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 high tea with Newcastle on the NSW coast, 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 in Newcastle with your name on it right here.

1. Crystalbrook Kingsley

One of Newcastle’s newest hotels and its first five-star property, Crystalbrook Kingsley, is already making headlines, and its high tea offering is undoubtedly part of the charm.

Available every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Ms Mary High Tea features unlimited T2 teas and Sprocket single-origin coffee, sweet and savoury snacks and a glass of champagne on arrival, 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

2. 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.

The traditional three-tier high tea stand is filled with finger 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: $60 per person, or $70 per person with a sparkling wine on arrival.

3. 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 events do sell out.

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

4. 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.

Squeeze in afternoon tea at Autumn Rooms.

Enjoy savoury and sweet treats, including frittata, bagels, scones with jam and cream, and petit fours. These are served alongside bottomless mimosas, coffee, tea and orange juice every Saturday from 12 until 2pm.

While technically a bottomless brunch with tea, this place needs to be on your list. (Image: Sophie Tyler Photography)

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

5. Rydges Newcastle

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

Address: Cnr Wharf Rd and Merewether St, Newcastle, NSW
Cost: $49 per adult, $25 per child

6. 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, like 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.

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

7. B Farm

This Port Stephens vineyard may already be on your radar thanks to its craft brewery and relaxed beer garden, but keep it in mind for a high tea in the Newcastle region, too – held in the Agnes High Tea Pavilion, which was modelled after the British country estate aesthetic and Scottish countryside, you’ll find delicacies created by international pastry chefs served on fine bone china, accompanied by sterling silver teapots. The option to add sparkling wine or cocktails is also on offer.

Address: Bobs Farm, 3443 Nelson Bay Rd, Port Stephens, NSW
Cost: $75 per person, with additional costs for alcoholic beverages

8. Anchorage

Another well-loved location for long lunches and stylish dinners in Port Stephens, Anchorage also hosts a luxury high tea daily between 2.30pm and 4.30pm.

A stylish high tea experience awaits at Anchorage. (Image: Destination NSW)

The menu is seasonal, using fresh local produce and seafood, and the cost includes premium Australian sparkling wine. Given the restaurant was recently awarded Best Restaurant in a Hotel or Resort at the 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 Rd, Corlette, NSW
Cost: $89 per person