An indulgent afternoon tea is surely a must do when visiting the West Country!

There is evidence to suggest a version of the cream tea existed at Tavistock Abbey in the 11th century, where the monks ate bread with jam and cream. Over the years this developed into the traditional cream tea, which came into its own in the 1850s after the railways led to a booming West Country tourist trade. Local tearooms, hotels and cafes served up cream teas for travellers seeking relaxation and a touch of indulgence.

Weve compiled a list of places to partake in this very British custom, but please, remember to do it the Devonshire way- cream first and jam on top!

Valley View Cafe, Aune Valley, Loddiswell

As the name suggests, the cafe has lovely views over Aune Valley, and has won multiple awards including Taste of the West, Good Food Awards and Visit Devon Tourism Awards, With seating inside or outside on the terrace, this is an ideal spot for families, and even has a childrens play area. Their menu covers  breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea.

Prices from £30

Calancombe Vineyard, Nr Modbury

Wander around the vineyard before stopping for an indulgent afternoon tea,  accompanied by a glass of Calancombe Estate Blanc de Noirs 2018 Sparkling wine. Check their website to book online. Prices from £35

Burgh Island

For a memorable and unique afternoon tea experience head over to the iconic Burgh Island hotel, with its famous 1920s Art Deco interior and gorgeous ocean views. If the tide is out you can walk across the beach from Bigbury-On-Sea, or if tide is in, their sea tractor will carry you over the waters to ensure you arrive for your afternoon in style! Prices from £55 per person

Cream Tea Options:

East Soar Walkers Hut

A home made, rustic afternoon tea, served from the  Walkers’ Hut at the East Soar Outdoor Experience and paid for at the honesty box- so make sure you bring cash.  Situated next to the South West Coast Path, the farm has resident animals for you to meet including sheep and donkeys, as well as a play area for children. Fuel up with scones and cakes before exploring the coastline or heading down to Soar Mill Cove. Check their website to make sure they are open as they during a few weekends in the summer they are closed to host wedding receptions.

The Billy Can, Torcross

The Billy Can is a popular café and retro sweet shop nestled between Slapton Ley and the beach. Serving a delicious range of sandwiches and cakes

The Winking Prawn, Salcombe

Situated beside the beach at North Sands, Salcombe, this lovely beach cafe has an extensive menu of food and drink and indoor and outdoor seating.

Avon Mill Garden Centre

Just the other side of Kingsbridge, Avon Mill is a lovely garden centre with shops, galleries and a wonderful cafe serving delicious cream teas- highly recommended by our guests this Easter!

Stokeley Farm Shop

Why not buy the components of an afternoon tea from the local farmshop and eat back in your cottage or take down to the beach?!