Nothing beats a good cream tea - the elixir of the south west. More often than not it’s on the ‘to do’ list when on holiday in Cornwall, but the quality is very varied and nothing is more disappointing than a flat scone, a thimbleful of cream or cheap jam...it’s just not on! Here at Boutique Retreats HQ we’re all from Cornwall and have, between us, had more cream teas than you’ve had hot dinners probably, so here’s a list of our own personal favourites.
The Old Cellars, Cadgwith, Helston TR12 7JU
This lovely spot on The Lizard is recommended by our very own Jeni, a Cornish lass born and bred in nearby Mullion. The cream teas are generous, the scones big and fluffy and the location just gorgeous, and a perfect stop off if you’re doing a coastal walk.
Dolly’s Tea Room, 21 Church Street, Falmouth TR11 3EG
Set right on the high street above the town’s one and only book shop (The Falmouth Bookseller), climb the rickety stairs and you’ll find yourself transported back in time in this lovely little tea room. Hunker down in one of the window seats and enjoy fab cakes and incredible cream teas. I recommend the ‘Thunder and Lightening’ cream tea – a traditional Cornish teatime treat which replaces the jam with golden syrup.
Woods Cafe, Callywith Cottage, Cardinham Woods, Bodmin PL30 4AL
A cream tea always tastes better after a good stomp, and there’s no better place to do this than in Cardinham Woods. After conquering a trail or two, head to Woods Cafe – a deliciously kitsch gingerbread house – for a stonking cream tea. Well, you deserve it!
Cabin Cafe, Crackington Haven, St Gennys, Bude, Cornwall EX23
Cracking cream teas (excuse the pun) with incredible sea views from the terrace where blankets are provided if the weather is a bit iffy. Everything is made on site and the service is really friendly.
Polpeor Cafe, The Lizard (the most southerly cafe)
This iconic cafe is perfectly situated right on Lizard Point with the most spectacular sea views. Watch out for sea life such as Choughs and seals whilst enjoying a cream tea. Alternatively, why not try one of their HUGE doughnuts, which is also served with clotted cream and jam. Truly decadent, you’ll probably want to hike along the cliffs afterwards!
The Camel Trail Tea Garden, Nanscarne, Nanstallon, Bodmin PL30 5LG
Walking or cycling the Camel Trail builds up a real appetite and this little tea garden is perfectly placed for a break. Open March to November, it has been running for over 20 years and is surrounded by apple orchards – a really idyllic spot. The cream teas are lovely, or if you want something a bit heartier they serve great lunches too.
The Cook Book, 4 Cape Cornwall Street, St Just, TR19 7JZ
If you’re exploring the Land’s End area this is a good stop off, with the benefit of being a huge second hand bookshop too. The cakes and soups are great, and it’s dog friendly too. Why not try a savoury Cornish cheese tea instead with cheese scones, local cheeses and chutney.
Trevaskis Farm, Connor Downs, Hayle TR27 5JQ
Set in over 28 acres of land, this farm includes ‘Pick Your Own’ fruit and veg, a market shop, butchers, deli and rare breeds centre and also has a great restaurant serving cream teas, lunches and evening meals. Children will love looking at the animals. The shop is incredible and well worth taking a look – you’ll pick up quality local goodies to take back to your retreat. The food is delicious and the cakes and cream teas amazing.
The Alverton, Tregolls Road, Truro TR1 1ZQ
For a traditional high tea with finger sandwiches, fresh scones and delicate cakes, Ellen recommends The Alverton. Overlooking the garden and terrace, it’s a dainty affair and something a little different from the Cornish norm.
Little Bo Cafe, Sennen Cove, Penzance TR19 7DF
Overlooking the iconic beach of Sennen, this cute and oh-so-busy cafe serves the most incredible cakes and cream teas and the portions are very, very generous. Why not spend a day on the beach, explore the local art galleries and end up here? Definitely the most perfect, most Cornish way to spend your day.
Feeling hungry? Take a look at our luxury cottages in Cornwall here.
