Afternoon tea, a truly British way to spend time with foodie friends – we tested our sweet tooth to find the top spots to eat scones, jam and clotted cream with a lovely cup of tea

North Somerset Times: Where would you go in North Somerset for this traditonal afternoon treat? (Getty images)Where would you go in North Somerset for this traditonal afternoon treat? (Getty images) (Image: (c) Comstock Images)

Heaven on the Hill, Portishead

Run by best friends Sam and Vicki, the cake shop in Portishead is known for its welcoming atmosphere. The Heaven High Tea comes complete with homemade scones, homemade strawberry jam and clotted cream, plus cake and sandwiches. Or, for something a little different, tuck into the delicious sounding American pancakes or waffles.

Number Five, The Beach, Clevedon

Known for good friendly service – and scones laden with clotted cream and homemade jam – Number Five The Beach is one of Clevedon’s top spots for a traditional cream tea. Located on the seafront, the cafe/restaurant is open seven days and we’ve heard that the view of the beach and Clevedon’s famous Victorian Pier isn’t bad either!

Banwell Castle, Banwell

Set in 25 acres of grounds, Banwell Castle has views south across the Loxton Valley to the Mendip Hills and north across the moors to the Bristol Channel and Welsh hills. The south facing terrace is the perfect place to soak up the scenery and indulge in an afternoon tea of fresh cream, jam and homemade scones, all served with a pot of tea. Look out for some of the resident animals – from chickens and peacocks to wild deer and badger.

The Lounge at Cadbury House

Take afternoon tea at The Lounge and feast on a selection of finger sandwiches, English scones and a choice of tea and coffee. Boasting a heated terrace to enjoy the panoramic countryside views as you sip on Earl Grey tea and an adjoining spa - meaning you can opt for a relaxing massage before satisfying those sugar cravings.

Dot Teas, Clevedon Craft Centre

A laid back little tea room located at Clevedon Craft centre. Dot Teas offer homemade cream teas, including free teapot refills! Outdoors, by a wildlife inhabited water area, is a tranquil spot to sip a cuppa or nibble a cake – you may even hear a piano in the background, played by resident musician, Luke.

The Blitz Tearoom, Weston-super-Mare

Travel back to the 1940’s at The Blitz tearoom. Sip freshly brewed tea from vintage china, surrounded with 1940’s music and memorabilia from the era. This quirky cafe offers homemade cakes, tea and coffee and light snacks – they are also available for group and party bookings.

Butterflies, Clevedon

Behind the pretty pink exterior, this coffee house serves up a range of hot drinks, snacks and most importantly, a traditional cream tea. For the gluten-free among us, Butterflies have an impressive gluten-free selection of treats to accompany that cup of locally-ground fair trade coffee.

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