Take an Afternoon Tea Tour
A traditional Afternoon Tea is still a treat which brings a smile to everyone’s face. The summer months are the ideal time to explore further from your doorstep and discover some of the hidden gems of tea rooms, coffee shops and eateries across the county. The cakes and savoury goodies served are often home-made on the premises, using the finest Lincolnshire produce. Here we have a choice of some of the best in the county and don’t forget, nominations are open for the Lincolnshire Life ‘Taste of Excellence’ Awards 2025.
If you visit one of these venues and would like to put them forward for our Best Tea or Coffee Shop of the Year, you can vote using our paper form or online at www.lincolnshirelife.co.uk
NATURAL DELIGHTS AT SOUL FOODS
Winner of Best Newcomer at Lincolnshire Life’s Taste of Excellence Awards last year, Soul Foods is a small, friendly café bistro in Alford which offers a vegetarian and plant-based menu, plus delicious home-made cakes and sweet and savoury treats, ideal for any time of day.
“However, you don’t need to be vegetarian to join us, everyone is welcome,” says owner Wendy Seabrook, who opened Soul Foods back in 2023.
“Our menu changes daily and everything is vegan with dairy options available. Customers can enjoy our beautifully presented colourful plates of delicious food made with fresh locally sourced wholesome ingredients, with the emphasis on feeding mind, body and soul.
“Our aim is to create a relaxed, friendly and inviting atmosphere. Customers often say they are coming in for a ‘Soul Foods hug’.”
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm. Eat in or takeaway.
For more information call 01507 813359 or find Soul Foods on Facebook
TAKE A BREAK AT DANDELION AND DUCK
Situated in a beautiful barn conversion in Laughton, Gainsborough, Dandelion and Duck is a charming coffee shop and gift store founded through owner Alice Philips’s passion for stylish home interiors.
An ideal place to enjoy breakfast, lunch, brunch, coffee or afternoon tea, Dandelion and Duck, which is also licensed, welcomes you with cosy seating in its peaceful rustic interior, as well as outside in the sunny garden terrace with a play area garden for children, complete with shepherd’s hut.
Treat yourself to delicious award-winning coffee from Dark Woods Coffee, hand-roasted in Yorkshire, plus a large selection of cakes and sweet treats such as cinnamon buns, scones and tiffin as well as blondies and brownies, also available for customers to take away.
Open Wednesday to Saturday 9am-4pm, Sunday 10am-2pm.
For more information visit www.dandelionandduck.co.uk
ALL WELCOME AT GRANDMA’S PUDDING COMPANY
Grandma’s Pudding Company in Friskney, near Boston, is a specialist CIC tearoom providing more than just traditional teas, coffee, cakes and pudding. Launched in summer 2020, Grandma’s Pudding Company (GPC) is a non-profit self-funding hub, which aims to nurture and help develop skills for local learning disabled adults.
The brainchild of founder Carole Goulding, this bakery and café, which was nominated for Best Newcomer in Lincolnshire Life’s Taste of Excellence Awards, has become a popular meeting place for locals and supporters who travel from miles around to enjoy outstanding friendly service and delicious menu choices. GPC offers quality traditionally made bread puddings, cakes and specialist tea loaves, hot and cold drinks plus a scrumptious new menu of refreshing frappés.
The café is open from Monday to Friday from 10.30am to 3.30pm.
For more information visit www.grandmaspuddingco.uk
ENJOY EXTRA SPECIAL TASTY TREATS
Perfect for afternoon tea, breakfast or a light lunch, Something Special offers a delicious selection of sweet and savoury dishes for all the family.
Situated at Birchgrove Garden Centre in Pinchbeck, Something Special is an outstanding tea room and café run by owners Sally and Carl Woods, which more than lives up to its name.
With a well established reputation for serving top quality dishes and generous portions, here happy customers can indulge in traditional afternoon tea, as well as a delicious selection of sweet and savoury treats, served by the team of friendly, efficient staff.
The 62-seater coffee shop, which includes an outdoor seating area, is the perfect place to relax, revive and indulge in the selection of home-made dishes.
“We offer two different styles of afternoon tea, including our Traditional one priced at £17.95, as well as our Inbetweener option priced at £20.95. Both options are available as gluten-free and vegetarian (although not dairy-free or vegan).
“Our afternoon teas are available six days a week, Monday to Saturday, from 1.30pm. Booking is essential and we require a minimum of 48 hours’ notice for bookings which can be made via our Facebook page or by calling us during opening hours.
“We also offer breakfasts, light lunches such as jacket potatoes, paninis, baguettes, toasted sandwiches and homemade quiche of the day, also with gluten-free options. Other lunch options include homemade chicken curry and homemade chilli con carne.
“Customers travel from far and wide to visit us and sample our menus. Everything we provide at Something Special is home-made, including cakes and desserts and we have a great reputation for using fresh produce.
“One of our most popular choices is our ploughman’s lunch, as well as our Lincolnshire Platter which features a range of traditional Lincolnshire favourites, including Lincolnshire stuffed chine, haslet and Lincolnshire Poacher cheese.”
Something Special is open seven days a week, Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-4pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 10am-3pm.
Find Something Special on Facebook: somethingspecial/pinchbeck
VINTAGE APPEAL AT HEMSWELL ANTIQUE CENTRES
Hemswell Antique Centres brings together Europe’s largest selection of antique furniture and vintage collectables.
Set within a former RAF base, once home to the Lancaster Bomber during World War II, Hemswell Antique Centres offers a truly memorable day out. Regularly featured on TV, the centres are home to a vast and varied mix of unique items from bygone times.
Wander through the maze of rooms across four beautifully curated buildings, each filled with high-quality antiques and collectables to keep you browsing for hours.
When it’s time to take a break, enjoy freshly prepared food and homemade cakes, alongside Stokes Coffee, in one of our two welcoming coffee shops — located in The Guardroom and Building 1. On sunny days, dine alfresco on our outdoor terrace, or treat yourself to a glass of prosecco. For something extra special, why not book an indulgent afternoon tea?
Call our coffee shop tel: 01427 666017 – we’re happy to cater to all dietary requirements. Our website is updated daily with more than 9,000 antique items available to browse and buy online, with delivery direct to your door. Open seven days a week, 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day).
For more information contact tel: 01427 666019, email enquiries@hemswell-antiques.com or visit www.hemswell-antiques.com
KING’S HEAD HOTEL – A PLACE TO UNWIND
Spoil yourself, friends and loved ones with a relaxing and indulgent experience at the renowned Kings Head Hotel in Louth’s Mercer Row, where you can enjoy a deliciously classic Luxury Afternoon Tea.
This former coaching inn and reestaurant, which dates from the 18th century, offers a warm welcome providing the perfect opportunity to kick back and enjoy sampling a choice of traditional sandwiches, pastries and cakes, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. This special Luxury Afternoon Tea (£18.50) also includes a glass of sparkling prosecco.
If you’re planning to take a staycation in this attractive market town, the hotel also offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and light snacks in its popular bistro and bar, as well as overnight accommodation featuring seven bedrooms with en suites, plus a three-bedroom apartment.
Afternoon Tea is served seven days a week, from 12 noon until 4.30pm. Bookings only. The hotel is also open from 10am for breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday, and Sunday lunches from noon.
For more information call 01507 602965 or visit www.kingsheadlouth.co.uk
5-STAR SERVICE AT THE BISTRO BAR & KITCHEN
If you’re looking for somewhere special to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, breakfast, brunch, or light bite options, the friendly team at The Bistro Bar & Kitchen in Market Rasen offer a warm welcome with a five-star service.
Headed by Nicky Brooksbank and Tammi Franklin, the dedicated team pride themselves on offering superb specialist afternoon teas and menu choices. These include a range of home made cakes, bakes and savouries such as scones, sausage rolls and Scotch eggs, alongside freshly cooked dishes from seasonal menus, including the latest option of ‘Things on Toast’, plus special summer offers.
Consistent finalists and award winners in our annual Taste of Excellence Awards, this family, dog and cycle-friendly bistro, which also offers outside catering, is open six days a week, closed on Sundays (opening times vary) with special events and get-togethers held throughout the year.
For more information find us on Facebook or visit www.thebistrobarkitchen.co.uk
NEW CHAPEL’S CHARMING HOSPITALITY
The New Chapel, located close to Sleaford in the village of Greylees, is a beautifully restored luxury tearoom and restaurant which can also be privately hired to host events for all occasions.
In 2014 the old chapel underwent redevelopment. What was once a derelict and neglected building has seen a massive transformation and now boasts a charming modern interior whilst keeping characterful features.
The venue is open daily and offers a mouthwatering menu of food favourites throughout the day, serving breakfast, lunchtime and evening meal options, along with traditional afternoon teas and Sunday lunches.
Fully licensed, the well-stocked bar holds a wide selection of alcoholic, non-alcoholic and warm beverages.
In addition to an array of regular functions during the week at The Chapel, the venue is also renowned for its ticketed events which range from bottomless brunches to casino evenings and various other entertainment soirées.
Keep an eye out on their website and social media platforms for upcoming events. For further information visit: www.thenewchapel.com, Tel: 01529 401888.
A TEMPTING TASTE OF FRANCE
If you are looking for something a little bit different from the traditional afternoon tea, Café au Chocolat in the heart of Stamford offers an authentic French twist with a certain “je ne sais quoi”.
Enjoy a taste of France with a choice of savoury-filled croissants and delicious continental-style patisserie, as well as locally produced brownie bites, plus luxury chocolates from French chocolatier Valrhona. These can all be enjoyed with a pot of English Breakfast Tea, speciality single origin coffee, organic hot chocolate, or even prosecco.
This chic and cosy family run café/crêperie offers a selection of classic French crêpes. The experienced, skilled staff follow the Breton art of traditional crêpe making and use gluten-free buckwheat flour to create mouth-watering sweet and savoury crêpes/galettes as customers look on. There’s something for everyone at Café au Chocolat.
For more information visit www.cafeauchocolat.co.uk
FIND REFRESHMENT IN THE WILD
If you’re looking for a fun family day out during the holidays, with the added treat of a choice of delicious refreshments, Messingham Zoo in North Lincolnshire offers a memorable visit.
This friendly family-run zoo aims to offer something different to larger zoos and wildlife parks by focussing on close up encounters with smaller, friendlier animals, while education also forms a big part of what it aims to deliver, teaching about animal care and welfare, plus hands-on animal encounters.
Enjoy seeing a wide range of well cared for creatures from mammals to birds, including meerkats, racoons, emus, wallabies and Capuchin monkeys.
Round off your visit by relaxing in the cosy tea room which serves a variety of home-made cakes, sandwiches, light lunches and hot snacks with speciality tea and coffee and other soft drinks, as well as locally made Tucker’s Ice Cream.
For more information visit www.messinghamzoo.co.uk
TIME FOR TEA AT THE WHITE HART HOTEL
The White Hart Hotel in Uphill Lincoln, offers the most delightful afternoon tea experience. The hotel boasts an impressive array of afternoon tea options, whether you are looking for a classic experience or something more luxurious.
The Classic Afternoon Tea, priced at £28 per person, features a selection of savouries, including butter roast chicken with tarragon mustard on Swiss bread, Severn & Wye smoked salmon with yuzu crème fraîche on malted bread, and Lincolnshire Poacher cheese paired with apple and cider brandy chutney.
The sweet treats include freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and an assortment of petite homemade cakes and pastries.
The Luxury Afternoon Tea, at £32 per person, includes tempting extras such as crab mayonnaise on mini
The White Hart offers both vegan and gluten-free afternoon tea options, each priced at £28 per person.
These thoughtfully crafted menus maintain the essence of a traditional afternoon tea while catering to specific dietary needs.
To make your experience even more special, guests can add a glass of Champagne (£13) or Prosecco (£6.95) – a perfect way to celebrate a special occasion.
The Children’s Afternoon Tea, at £15 per child, features child-friendly sandwiches, mini pizzas and sweet treats like chocolate brownies and mini jam doughnuts, sure to delight the little ones.
The White Hart Hotel shows a commitment to quality and attention to detail, to make it a top contender for the best afternoon tea in Lincolnshire.
Book a table online at www.whitehart-lincoln.co.uk, call 01522 526222 or email info@whitehart-lincoln.co.uk
DELIGHTS OF DINING AT THE PETWOOD
A timelessly elegant setting, with a unique heritage, the Petwood Hotel is one of the most memorable places to stay in Lincolnshire.
Once home to 617 Squadron, The Dambusters, and surrounded by acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodland, it is steeped in British history.
The hotel welcomes guests for award-winning dining, afternoon tea, weddings and special events.
Explore the charming village of Woodhall Spa or stroll in the spectacular grounds.
Whatever the occasion, the Petwood is among the most memorable places to visit, dine or stay in the heart of ‘Bomber County’.
“For overstays and short breaks, we offer a selection of classic rooms, delightful garden view rooms and elegant four poster rooms, that combine modern comfort with the character and history of the property.
“For diners, the Terrace Bar, outdoor dining and restaurant are the perfect places to enjoy some of Lincolnshire’s finest cuisine.
“Our menus showcase the very best of Lincolnshire produce and feature a wide range of popular dishes.
“We have a range of menus to delight all palates and appetites and a lovely children’s menu with smaller portions of the same high quality of food for lunch, dinner and afternoon tea.”
For more information visit www.petwood.co.uk
DODDINGTON’S AWARD-WINNING AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE
Nestled in the heart of the Lincolnshire countryside, the Doddington Tea Room offers a truly memorable afternoon tea in one of the county’s most picturesque settings. Located in the elegant Coach House – an award-winning wedding venue – and framed by the historic backdrop of Doddington Hall, this hidden gem has been crowned Taste of Excellence ‘Best Tea or Coffee Shop’ for the last two years running.
Doddington’s afternoon tea is a celebration of flavour, tradition, and local craftsmanship. Guests can indulge in a beautifully presented selection of sandwiches and sweets, showcasing the very best estate-grown and locally sourced produce. Freshly baked scones are homemade to a traditional recipe for a crisp outer with a light and fluffy centre and served with rich clotted cream and jam. The tier is then completed with an irresistible array of Doddington’s signature sweet treats with each bite handcrafted to delight.
For those visiting in the warmer months, the Tea Room’s charming secret garden offers the perfect setting to soak up the summer – a peaceful escape where you can enjoy your afternoon tea surrounded by the sights and scents of the season.
There’s something for everyone, with traditional and savoury-inspired afternoon teas and vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and nut-free options all available. Children are also catered for with a playful selection featuring sandwiches, crisps, crudités, milkshake and miniature sweet surprises.
While the food takes centre stage, Doddington Tea Room’s exclusive Afternoon Tea Blend – created with The Lincoln Tea & Coffee Company – adds a delicate floral and citrus note to the experience. A wide range of fruit and herbal teas, fresh coffee, and the option to enjoy a glass of fizz, ale, lager or cider mean there’s a perfect pairing for every palate.
Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply enjoying a relaxed afternoon with friends, Doddington Tea Room offers a warm welcome and a taste of something truly special.
Book Your Table
Open on selected dates throughout the year, advanced booking is essential. Visit www.doddingtonhall.com/tea-room to find out more and reserve your table.
Planning a celebration? The Coach House offers private and semi-private options – call 01522 812508 for details.
THE DOWER HOUSE HOTEL, IN THE HEART OF WOODHALL SPA IS A HIDDEN GEM
Located in the majestic woodland opposite the Bracken Course of the Woodhall Spa Golf Course, The Dower House Hotel offers a sanctuary of tranquillity.
Approached by a tree lined private road and two acres of peaceful gardens, this 21 bedroom Edwardian country house hotel emanates an unmistakeable charm.
Nestled within picturesque surroundings, the hotel offers an enchanting backdrop, perfect for a romantic wedding, a rejuvenating short getaway, or a productive business or social gathering.
Harry’s Bar offers an expansive selection of drinks and wines to indulge in. Whether you prefer to unwind in its cosy interior or bask in the sunshine on the inviting terrace, there’s a spot for everyone.
A wonderful dining experience awaits, with attentive service in an intimate setting with stunning garden views.
The menus at The Dower House are complemented by a carefully chosen wine selection from their extensive cellar. Delight in their delicious light bites or lunch menus, indulge in a mouth watering afternoon tea or savour the à la carte options, all available in the hotel’s restaurant or bar.
Locally sourced, market-fresh ingredients are expertly curated into exquisite dishes. Ian, their talented head chef, has crafted diverse and tantalising menus that are bound to entice you back time and time again.
To make a booking please call 01526 352588; or email info@the-dowerhousehotel.co.uk
More details can be found at www.dowerhousehotel.co.uk
A TASTE OF TRADITIONAL – AFTERNOON TEA IN THE HEART OF LINCOLNSHIRE
Step into a world of timeless charm and refined indulgence with The Coaching Inn Group’s quintessential Afternoon Tea experience.
Whether you’re wandering the historic streets of Boston or discovering the characterful corners of Horncastle, there’s no better way to pause and unwind than with a Classic or Sparkling Afternoon Tea attwo of Lincolnshire’s most treasured coaching inns.
The White Hart Hotel, Boston
Perched on the banks of the River Witham, the White Hart Hotel is a striking Georgian landmark that offers a serene escape in the heart of Boston. With panoramic views of the iconic St Botolph’s Church (affectionately known as The Stump) and interiors that blend classic and contemporary comfort, it’s the perfect setting for a leisurely Afternoon Tea.
Delight in a selection of delicate finger sandwiches, warm scones served with clotted cream and jam, and an irresistible assortment of handcrafted cakes and pastries. Choose from a curated menu of fine teas or elevate your experience with a chilled glass of sparkling fizz.
To book The White Hart, Boston call 01205 311900 or visit www.whitehartboston.com
The Admiral Rodney Hotel, Horncastle
Tucked away in the historic market town of Horncastle, the Admiral Rodney Hotel is a beautifully restored 17th-century coaching inn, brimming with period charm and welcoming character. Its cosy, inviting atmosphere makes it the ideal spot to enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea with a modern twist.
Savour a tiered stand of artisan sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and a tempting variety of homemade cakes, all served with your choice of premium teas. For those looking to add a little sparkle, the Sparkling Afternoon Tea is the perfect indulgence for weekends, celebrations, or simply because you deserve it!
To book The Admiral Rodney, Horncastle call 01507 523131 or visit www.admiralrodney.com
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Lincolnshire Life Magazine Newsletter 12/25 - mailchi.mp/lincolnshirelife.co.uk/lincolnshire-life-magazine-newsletter-12-25