The St. James Tearoom

Afternoon Tea at The St. James Tearoom: A Royal Celebration This May
The St. James Tearoom offers a structured, elegant take on Afternoon Tea, combining classic service with a themed dining experience. Their May menu, A Royal Celebration, pays tribute to the British royal family through carefully curated courses and an atmosphere that echoes tradition and refinement.

A Multi-Course Afternoon Tea Experience
Unlike many venues that serve all items at once, The St. James Tearoom presents Afternoon Tea in three distinct courses. This thoughtful pacing gives guests time to enjoy the flavours, presentation, and conversation at a more relaxed pace. Each course is paired with specific loose-leaf teas from their extensive collection, with additional options available throughout the experience.

The first course focuses on savouries, such as cucumber and chive cream cheese on rye, a sausage roll with apricot mustard glaze, and smoked trout crostini. Each bite is precisely prepared, highlighting seasonal and high-quality ingredients.

The second course offers freshly baked scones served with traditional accompaniments like clotted cream, lemon curd, and raspberry jam. These are paired with fruit and nut breads, bringing warmth and familiarity to the table.

The final course is dedicated to sweets, with items like blackberry jam tarts, sticky toffee truffles, and orange blossom petit fours. Presentation is a key feature throughout, with the tiered trays and fine china enhancing the ceremonial feel of the meal.

Perfect for Special Occasions and Thoughtful Gatherings
This Afternoon Tea is particularly suited to adults and older children who appreciate a slower, more intentional dining pace. It’s an ideal option for birthdays, anniversaries, or catching up with friends in a setting that values conversation and hospitality. Guests are encouraged to dress smartly, which aligns with the tearoom’s classic ambience.

Private rooms are available for group bookings, and larger parties are welcome with prior reservation. While not tailored to young children or casual café visitors, it’s an excellent fit for those seeking something considered and well-presented.

Thoughtfully Curated Teas
A key highlight of The St. James Tearoom is its dedication to tea. Each menu is developed around pairings that complement the food, and the staff are trained to guide guests in making selections. Loose-leaf blends are brewed and served with attention to detail, and tea refills are available throughout the visit.

For those who want to recreate the experience at home, the in-house shop sells many of the teas and accessories used in the tearoom.

A Venue Built on Tradition
The setting is designed to create a peaceful, private atmosphere. Seating areas are divided into small nooks or curtained spaces, giving each party a sense of separation and calm. Decor draws on Edwardian influences with dark wood, bookshelves, and subtle lighting, avoiding anything overly themed or commercial.

Visit in May for a Themed Experience
Each month, The St. James Tearoom offers a unique theme, and May’s Royal Celebration adds an extra layer of charm. For those looking to try Afternoon Tea in a more ceremonial format, this venue offers a structured, immersive experience from start to finish.