Refuge Machester

Bohemian Luxury: Afternoon Tea at The Refuge by Volta, Manchester
Step inside the grand surrounds of The Refuge by Volta, and you’re met with a space that blends heritage, creativity, and character. Set within the iconic Principal Hotel on Oxford Street, this beautifully restored venue brings a touch of bohemian luxury to Manchester’s dining scene. Known for its eclectic interiors, bold cocktails, and vibrant atmosphere, The Refuge offers a unique and culturally rich setting for one of Britain’s most beloved traditions: Afternoon Tea.

The Refuge doesn’t do things by halves, and their Afternoon Tea is no exception, elegant, generous, and laced with Northern soul.

A Northern-Inspired Afternoon Tea
The Refuge’s Afternoon Tea offering is described as “Not Your Average Afternoon Tea,” and it lives up to that promise. Their menu adds a Mancunian twist to the traditional, bringing in local flavours, bold bites, and modern flair, while still keeping the comforting structure of the three-tiered tea service.

On the savoury tier, expect a hearty and inventive mix of small bites and sandwiches. The offering may include items like pastrami with pickled slaw, smoked salmon with dill crème fraîche, or cheddar and chutney toasties. A far cry from dainty cucumber sandwiches. Every item is punchy in flavour and robust enough to reflect the region’s bold food personality.

Then there are the scones, served warm with clotted cream and jam, just as tradition dictates. However, in true Refuge style, you might find a creative spin, such as fruit scones paired with locally sourced preserves, or subtle infusions in the cream itself.

The top tier showcases the sweet side of The Refuge’s creativity. The selection includes miniature desserts, tarts, cakes, and sweet bites, often rotating with the seasons and reflecting the chefs’ love for flavour and presentation. Think chocolate delice, lemon drizzle bites, or seasonal fruit tartlets, each one a little piece of indulgence.

Cocktails, Fizz, and Loose-Leaf Teas
Afternoon Tea at The Refuge includes a pot of loose-leaf tea from their selected blends, offering everything from classic English Breakfast to more aromatic herbal or green options.

For something a little livelier, you can upgrade to include Prosecco, Champagne, or a Refuge cocktail, expertly crafted from the venue’s bar. With an award-winning cocktail team, this option makes Afternoon Tea feel more like an event, perfect for celebrations or stylish afternoons out.

A Bold Setting for Every Kind of Guest
The setting is what truly sets The Refuge apart. The Afternoon Tea is served in their beautiful Winter Garden or restaurant space, surrounded by towering palms, art deco tiling, mismatched vintage furniture, and a buzz that blends the relaxed with the refined.

The experience is ideal for groups of friends, couples, culture lovers, or anyone looking for something different from the traditional hotel tea room. Children are welcome, but the vibe leans more toward adult sophistication with a casual, artistic edge.

The Refuge also accommodates vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with advance notice, ensuring inclusivity for all.

Booking and Information
Afternoon Tea is served on selected days, and advance booking is recommended, particularly at weekends or for larger parties. Reservations can be made via the Refuge website.

For a city-centre Afternoon Tea that’s rich in personality, generous in portions, and served in one of Manchester’s most iconic interiors, The Refuge offers something truly unique, with plenty of heart, and plenty of flavour.