Few British traditions are as cherished as afternoon tea — and in Brighton, this beloved ritual is served with a side of seaside charm, quirky elegance, and bold creativity. Whether you’re seeking a refined experience with crisp linen and panoramic views or a twist on tradition with Asian-inspired flair or plant-based indulgence, Brighton has it all.
In this guide to the best afternoon tea in Brighton, we explore ten of the city’s finest venues, each offering a unique and delicious experience. Based on local acclaim, The Grand Brighton stands out as our favourite, thanks to its classic offerings, elegant setting, and inclusive vegan and gluten-free options.
Best Afternoon Tea in Brighton
The Grand Brighton Afternoon Tea
There is no grander place to start. The afternoon tea experience at this iconic Brighton institution begins with an assortment of delicate finger sandwiches, featuring classic fillings such as Scottish smoked salmon with dill crème fraîche, Burford brown egg mayonnaise with cress, and honey roast ham with wholegrain mustard. A warm, freshly baked pork & leek sausage roll wrapped in buttery pastry and a caramelised red onion and goats’ cheese quiche provide the perfect complement to this refined selection.
No afternoon tea would be complete without a selection of indulgent sweets, and The Grand Brighton’s offering is no exception. Guests can indulge in a delightful array of mini cakes and pastries, including a rich dark chocolate delice, a classic lemon meringue tart, and a perfectly light white chocolate and caramel éclair. Rounding off the experience, no afternoon tea would be complete without The Grand Brighton’s signature Shipton Mill scones, served warm with clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry preserve.
To make the experience truly accessible for all, The Grand Brighton also offers a dedicated vegan afternoon tea, featuring a guacamole and heirloom tomato sandwich, a red velvet cake, and delicate macarons. A gluten-free option is also available, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this special occasion.
The Ivy Asia Brighton
The Ivy Asia Brighton Afternoon Tea Menu
As cherry blossoms begin to bloom and the spirit of spring awakens, The Ivy Asia Brighton is offering an exclusive Afternoon Tea, a special dessert platter, and limited-edition cocktails, all
inspired by the beauty of the iconic cherry blossom season. This exquisite experience captures the fleeting elegance of Sakura, blending delicate flavours with the artistry of The Ivy Asia’s signature dining.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of The Ivy Asia’s opulent interiors and cherry blossom trees, the Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea features a selection of savoury and sweet delights, expertly crafted to celebrate the essence of spring. Guests can indulge in Aromatic Duck Spring Rolls, Vegetable Dumplings with Citrus Ponzu, Salmon Cream Cheese & Cucumber Maki Rolls, Spicy Avocado Maki Rolls, Sesame-Crusted Seafood Dumplings, and Steamed Vegetable Bao Buns with Yakiniku Sauce.
For a touch of sweetness, the beautifully presented afternoon tea also includes Dark Chocolate & Cherry Blossom Trees, Raspberry Macarons, Pink Cherry Choux Buns, and a White Chocolate & Cherry Mousse, served alongside a selection of teas, infusions, or coffees for the perfect afternoon indulgence.
Browns
See Browns’ Afternoon Tea Menu
Here’s one that you will need to get in quick for, after it was recently announced that Browns will be closing their Brighton restaurant. At the time of writing no closure date was confirmed, so for now we say get down there and enjoy their afternoon tea experience before it is too late.
Their afternoon tea experience is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a selection of beautifully crafted savouries, warm scones with seasonal jams, and an array of irresistible mini cakes and puddings. Enhance your experience with a selection of Good Earth teas and a chilled glass of brut or pink Champagne. They also offer a bespoke Gluten Free Afternoon Tea, accredited by Coeliac UK.
Blossoms Cocktail Bar and Restaurant
Looking for a quiet spot to enjoy your afternoon tea? Absolutely suggests Blossoms is not your place. Nestled within the heart of the vibrant Brighton Lanes, Blossoms certainly isn’t a quiet affair; it’s one that is loud, bold and will ignite your senses. But please, let us spare you the spoilers, this is your experience to unfold.
This is afternoon tea with a difference. Yes, there are sandwiches, but for us it’s all about the gyozas and selection of maki, simple and classic mini rolls filled with cucumber and avocado. For those with a sweet tooth, Chocolate Mochi, Miso-Chocolate Brownie, and Strawberry & Cream Dorayaki are all on the menu, and of course there is the opportunity to upgrade the experience with added bubbles.
Brighton Regency Routemaster
Book an Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in Brighton
And the award for the quirkiest way to enjoy afternoon tea goes to… Travel in style on board an iconic Routemaster bus RML 2333. The Routemaster has been beautifully restored into a fine dining bus, so you can sit back and relax at tables for two or four while you enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, or treat yourself to one of their Brighton Gin or Prosecco afternoon teas.
Once onboard you travel through the city where you will see the Royal Pavilion, Palace Pier, Hove’s Grand Avenue, historical Regency Squares and the shopping mecca of the North Laine. You will then coast along the seafront to visit the towns of Rottingdean and Saltdean. As you head back you will see the breathtaking views of Brighton and its Marina. Never has public transport been so much fun.
Metrodeco
For those keen on a spot of vintage, Metrodeco is your spot. It is a 1930s-inspired tea salon known for its extensive tea selection and vintage ambiance. Don’t be surprised to see guests really getting into the spirit of things and dressing to impress.
Afternoon teas are offered as special events, for guests of 10+. This is the perfect setting for a larger party to mark any occasion. Why not share the perfect Brighton afternoon out with others?
Leman Tea Room
A charming, family-run tea room praised for its cosy atmosphere and consistently delicious cream teas. Here, afternoon tea is not just a meal but a delightful experience. Enjoying aromatic, delicious teas served in exquisite English china makes every moment special. With its elegant presentation and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to spend quality time with friends and family.
You can’t beat their Traditional English Afternoon Tea: a choice of freshly made sandwiches, one plain or sultana scone served with strawberry preserves and clotted cream or butter, a slice of cake or confectionery, a pot of English Breakfast Tea or Earl Grey Tea. Kudos, too, to their exclusive hire for your very own, very big afternoon tea party.
Terre à Terre
For over 30 years, Terre à Terre been delighting guests in the heart of Brighton with a bold and innovative approach to meat-free dining. But it’s not just about the food: at Terre à Terre, they pride themselves on creating an inviting and friendly atmosphere, where guests are welcomed like old friends. Whether you’re sitting in their light-filled courtyard or enjoying the buzz of their dining room, you’ll feel right at home.
Enjoy delightful indulgence with Terre à Terre’s afternoon tea. Their three-tiered feast is a playful blend of sweet and savoury treats. Experience afternoon tea with a unique umami twist – think miso, soy and sesame mingling with the traditional, taking afternoon tea to a whole new level.
Stanmer Park House
Set in a historic manor, this venue offers a traditional afternoon tea experience amidst beautiful surroundings. For centuries, Stanmer House has been one of the most iconic and beloved landmarks in Brighton. With its stunning architecture, picturesque gardens, and rich history, it’s no wonder that visitors from around the world flock to this historic mansion to experience its beauty and charm. It truly is a venue that elevates any kind of experience.
The Claremont
Treat that someone special in your life to a sumptuous, traditional afternoon tea served in The Claremont’s elegant drawing room, study or dining room and in the garden when weather permits.
Their teas are lovingly prepared from locally sourced ingredients wherever possible and served on vintage bone china with crisp embroidered tablecloths. As well as the Vintage Afternoon Tea, they serve a Cream Tea, with a selection of teas or coffee served with two warm homemade scones, Cornish clotted cream and strawberry preserve.
How Absolutely Picks the Best for You
At Absolutely Magazines, we pride ourselves on curating only the finest recommendations for our refined readers. Our editors leverage their extensive expertise in lifestyle journalism to ensure that every selection meets the highest standards of quality and relevance. From scouring local insider tips to understanding trends and feedback, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the most exceptional venues for you. Guided by an appreciation for your taste, we prioritise venues and events that epitomise luxury, style, and premium experiences. You can trust us to bring you the Absolute best, every time.
