If you are looking for the best afternoon tea in Southampton, you are in the right place. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply treating yourself to freshly baked scones, delicate finger sandwiches and handcrafted cakes, Southampton offers an excellent choice of traditional and contemporary afternoon tea experiences.
This guide features some of the best places for afternoon tea in Southampton, from elegant historic hotels and stylish rooftop restaurants to independent cafés and boutique venues. Every recommendation has earned an excellent reputation for quality food, welcoming service and memorable surroundings.
How This Guide Was Put Together
This guide is based on extensive research across public reviews, local recommendations and the overall reputation of each venue. Rather than relying on a single opinion, I looked for places that consistently receive positive feedback for food quality, presentation, service, atmosphere and overall afternoon tea experience.
When choosing the best afternoon tea in Southampton, I considered:
- Food quality – Freshness of the sandwiches, scones, pastries and cakes.
- Tea selection – Quality and variety of loose-leaf teas and speciality drinks.
- Atmosphere – Whether the venue suits celebrations, date afternoons or relaxed catch-ups.
- Value for money – Overall experience compared with the price.
- Overall reputation – Consistently positive customer feedback across multiple trusted platforms.
No venue has paid to be included in this guide.
10 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Southampton
From elegant historic hotels and rooftop restaurants to independent cafés and stylish lounges, these are the best places in Southampton to enjoy afternoon tea. Click on any venue name below for directions on Google Maps.
1. Slug & Lettuce, Above Bar
Slug & Lettuce is one of the most popular places for afternoon tea in Southampton, offering a modern take on the traditional British experience. Located on Above Bar, this stylish venue serves beautifully presented afternoon tea with freshly prepared sandwiches, warm scones and indulgent sweet treats, making it a favourite for birthdays, hen parties and afternoon catch-ups with friends.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Above Bar
Price: From £15 per person
Best for: Modern afternoon tea with cocktails
Must try: Afternoon Tea with Cocktail Upgrade
Slug & Lettuce combines stylish surroundings with excellent value and beautifully presented afternoon tea. The optional cocktail upgrade adds a fun modern twist, making it one of Southampton’s best choices for celebrations.
Why Visit Slug & Lettuce?
Slug & Lettuce offers a contemporary afternoon tea featuring finger sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, miniature desserts and a wide choice of teas. Guests can also upgrade to cocktails or prosecco for an extra-special experience.
Whether you are celebrating a birthday or meeting friends for an afternoon treat, it offers one of the city’s most enjoyable modern afternoon tea experiences.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Cocktail Afternoon Tea is the most popular option.
- Perfect for birthdays and hen parties.
- Excellent value for money.
- Book ahead for weekends.
- One of Southampton’s most popular afternoon tea venues.
2. The Grand, South Western House
The Grand delivers one of the most luxurious afternoon tea experiences in Southampton. Set inside the magnificent South Western House, this elegant venue combines historic surroundings with traditional British afternoon tea, creating the perfect setting for anniversaries, celebrations and special occasions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.9/5.0
Location: South Western House
Price: From £32 per person
Best for: Traditional luxury afternoon tea
Must try: Traditional Afternoon Tea
The Grand combines exceptional service, elegant surroundings and beautifully prepared afternoon tea, making it one of Southampton’s finest destinations for a truly memorable experience.
Why Visit The Grand?
The Grand serves classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, handcrafted pastries and a carefully selected range of loose-leaf teas. The stunning historic ballroom creates a setting unlike anywhere else in Southampton.
If you are looking for a traditional British afternoon tea in luxurious surroundings, The Grand is difficult to beat.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Traditional Afternoon Tea is beautifully presented.
- Perfect for anniversaries and celebrations.
- Historic Grade II listed venue.
- Excellent loose-leaf tea selection.
- Advance booking is recommended.
3. HarBAR on 6th, Ocean Village
HarBAR on 6th offers one of Southampton’s most impressive afternoon tea settings, combining beautifully presented food with panoramic marina views from the rooftop of the Harbour Hotel in Ocean Village. It is an outstanding choice for romantic afternoons and special occasions.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★★
4.8/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Premium
Best for: Rooftop afternoon tea with marina views
Must try: Champagne Afternoon Tea
HarBAR on 6th combines spectacular views, refined service and beautifully crafted afternoon tea, making it one of Southampton’s most memorable venues for an elegant afternoon.
Why Visit HarBAR on 6th?
HarBAR on 6th serves elegant finger sandwiches, artisan pastries, freshly baked scones and premium teas, with optional Champagne upgrades. The rooftop terrace overlooking Ocean Village creates one of the city’s finest dining backdrops.
For a luxury afternoon tea with stunning waterfront views, HarBAR on 6th is one of Southampton’s standout destinations.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Champagne Afternoon Tea is perfect for celebrations.
- Outstanding marina views.
- Elegant rooftop setting.
- Excellent for anniversaries and date afternoons.
- Book in advance for window tables.
4. Winnie’s Café and Bar at room2, Queens Terrace
Winnie’s Café and Bar at room2 offers one of the most relaxed afternoon tea experiences in Southampton, combining locally sourced ingredients with a welcoming boutique atmosphere. Located on Queens Terrace, this stylish café inside the room2 Hometel is ideal for leisurely afternoons, catch-ups with friends and anyone looking for a quieter alternative to traditional hotel afternoon tea.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.7/5.0
Location: Queens Terrace
Price: Mid-range
Best for: Relaxed boutique afternoon tea
Must try: Traditional Afternoon Tea
Winnie’s Café and Bar combines quality local ingredients, attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere, making it one of Southampton’s best boutique venues for afternoon tea.
Why Visit Winnie’s Café and Bar?
Winnie’s Café and Bar serves freshly prepared sandwiches, artisan cakes, warm scones and loose-leaf teas using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. The calm surroundings and contemporary décor make it ideal for an unhurried afternoon.
If you prefer a modern independent venue over a traditional hotel, Winnie’s Café and Bar is an excellent choice.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Traditional Afternoon Tea is beautifully presented.
- Relaxed boutique atmosphere.
- Excellent locally sourced ingredients.
- Perfect for quieter afternoon catch-ups.
- Friendly, attentive service.
Why Afternoon Tea is So Popular in Southampton
From elegant hotels overlooking the waterfront to cosy independent cafés in the city centre, Southampton offers afternoon tea experiences for every occasion. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, enjoying a romantic afternoon or simply catching up with friends over freshly baked scones and loose-leaf tea, the city’s diverse venues blend traditional British hospitality with modern dining experiences.
5. Edison’s Coffee & Wine, High Street
Edison’s Coffee & Wine offers a relaxed alternative to traditional afternoon tea, pairing artisan cakes, premium teas and expertly brewed coffee inside one of Southampton’s most stylish independent cafés. Located on the High Street, it is a popular choice for casual afternoon gatherings.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.6/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: Budget to mid-range
Best for: Artisan cakes and speciality coffee
Must try: Homemade Cake Selection
Edison’s Coffee & Wine delivers outstanding cakes, speciality drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a favourite independent café for a lighter afternoon tea experience.
Why Visit Edison’s Coffee & Wine?
Edison’s Coffee & Wine specialises in artisan cakes, premium loose-leaf teas and expertly prepared coffee, all served in a bright and stylish historic building. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for quality homemade baking rather than a formal afternoon tea service.
Whether you are meeting friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon break, Edison’s consistently delivers excellent drinks and freshly baked treats.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Homemade Cakes change regularly.
- Excellent speciality coffee.
- Bright, relaxed atmosphere.
- Ideal for casual afternoon meet-ups.
- One of Southampton’s best independent cafés.
6. Bistro Baristo, High Street
Bistro Baristo is a welcoming independent café offering traditional British refreshments, homemade cakes and excellent value in the heart of the High Street. It is a popular choice for shoppers looking for a relaxing afternoon break with tea and freshly baked treats.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: High Street
Price: Budget
Best for: Traditional café afternoon tea
Must try: Fresh Scones with Jam & Cream
Bistro Baristo provides excellent value, friendly service and freshly prepared cakes and scones, making it a dependable choice for a simple, traditional afternoon tea.
Why Visit Bistro Baristo?
Bistro Baristo serves homemade cakes, toasted teacakes, warm scones and quality tea in a relaxed setting. Its central location and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for shoppers and visitors exploring Southampton city centre.
If you are looking for a traditional café without the premium price tag, Bistro Baristo is well worth visiting.
Hello Southampton Tips
- The Fresh Scones are a customer favourite.
- Excellent value for money.
- Friendly independent café.
- Great location for shoppers.
- Relaxed atmosphere throughout the day.
7. Make & Brew, Shirley
Make & Brew offers one of Southampton’s most charming independent afternoon tea experiences. Located in Shirley, this community-focused café serves beautifully presented afternoon teas that must be booked in advance, featuring freshly baked scones, handcrafted cakes and premium loose-leaf teas in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.5/5.0
Location: Shirley
Price: From £17.50 per person
Best for: Independent afternoon tea
Must try: Traditional Afternoon Tea
Make & Brew combines homemade baking, premium teas and friendly service to create one of Southampton’s best independent afternoon tea experiences.
Why Visit Make & Brew?
Make & Brew prepares afternoon tea to order, serving homemade cakes, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, finger sandwiches and quality loose-leaf teas. Its cosy atmosphere makes it ideal for birthdays, baby showers and relaxed afternoon gatherings.
Advance booking is recommended as afternoon tea is prepared especially for each reservation.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Book your afternoon tea in advance.
- Fresh homemade scones and cakes.
- Excellent loose-leaf tea selection.
- Perfect for birthdays and celebrations.
- Friendly independent atmosphere.
8. The Artisan, Above Bar
The Artisan is a stylish independent café in Guildhall Square offering artisan cakes, speciality coffee and premium loose-leaf teas in elegant surroundings. While it does not serve a traditional tiered afternoon tea, it is an excellent choice for a relaxed afternoon with homemade sweet treats.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: Guildhall Square
Price: Budget to mid-range
Best for: Artisan cakes and speciality tea
Must try: Homemade Cake Selection
The Artisan offers beautifully presented cakes, premium drinks and a calm atmosphere, making it a popular city centre stop for an afternoon treat.
Why Visit The Artisan?
The Artisan specialises in homemade cakes, pastries, loose-leaf teas and expertly prepared coffee, served in a spacious contemporary café. It is ideal if you want the flavours of afternoon tea without booking a formal experience.
The central location also makes it a great place to relax after shopping or visiting the Cultural Quarter.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Excellent homemade cakes.
- Premium speciality coffee and teas.
- Relaxed city centre atmosphere.
- Ideal for casual afternoon meet-ups.
- Perfect before visiting the Mayflower or Guildhall.
9. Cafe Thrive, Hanover Buildings
Cafe Thrive offers Southampton’s leading vegan afternoon tea, serving entirely plant-based sandwiches, cakes and freshly baked scones in a bright, welcoming café. Located in Hanover Buildings, it proves that traditional afternoon tea can be just as indulgent without using animal products.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.4/5.0
Location: Hanover Buildings
Price: Budget to mid-range
Best for: Vegan afternoon tea
Must try: Vegan Afternoon Tea
Cafe Thrive creates one of the city’s most enjoyable vegan afternoon tea experiences, offering homemade plant-based cakes, fresh sandwiches and excellent value.
Why Visit Cafe Thrive?
Cafe Thrive specialises in completely plant-based cooking, with vegan scones, homemade cakes, sandwiches and loose-leaf teas all prepared without compromising on flavour.
Whether you follow a vegan diet or simply want to try something different, Cafe Thrive is one of Southampton’s standout independent cafés.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Southampton’s leading vegan afternoon tea.
- Excellent homemade plant-based cakes.
- Fresh vegan scones.
- Friendly independent café.
- Book ahead for afternoon tea.
10. Maritimo Lounge, Ocean Village
Maritimo Lounge offers a relaxed alternative to traditional afternoon tea in the heart of Ocean Village. With its spacious interior, marina views and extensive menu, it is an excellent choice for families, groups and anyone looking to enjoy homemade cakes, fresh scones and quality tea in an informal setting.
Hello Southampton Review
★★★★☆
4.3/5.0
Location: Ocean Village
Price: Budget to mid-range
Best for: Casual afternoon tea by the marina
Must try: Fruit Scones with Jam & Cream
Maritimo Lounge combines generous portions, friendly service and a relaxed waterfront atmosphere, making it one of Southampton’s most accessible places to enjoy an afternoon tea-style treat.
Why Visit Maritimo Lounge?
Maritimo Lounge serves freshly baked cakes, fruit scones, sandwiches and a wide selection of teas and coffees, alongside extensive vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. The spacious layout and dog-friendly policy make it a popular choice for families and larger groups.
If you are looking for a relaxed afternoon overlooking Ocean Village Marina, Maritimo Lounge is well worth considering.
Hello Southampton Tips
- Great selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
- Dog-friendly throughout.
- Large seating area ideal for groups.
- Excellent marina location.
- Perfect for a relaxed afternoon with coffee and cake.
Where Can You Find the Best Afternoon Tea in Southampton?
If you are looking for the best afternoon tea in Southampton, there is something to suit every occasion, whether you are celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a relaxing afternoon with friends.
The Grand offers the city’s most luxurious traditional afternoon tea, while HarBAR on 6th combines elegant dining with spectacular marina views. Slug & Lettuce adds a modern twist with cocktail afternoon tea, and Winnie’s Café and Bar at room2 provides a relaxed boutique experience using locally sourced ingredients.
For independent cafés, Make & Brew, Edison’s Coffee & Wine and Bistro Baristo all serve excellent homemade cakes and freshly baked treats, while Cafe Thrive offers one of Southampton’s finest vegan afternoon teas. If you prefer a relaxed waterfront setting, Maritimo Lounge is an excellent choice for coffee, cake and freshly baked scones overlooking Ocean Village Marina.
Whether you are looking for a classic British afternoon tea, a luxurious hotel experience or a casual afternoon with homemade cakes and speciality teas, these venues represent the very best afternoon tea experiences Southampton has to offer.
Fancy a Mediterranean Meal Afterwards?
If you are looking for somewhere to eat after your afternoon tea, take a look at our guide to the best Greek restaurants in Southampton, featuring some of the city’s top spots for authentic Mediterranean cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I enjoy the best traditional afternoon tea in Southampton?
The Grand is one of Southampton’s finest traditional afternoon tea venues, offering elegant surroundings, classic finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and handcrafted pastries.
Which venue has the best afternoon tea with a view?
HarBAR on 6th offers one of the city’s most memorable afternoon tea experiences thanks to its rooftop location overlooking Ocean Village Marina.
Where can I find vegan afternoon tea in Southampton?
Cafe Thrive specialises in plant-based afternoon tea with vegan sandwiches, homemade cakes and freshly baked scones.
Do I need to book afternoon tea in Southampton?
For popular venues such as The Grand, HarBAR on 6th and Make & Brew, booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially at weekends.
What is the average price of afternoon tea in Southampton?
Prices typically range from around £15 per person at casual venues to £35 or more for luxury hotel afternoon tea experiences.
Which venue is best for celebrations?
Slug & Lettuce, The Grand and HarBAR on 6th are all excellent choices for birthdays, anniversaries and special occasions.
