Afternoon tea is a timeless tradition, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory treats served with elegance on tiered platters. While iconic venues like The Ritz or Fortnum & Mason set the gold standard, you don’t have to travel far or spend a fortune to experience a truly luxurious tea service.
Right here in Cheltenham, The Nook On Five delivers an exceptional afternoon tea experience combined with stunning rooftop views. Opened in November 2022, it remains Cheltenham’s only rooftop restaurant. Situated on the fifth floor of the Quadrangle building next to Imperial Gardens, The Nook offers breathtaking panoramas of Cheltenham’s Regency architecture, the Promenade, Montpellier, and Cleeve Hill.
On pleasant days, guests can dine al fresco on the outdoor terrace, soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Inside, the atmosphere is just as captivating, with classy décor featuring tasteful artwork, modern lampshades, and tiny spotlights that mimic stars in the night sky — an ambiance that rivals afternoon teas in London.
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Upon arrival, diners are guided to tables with sweeping views of Cheltenham’s most iconic sights. The menu offers a selection of five teas, including a classic Afternoon Tea blend, Darjeeling, and soothing Chamomile, complemented by an Arabica coffee option boasting nutty and chocolate notes. For those who prefer a touch of sparkle, the champagne afternoon tea includes a glass of light, refreshing Testulat champagne.
The afternoon tea presentation is impeccable. A three-tier platter arrives starting with an array of four types of sandwiches, a vegetarian quiche slice, and a standout sausage roll bursting with herbaceous, meaty filling encased in flaky pastry — an indulgence you might wish to order twice.
The middle tier holds freshly baked scones (plain and raisin), served warm with generous dollops of clotted cream and jam. The top tier delights with bite-sized desserts: zesty Madeleine sponges, cream-filled choux buns topped with strawberries, and a wonderfully moist lemon sponge cake that practically melts on the tongue.
For those with a sweet tooth, the choux buns reimagine the classic Victoria sponge into a compact, decadent treat — a perfect finish to the meal. With generous portion sizes, the afternoon tea can be quite filling, so expect leftovers that the attentive staff will happily pack for you to enjoy later.
The Nook On Five prides itself on hospitality, offering relaxed, unhurried service that allows you to savor your experience for as long as you please. We spent two and a half memorable hours enjoying our meal without feeling rushed.
Priced at £34 per person or £50 with champagne, The Nook’s afternoon tea sits slightly above some local offerings but delivers great value through its unique setting, quality food, and attentive service. For a stylish and indulgent afternoon in Cheltenham, The Nook On Five is an excellent choice that won’t disappoint.