Afternoon Tea in the Blue Mountains: A Luxurious Experience
Here at Blue Mountains Escapes, we like to think we know a thing or two about relaxation. And if you ask us, there are few pleasures in life quite as delightful as a proper afternoon tea. Whether you’re celebrating something special, catching up with the girls, or simply indulging for indulgence’s sake—there’s no better place to enjoy a teapot and tiered stand than right here in our beautiful Blue Mountains.
From grand clifftop dining rooms to teapot museums and country-style charm, our region is brimming with options for your next elegant afternoon out. So pop on your lippy, dust off that silk scarf, and let us show you a few of our favourite spots…
The Hydro Majestic – Afternoon Tea in The Wintergarden, Medlow Bath
Oh, what a vision. The Hydro Majestic is an icon in every sense of the word—perched dramatically above the Megalong Valley and dripping with art deco elegance. Step into the Wintergarden and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a time when people dressed for dinner and jazz music floated through grand halls.
The afternoon tea here is a thing of beauty: delicate finger sandwiches, warm fluffy scones, divine little cakes, and all served with sweeping valley views. And yes, the tea is served in fine china, just as it should be.
For those that are feeling adventurous, we highly recommend their Eastern High Tea? It’s a delightful twist on tradition, featuring a selection of steamed Eastern dumplings, crab claws, prawn and vegetarian rice paper rolls, pork belly bao buns, and assorted Eastern-inspired desserts. It’s utterly delicious and makes for a unique and indulgent experience—particularly for those of us who love both jasmine tea and savoury treats.
And let’s not forget—adding a glass of sparkling wine or Champagne is always a splendid idea. It lifts the whole affair to another level, and really, why not?
Open: Daily, 11am–3:30pm
Booking: Essential. This place is popular, and rightly so.
The Avalon – High Tea in Katoomba
If quirky charm is more your cup of tea, The Avalon has it in spades. Set inside the old Savoy Theatre, it has a fabulous retro vibe—think fairy lights, velvet curtains, and the kind of eclectic decor that makes every visit feel a little bit magical.
Their high tea is generous and a little more relaxed, which I personally adore. You’ll find everything from savoury bites to mini pavlovas, with a pot of freshly brewed tea or even a cheeky glass of bubbly (go on, treat yourself).
Open: Saturday & Sunday from 12pm (High Tea by booking only)
Booking: Absolutely—don’t miss out!
Bygone Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum & Tearooms, Leura
Bygone Beautys is quite possibly one of the most charming spots in all of Leura. With over 5,500 teapots on display (yes, really!), it’s part museum, part tea-lover’s heaven.
Their Traditional High Tea “SILVER SERVICE” experience is a real treat—waitstaff in black tie, polished silverware, and towering stands of fluffy scones, sweet slices and finger sandwiches. There’s nothing rushed here. It’s all about slowing down and savouring the moment.
Open: 7 days, 10am–5:30pm
Booking: Strongly recommended for high tea, especially on weekends.
Megalong Valley Tea Rooms
If you’re after a cosy, countryside escape, this is the spot. The Megalong Valley Tea Rooms are nestled in the most picturesque valley—you’ll drive down through rainforest and rolling hills before arriving at this peaceful little gem.
Their Devonshire tea is my go-to: warm scones (generously sized), homemade jam, thick cream, and a proper pot of tea. Best enjoyed on the verandah under the gum trees, with birdsong in the background and a good friend across the table.
Open: Thursday–Monday, 9am–4:30pm
Booking: No need for smaller groups, but a quick call ahead is always polite.
Afternoon Tea FAQS
Do I need to book?
For the more elegant affairs—Hydro Majestic, Avalon and Bygone Beautys as these places are quite popular, it’s best not to leave it to chance. For Megalong Valley Tea Rooms, you can usually walk in, but it never hurts to ring ahead.
Is there a dress code?
While there’s no official dress code, why not get into the spirit of the occasion and wear something a bit special —nothing too flashy, just a touch of occasion.
Are there options for dietary needs?
Most venues are very accommodating, but it’s best to let them know when booking. Gluten-free, vegetarian, dairy-free—you name it, they’ll usually have you covered.
Can you bring the kids?
Of course! Afternoon tea is a lovely outing for all ages. The kids will love the sweet treats, and it’s a lovely way to introduce them to the magic of good manners and mini cakes.
Make a Weekend of It
After all those sweet indulgences, you’ll want somewhere comfy to rest your head. At Blue Mountains Escapes, we have a wide range of charming cottages and stylish homes dotted across Blackheath, Katoomba, Leura, and beyond.
So why not turn your afternoon tea into a weekend getaway? Wander the villages, browse the boutiques, enjoy a forest walk—and of course, book in another round of scones (for research, naturally).
Explore our collection of homes and start planning your Blue Mountains escape today. After all, life’s too short not to enjoy a proper pot of tea and a jam-covered scone—or three.