8 of the best places for a decadent high tea in Newcastle

Scones, petit fours and (of course) a perfectly brewed tea. Decadent high tea experiences are something Newcastle does exceptionally well.

You may not associate Newcastle with high tea, but given its kilometres of shoreline and proximity to the Hunter Valley foodie scene, it makes complete sense that the leisurely dining pastime can be found in abundance.

Whether you prefer to immerse yourself in paddocks and gardens, the soothing sound of waves lapping the beach or the warmth of a cosy cafe, there is a high tea experience in Newcastle with your name on it.

1. Heritage Gardens

Stunning Newcastle Nursery Heritage Gardens is beautiful just to stroll through and now offers a high tea experience inside their immersive garden cafe.

Available between Wednesday and Sunday, the traditional three-tier high tea stand is filled with sandwiches and sweets, accompanied by fruit spritzes and various teas or coffee. If you’re looking to book a group experience, the rustic Tea House takes function and special event high tea bookings, too.

Pair your tea with a dazzling array of sweets.

Address: New England Hwy and Cnr Four Mile Creek Rd, Ashtonfield NSW
Cost: From $65 per person

2. Autumn Rooms

Though technically a bottomless brunch (and priced accordingly), the traditional fare and array of Tea Collective teas make Autumn Rooms a must-include for this list. Enjoy savoury and sweet treats from a seasonal menu, served alongside bottomless mimosas, Single O coffee, tea and juice. The (bottomless) high tea runs every Saturday from 12 until 2pm.

Squeeze in afternoon tea at Autumn Rooms.

Address: 127 Darby St, Cooks Hill NSW
Cost: $95 per person

3. Elay High Tea

The Elay High Tea experience is probably the most elaborate in the Newcastle region. With a carefully curated seasonal menu, expect gourmet delights scattered across a three-tier stand. Think fresh ham and pickle croquettes, lemon meringue tarts and Yorkshire puddings with beef and horseradish cream. Due to the elevated fare, bookings fill up fast, so be sure to schedule ahead.

Treat yourself to delicious decadence at the Elay High Tea.

Address: 102C McMullins Rd, East Branxton NSW
Cost: $70 per person

4. Crystalbrook Kingsley

One of Newcastle’s nicest stays, the Crystalbrook Kingsley high tea offering is undoubtedly part of the charm. Available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Ms Mary High Tea features unlimited T2 teas and single-origin coffee from Sprocket, as well as sweet and savoury snacks like freshly-baked scones and finger sandwiches. Enjoy a glass of sparkling on arrival and settle in for your feast, all set amongst the hotel’s award-winning interiors.

Go out for an indulgent treat at Ms Mary High Tea.

Address: 282 King St, Newcastle NSW
Cost: $79 per person

5. Anchorage

Another well-loved location for long lunches and stylish dinners in Port Stephens, Anchorage also hosts High Tea By The Sea daily between 2.30 pm and 4.30 pm. The menu is seasonal, featuring savoury pastries and housemade sweet delights, plus bottomless Ronnefeldt Tea and Australian sparkling wine. Given the restaurant was awarded Best Restaurant in a Hotel or Resort at the 202 R&CA Savour Awards, expect nothing less than high quality.

A tasty cheese platter in Anchorage is perfect for tea time. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 26 Corlette Point Rd, Corlette NSW
Cost: $89 per person

6. B Farm

Although not in Newcastle, this nearby Port Stephens vineyard is worth a visit. It may already be on your radar thanks to its craft brewery and relaxed beer garden, but keep it in mind for high tea, too. Held in the dedicated Agnes High Tea Pavilion, which was modelled after the British country estate aesthetic, you’ll find traditional high tea delicacies served on fine bone china, accompanied by wine or Rabbit Hole tea, plus the farm’s own coffee and cordials.

Indulge at the Agnes High Tea Pavilion, B Farm.

Address: Bobs Farm, 3443 Nelson Bay Rd, Port Stephens NSW
Cost: From $75 per person

7. Gamble & Brown

On the first Sunday of each month, local favourite Gamble & Brown hosts a scrumptious high tea event worth participating in. For an affordable price, you’ll be greeted with champagne on arrival, house-made savoury and sweet bites, scones and unlimited tea and coffee. You’ll need to book ahead though, as the event does sell out quickly.

Dip into sweet and savour treats at Gamble & Brown.

Address: 10/150 Park Ave, Kotara NSW
Cost: $70 per person

8. Rydges Newcastle

Rydges Newcastle hosts High Tea By The Harbour, featuring the classic three-tiered stand stacked high with cakes, pastries, scones and sandwiches. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Newcastle harbour area, and for those with little ones, there’s also a children’s-only high tea option so they can enjoy the experience, too!

Address: Cnr Wharf Rd and Merewether St, Newcastle NSW
Cost: $65 per adult, $29 per child