Tea in the UK, where and where not to go

If you go to England, it is a MUST that you have high tea, or at least stop to have some tea and scones. I warn you, if during one of your High Tea culinary adventures you try clotted cream, you will want it for the rest of your life. Proceed with caution! Pardon my lack of pictures gentle readers, they will be added later today when my computer decides it wishes to function as a proper member of society.

Don’t go to … Holyrood Castle

This is a castle in Edinburgh where the Queen spends two weeks every year. Other than that time it’s open to the public, and they have a little café which caters to the visitors. The café is just not what I expected. We had a few little sandwiches there, a pot of tea, and some scones, but to be honest they were lackluster and the outdoor seating was in a courtyard which blustered rather badly the day we went. The palace itself is well worth the visit, there just happens to be better places in Edinburgh to get a pot of tea.

Instead go to … Buckingham Palace.

The reason I expected more is because I’ve had tea in Buckingham Palace. While the Queen was at Holyrood we took the opportunity to do the tour of Buckingham. We had our tea, éclairs, and a few tortes as I recall. They’re served on what is essentially the back porch of the palace, which faces the lawns and gardens. It’s sheltered, the servers are quick, and it’s kept very neat and clean. Yes, the prices are high and you are absolutely paying for the experience, but in my opinion it’s worth it.

Don’t go to … Costas.

How to describe Costas. Imagine if Starbucks met Tim Hortons. That’s Costas. High prices with good hot chocolate but everything else isn’t really to my taste. It’s a large chain, though, so you’ll find them everywhere. In a pinch, go ahead, but there are other, cuter, and more unique places which you might want to frequent.

Instead go to … The Deaf Cat.

If you’re in Rochester, England, pop into the Deaf Cat. Their hot chocolate is lovely, and although the shop is small it’s warm, cozy, has a bit of outdoor seating, and best of all is just down the road from Baggins, one of the largest second hand book stores in England. Here’s their website!

Bonus!

I know that Ireland isn’t in the UK but if you happen to be in Dublin I highly recommend visiting the Wooden Whisk. The cake there is to die for, the food is delicious, and the atmosphere is adorable. It’s the perfect place to stop for brunch before you explore Dublin, or for dessert after a long day on the road. If I ever find myself in Dublin again I will make deliberate plans to go to the Wooden Whisk both when I arrive and right before I depart. It’s worth it! Here’s their website!