Whitby, with its charming cobbled streets, historic abbey, and stunning coastal views, is the perfect place to enjoy a classic British afternoon tea. Whether you’re looking for a traditional tearoom experience, a quirky café, or a modern twist on the tradition, Whitby has something to offer. From delicate finger sandwiches to homemade scones with clotted cream, here are some of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in Whitby.
🍰 1. Botham’s of Whitby – A Traditional Tea Room Experience
📍 Location: Skinner Street, Whitby
A true Whitby institution, Botham’s of Whitby has been baking delicious treats since 1865. Their classic afternoon tea includes beautifully crafted sandwiches, warm homemade scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of cakes made from traditional family recipes.
☕ What to Try: The Whitby Lemon Bun, a local favorite that pairs perfectly with their house-blend tea.
🔥 Why Visit?
- Classic Victorian-style tea room
- Homemade cakes and scones, freshly baked daily
- A true taste of Whitby’s history
🍽 2. Hetty & Betty – A Seaside Afternoon Tea with a Twist
📍 Location: Baxtergate, Whitby
One of Whitby’s oldest and most-loved restaurants, Hetty & Betty serves a fantastic traditional afternoon tea—but they’re best known for their Fish and Chips Afternoon Tea. This unique take on the classic features mini fish and chips, mushy peas, and tartar sauce, served alongside scones, sandwiches, and sweet treats.
☕ What to Try: The Fish and Chips Afternoon Tea—because where else can you enjoy the best of Whitby’s seafood in an elegant tea stand?
🔥 Why Visit?
- A Whitby classic—established in 1928
- Unique seafood afternoon tea option
- Stunning coastal-inspired décor
🫖 3. Marie Antoinette’s Patisserie – Elegant and Indulgent
📍 Location: Church Street, Whitby
For those who love pretty floral china, vintage décor, and delicate French-style pastries, Marie Antoinette’s Patisserie is a dream come true. Their afternoon tea includes exquisite finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and beautifully presented cakes and pastries.
☕ What to Try: The homemade macarons—light, delicate, and full of flavor.
🔥 Why Visit?
- Gorgeous vintage décor—perfect for a special occasion
- Delightful cakes and pastries, with a French twist
- A quiet retreat from the busy streets of Whitby
📚 4. Sherlock’s Coffee House – A Literary Afternoon Tea
📍 Location: Flowergate, Whitby
Set inside a quirky, Victorian-style townhouse, Sherlock’s Coffee House is a must-visit for book lovers and mystery fans. Their afternoon tea is served in a cozy, old-world setting, with freshly made sandwiches, fluffy scones, and delicious homemade cakes.
☕ What to Try: Their homemade fruit scones with lashings of jam and cream, served with a pot of Yorkshire tea.
🔥 Why Visit?
- Quirky Sherlock Holmes-themed interior
- A cozy and intimate atmosphere
- Great value for money
💎 5. W. Hamond Tea Rooms – Afternoon Tea with a View
📍 Location: Church Street, Whitby
Located above W. Hamond’s famous Whitby Jet jewellery shop, this elegant tea room offers a refined afternoon tea experience. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing treat after exploring the Abbey or shopping in Whitby’s old town.
☕ What to Try: Their luxury afternoon tea, featuring locally sourced ingredients and exquisite cakes.
🔥 Why Visit?
- Stylish and elegant setting
- A great spot for tea lovers
- Perfect for a post-shopping treat
🦇 6. The Blitz Café – A Vintage 1940s Afternoon Tea
📍 Location: Church Street, Whitby
Step back in time at The Blitz Café, a 1940s-themed tearoom that offers a truly unique afternoon tea experience. With retro music, wartime memorabilia, and classic home-baked treats, it’s a great place for a nostalgic afternoon.
☕ What to Try: The classic Victoria sponge cake, served with a pot of loose-leaf tea.
🔥 Why Visit?
- A quirky, vintage atmosphere
- Homemade cakes and traditional bakes
- A fun and interactive setting
🍵 Final Thoughts: Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Whitby
Whether you’re looking for classic elegance, a quirky tea experience, or something uniquely Whitby, these fantastic tea rooms offer something for every taste.
🏆 Best for Tradition: Botham’s of Whitby
🐟 Best for Something Different: Hetty & Betty’s Fish and Chips Afternoon Tea
🎀 Best for Vintage Charm: Marie Antoinette’s Patisserie
📚 Best for Book Lovers: Sherlock’s Coffee House
💎 Best for a Stylish Treat: W. Hamond Tea Rooms
⏳ Best for Nostalgia: The Blitz Café
🍰 Where will you be enjoying afternoon tea in Whitby? ☕