It’s national afternoon tea week next week- and what better way to celebrate than to sample the very best afternoon teas in Dorset?

As a nation famous for our tea drinking it is only appropriate that we have a yearly celebration, after all tea drinking is arguably our country’s biggest ritual. 

Introduced in Britain in the early 1840’s afternoon tea started off as a mini-meal used to curb people’s hunger before their evening meal at 8pm. 

The delightful affair usually comprises delicate finger sized sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes. 

Afternoon tea can be enjoyed almost anywhere including at home or in the park. However, the most splendid way to enjoy this British tradition is whilst being waited on in a hotel or tea room.

Whether you are looking for a boozy tea, or one that you can take away to enjoy at home, there is something to suit everyone’s preferences on this list.

Upwey Wishingwell Tearooms And Water Gardens

Dorset Echo:

The Upwey Wishingwell Tearooms offer an array of cream teas and afternoon tea including savoury and a traditional high tea.

The standard afternoon tea is very affordable at £18.95 per person. It includes: tea or coffee, homemade cake, fruit scones with cream and jam and a variety of sandwiches. 

The tea rooms are located just outside of Weymouth in the village of Upwey on Church Street.

Jackie Pestana, owner of Upwey Wishingwell Tearooms said: "We bake fresh scones and cake daily. We cater for all dietary requirements including gluten free and vegan.

"Our watergarden setting is completely unique in Dorset."

The high teas must be booked 48 hours in advance and a 50% deposit is also required to make the booking. 

Acqua Beach Hotel

Dorset Echo:

This self-proclaimed funky B&B overlooks Weymouth seafront. 

Acqua Beach Hotel offers a range of high tea options including the traditional afternoon tea but also with prosecco or even with cocktails. 

High tea costs £12.50 per person and includes: a range of sandwiches, cakes, fruit scone with jam and clotted cream, served with tea. 

Mary's Team Room

Dorset Echo:

The vintage insprired Mary's Tea Room can be found on The Esplanade. 

Freshly baking a wide range of creative cakes and yummy treats Mary's has something for everyone. 

The afternoon tea includes scones, jam, clotted cream, cakes and sandwiches served with tea or coffee. 

Cafe Monet

Café Monet is located at Bennetts Water Gardens in Chickerell. 

The cafe is taking part in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme so you can get 50% off your afternoon tea on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout August. 

Afternoon teas are only available after 2pm and you must pre-book.

Included in the afternoon tea is scones, jam and clotted cream, a selection of sandwiches and homemade cakes. 

The Rosefield

Dorset Echo:

The Rosefield hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea including: delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones and sweet pastries served with tea and coffee. 

The high tea costs £12.95 per person or £15.95 with a glass of prosecco. 

Did we miss your favourite place off the list? Let us know about it in the comments.