The Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Nottingham: A Local Visitor's Guide

There are few better excuses to put your feet up for a couple of hours than a proper afternoon tea. A pot of freshly brewed tea, warm scones piled with jam and clotted cream, a few sandwiches and an assortment of cakes. What's not to like?

And Nottingham has some brilliant places to enjoy it.

From little independent tea rooms tucked away in the city centre to grand country houses and elegant hotels, there's a surprising amount of choice. Some stick closely to tradition, while others put their own twist on the experience with imaginative savouries, themed menus or even a spot of crafting alongside your cakes.

Whether you're planning a birthday celebration, treating your mum, visiting Nottingham for the weekend or simply fancy an indulgent afternoon, we've explored the options to help you find somewhere worth visiting.

Here's where to go, what to expect and how to make the most of your afternoon tea in Nottingham.

Where should you go for afternoon tea in Nottingham?

If you're after a traditional experience, White Rabbit Teahouse and Josephine's are good places to start. For somewhere a little grander, Hart's, Colwick Hall and Lace Market Hotel provide elegant settings, while Debbie Bryan offers something more unusual.

For families or anyone who fancies a modern take on the classic afternoon tea, The Pudding Pantry is particularly worth considering.

White Rabbit Teahouse – A traditional Nottingham favourite

Best for: A cosy, independent afternoon tea.

Hidden along Bridlesmith Walk, just off Nottingham's busy shopping streets, White Rabbit Teahouse is the sort of place that's easy to walk past without realising what's inside.

Here, afternoon tea is all about the traditional touches. Vintage china, freshly prepared sandwiches, homemade scones, miniature cakes and a proper pot of loose-leaf tea.

It's a lovely choice if you want the classic British afternoon tea experience without the formality of a large hotel. The intimate setting makes it particularly appealing for a relaxed catch-up with a friend or a quiet afternoon away from the bustle of the city centre.

The afternoon tea includes a selection of sandwiches, a miniature quiche, a scone with cream and jam, cakes and unlimited tea or cafetière coffee.

Visitor tip: You're only a short walk from Nottingham's Lace Market and Bridlesmith Gate. Spend the morning exploring the independent shops around the city centre before settling in for tea.

Price: £32.50 per person, or £37.50 with Prosecco.

Where: 3 Bridlesmith Walk, Nottingham, NG1 2HB.

Good to know: Book ahead for afternoon tea. White Rabbit currently advertises cash-only payment, so arrive prepared. The former West Bridgford branch has closed.

Josephine's Tea Lounge & Bistro – Perfect for a theatre day

Best for: Vintage glamour and a special occasion.

Directly opposite Nottingham's Theatre Royal, Josephine's is one of the city's most recognisable afternoon tea destinations.

With its vintage-inspired surroundings and traditional presentation, there's a real sense of occasion about visiting. It's somewhere you can dress up a little, meet friends for a celebration or turn an ordinary afternoon into something memorable.

Its luxury afternoon tea features finger sandwiches, savoury bites, scones with clotted cream and preserve, and an assortment of sweet treats. There's also a Prosecco option for anyone looking to push the boat out.

The location is a big advantage. Nottingham's Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall are directly across the road, so it's an especially convenient place to visit before an evening performance or after a matinee.

Visitor tip: Check the timing of your theatre performance before booking. Afternoon tea is best enjoyed without rushing, so leave yourself plenty of time.

Price: Luxury afternoon tea £38 per person; Prosecco afternoon tea £45.

Where: 49 Upper Parliament Street, Nottingham, NG1 2AB.

Good to know: Walk-ins are subject to availability. Vegetarian, halal and gluten-free variations are advertised, but the current menu no longer offers vegan or dairy-free afternoon tea. The venue's advertised pre-theatre discount does not apply to afternoon tea.

Debbie Bryan – Afternoon tea with a creative twist

Best for: Something a little different, particularly with friends.

Not every afternoon tea needs to involve sitting around a table for two hours. At Debbie Bryan, you can combine tea and cakes with a creative experience.

This independent Nottingham business specialises in handmade gifts, crafts and creative workshops, making it a lovely alternative to the conventional hotel afternoon tea.

Choose a traditional afternoon tea with homemade scones, cakes and finger sandwiches, or book one of its Crafternoon experiences, where you can try your hand at a creative activity while enjoying refreshments.

It's a particularly appealing option for birthdays, friends' get-togethers or anyone who enjoys making something rather than simply buying another souvenir.

Debbie Bryan also caters for several dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and low-gluten options.

Visitor tip: If you're visiting Nottingham for the day, the creative sessions offer something memorable to take home from your trip. Check the available workshops in advance, as activities vary.

Where: First Floor, 4–6 St Peter's Gate, Nottingham, NG1 2JG, above The Tokenhouse.

Good to know: Open Tuesday to Saturday according to its published hours. Book your afternoon tea or Crafternoon through the venue.

The Pudding Pantry – A modern take on afternoon tea

Best for: Families, sweet-toothed visitors and anyone who wants something less traditional.

If the idea of another cucumber finger sandwich doesn't exactly fill you with excitement, The Pudding Pantry might be more your style.

This independent Nottingham business is known for its breakfasts, pancakes, puddings and homemade sweet treats. Its afternoon tea follows the same philosophy, replacing some of the more traditional elements with imaginative savouries and miniature desserts.

Expect freshly prepared scones alongside creative bites such as sliders, sausage rolls, quiche and beautifully presented cakes, depending on the current menu.

There's a dedicated children's afternoon tea too, making it a particularly useful option for families who want to enjoy the experience together.

With locations in Nottingham city centre, Sherwood and Beeston, you've also got flexibility over where to visit.

Visitor tip: Trinity Square is a handy choice if you're spending the day shopping or exploring Nottingham city centre. The Sherwood and Beeston locations are worth considering if you're staying outside the centre.

Price: Classic afternoon tea £28.95 per person; children's afternoon tea £11.95 according to the published menu.

Good to know: Afternoon tea must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives are advertised, and takeaway options are available.

Lace Market Hotel – An elegant afternoon in Nottingham's historic quarter

Best for: A relaxed, stylish afternoon tea in the Lace Market.

Nottingham's Lace Market is one of the most interesting parts of the city to explore. Once at the heart of the lace industry, its handsome historic buildings and atmospheric streets now house restaurants, bars and independent businesses.

Lace Market Hotel fits comfortably into these surroundings.

Set on High Pavement, the hotel offers a more intimate alternative to some of the city's larger dining venues. Its afternoon tea includes finger sandwiches, homemade scones and pastries, with the menu changing to reflect the season.

It's a good choice for couples enjoying a city break or visitors looking for somewhere comfortable to stop after exploring the surrounding streets.

Visitor tip: Combine your booking with a walk along High Pavement and through the Lace Market. The nearby National Justice Museum makes a particularly interesting addition to your day.

Price: £25 per person, or £29 with a glass of Prosecco.

Where: 29–31 High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HE.

Good to know: Afternoon tea is advertised Wednesday to Saturday, from midday until 3.30pm. Dietary requirements should be mentioned when booking.

Hart's Hotel & Kitchen – Afternoon tea near Nottingham Castle

Best for: A refined, peaceful experience or a romantic afternoon.

Just a short walk from Nottingham Castle, Hart's Hotel & Kitchen offers afternoon tea in a setting that feels pleasantly removed from the busiest parts of the city.

Its elegant restaurant and garden make it well suited to celebrations, while the food has a strong connection to the region through Hambleton Bakery, which supplies the bread, scones and cakes featured in its afternoon tea.

The menu is traditional in the best possible way: carefully prepared sandwiches, fruit scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, and a selection of miniature cakes.

During warmer weather, the secluded garden is an especially attractive place to spend an afternoon.

Visitor tip: A visit to Nottingham Castle followed by afternoon tea at Hart's makes a lovely combination. Allow plenty of time to explore the castle grounds and exhibitions before your booking.

Price: From £25.95 per person, with optional Prosecco or Champagne upgrades.

Where: Standard Hill, Park Row, Nottingham, NG1 6FN.

Good to know: Book at least 48 hours ahead. Hart's does not currently offer gluten-free or vegan afternoon tea. Parking at the hotel is limited, so city-centre parking may be more convenient.

Colwick Hall – Afternoon tea in a historic country house

Best for: A grand setting, birthdays and special celebrations.

For an afternoon tea that feels like a proper occasion, Colwick Hall is a strong contender.

Set in parkland on the outskirts of Nottingham, the historic country house has connections with the poet Lord Byron and offers a setting very different from the city's smaller tea rooms.

Afternoon tea is served at Byron's Brasserie, with traditional and more elaborate options available. Menus change throughout the year, with seasonal savouries, sandwiches, homemade scones and a selection of cakes and pastries.

It's particularly well suited to a birthday, anniversary or family celebration, when the surroundings are as much a part of the experience as the food.

The location also makes it possible to turn afternoon tea into a longer outing.

Visitor tip: Colwick Country Park is nearby, with lakeside paths and green spaces that are ideal for a walk before or after your booking. It's a lovely way to turn afternoon tea into a relaxed day out without heading into Nottingham city centre.

Price: Traditional afternoon tea £25.95 per person; children's afternoon tea £19.95. A Grand Afternoon Tea is also available at a higher price.

Where: Colwick Park, Racecourse Road, Nottingham, NG2 4BH.

Good to know: Traditional afternoon tea is advertised daily from midday until 4pm. Seasonal menus and special themed events vary, so check what's available for your chosen date.

Browns Nottingham – A stylish afternoon with the option of Champagne

Best for: Celebrations and a classic brasserie atmosphere.

If you're looking for afternoon tea somewhere that feels polished without being overly formal, Browns is worth considering.

Set on Park Row, Browns offers a traditional selection of savoury bites, warm scones, miniature cakes and desserts in elegant brasserie surroundings.

There's also the option of adding Champagne, making it a popular sort of setting for birthday celebrations, anniversaries or simply treating someone to an afternoon out.

Unlike some smaller tea rooms, Browns also operates as a full restaurant and bar, so it's easy to continue your visit with a drink afterwards.

Visitor tip: Browns is conveniently placed between Nottingham's city-centre attractions and the Castle Quarter, making it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing.

Price: A current afternoon tea gift experience for two is advertised at £60.

Where: 20 Park Row, Nottingham, NG1 6GR.

Good to know: The venue advertises afternoon tea daily from 2pm to 6pm, with gluten-free options available. Check the current individual dining price when booking.

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill – A traditional tea with good-value options

Best for: An affordable special occasion in the city centre.

You don't necessarily need to spend a fortune to enjoy afternoon tea in Nottingham.

Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, on Wollaton Street, offers a traditional selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with jam and clotted cream, cakes and pastries.

It follows a familiar afternoon tea format, but with a competitively priced entry option and the chance to add a glass of Prosecco or Champagne.

The city-centre location makes it particularly convenient for visitors arriving by public transport or those spending the day around the shops and attractions.

Visitor tip: This is one to consider for a Friday or Saturday afternoon, especially if you want a sit-down treat before enjoying Nottingham's nightlife or evening entertainment.

Price: From £19.95 per person; Prosecco afternoon tea £24.95 and Champagne afternoon tea £29.95.

Where: Wollaton Street, Nottingham, NG1 5FW.

Good to know: Afternoon tea is currently advertised on Fridays and Saturdays from 1pm until 3pm. Vegan and gluten-free alternatives require at least 48 hours' notice.

Making a day of afternoon tea in Nottingham

One of the nicest things about going for afternoon tea is that it doesn't have to be the only thing you do.

If you're visiting Nottingham for the first time, it's worth combining your booking with some of the city's sights.

For history lovers: Spend the morning exploring the Lace Market and the National Justice Museum before heading to Lace Market Hotel for afternoon tea.

For a theatre trip: Book Josephine's and enjoy a leisurely afternoon before a performance at the Theatre Royal or Royal Concert Hall.

For couples: Visit Nottingham Castle, take a walk around the historic area and finish with afternoon tea at Hart's.

For a relaxing afternoon outdoors: Enjoy the lakes and paths of Colwick Country Park, followed by afternoon tea at Colwick Hall.

For a day with friends: Book a creative Crafternoon at Debbie Bryan and turn the experience into more than simply tea and cake.

How much does afternoon tea cost in Nottingham?

You don't need a luxury-hotel budget to enjoy afternoon tea in Nottingham.

Based on currently published menus, standard afternoon tea at the venues in this guide generally falls between around £20 and £40 per person, although elaborate experiences and drinks upgrades can cost more.

Traditional options such as Marco Pierre White and Lace Market Hotel sit towards the more affordable end of the range, while Josephine's and some of Colwick Hall's grander offerings cost more.

Prices can change for special events, Mother's Day, Christmas and themed experiences, so it's always worth checking before booking.

Do you need to book afternoon tea in advance?

In most cases, booking ahead is a good idea, and some venues make it compulsory.

Many afternoon teas are prepared specifically for the number of people attending, rather than being available to order at any time.

Several Nottingham venues ask for at least 24 or 48 hours' notice, particularly when you need vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or other dietary alternatives.

For special occasions, weekends and larger groups, booking earlier is sensible.

What about vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free afternoon tea?

Nottingham has several places offering alternative menus, but the choice varies considerably between venues.

Debbie Bryan advertises vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and low-gluten options. The Pudding Pantry also offers alternative menus including vegan and gluten-free selections.

Other venues have more limited options. Hart's does not currently provide vegan or gluten-free afternoon tea, while Josephine's no longer offers vegan or dairy-free variations.

If you have a food allergy or coeliac disease, contact the venue directly rather than relying on a general dietary label. A gluten-free menu does not necessarily mean a kitchen can guarantee against cross-contact.

A few tips before you go

Allow roughly 90 minutes to two hours for a relaxed afternoon tea, especially if you're celebrating something. It isn't an experience that benefits from being squeezed between appointments.

Check whether the advertised price includes unlimited tea or coffee, as this varies between venues. You'll also want to confirm whether the price is per person or for two people.

If you're bringing children, check whether a smaller afternoon tea is offered. The Pudding Pantry and Colwick Hall both advertise dedicated children's options.

Finally, don't forget that some of Nottingham's nicest tea rooms are tucked away from the main shopping streets. A little exploring is often part of the fun.

Our final thoughts

Nottingham has an afternoon tea to suit almost every kind of occasion.

For a cosy and traditional experience, White Rabbit Teahouse is an appealing choice. If you're planning a theatre trip, Josephine's is difficult to beat for convenience. Colwick Hall brings a sense of grandeur, while Hart's and Lace Market Hotel are ideal for a more refined afternoon.

And if you'd prefer something different from the usual sandwiches and scones, Debbie Bryan's creative experiences or The Pudding Pantry's modern take on afternoon tea are well worth considering.

Whichever you choose, book ahead, leave yourself plenty of time and enjoy one of Britain's loveliest traditions.

Have we missed your favourite place for afternoon tea in Nottingham? Let us know in the comments. We're always looking for more independent favourites and unusual experiences to explore.