Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh: 5 Best Spots to Check Out
Afternoon tea in Edinburgh isn’t just about delicate pastries and clinking glasses. It’s a smart, enjoyable way to relax, socialise, or celebrate.
The city offers everything from grand historic venues to fresh, modern spots that skip the fuss but keep the flavour. Whether you’re planning a catch-up with friends, a romantic treat, or just taking time out for yourself, there’s a venue to match.
Here’s a guide to five excellent options, each offering something different in terms of value, setting, and overall experience.
1. The Dome
If you’re after afternoon tea in Edinburgh that feels both elegant and accessible, The Dome is a solid bet. The Georgian Tea Room blends formality with warmth. Chandeliers overhead, rich wood tones, and just the right level of bustle give it a unique energy.
Priced at around £32 per person, it offers fantastic value without cutting corners. The menu features a mix of traditional and locally inspired items. Savouries include smoked salmon with lemon crème fraîche and coronation chicken sandwiches. Scones are served warm with clotted cream and jam. For dessert, there are madeleines, red velvet cake, and more.
The Dome’s central George Street location is another plus. It’s easy to reach and close to shops and public transport. Bookings are recommended, especially on weekends.
Ideal for: Midweek breaks, casual celebrations, or introducing a friend to Edinburgh’s food scene.
2. Colonnades
Step into Colonnades and you’ll quickly understand why it’s considered one of the most luxurious afternoon tea experiences in Edinburgh. Located inside the Signet Library, just off the Royal Mile, this Georgian space delivers on every front: service, food, and ambiance.
Afternoon tea here starts at around £69 per person and includes a refined sequence of dishes.
It begins with a small amuse bouche and continues with creative savoury items like chicken Balmoral and salmon cake with cucumber jelly. The vegetarian options are just as thoughtful, featuring ingredients like artichoke and hummus focaccia. Classic fruit and plain scones follow, with clotted cream and jam. The dessert round finishes strong with passionfruit tart, sticky toffee cake, and other sweets.
This is the place to go if you’re looking for a complete experience that offers history, attention to detail, and a sense of occasion. It’s priced higher than most options, but the quality justifies the cost.
Ideal for: Special occasions, impressing visitors, or indulging in an upscale treat.
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3. The Ivy
The Ivy brings a contemporary touch to afternoon tea in Edinburgh. Located just off St Andrew Square, this venue leans more stylish than traditional. Even so, the service remains smooth and the quality consistent. Afternoon tea is served daily from 3pm to 5pm, making it a flexible choice.
The Spring menu includes sandwiches like egg with curried mayonnaise and a chicken Milanese brioche roll. The scones are served with clotted cream, strawberries, and strawberry preserve. On the sweet side, you’ll find well-made favourites like crème brûlée and the signature chocolate bombe.
Teas range from The Ivy’s own blends to floral and herbal options, so there’s something for most preferences. At around £30, the pricing is fair for the location. The atmosphere strikes a balance between smart and relaxed, and guests feel comfortable whether they’re dressed up or keeping it simple.
Ideal for: A stylish yet relaxed afternoon, city centre convenience, or informal birthdays.
4. Palm Court
For a refined take on afternoon tea in Edinburgh, Palm Court at The Balmoral is hard to beat. Priced at around £67 per person, it’s a premium experience that doesn’t try to reinvent the format. Instead, it focuses on perfecting it. Located on Princes Street and easy to access via Edinburgh Waverley, it’s a practical choice even if you’re just in town for the day.
Expect traditional finger sandwiches, fluffy scones with clotted cream and jam, and a wide selection of teas served with care. The pastries are handcrafted, with seasonal flavours that change regularly. The whole experience feels intentional and unhurried.
It’s a great spot for anyone who wants a quiet, polished setting where everything runs smoothly. Booking ahead is a must since Palm Court is often full, especially during holidays.
Ideal for: Afternoon elegance, date-day luxury, or treating someone important.
5. Tigerlily
If you like your afternoon tea with a bit more personality, Tigerlily is the answer. Located on George Street, this stylish venue offers a colourful and bold twist on the classic setup with its “Afternoon Lily Tea” at around £30 per person.
The savoury menu includes modern bites such as cheddar and Branston pickle sausage roll, honey roast ham with mustard, and manchego croquettes. There’s also a caramelised onion and goat’s cheese quiche for added depth. The sweet lineup is full of flavour with black forest brownies, lemon meringue tart, red velvet cupcakes, and a pistachio choux bun.
Tea is served from local favourite Eteaket. The overall vibe is upbeat and lively, but still comfortable for a relaxed sit-down. It’s ideal for groups or anyone who prefers afternoon tea with a modern edge.
Ideal for: Group catch-ups or trying something a little different.
Making the Most of Afternoon Tea in Edinburgh
Edinburgh’s afternoon tea scene offers a wide range of experiences. These five venues each bring something unique to the table. Whether your priority is location, cost, variety, or atmosphere, you’ll find a place that fits your plans.
Here are a few tips to help you get the best out of your visit:
- Book in advance. Popular spots like Palm Court and Colonnades fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
- Check dietary options. Most venues accommodate common requirements, but it’s wise to confirm when reserving.
- Dress smart-casual. Most places welcome a polished but comfortable look. No need for full formalwear unless it’s your preference.
- Midweek visits are quieter. For a calmer experience, consider going Tuesday to Thursday if your schedule allows.
Afternoon tea in Edinburgh combines great food, warm service, and interesting spaces across the city. These aren’t just places to eat ,they’re places to pause, enjoy, and make the most of your time. Each of the five venues above has earned its reputation by delivering consistently on quality, setting, and experience.
Whatever your reason for going, catching up, celebrating, or just indulging, there’s a table waiting that suits your style. Book it, enjoy it, and make it your own.
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