Afternoon Tea in the Sky: 20 Stories, Manchester
For an Afternoon Tea experience with unbeatable views and elevated elegance, 20 Stories in Manchester offers something truly memorable. Perched on the 19th floor of No.1 Spinningfields, this modern British restaurant, bar and terrace provides a refined take on the classic Afternoon Tea, all set against a backdrop of sweeping city skyline views.
Whether you’re a seasoned Afternoon Tea connoisseur or someone simply in search of an indulgent treat, 20 Stories combines culinary creativity with luxurious ambiance, making it an ideal choice for couples, friends, families, or business guests seeking a taste of sophistication.
Classic and Contemporary Afternoon Tea
The Afternoon Tea at 20 Stories is served Monday to Thursday from 2pm to 4.30pm and includes a seasonal menu that seamlessly blends traditional elements with contemporary flair. The offering is beautifully curated and thoughtfully presented on tiered stands that mirror the sleek, stylish surroundings.
Expect a selection of classic finger sandwiches, delicately filled with locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavours. Alongside the savouries, freshly baked fruit and plain scones arrive warm, accompanied by Cornish clotted cream and homemade preserves. But the true highlight lies in the top tier, an imaginative assortment of handcrafted cakes and sweet treats, created in-house by the pastry team. With a rotating selection that reflects the seasons, you might enjoy delights such as lemon and thyme tarts, rich chocolate ganache bites, or delicate macaroons.
Champagne and Vegan Options
To elevate the experience even further, 20 Stories offers a Champagne Afternoon Tea, ideal for special occasions, romantic outings, or simply treating yourself to a moment of indulgence. A glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial adds a celebratory touch to the already stylish setting.
For those with dietary preferences, the team is happy to cater for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs with advance notice, making the venue inclusive for a variety of guests.
An Ideal Setting for Special Moments
20 Stories isn’t just about the food, it’s about the experience. The floor-to-ceiling windows and modern interiors create a sense of occasion, while the outdoor terrace complete with heaters and blankets during colder months, adds a unique dimension for guests who want to sip tea in the open air. The panoramic views over Manchester offer the perfect backdrop for birthdays, anniversaries, or afternoon get-togethers with friends.
Children are welcome too, though the vibe leans more toward refined than whimsical, making it especially well-suited to adult gatherings and upscale celebrations.
Expertly Paired Teas and Cocktails
Guests can choose from a selection of fine teas to accompany their Afternoon Tea, ranging from traditional black teas like Earl Grey to more delicate herbal blends. For those seeking something stronger, the venue also boasts an impressive cocktail list and wine menu, allowing for customisable pairings that suit every taste.
Booking and Experience
Advance booking is recommended and can be made easily through the 20 Stories website. With its stylish surroundings, meticulous service, and ever-evolving menu, Afternoon Tea at 20 Stories is a sophisticated affair that invites guests to pause, indulge, and enjoy Manchester from a whole new perspective.
Reviews

I took my mum and my little boy here for a treat around the time of his 1st birthday and it was wonderful! Florian was very accommodating and made us feel special - the views are stunning and the afternoon tea had lots of versatile flavours. All the staff were welcoming, a lovely experience.

The Best Service. Starting from the support given prior to arrival from D&D offices to warm welcome on arrival and attentive & pleasant service from Nancy. We had the Afternoon Tea which I recommend. Lots of choices and flavours to go through. Stunning scenes from the windows complimented by sublime sunlight x

Wonderful afternoon tea, best in Manchester in my opinion after trying many others. Loved the mini cocktail pairing, and Roberto was especially gracious, personable and attentive without being annoying. Upscale, adult atmosphere. Only thing that would make it better is more quality and varied tea selection.

We had the afternoon tea and they accommodate dietary requirements if you’ve made them aware at the time of booking. It was really filling so make sure you go with an empty belly. As one should with afternoon tea, we had ourselves some English Breakfast tea which was the perfect drink to accompany it all.

I went for the afternoon tea and cake. It's a must visit place in Manchester. Starting from the decorations, wide selection of the menu, staff friendliness, and their knowledge. Charlotte, who works there, assisted me with my order, which was a chocolate tea and lemon cake. The tea was above and beyond and highly recommended.
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