Best afternoon tea in Blackpool: 8 places to enjoy tea and cake by the shore

Because afternoon tea is even better by the seaside!

Updated on • Written By Holly Butterfield

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Best afternoon tea in Blackpool: 8 places to enjoy tea and cake by the shore

On the hunt for the best afternoon tea in Blackpool? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This seaside town is beloved for its Pleasure Beach and Illuminations, but did you know there are also several excellent spots for an afternoon treat, where you can sit down and relax with sandwiches, cakes and freshly brewed pots of tea.

A British tradition that dates back centuries, there's something about this pastime that has stood the test of time - as beloved today as it always has been. We can’t say exactly what it is about bite sized cakes combined with unlimited brews that has Brits going crazy, but we’re completely behind it. No matter the occasion, afternoon tea can make the ideal little outing, whether you're planning a trip out for Mother's Day or a birthday celebration. Now that most places offer a glass of fizz on the side, you can't go wrong.

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The best part about afternoon tea in Blackpool is that you can easily include it in your sightseeing tour. Have a cup of tea by the shore at a waterside hotel, eat cakes in the ballroom of the landmark Blackpool Tower or tuck into finger sandwiches at the historic Winter Gardens theatre. There are plenty to choose from and, even better, they're all pretty good value for money. Whilst afternoon tea has made a bit of a name for itself with hefty price tags, in Blackpool you'll find many affordable options serving up the full works for less than £25 a person - and many costing even less. So, you can celebrate in style without having to break the bank. 

Whatever you're looking for, we've got you covered with our list of best afternoon teas in Blackpool. Take a browse through our favourites below and be sure to get yourself booked in.

The Imperial Hotel

a selection of cakes on a stand

What: The Imperial Hotel offers a Blackpool afternoon tea with a view that's definitely worth a visit. Served daily, The Imperial Hotel's main dining room boasts a rather delightful spot with coastal views to accompany an elegant selection of sweet treats and savoury snacks. Menus here include sausage rolls and soups as well as the classic sandwich and scone offerings. A lavish selection of homemade cakes and a glass of fizz are sure to round things off nicely.
Where: North Promenade, FY1 2HB
Book now: The Imperial Hotel

Blackpool Tower Ballroom

a stand of cakes for afternoon tea in Blackpool Tower Ballroom

What: Housed in this famous landmark location, Blackpool Tower's afternoon tea is probably already on your list. Fans of BBC's Strictly Come Dancing will no doubt recognise this iconic location and will be delighted to hear that you can actually dine in the ballroom itself, sparkling chandeliers and all. Sandwiches and scones are combined with live music and dancing for an unforgettable experience. Get your dancing shoes ready and book yourself a table. 
Where: The Promenade, FY1 4BJ
Book now: Blackpool Tower

Parks Art Deco Cafe

a floral table set for afternoon tea

What: This quintessential cafe is bursting with charm from its floral tablecloths to its cutesy crockery. Located in the idyllic grounds of Blackpool's Stanley Park, picturesque views are on the cards here whether you're seated inside or on the alfresco terrace. Sandwich triangles come atop a three-tiered stand, offering the likes of coronation chicken and honey roast ham, alongside canapes of prawn cocktail shots and chicken liver pate crostini. Sweet treats include mixed berry pavlova and cream scones, with unlimited garden tea or Viennese coffee to help wash everything down.
Where: West Park Drive, FY3 9EQ
Book now: Parks Art Deco Cafe

Winter Gardens

a stand of cakes and someone pouring a cup of tea

What: Ask locals and they'll tell you - the Winter Gardens' afternoon tea is not to be missed. This Grade-II listed theatre was first opened back in 1878 and stands today as a centre for history and culture in the region. Nowadays, you can enjoy afternoon tea in the Empress Coffee Bar, taking in your glamorous surroundings over scones and cakes and plenty of tea. Two options are available here, allowing you to choose the standard option, or upgrade to include fizz for something a bit boozier. 
Where: Church Street, FY1 1HU
Book now: Winter Gardens

Tea Amantes

a stand of cakes and someone pouring a cup of tea

What: A shop, tea room and art gallery all rolled into one, this spot really puts the tea in afternoon tea. Fruit and black loose-leaf teas are the more traditional offerings, but Japanese, Yerba and Tisanes options are also on the menu if you’re looking for something more adventurous. Start your meal with some finger sandwiches and pastries, followed by scones and an indulgent selection of cakes and cheesecake slices. This one also has an option for vegan afternoon tea, or a smaller option for kids - making it a delightful place to bring the little ones. Be sure to take some time to check out the artwork once you’ve finished with all your treats.
Where: 53b Albert Rd, FY1 4PW
Book now: Tea Amantes

Carlton Hotel

a stand of cakes and sanwiches for afternoon tea by the sea

What: The Carlton Hotel is serving up a full-blown afternoon tea right by the shore, offering diners delightful views of the Fylde Coast. Standard and Prosecco afternoon teas are both on offer and include a choice of four sandwiches, fresh scones topped with heaps of jam and clotted cream and bite-sized desserts in the form of chocolate mousse and Bakewell tarts. 
Where: 282 North Promenade, FY1 2EZ
Book now: Carlton Hotel

Tea World

afternoon tea stands complete with scones and sandwiches

What: Nestled away from the action of Blackpool centre, Tea World's extensive tea collection is sure to attract tea lovers a bit further afield. Black, Green, Oolong and Fruit Infusion teas are all on offer alongside freshly made scones, sandwiches and a surprise selection of mini desserts. If that hasn't convinced you to visit then this spot also hosts a dog friendly afternoon tea, allowing your pub to delve into a stand of treats of their own. What's not to love?
Where: 6 Common Edge Road, FY4 5AU
Book now: Tea World

Bradbury's

stands of cakes for afternoon tea

What: If you're looking for a hotel afternoon tea then why not try Bradbury's? Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the area, with several key sites on its doorstep including the Central Pier and Blackpool Tower. After a long day out and about, be sure to refuel with this afternoon tea offering. Served in the hotel's restaurant this is the perfect little pick me up of very reasonably priced sandwiches and desserts - you can't go wrong. 
Where: 7 Havelock Street, FY1 4BN
Book now: Bradbury's

Looking for something a bit boozier than tea and cake? Be sure to check out our guide to the best bottomless brunches in Blackpool!