Scones, petit fours and (of course) a perfectly brewed tea. Decadent high tea experiences are something Newcastle does well.

You may not associate Newcastle with high tea, but given its kilometres of shoreline and proximity to the Hunter Valley foodie scene, it makes complete sense that this 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 experience in Newcastle with your name on it.

1. 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 sandwiches and sweets, accompanied by fruit spritzes and various T2 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.

Address: New England Hwy and Cnr Four Mile Creek Rd, Ashtonfield NSW
Cost: From $65 per person

2. Autumn Rooms

Though technically a bottomless brunch (and priced accordingly), the traditional fare and array of Tea Collective teas make Autumn Rooms a must. Enjoy savoury and sweet treats from a seasonal menu, served alongside bottomless mimosas, coffee, tea and juice. The (bottomless) high tea runs every Saturday from 12pm until 2pm.

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

3. Anchorage

Another well-loved location for long lunches and stylish dinners in Port Stephens, Anchorage also hosts High Tea By The Sea daily between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. The menu is seasonal, featuring savoury pastries and sweet delights, plus bottomless T2 teas and 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.

Address: 26 Corlette Point Rd, Corlette NSW
Cost: $79 per person

4. B Farm

Although not in Newcastle, this nearby Port Stephens vineyard is worth a visit. It may already be on your radar thanks to its craft brewery and beer garden, but keep it in mind for high tea, too. Held in the dedicated Agnes High Tea Pavilion, which was modelled after the British country estate aesthetic, you’ll find traditional high tea delicacies served on fine bone china, accompanied by wine or Rabbit Hole tea, plus the farm’s own coffee and cordials.

Address: 3443 Nelson Bay Rd, Port Stephens NSW
Cost: From $75 per person

5. 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 event does sell out quickly.

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

6. Rydges Newcastle

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

Address: Cnr Wharf Rd and Merewether St, Newcastle NSW
Cost: $65 per adult; $29 per child