Luxury Afternoon Tea in the Essex Countryside
Enjoy a quintessentially British afternoon tea in our beautiful Georgian manor house, set within the peaceful Essex countryside.
Afternoon Tea at Downham Hall
Step into our beautiful Georgian manor house and enjoy a quintessentially British tradition in the heart of the Essex countryside. Nestled between Billericay and Wickford, and just a short drive from Chelmsford, Downham Hall offers a peaceful escape where you can relax and unwind.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, afternoon tea here is an experience to savour. Your tea will be served in one of our stunning dining spaces—either the light-filled Orangery, with its rolling countryside views, or the elegant warmth of our De Beauvoir Suite.
Available Monday to Saturday, 12pm – 3pm
What to Expect
We take our tea seriously. Choose from an extensive selection of loose-leaf teas sourced from Camellia’s Tea House—from classic English Breakfast to adventurous blends like China Gunpowder, Rooibos Orange, White Apricot, and even Cactus tea.
Served on a traditional three-tier stand, your afternoon tea includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked plain and fruit scones with Cornish clotted cream and Tiptree jam, and a tempting selection of cakes beautifully crafted by our pastry chef from our 2 AA Rosette awarded kitchen.
Can’t finish everything? We’re happy to box up your cakes to enjoy at home later.
- Classic Afternoon Tea – £32pp
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- Sparkling Afternoon Tea (with Prosecco or Gin & Tonic)- £40pp
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- Children (4-12 years) – £15pp (please let us know when booking)
Celebrate in Style
Planning a birthday or special celebration? We can arrange a bespoke celebration cake or add a bottle of Laurent-Perrier to your booking. For special requests, please email us at:info@downhamhall.com and we'll be delighted to help.
Baby Showers at Downham Hall
Celebrate your baby shower with us in the beautiful Orangery. Our baby shower afternoon tea package is £37.50pp (minimum 20 guests) and includes exclusive use of the Orangery from 12pm until 4pm.
Festive Afternoon Tea
Our festive afternoon teas are incredibly popular and book up early! Enjoy a festive-themed afternoon tea accompanied by live music throughout December. £40pp—dates available throughout the month.
Lighter Options
Our lighter options are perfect for a mid-week treat with friends, enjoyed either within our elegant manor or outside in our gardens, surrounded by breathtaking views.
Our grounds are dog-friendly and nestled amongst scenic walking trails, making us the perfect destination to pop infor a cup of tea and a cake after a refreshing stroll.
Cream Tea – £15pp (Monday – Friday) Enjoy a fruit and plain scone each with Cornish clotted cream, Tiptree jam, and bottomless loose leaf tea or coffee.
Tea & Cake – £8pp (Monday – Friday)Tea or coffee of your choosing with a slice of our indulgent cake of the day, crafted by our talented pastry chef.
Good to Know
To ensure the best experience for all our guests, please note the following:
Bookings
Tables are reserved for two hours, though we are happy to extend this if the table isn't needed afterward.
Dietary Needs
Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking so we can prepare accordingly
Accessibility
If you are arriving with a buggy or wheelchair, let us know in advance so we can allocate the most suitable table.
Seating
Tables are allocated based on availability and events. While we note preferences, we cannot guarantee seating in a specific room
Decorations
You are welcome to bring table flowers or small balloons. However, scatter crystals are not permitted. Large displays, banners, and extra-large balloons require exclusive room hire.
Cancellation Policy
As we source all food fresh in advance, our cancellation terms are as follows:
Groups of fewer than 3
Free cancellation with 24 hours' notice.
Groups of 4+
within 5 days may incur a charge
Groups of 10+
Cancellations within 5 days will be charged in full.
Same-day cancellations
Charged in full