The Secret Ingredients Behind Stokes’ Famous Afternoon Teas

Afternoon tea is more than just a British tradition; it’s an experience that blends fine teas, delicious treats, and elegant presentation into a moment of pure indulgence. At Stokes Tea & Coffee, our famous afternoon teas are renowned for their exceptional quality, carefully curated flavours, and time-honoured approach, which has made us a favourite among Afternoon Tea lovers.

But what makes Stokes’ Afternoon Tea so special? The secret lies in expertly sourced ingredients, traditional recipes, and a passion for serving only the finest tea and accompaniments. Let’s take a closer look at what sets our afternoon tea apart.

1. Premium-Quality Loose Leaf Tea

A great afternoon tea experience starts with an exceptional tea selection. Stokes offers an extensive range of loose-leaf teas sourced from the finest tea gardens worldwide.

The Tea Selection Process

We carefully choose tea leaves known for their depth of flavour and smoothness. Unlike standard tea bags, our loose-leaf teas allow for better infusion, richer aroma, and a more delicate taste.

Popular choices from our collection include:

• Gold Medal Tips – A malty, creamy tea made specifically for hard water areas like Lincoln.

• Earl Grey Tea – Infused with the distinct flavour of bergamot, offering a fragrant and citrusy twist.

• Grandad Peelie’s - A delightful combination of sweet, sour, and fruity notes, this tea has become a family legacy, its exact recipe still a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations.

We believe in brewing tea the traditional way, ensuring every cup served in our Lincoln cafés is perfectly steeped to bring out the best flavours.

2. Handcrafted Sweet and Savoury Treats

No afternoon tea would be complete without an array of freshly homemade cakes, scones, and sandwiches.

Classic Scones

One of the hallmarks of a traditional afternoon tea is a light, fluffy scone served with clotted cream and jam. Our scones are baked daily using a tried-and-tested recipe that results in a perfect golden crust with a soft buttery interior.

Signature Cakes and Pastries

Our afternoon tea includes a rotating selection of homemade cakes and patisserie-style desserts. Each cake is crafted with high-quality ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of texture and flavour.

Delicate Finger Sandwiches

We believe in using only locally sourced, fresh ingredients for our sandwiches. The combination of soft, fresh bread and flavourful fillings ensures every bite is deliciously satisfying.

3. The Perfect Atmosphere

Afternoon tea isn’t just about what’s served but the entire experience. At Stokes, we create an atmosphere that transports guests back to the golden age of British tea traditions.

Our cafés are housed in stunning heritage buildings in Lincolnshire, providing the perfect setting to relax and unwind. With a mix of vintage charm and contemporary comfort, our cafés offer the ideal space to enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea with friends or family.

Exceptional Service

Our staff are trained to provide a warm, welcoming experience, ensuring that each guest receives the perfect pot of tea and an impeccable selection of treats.

4. Attention to Detail: The Stokes Difference

What truly makes Stokes’ Afternoon Tea stand out is the meticulous attention to detail we give to every element of the experience.

• Locally sourced dairy and flour for the freshest bakes

• Hand-picked tea blends curated for perfect balance and aroma

• Traditional brewing techniques that ensure every cup is steeped to perfection

• A passion for hospitality, making every visit to Stokes a memorable one

5. Afternoon Tea for Every Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends, or simply treating yourself, afternoon tea at Stokes Coffee is an experience worth savouring.

Gift an Afternoon Tea Experience

Looking for the perfect gift for a tea lover? Our Afternoon Tea Gift Vouchers allow loved ones to enjoy a beautifully curated tea experience at their convenience.

Book Your Afternoon Tea

Join us at The Lawn, High Bridge, Welton, or Newark Cafe and discover why Stokes has been a beloved name in tea and coffee since 1902. Explore our Afternoon Tea options, including The Classic, The Lush, and The Duchess, here, and book your visit today.

With hand-selected teas, homemade bakes, and a dedication to quality, we offer an unparalleled experience that keeps guests coming back time and again.

Ready to experience Stokes’ Afternoon Tea for yourself? Book your table today and enjoy a delightful taste of British heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is included in Stokes’ Afternoon Tea?

Our traditional afternoon tea includes:

• A pot of loose-leaf tea of your choice or freshly brewed coffee

• A selection of freshly made finger sandwiches

• Hand-baked scones with clotted cream and jam

• An assortment of homemade cakes and pastries

Do you offer vegetarian or gluten-free afternoon tea options?

Yes! We cater to dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Please mention any dietary requirements when booking.

Can I book afternoon tea for a special occasion?

Absolutely! Our Afternoon Tea can be booked for birthdays, anniversaries, and special gatherings.

How do I make a reservation?

You can book a table for afternoon tea via our website, visit one of our locations to make an enquiry in person or call us on 01522 523 548.