’s historic quarter, opposite the magnificent Opera House and pretty Pavilion Gardens, No.6 The Square is a traditional but highly refined tea room is a must visit if you’re a fan of Afternoon Tea. Served traditionally on tiered cake stands, the selection offered is varied and everything looks very pretty when it arrives at the table. Portions are generous too so you won’t leave hungry. No.6 offer gluten free as a standard across their menu and always have gluten free bread available so you swap items on the afternoon tea to accommodate if needs be. For a lighter option they also serve their Derbyshire Cream Tea – a pot of tea and a scone with jam and cream. A lovely relaxing place to visit and ideally situated too.

How to book: Contact the tea room directly by phone or email: [email protected]. Click here for the current menu (Afternoon Tea is on page 2).

Website: no6tearooms.co.uk

T: 01298 213541

Biggin Hall

Best for: The tranquil setting and getting away from the crowds

This 17th century country house hotel, located on the outskirts of Buxton is a lovely scenic spot to enjoy a traditional afternoon tea in this tranquil setting. You can choose from a warm fruit scone or a cheese scone which is a nice touch. Close to Dovedale and Hartington, it makes for a really pretty run out and a walk if the weather is ok. Note – Afternoon Tea is served Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 3pm – 5pm only.

How to book: Contact the hotel directly by phone (see below) or via email: [email protected]. Click here to see the current menu.

Website: bigginhall.co.uk/restaurant/afternoon-tea-light-bites

T: 01298 84451

Pavilion Tea Rooms

Best for: The location at the heart of the pretty Pavilion Gardens

Located inside the Pavilion Gardens just outside the entrance to the pretty Conservatory, the Pavilion Tea Room overlooks the promenade with lovely views over the gardens. The tea rooms are split over two levels including a bar, lounge area with sofas and comfy chairs with a slightly vintage feel to the decor. You can make a day of your visit here, because there’s lots to see while you’re here such as Gallery in the Gardens – featuring 40+ artists from the High Peak Artists groups selling their works.

How to book: Book a table online at: paviliongardens.co.uk/visiting-pavilion-gardens-buxton/eat-and-drink/the-tea-rooms

Website: paviliongardens.co.uk/visiting-pavilion-gardens-buxton/eat-and-drink/

T: 01298 23114

The Old Hall Hotel

Best for: A historic location where Mary of Queen of Scots once famously stayed

‘Royal Afternoon Tea’ commemorates Mary Queen of Scots who stayed here from 1576 – 1578 celebration. The Old Hall Hotel is one of the most atmospheric places in Buxton to enjoy this English dining tradition; expect a selection of finger sandwiches and canapés served with homemade scones with clotted cream and jam.  There’s a selection of beaitiflly presented sweet treats, freshly cut finger sandwiches and warm scones with jam and clotted cream. Add a glass or a bottle of bubbles to mark the occasion alongside your sweet and savory treats. Served in the Piano Lounge 2pm – 4pm.

How to book: Contact Buxton Crescent Hotel directly via phone or email [email protected]

Website: ensanahotels.com/en/hotels/old-hall

T: 01298 22841

Hargreaves Café

Best for: Explore the superb homewares shop while you’re here

Located on the first floor of the shopping emporium Hargreaves and Sons, the café retains the Edwardian charm of this family business established in 1865. The location is town centre too so if you’re taking in some shopping Afternoon Tea here is the perfect stop off to rest your feet. Tasty finger sandwiches, freshly made scones, a piece of cake and a pot of tea.

How to book: Please call the shop / café on 01298 211448

Website: hargreavesofbuxton.com/our-cafe-tea-rooms

T: 01298 211448

Afternoon Tea in the Peak District

The Peak District and Derbyshire has become a hotbed for enjoying Afternoon Tea and there’s a variety of places we’ve picked out where you can enjoy this treat. Explore our ultimate guide and favourite picks, updated for 2024.

Charnwood Forest Alpaca Walk and Afternoon Tea

Best for: Enjoy a walk with Alpacas before enjoying Afternoon Tea!

Experience a unique adventure at Charnwood Forest Alpacas, perfect for animal lovers. Enjoy a 30-minute stroll with a friendly alpaca, guided by an expert handler. Afterwards, savour a sparkling afternoon tea at the Chilli Bean Café with bubbly, sandwiches, sweet potato fries, warm scones, and delicate cakes. Each alpaca has a charming personality, ensuring a memorable day.

How to book: Contact them directly, number below, or, use the online calendar booking on the following link.

Website: pukkapacas.com/afternoon-tea

T: 01283 552 854

The Cavendish Hotel

Best for: Opulent decor and sheer luxury

The Cavendish Hotel feels like sheer indulgence and the lovely Garden Room overlooking the Chatsworth Estate is a very civilised spot to spend an afternoon. The Cavendish Hotel creates a slightly modern twist on this favourite English tradition. Taken either in the Garden Room, Gallery Restaurant (booking essential), or on The Terrace. Sweet, homemade creations are served alongside a selection of finger sandwiches, buttermilk scones with clotted cream and homemade preserve. All accompanied by freshly brewed tea, speciality infusions, or fresh coffee.

How to book: You can book online and choose your date and time slot or call direct to book. Click here to see the current menu.

Website: devonshirehotels.co.uk/cavendish-hotel-baslow/wine-dine/afternoon-tea/

T: 01246. 582311

Thornbridge Hall 

Best for: Those who prefer a traditional Afternoon Tea 

Enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea on the Thornbridge Estate. You can either have this served in Quackers Cafe or book their Orangery for an Afternoon Tea Party if you have a group of at least 12 people and want to make an event out of it! You can even add on a private House Tour. Alongside the traditional Afternoon Tea there’s also a seasonally designed cake of the day served with the tea. They also have a children’s Afternoon Tea option too.

How to book: You can book online and choose your date and time slot OR call direct to book. Click here to see the book and see the current menus.

Website/Booking link: thornbridgehall.co.uk/afternoontea

T: 01629 640617

Chatsworth House

Best for: The surroundings of this magnificent stately home

There’s a luxurious feel to the afternoon tea here. Served in the Cavendish Restaurant which looks out into the courtyard at Chatsworth House. It’s also well worth perusing the excellent shop while you’re there on your visit. The four-course Afternoon Tea features a savoury starter, followed by a platter of freshly made sandwiches served on locally baked breads. Then, cleanse the palate with a cooling sorbet. Finally enjoy warm scones and indulgent cakes served on a Wedgwood tea stand. Served with a cafetiere, barista-made coffee, or a pot of tea from their handpicked range, supplied by Northern Tea Merchants of Chesterfield.

How to book: Book a table online. Click here for the current standard menu / click here for the vegan menu.

Website/Booking link: chatsworth.org/visit-chatsworth/shop-dine/afternoon-tea

T: 01246 565300

The Old Bakewell Pudding Shop

Best for: Local flavours and their famous Bakewell Pudding

Purveyors of the famous original Bakewell Pudding, you can also enjoy Afternoon Tea here in their lovely first floor restaurant. There’s different variations of Afternoon Tea available which is nice, for example if you want a something lighter. The Full Afternoon Tea features a selection of sandwiches (choose one filling per person), macaroons, their famous Bakewell Pudding, Bakewell Tart, a luxury fruit scone and Mrs Wilson’s fruitcake.

How to book: Book a table by calling the restaurant direct (currently no online bookings). Click here for the current standard menu.

Website : bakewellpuddingshop.co.uk/restaurant

T: 01629 812193

Tilly’s of Castleton

Best for: Sensational homemade cakes

A lovely tea room located in Castleton offering a few options on their Afternoon Tea menu. Worth the visit as one of Derbyshire’s prettiest villages. Afternoon Tea is traditionally served and the sandwich selection is good served with a small serving of salad which is nice. The homemade cakes and scones are delicious (and rightly so, highly rated in Tripadvisor).

How to book: Contact the tea room directly by phone

Website: facebook.com/TillysOfCastleton

T: 01433 620834

Edensor Tea Cottage

Best for: A picturesque location at the heart of the Chatsworth Estate 

Edensor Tea Cottage is located in the picturesque village of Edensor on the Chatsworth Estate. They serve a traditional afternoon tea with the highlight being the home made scones using Cauldwell’s Mill flour, milled locally in Matlock, Derbyshire. If you have time, take a walk round Edensor too, this pretty ‘model village’ is an Instagrammers paradise.

How to book: Contact the tea room directly by phone. Click here for the current menu.

Website: edensorteacottage.co.uk

T: 01246 582315

The Lavender Tea Rooms

Best for: A generous afternoon tea, you won’t leave hungry

Offering the traditional Afternoon Tea, the reviews on Tripadvisor speak for itself; a choice of Traditional, Vegetarian, Vegan and Delux are all served on traditional tiered stands. The Afternoon Tea offers a generous helping of sandwiches, cakes and scones. Centrally located in Bakewell in this charming courtyard, not to be missed if you’re in the area. You can have a Derbyshire Cream Tea (scone with butter, jam and cream served with tea or coffee, if you prefer something lighter.

How to book: Make a booking via their contact form at the bottom of the page here or contact them directly by phone or email: [email protected]. Click here for the current menu.

Website: thelavendertearooms.co.uk/menu

T: 01629 814466

Callow Hall Country House Hotel

Best for: Interior enthusiasts

Voted The Sunday Times Hotel of the Year 2021, Callow Hall is set in a stunning location overlooking the hills of south Derbyshire and the Peak District. The uber stylish Garden Room boasting lovely views is the perfect spot to enjoy an Afternoon Tea (the entire venue is a feast on the eyes to be fair). The Garden Room has a natural living roof incidentally too. Featuring a selection of homemade sandwiches, sweet treats, scones fresh from the oven, and a piping hot pot to share from a good choice of teas.

How to book: Click here to book online. Click here for the current menu.

Website: wildhive.uk/callow-hall/eat/the-garden-room

T: 01335 300900

The Maynard 

Best for: A historic setting with the wow factor

A luxury country house hotel, taking its name from the Maynard family, whose ancestry goes back to the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. The hotel oozes style and sophistication and is the perfect place to enjoy Afternoon Tea. An ideal spot if you’re celebrating a special occasion. Choose from Classic Afternoon Tea which features everything you’d expect, or, the Gentleman’s Afternoon Tea features fish Finger butty with tartar sauce, handmade sausage roll, Ginger Butcher’s pork pie with piccalilli, scotch egg, mini Yorkshire pudding with roast beef and horseradish, Stilton and walnut scone with butter, indulgent chocolate brownie, pint of ale, lager or glass of fizz.

How to book: Book online (scroll down to ‘Book a Table’) or contact the hotel direct by phone. Click here for the current menu.

Website/Booking link: the-maynard.com/restaurant

The Merchants Yard

Best for: The amazing cakes and sweet treats

The Merchants Yard pride themselves on fine dining, with a current AA Rosette award for Culinary Excellence, the Afternoon Tea is no exception. Now served in a more traditional way on a tiered stand, there’s all the usual trimmings – sandwiches with treats such as Miniature Victoria Sponge. It is also worth noting that their Afternoon Tea menu changes seasonally in line with our other menus. You could always double up the afternoon tea with a walk down Tideswell Dale – the flora and fauna in the summer in the dale is great with lots of butterflies, wild flowers and big striped snails.

How to book: Book online here. Click here for the current Afternoon Tea menu.

Website: themerchantsyard.com/eat

T: 01298 872442

Hoar Cross Hall Hotel

Best for: A special occasion 

Hoar Cross Hall is a grand Grade II listed building set in 50 acres of countryside. With a pretty water garden, a luxury spa and find dining, you could really treat yourself with a visit here. You can also stay overnight at the hotel if you wanted to celebrate a special occasion. The afternoon tea is a modern take on the English tradition, presented beautifully and includes sandwiches, cakes and scones. The selection of speciality teas include China Jasmine, Darjeeling First Flush and Earl Grey.

How to book: Click here to book online or call the hotel directly. Click here to see the current menu (this changes during each season).

Website: baronseden.com/hoar-cross-hall/food-drink

T: 01283 576522

The Orangery at St Elphin’s Park

Best for: Value for money in stylish surroundings

Served in a slightly more contemporary way, the Afternoon Tea is beautifully presented, just like the venue itself; we love the yellow/grey/blue hues used in the stylish decor.  The sandwiches and cakes are what you’d expect with a sprinkle of imagination to change up the flavours.

How to book: Click here to book online.

Website: orangerystelphins.co.uk

T: 01629 258055

Vintage Tearooms Chesterfield

Best for: a quirky, cosy setting

With homemade cakes a plenty and a quirky vintage theme to the interior, the place has quite a following locally. The Afternoon Tea here is well priced or you add Prosecco for a little extra. Expect the usual such as smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise, ham and cheese sandwiches as well as scone with cream and jam and you get to choose your choice of homemade cake. There are plenty of teas to choose from including various herbal flavours too.

How to book: Contact the tea room directly by phone

Website: facebook.com/thecookedteapot/

T: 01246 556079

Renishaw Hall Café 

Best for: Make a day of it – visit the gardens or take a guided tour of the house

The Café at Renishaw Hall serves Afternoon Tea with a selection of finger sandwiches, mini quiche, fruit scone with jam and clotted cream, a selection of cakes, mini macaroons and your choice of freshly brewed tea or coffee. You could make a day of your visit at this historic home – with guided tours available in the house, a great little Visitor’s Centre and lovely gardens to wander round.

How to book: Call Renishaw Hall directly by phone or by email at [email protected]

Website: renishaw-hall.co.uk/cafe-at-renishaw

T: 01246 437360

Cintra’s Café & Tea Room

Best for: Relaxed vibes with a lovely outdoor garden

A lovely little tea room in Hathersage, the garden is very pleasant in summer to sit out in and dine. Afternoon Tea include freshly prepared selection of hand cut sandwiches, delectable homemade cakes and mouthwatering scones with fresh cream and jam.

T: 01433 651825

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