Best Spots for Afternoon Tea in Devon

Afternoon tea in Devon is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or anytime you want to spend some quality time alone or with a loved one. The beautiful county of Devon offers a picture perfect backdrop, and when combined with a luxurious spa day, you have all the ingredients for some indulgent downtime.

In this guide, we introduce you to some fantastic spa hotels which serve up plenty of pampering and relaxation, as well as the best afternoon teas in Devon. We also highlight a few options across Cornwall and Dorset, so you can find your ideal south-west spa getaway.

Why Choose a Spa Day and Afternoon Tea in Devon?

Devon provides the perfect setting for an elegant afternoon tea. Whether you head for the stunning coastline, travel inland to the rolling countryside, or even embrace the bustle of towns and cities like Torquay and Exeter, you are in for a real treat.

If you’re unfamiliar with afternoon tea, it comprises a selection of delectable savouries, such as finger sandwiches. However, the focus is on the sweet delights, including fresh scones with jam and cream, as well as mini cakes and pastries. Traditionally served with a pot of loose leaf tea, a “sparkling” afternoon tea in Devon will also include a glass of chilled bubbly – perfect for toasting a special occasion.

As we’re in Devon, your afternoon tea might offer an opportunity to sample some locally sourced favourites, such as crab sandwiches, mini pasties, or lashings of Devonshire cream with your scones.

Choose a SpaSeekers’ package which includes access to the spa and afternoon tea in Devon and you can turn your experience into a full day of indulgence. Spa day packages typically come with access to the leisure facilities and – often – a pampering treatment or two.

Your afternoon tea will usually be served in the restaurant or lounge. Many of our spa hotels in Devon even have terraces, making the most of stunning sea views.

Some of our venues have dress codes for their restaurants, so don’t forget to bring some smart clothes with you to change into after the spa.

Spas With the Best Afternoon Teas in Devon

Several of our spa hotels in Devon serve up tempting afternoon teas. Here is a selection of our favourite venues, each of which feature first-class pampering and dining.

Hotel du Vin Exeter

For those of you seeking a spa day with the best afternoon tea in south Devon, Hotel du Vin Exeter should be near the top of your list. This refined city centre spa hotel offers the perfect surroundings for a day of relaxation and indulgence.

The spa facilities include the inviting indoor/outdoor swimming pool and a serene relaxation room, where you can rest after one of the luxurious treatments. Take a seat in the chic Bistro du Vin for your afternoon tea, which combines the traditional and the contemporary for a memorable feast.

Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa

Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa near Torquay is one of our grand luxury spas serving afternoon tea in Devon. Retreat for a spa day or spa break at this impressive property set in a quiet location but within an easy walk of the town and its sandy beach.

The spa offers superb facilities, including two swimming pools, an aromatherapy steam room and Himalayan salt room. You can then sit down to a lovely traditional afternoon tea served in the smart brasserie. Upgrade to a sparkling afternoon tea for a special treat (extra cost may apply).

Harbour Hotel Salcombe

Harbour Hotel Salcombe is another prestigious hotel serving up luxury afternoon tea in Devon, alongside rejuvenating spa experiences. Enjoying an unrivalled location overlooking Salcombe Estuary, the Harbour Hotels property has an exclusive feel but a welcoming vibe.

Indulge in pampering treatments and enjoy the swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool and crystal steam room. You and a lucky companion then adjourn to The Jetty restaurant for magnificent waterside views and a sumptuous afternoon tea.

Saunton Sands Hotel

We come to a spa hotel which is one of the candidates for the best afternoon tea in north Devon. Saunton Sands Hotel oozes luxury, from its beachfront setting to its excellent service. This relaxing coastal property is the ideal place to enjoy a day or stay of leisure in this stunning part of the world.

The luxury extends to the award-winning spa, which features a vitality pool with a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Retreat to the delightful restaurant to linger over a delicious afternoon tea while taking in the beautiful seaside views.

Sidmouth Harbour Hotel & Spa

Escape to the Sidmouth Harbour Hotel & Spa for a luxury spa getaway with the best afternoon tea in east Devon. The restful hotel is located within walking distance of Sidmouth and its characterful seafront, with the glorious East Devon National Landscape a short drive away.

Slip away to the serene spa for soothing treatments and facilities which include a swimming pool and sauna. Once you’ve spent time unwinding at the spa, savour a tempting afternoon tea at the upscale restaurant, with a terrace which affords panoramic views of the majestic red cliffs and Lyme Bay.

Celebration Afternoon Teas in Devon

Afternoon tea is a delectable treat any time of the year. However, it can also be a great way to celebrate.

For example, you can enjoy a themed afternoon tea in Devon around Christmas time. This will be similar to a traditional afternoon tea but may include extras like a glass of mulled wine to toast the season or festive-themed goodies, such as turkey and cranberry sandwiches or a slice of Christmas cake.

You can find spa packages featuring a festive afternoon tea in Devon listed from around autumn onwards. Book early to secure your favourite package and preferred date.

The same goes for Mother's Day afternoon tea in Devon. These packages are a popular gift and a great way to spend quality time with mum. You can book a package for the day itself or buy a voucher so she can enjoy her spa day on a date of her choice.

Finally, if you or someone you know has their Big Day coming up, how about a hen party spa day and afternoon tea in Devon? This is a wonderfully refined way to celebrate the forthcoming nuptials with friends and loved ones.

Spa Days with Afternoon Tea in Cornwall & Dorset

If you want to explore beyond Devon, afternoon tea and spa day packages are available in the equally glorious counties of Cornwall and Dorset. Here are a few options to consider.

Rise Spa and Wellbeing at Hilton Bournemouth: Indulge in a Dorset spa day or even an overnight spa break at this contemporary hotel in Bournemouth town centre. After enjoying your spa time, adjourn to the lofty Level Eight Sky Bar for a delicious afternoon tea with unbeatable views.

St Michaels Resort & Spa: Lovely Cornwall is the location of this luxury spa hotel, which features impressive hydrothermal facilities and fabulous dining. Boasting a prime location close to pretty Gyllyngvase Beach, this is a wonderful choice for a relaxing spa day and a classy afternoon tea.

Bournemouth West Cliff Hotel: We return to the popular seaside resort of Bournemouth for this charming spa hotel close to the beach and the town’s attractions. As well as the pampering spa, the hotel serves up decadent sparkling afternoon teas in the lounge or in the tranquil spa garden.

Find the best spa days and afternoon tea in Devon with SpaSeekers

Hopefully, this guide has given you some ideas for your next spa day with afternoon tea in Devon, Cornwall or Dorset. You can find more advice and inspiration in our Spa Insider guides. If you’re new to spas, a great place to start is our FAQ section.

Finally, if you have any questions or special requests or you want to check the availability of a gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan afternoon tea at a Devon, Cornwall or Dorset spa, contact us and we’ll be happy to help.

Book your spa day with the best afternoon teas in Devon today. You might also want to check our latest spa deals for some great savings on packages across the region.