Cornwall is famed for its Cream Tea and what is not to love about this very British institution that dates back to the 11th century. It even has its own National Day, 10th March.
It is a delightfully pleasant and enjoyable way to pass on afternoon. What is important to remember when in Cornwall is the order in which you layer your delicious warm crumbly scone, the split scone is always smoothed with fruit jam first and then topped with Cornish clotted cream. The reasoning being that it is easier to spread the jam on first and then add the cream, also the cream doesn't melt on the warm scone. The jam must be a fresh fruit jam for a genuine experience, not in pre-packaged tubs. The locals take their cream teas very seriously!
It goes without saying that cream tea is a delicious treat, and we want to make sure you are not disappointed with yours. Now down to the important part where to go for the best cream tea here in Cornwall. A trip is not complete without sampling this leisurely tasty treat.
Nare Hotel Veryan–in–Roseland
For a decadent treat then it has to be the Nare Hotel which overlooks gorgeous Carne Beach on the Roseland Peninsula, the perfect location to enjoy a delicious cream tea. If you are not a guest at the hotel you can enjoy afternoon tea in the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, The Quarterdeck, it has a sheltered terrace and stunning views of Gerrans Bay. Afternoon tea is served from 3.00pm to 5.00pm each day. Warm freshly-baked scones are served with a choice of local jams, and lashings of Cornish clotted cream accompanied by a wide selection of teas from the local Tregothnan estate, or a glass of fizz if preferred. You could make a day of it here at this fabulous location and book a spa treatment or maybe even stay and have dinner here, there is always the beach and coastal path to explore as well.
Woods Cafe in Bodmin
Woods Cafe is picture perfect, a rustic stone cafe located in Cardinham Woods, near Bodmin. A particular favourite of ours as this family-run cafe are so accommodating and openly welcome dogs. They are dedicated to serving delicious homemade food using fresh and local ingredients. The perfect setting amongst beautiful woodland walks where you can build up an appetite or walk those calories off after indulging in a proper Cornish cream tea, with lashings of good fruity jam and clotted cream and a pot of Tregothnan's finest tea, with a wide variety to choose from. They also have a savoury option of cheese scones, cream cheese, chutney and Davidstow cheddar equally delicious, especially if you don't have a sweet tooth. With an impressive cake counter that might tempt you further. Loads of seating outside and in the winter you can sit by the roaring fire.
Cosy Nook Tea Garden in Crantock
Cosy Nook Tea Garden, Crantock a family run traditional tea garden and gallery is a real delight. It is the perfect place to sit on a warm summers day in the charming clematis clad courtyard enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Highly regarded, they serve freshly-baked scones, Rodda's clotted cream and Boddington's of Mevagissey strawberry jam, simply divine whilst keeping it local. Friendly staff and excellent service, very popular so can get really busy. Dogs are welcome too.
Unfortunately now permanently closed
Duchy of Cornwall Nursery Cafe in Lostwithiel
Duchy of Cornwall Nursery Cafe, Lostwithiel is located on the Duchy estate, a fantastic tearoom set amongst a large nursery and enjoying an enviable spot with lovely views looking down on Fowey and Restormel Castle. After admiring the wonderful selection of plants you make your way to the cafe that uses local suppliers with everything you eat being made on the premises. Indulge in their lovely traditional cream tea with the usual treats, unlimited tea or coffee comes as part of the package. There is a fancier option for a special occasion with an optional glass of Prosecco, cocktail or warm winter Pimms. During the summer you can enjoy your cream tea on the terrace and savour the lovely views.
https://www.duchyofcornwallnursery.co.uk/the-cafe
Miss V's Cornish Cream Teas in St Just
Miss V's Cornish Cream Teas, St Just is located across the lane from Roseland Church, a vintage cafe with gorgeous decor and sitting amongst semi-tropical gardens, on the riverbank of the Fal estuary. With covered outside seating to offer shelter whatever the weather. These quaint tea rooms boast freshly baked home-made scones with home-made jam, Trewithen dairy Cornish cream and Tregothnan tea in delicate china table wear. Hidden away but you must seek this cafe out, you won't be disappointed.
There are many other fabulous locations throughout the region, perhaps you have your own favourite that we have not included.