The best afternoon teas in Manchester for Afternoon Tea Week

This week marks the annual Afternoon Tea Week, celebrating the British tradition of eating copious amounts of cake in that hunger-inducing gap between lunch and your evening meal.

Manchester is known for many things - from its buzzing nightlife scene and strong sports pedigree, to its enviable food and drink options. The latter is often dominated by new and exciting concepts opening shop, but for something a little more timeless it's worth taking a look at the city's impressive array of afternoon tea concepts.

You may not know but the pastime is said to have originated in the mid-19th century when the seventh Duchess of Bedford and her upper class posse of friends got a bit peckish mid-afternoon. Lucky for us, the tradition endured, and today Manchester is teaming with tea rooms and plush hotels serving up everything from cream teas with a pot of strong tea, to platters filled to the brim with fanciful cakes, pastries and even more sweet treats.

Below you'll find a few of our favourite options, which cater to every appetite, budget and dietary requirement. Let us know if there is anywhere else we should try in the comments.

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Richmond Tea Rooms

This award-winning ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed dining experience is one not to be missed. Serving up a feast fit for a Mad Hatter’s tea party, here you can dine in an enchanted forest under twinkling lights all while sampling some of the most exotic and rare teas.

From the Alice Tea (two tea-infused sultana scones with clotted cream and Tiptree preserve)) to the Richmond (with finger sandwiches, sweet treats and a glass of bubbly), there is something to suit every appetite and