Tea time, also known as “Afternoon Tea” or “Five o’clock Tea,” is a tradition that originated in England. It typically takes place in the afternoon, around 3:30 to 5:00 PM. If you’re visiting Oxford, you will have a unique opportunity to experience this quintessentially British tradition. So, let me show you some of my favourite places in the city where you can get the best tea time.
So... What is Exactly Tea Time?
It is a social occasion where people gather for tea and a variety of delicacies. The tradition of Afternoon Tea, also known as “Tea Time” or “Five o’clock Tea,” is a quintessentially English custom that typically takes place in the afternoon, around 3:30 to 5:00 PM, and involves getting together with family or friends for tea and a few delicacies to taste.
The tea time or afternoon tea tradition dates back to the 19th century when the Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria, initiated the custom to bridge the long gap between lunch and dinner.
What Does a Tea Time Menu Include?
The menu for tea time often includes a selection of teas, along with scones, sandwiches, and pastries. The choice of tea is crucial, with classic Earl Grey being a popular option for this occasion. The tradition has survived and remains a part of English customs, although it is less prevalent today than it was in the past.
The Best Places to Have British Tea Time in Oxford
Oxford has several different options when it comes to tea time – from the elegant Alice within the Randolph Hotel to the hidden corners of the city where you’ll get the most delicious homemade treats. The list below has no particular order, but I’ve tried to group these Oxfordian tea time options by type of locale and general atmosphere. Please keep in mind the prices might have changed since I last updated them!
Sophisticated and Relaxed Tea Time Option:
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie
The Ivy Oxford Brasserie offers an elegant Afternoon Tea experience, beautifully presented in a three-tiered stand and served with a choice of tea or coffee.
The menu typically includes a selection of savory sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of delicate cakes and pastries. The brasserie provides a sophisticated and relaxed setting for visitors and locals to enjoy this traditional indulgence. It is advisable to make a reservation in advance to ensure a delightful Afternoon Tea experience at The Ivy Oxford Brasserie.
Price:
- The Wonderland Afternoon Tea starts from £29.95 per person.
- The Champagne Afternoon Tea starts from £39.95 per person.
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Cultural Summery Tea Time Option:
The Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant
The Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant, located at the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, offers a delightful Afternoon Tea experience. The Afternoon Tea is often themed to tie in with the museum’s current exhibition, adding a unique touch to the traditional spread.
Guests can enjoy a variety of teas and indulge in delicious scones served with homemade jam. The restaurant provides a beautiful room and an outside eating area, allowing patrons to savor their tea while taking in the stunning views from the rooftop terrace. The price range for the Afternoon Tea at the Ashmolean Rooftop Restaurant is not specified, so it’s recommended to check with the restaurant directly for the current pricing. It’s advisable to book in advance for the Afternoon Tea to ensure a delightful experience. The restaurant also offers a Lunch menu every day from 12–3pm and the Afternoon Tea menu from 3–5pm.
Price: Depends on the menu.
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Elegant Tea Time Option:
The Alice
The Alice in Oxford offers a Regency Afternoon Tea inspired by the cultural phenomenon of the time. This experience allows guests to step back in time for an unforgettable afternoon tea.
The menu includes a selection of savoury options, finger sandwiches, cakes, and tarts, carefully crafted to reflect unique associations with Alice in Wonderland. The tea is served at 3pm and includes a talk on the author and his inspirations.
Price:
- Champagne afternoon tea: £49 pp
- Afternoon tea: £39 pp
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Riverside Cafe and Boating Tea Time Option:
The Folly Restaurant
The Folly in Oxford offers a charming Afternoon Tea experience in a unique riverside setting. The restaurant is situated beside the River Thames, with a terrace that floats on the water, providing a picturesque backdrop for the tea. The Afternoon Tea includes a selection of delicate sandwiches, such as chicken & tarragon, smoked salmon & cream cheese, or traditional cucumber & creme fraiche, along with homemade scones served with clotted cream and a variety of cakes.
The Folly’s unique location and thoughtfully prepared menu make it a delightful venue to indulge in the tradition of Afternoon Tea.
Price:
- Afternoon Tea at The Folly starts from £22.95 per person.
- The High Tea, which includes a glass of Prosecco, costs £30.95 per person.
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Learn More About British Tea Time
Do you want to learn more about tea time? Click on the images below to find these books:
The Herbal Tea Handbook by Isabella Grace
Explore the origins, recipes, and wellness secrets hidden within each cup of herbal tea.
Tea Time Self-Talk by Kristen Helmstetter
A daily moment for reflection, motivation, and life-changing inspiration.
The Art of Tea: Recipes and Rituals by Jordan Marxer
This book gives you many ideas for making teatime an unforgettable experience.
London’s Afternoon Teas, Revised and Expanded by Susan Cohen
The hippest and most up-to-date source of information for doing tea time in London.
