Devon is known for cream teas with freshly baked scones and clotted cream. Ilfracombe is brimming with character and charm. While its stunning coastline and historic landmarks draw visitors from far and wide, the British tradition adds an extra layer of delight to any visit. So, here’s where you can find the best afternoon tea in Ilfracombe.
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Is there anything more luxurious than an afternoon tea? Whether it is a special treat, a welcome break from exploring, catching up with friends, or just because, there are plenty of places for a luxury afternoon tea in Ilfracombe.
Best Afternoon Tea in North Devon
Traditional afternoon teas are composed of dainty finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, plus a selection of cakes and sweet treats. Sometimes, there are savoury bites, too. These delicious morsels are washed down with a pot of freshly brewed tea or coffee.
Double-check, but you may need to pre-book before dining out. Some restaurants and cafes require a minimum of 24 hours when making a booking, especially if you have dietary requirements. Some establishments may ask for a deposit. So, get that date in the diary, and make the reservation. Most places also offer gluten-free and vegan afternoon teas, so I am sure you mention this too.
Devon Cream Tea Experience
There’s a huge debate about whether you should put the jam or cream on your scone first. It can divide the nation! However, the cream goes on first when having afternoon tea in Devon. (Which is the way I eat it!)
Devon Hampers
Food, drink, and the West Country are close to my heart. Devon Hampers sends the best of the South West to your front door. The cream tea and afternoon tea hampers include scones, clotted cream, and jam. There are also cheese hampers, chocolate, cider, and BBQ hampers. They’re ideal for enjoying along the South West Coast Path or one of Ilfracombe’s beaches.
Get 10% off hampers or create your own. Order anything from a clotted cream tea for two or a large hamper full of goodies. Use DEVON10 at the checkout on orders over £50.
Afternoon Tea Ilfracombe
There are plenty of perfect places to go for a traditional Devonshire cream tea. In Ilfracombe, you’ll find a delightful array of venues where you can partake in this beloved ritual, ranging from traditional tearooms to elegant hotels overlooking the sea.
Carlton Afternoon Tea
Carlton offers a charming setting where you can enjoy a traditional spread of sandwiches, cakes, and pastries accompanied by your choice of tea or coffee. With its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, you can expect a cosy retreat for indulging in this beloved British tradition.
The afternoon tea allows you to choose from finger sandwich fillings such as smoked salmon, hummus, beetroot and avocado, coronation chicken and beef and horseradish. There’s also a savoury tart, and cakes like a mini Victoria sponge, bakewell tart, chocolate brownie bites and lemon posset. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.
Served Monday to Saturday from 3pm for £16 per person.
📍 Runnacleave Rd, Ilfracombe EX34 8AR
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🐾 Dog friendly; they are welcome in all dining rooms
I recently reviewed The Carlton Brasserie – The Best Restaurant in Ilfracombe for Dinner. If you care about flavour and great produce, eat here! Your tastebuds will thank you!
Sandy Cove Hotel
Perched on top of a cliff overlooking the sparkling waters of the North Devon coast, The Cove Restaurant is one of the best places for afternoon tea in Ilfracombe with a view. The afternoon tea includes delicate finger sandwiches, decadent pastries, and freshly baked scones, each crafted with care to ensure a truly indulgent dining experience.
Served daily between 12pm and 5pm in The Cove Restaurant or on the terrace for £28 per person. With options to add on Prosecco and Champagne.
📍 Berrynarbor, Ilfracombe EX34 9SR
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🐾 Not dog-friendly
The Old Mill Tea Room Ilfracombe
Step back in time at The Hele Corn Mill and Tea Room, where the historic charm of Ilfracombe meets the cosy comfort of a traditional tearoom. This quaint establishment offers a delightful selection of homemade cakes, scones, and sandwiches, all served with a generous dollop of Devonshire cream. The miller’s wife bakes all items on the premises using flour from the on-site water mill. They have even won Devon Life’s Best Tearoom award four times.
Open between 11am and 5pm. Double-check their opening times before going, as they aren’t open every day, and they close out of season. Different cream teas are offered, and afternoon tea starts from £15 per person.
I recently reviewed Hele Tea Rooms, the quaint retreat in Ilfracombe. If you’re looking for a true Devonshire experience, alongside being one of the best cream teas you’ll ever taste, this is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle.
📍 Corn Mill Cl, Ilfracombe EX34 9QY
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🐾 Dog friendly apart from inside the mill
I recently reviewed Hele Tea Rooms, the quaint retreat in Ilfracombe. If you’re looking for a true Devonshire experience, alongside being one of the best cream teas you’ll ever taste, this is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle.
Little Mama’s
Situated in the heart of Ilfracombe, this family-run café provides a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Little Mama’s promises a memorable culinary experience infused with seaside charm.
There are four different afternoon teas to choose from at Little Mama’s, and you don’t need to pre-book. From a cream tea of scones, clotted cream, jam and a pot for £7.95 per person to a full afternoon tea with four finger sandwiches, scones, a treat from the counted and unlimited tea, coffee or soft drink for £17.95. Themed afternoon teas, such as Harry Potter, the Spice Girls and Friends, are also available with advance booking.
📍 70 High St, Ilfracombe EX34 9QE
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🐾 Dog friendly
North Devon Afternoon Tea
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a delightful way to spend the afternoon, Ilfracombe offers a plethora of venues where you can enjoy a memorable afternoon tea experience. So treat yourself to tea and cake during your next visit!
Eat Out and Save Money
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Foodies Guide to Ilfracombe
If you’re a foodie, there are so many exciting places to eat in Ilfracombe. You’ll find a diverse range of food that showcases the region’s rich heritage and local produce. Being a coastal town, Ilfracombe is renowned for its fresh fish and seafood. From cod, haddock and mackerel to crab, lobster and scallops. You can also expect traditional British fare with favourites like fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and Sunday roasts. For those seeking a more refined dining experience, there are Michelin-starred restaurants with tasting menus and expertly crafted dishes.
Dog Friendly Pubs in Ilfracombe
Known for its stunning vistas, quaint streets, and warm hospitality, this coastal gem offers many attractions for locals and visitors alike. There are plenty of things to do in Ilfracombe with your dog.
And for those with furry companions in tow, Ilfracombe doesn’t disappoint when it comes to dog-friendly establishments, particularly its inviting pubs.
Discover Ilfracombe’s Hidden Gems
Visit Ilfracombe is the ultimate online guide for anyone planning a trip. Whether you’re a couple seeking romantic adventures, a family looking for fun-filled activities, or a solo traveller searching for explorations.
Stay the Night
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book in advance and as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Dilkhusa Grand Hotel Ilfracombe
I stayed at the Dilkhusa Grand Hotel in Ilfracombe, part of the Compass Hospitality Group. Housed in a historic Victorian building just a short walk from the picturesque seafront and harbour. The hotel bedroom was spacious with an en-suite bathroom, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and free Wi-Fi. There is a small car park at the back of the hotel, where you can book a spot for a small fee per night or pay and display parking on the road. Ivan was also made to feel welcome and offered treats at Reception. It was the perfect spot for a relaxing seaside getaway.
🐾 Dog-friendly at £10 per night
Dilkhusa Grand Hotel Ilfracombe Discount
Get up to 15% off when you book a stay before 30 November 2024 when using this link:
Autumn Sale| Save upto 15% off on stays – Compass Hospitality
Carlton Hotel Ilfracombe
Experience the ultimate convenience and comfort by staying at The Carlton Hotel in Ilfracombe and unwind in gorgeous surroundings after exploring the charming seaside town. Finished up to a 4-star standard, perks include high-speed WiFi, flat-screen TVs, gym and spa treatment rooms, handmade biscuits on your welcome tray and underfloor heating in the bathroom. There’s a small, free car park and a charging point if you have an EV car. Plus, if you’re staying at the hotel and prebook, you get 20% off your dinner.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Hele Mill Cottage
Hele Mill Cottage offers a charming accommodation option for those looking to extend their visit. Dating back to the 17th Century, these traditional Devonshire cottages provide a cosy retreat. With exposed beams, a stone fireplace, and quaint furnishings, staying here feels like stepping back in time while enjoying modern comforts.
Both The Miller’s Cottage and Tollgate Cottage feature comfortable bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cosy living area, making them the perfect home away from home for couples or small families. Guests can enjoy leisurely walks along the nearby coastal paths, explore the quaint village of Ilfracombe, or simply relax in the cottage’s peaceful garden.
🐾 The Miller’s Cottage is dog-friendly
Sykes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones near Rhayader are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
🐾 Dogs welcome
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offer a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Or, get 35% off when booking 10 nights or more in Cornwall, Devon, Wales and Northern Ireland. Bookings are for stays between 1 October and 30 November 2024 and 1 January to 28 February 2025. Use discount code 10NAF.
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels and luxurious resorts tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Last Minute Deals
Using LastMinute.com to book hotel rooms allows you to seize spontaneous travel opportunities while securing great deals. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price.
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