Secret Garden Afternoon Tea at Harbour Hotel Chichester: Summer Enchantment in Sussex
Nestled behind the harbour façade of Chichester Harbour Hotel, the Secret Garden Afternoon Tea brings a whimsical, floral twist to the classic tradition. Inspired by the charm of an English cottage garden, this offering combines elegant presentation and fresh, seasonal flavours, creating a delightful experience for all who step into The Ship’s sun‑lit venue.
A Garden-Inspired Setting
Held within The Ship restaurant, part of Harbour Hotel Chichester on North Street, Afternoon Tea is served amid relaxed coastal decor with garden‑inspired touches. Drawing inspiration from lush summer blooms, this afternoon tea brings the outside in perfectly timed for the warmer months.
When & How to Book
This enchanting experience is available daily during the summer season, which began on Monday 26th May, and priced at £29.95 per person. Hosts are happy to cater for dietary requirements. Drop them an email or call to make arrangements. A 12.5% discretionary gratuity applies at the end of the bill.
Savoury Selection: Garden Bites with Delight
Your journey begins on a whole tier of savoury garden-themed treats, carefully crafted for seasonal richness:
Cucumber & mint cream cheese sandwiches – fresh, cooling, and aromatic
Coronation chicken slider, enriched with apricot and baby spinach
Minted garden pea arancini with pea purée dip – a crisp, herbaceous morsel
Asparagus & lemon crème fraîche vol‑au‑vent – delicate and vibrant
Smoked salmon & dill blinis – seafood elegance with a flourish
This tier delivers diverse textures and tastes, reflecting the English summertime harvest.
Sweet Treats: Flowers, Chocolate & Pimm’s
The dessert tier is a botanical daydream:
Chocolate mousse “plant pots” in miniature terracotta-style cups
Lemon blossom cheesecake – zesty and floral
Rose & raspberry macarons, adorned with edible petals
Lemon flower petal filled with Italian meringue
Mini opera cake topped with a chocolate tuile
Pimm’s jelly studded with raspberries, strawberries and blueberries
Each delicacy is beautifully formed, adding layers of botanical whimsy to every bite.
Scones: Classic with a Twist
Two freshly baked scones arrive warm and inviting:
Buttermilk scone
Chocolate-chip scone
These come with clotted cream, garden berry jam, and a zesty lemon balm butter—echoing the fresh garden setting.
Tea & Drink Options
Every set includes a pot of loose-leaf tea, with several teas thoughtfully chosen to complement the seasonal menu. For celebratory flair, guests can elevate their experience with:
125ml glass of Prosecco – £9.50
Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut – £14.90
Perfect for Every Occasion
This Afternoon Tea is ideal for garden lovers, couples marking a special day, friends catching up in style, or families seeking a charming twist on tradition. It’s particularly suited to summer visits when the Secret Garden concept feels delightfully on-theme. Vegetarian options are clearly marked; guests with allergies should inform staff prior to arrival.
Location & Booking Details
Venue: The Ship, Harbour Hotel Chichester, 57 North Street, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 1NH
Bookings: Call 01243 778 000 or email [email protected] to reserve a table and discuss dietary needs .
Why It’s Worth a Visit
A fresh summer-themed menu rooted in seasonal ingredients and thoughtful presentation
A unique twist on traditional afternoon tea with garden-inspired treats
Excellent value at £29.95 per person, with elegant surroundings and optional Champagne or Prosecco
Perfectly suited to midweek or weekend garden-town escapes in coastal Sussex
Address :
57 North St, Chichester PO19 1NH, United Kingdom
Opening Hours :
Mon to Sat
12pm to 4.30pm
Reviews
Amazing afternoon tea experience—the setting and service were delightful, making it truly memorable.
Very nice afternoon tea—refreshing tea, lovely scones with plenty of jam and cream, nice cakes, though not quite 5-star.
Charming choice for afternoon tea—classic treats served in a stylish hotel setting that feels both cozy and refined.
Prosecco afternoon tea with delicious cakes, though sandwiches were dry and scones lacked softness—overall, a mixed experience.
Marvellous old building with a fresh, nautical-themed interior after modernisation—very atmospheric for tea.
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