The Biscuit Factory
Afternoon tea at the Biscuit Factory’s Factory Kitchen is a delightfully rustic twist on tradition. Surrounded by contemporary artwork in the leafy Plant Room, tea is served Wednesday to Sunday and guests can savour a menu featuring summer flavours including apple and pork sausage roll; prosciutto and mozzarella grilled sandwich; pea, spinach and feta quiche; cherry and almond scone with strawberry jam and Chantilly cream; lemon posset with fresh berries; dark chocolate brownie; and Bakewell tart. A vegetarian menu is also available. Stoddart Street, Newcastle, NE2 1AN, tel 0191 261 1103, www.thebiscuitfactory.com
Bradley Gardens
A classic affair, afternoon tea at Bradley Gardens is served in the elegant surroundings of the glasshouse with views over the 18th Century walled garden. Bradley’s own jam with scones is delightful, while a teatime bellini in the sunshine is a wonderful treat. Sled Lane, Wylam, NE41 8JH, tel 01661 852 176, www.bradley-gardens.co.uk
Café Des Amis
This wonderfully welcoming, independent café in the heart of the market town of Morpeth is renowned for its tranquil garden and homemade afternoon tea featuring delicate finger sandwiches, scones and irresistible cakes. Newgate Street, Morpeth, NE61 1BE, tel 01670 505 483, open Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm
Café My Place
A neighbourhood café in Killingworth, Café My Place is a little piece of vintage heaven where you can spend hours enjoying tea, sandwiches and homemade scones in cosy surroundings. White Swan Centre, Killingworth, NE12 6SS, tel 07733 895 579, www.facebook.com/pg/cafemyplace
Derwent Manor Hotel
Served daily in the Antler Bar, the Derwent Manor Hotel’s afternoon tea is a delightful treat. Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of a country pub indoors, or indulge outside on the patio when the sun is shining. Traditional sweet and savoury afternoon tea favourites are served alongside tea, coffee and fizz. Allensford, Consett, DH8 9BB, tel 01207 592 000, www.derwentmanorhotel.com
Grand Hotel
For afternoon tea with a view, visit the Grand Hotel overlooking Tynemouth Longsands. The hotel blends Victorian and modern styles while offering a popular tea and first-class service. Tea is served in the Brasserie Restaurant (pre-booking required) and Drawing Room (no booking required). Grand Parade, Tynemouth, NE30 4ER, tel 0191 293 6666, www.grandhoteltynemouth.co.uk
Jesmond Dene House
For a quintessentially English afternoon tea, head to Jesmond Dene House. This grand Edwardian mansion in the heart of the leafy dene is home to elegant indoor and outdoor dining areas and teas featuring handcrafted sandwiches, fresh scones and exquisite pastries. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available with 48 hours’ notice. Jesmond Dene Road, Newcastle, NE2 2EY, tel 0191 212 3000, www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk
Linden Hall
Set in 450 acres of beautiful parkland and woodland, the Georgian Linden Hall is a stunning location for tea with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere and luxurious interiors. Tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade scones fresh from the oven and an irresistible selection of cakes – all served with Birchall’s loose leaf tea. Longhorsley, Morpeth, NE65 8XF, tel 0344 879 9084, www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/linden-hall
Matfen Hall
Step into The Drawing Room at Matfen Hall and discover an elegant location perfectly matched with a decadent afternoon tea selection. Indulge in delicious savouries, pastries and desserts with views over the gardens and estate. Tea is served Tuesday to Saturday noon-4pm. Matfen, NE20 0RH, tel 01661 886 500, www.matfenhall.com
Michelangelos
Popular neighbourhood Mediterranean restaurant Michelangelos serves afternoon tea daily with homemade treats including sandwiches, scones and wonderful cakes. Partnered with a glass of fizz and summer sunshine, what more could you ask for? Stella Road, Ryton, NE21 4LU, tel 0191 413 2921, www.michelangelorestaurants.co.uk
The Running Fox at Kirkharle Courtyard
Celebrated Northumberland café group The Running Fox has opened its fifth location at the Courtyard at Kirkharle – birthplace of Lancelot Capability Brown, Britain’s most famous landscape gardener. The Running Fox team has brought their award-winning baking to the new venue with sandwiches, scones and cakes making for a memorable tea experience inside and outside in the sunshine. You can also indulge in afternoon tea at The Running Fox’s Felton, Longframlington, Shilbottle and Longhoughton cafés as well. Kirkharle Courtyard, Kirkharle, www.runningfoxbakery.co.uk
Sweetharts Bakery & Coffee Shop
Renowned for the quality of its preparation and ingredients, afternoon tea at Sweetharts is a real treat. Everything here is homemade, with bread for the sandwiches, scones and many wonderful sweet treats crafted by expert bakers. Durham Road, Blackhill, Consett, DH8 8RR, tel 01207 501 100, www.facebook.com/SweethartsBakery
