Afternoon Tea at The Regency Tea Room

This review explores the charming Afternoon Tea at The Regency Tea Room in Somerset, an experience that promises a combination of delectable bites, history, and Regency-era ambiance. While we haven’t personally sat at this tea room, firsthand reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a lovely way to indulge in a classic British tradition, especially for those who appreciate a touch of history and style with their sweet and savory treats.

One thing we particularly love about this experience is how well it balances authenticity and comfort. The period decor and guided theme help transport you back to Regency-era England, creating a memorable setting. The generous spread of cakes, sandwiches, and warm scones paired with a choice of tea or coffee offers real value for the price.

A potential consideration is the entry to the Jane Austen Centre not being included** in the ticket price, so if you’re keen to explore Austen’s world further, you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour suits those who enjoy a relaxed, historically themed experience, coupled with excellent food and a cozy atmosphere—perfect for fans of Jane Austen or anyone looking for a quintessentially British afternoon.

Key Points

• Authentic Regency Setting: Step into beautifully decorated period interiors that enhance the experience.
• Delicious Food: Expect a well-curated selection of cakes, sandwiches, and fresh scones with Dorset clotted cream and jam.
• Engaging Atmosphere: Staff dressed in Regency attire and interactive elements bring Jane Austen’s world to life.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to just 6 participants, ensuring attentive service and a more intimate feel.
• Value for Money: At around $39.74 per person, you receive a comprehensive, quality afternoon tea with drinks included.
• Guided & Educational: While primarily a food experience, the setting and decor offer a subtle educational touch about the Regency era and Austen’s universe.

An In-Depth Look at The Regency Tea Room Experience

The Setting: Regency Elegance in Somerset

The Regency Tea Room is designed to evoke the grandeur and charm of early 19th-century Britain. The period decor is thoughtfully curated, with antique-style furniture, vintage accessories, and Regency-inspired details that set the scene for an immersive experience. Reviewers have highlighted how the staff dressed in Regency costumes add a fun, theatrical element, making it feel like stepping into a Jane Austen novel.

The intimate size of the room—small and warm—means you’re not overwhelmed by crowds, and you’ll find yourself comfortably settled into a cozy corner, ready to indulge. Several visitors noted how the decor and ambiance truly complement the theme, creating a visual feast as much as the food itself.

The Food: A Sumptuous Treat

What makes this afternoon tea special is the carefully prepared menu. You’ll be served divine cakes, finger sandwiches, and warm scones with Dorset clotted cream and seasonal jam. Reviewers frequently mention the high quality and deliciousness of the food, with many noting that the treats exceeded expectations for the price.

One guest commented on a “great selection of food” and called it “fantastic value for money.” Another mentioned that the sandwiches and cakes were “amazing,” and appreciated the thoughtful portion sizes—just enough without feeling overly indulgent.

The inclusion of a hot scone, served warm, adds a comforting touch, and the Dorset clotted cream is a highlight for many. The drinks—tea, coffee, or cold beverage—are served in a relaxed manner, allowing you to linger over your treats.

Interactive & Themed Elements

One of the notable features is how staff dress up in Regency costumes, which adds an element of fun and authenticity. Visitors have enjoyed the interactive ambiance, feeling like they are stepping into Austen’s world. While the main focus is on the food, the decor and staff help create a theatrical, immersive atmosphere that elevates the experience beyond just a meal.

The Tour & Additional Aspects

It’s important to note that entry to the Jane Austen Centre is not included in the ticket price. If you’re interested in Austen’s history and want a broader perspective, you might consider visiting the Centre separately. Many reviewers found the location to be a perfect complement to their Austen-themed explorations, enhancing the overall visit.

The Group Size & Service

With only 6 participants max, the tour remains intimate, allowing for personalized attention from guides or staff. Guests have appreciated the friendly, attentive service, describing staff as helpful and dressed appropriately. Several reviews mentioned the staff’s effort to embody Regency personas, adding charm to the visit.

The Pricing & Value

At approximately $39.74 per person, this experience offers a generous portion of food and a warm, engaging atmosphere. Considering the quality and presentation, many felt it was good value—especially as a special treat or part of a themed day out.

Some reviews mentioned that pre-booking is advisable, especially during busy periods, as the space fills up quickly. Also, booking in advance allows for a smoother process and peace of mind.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Reservations are recommended; walk-ins may find it hard to secure a spot during busy times.
• The experience lasts around 1 hour, so plan your schedule accordingly.
• The small group size enhances the experience but means early booking is advisable.
• Be aware that the entry fee to the Jane Austen Centre is separate, so budget extra if interested.
• The decor and staff costumes aim to create an immersive atmosphere—so arrive with an open mind and a sense of fun.
• For those who dislike hot drinks, note that tea or coffee are included, but options to swap are not specified, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This afternoon tea tour is ideal for Austen fans, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates a good slice of cake in a charming setting. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed, culturally enriching experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

If you’re looking for an elegant, immersive, and tasty break during your visit to Somerset or Bath, this tea room provides a cozy and visually delightful option. It’s also perfect for a romantic outing, a catch-up with friends, or a small family celebration.

However, if you’re not a fan of themed experiences or prefer a more extensive historical tour, this might feel a bit limited in scope. Similarly, those wanting an all-in-one Austen experience should plan to visit the Jane Austen Centre separately.

The Sum Up

The Afternoon Tea at The Regency Tea Room offers a delightful taste of Regency-era Britain paired with some truly tasty treats. Its intimate setting, attentive staff dressed in period costumes, and the overall immersive decor make it a memorable experience for lovers of Jane Austen and traditional British culture alike.

While the ticket price is reasonable considering the quality of food and charming ambiance, visitors should keep in mind that additional costs apply if they want to explore Austen’s world further at the Centre. For those who value authenticity, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere, this experience provides excellent value and a lovely break in your Somerset or Bath itinerary.

This tour suits small groups and those who savor a relaxed, immersive dining experience. If you’re after a charming, historically themed afternoon that combines good food with a bit of Edwardian magic, you’ll find it hard to go wrong here.

FAQ

Is the afternoon tea at The Regency Tea Room suitable for vegetarians?
Most reviews mention a selection of finger sandwiches and cakes, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to inquire directly or plan for standard options, which are likely vegetarian-friendly.

How long does the experience last?
The typical duration is around 1 hour, perfect for a leisurely break without taking up your entire afternoon.

Can I book in advance?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during busy periods. Booking ensures you secure a spot and helps avoid disappointment.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers afternoon tea, including cakes, sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, plus a choice of tea or coffee. Entry to the Jane Austen Centre is separate.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While mostly geared towards adults and fans of Austen or history, children who enjoy themed settings and sweet treats would likely find it charming. The reviews don’t specify age restrictions.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
The provided information doesn’t specify options for allergies or special diets. It’s advisable to contact in advance if you have specific needs.

What makes the decor special?
The interior features authentic Regency-style furniture and decor, enhanced by staff dressed in period costumes, creating a fun and immersive environment.

Is it worth the price?
Given the quality of food, intimate setting, and unique themed experience, most reviewers feel it offers good value for money—making it a worthwhile indulgence for a special day out.