Afternoon Tea Etiquette – The Tea Rooms Way

Afternoon Tea might be rooted in tradition, but here at The Tea Rooms, we like to mix classic charm with a big dollop of personality.

So whether you’re visiting for your first ever Afternoon Tea or you’re a seasoned scone-scoffer, here’s our light-hearted guide to Afternoon Tea etiquette — The Tea Rooms way.

☕ 1. Pinkies Up? Totally Optional.

You can hold your teacup however you like — pinkie out, in, or wrapped around the whole thing like it’s your lifeline. We won’t judge. (Okay, maybe just a tiny bit if it’s two hands and slurping 😆)

🍰 2. Scones: Cream or Jam First?

This is the age-old debate. In Kent, we do love a bit of jam on first… but honestly, we’re happy as long as you’re enjoying yourself and not starting a food fight.

Just please, don’t call them "skawns" — it’s "scones" as in “cones”. (We’re kidding. Kind of.)

🧁 3. It's Totally Fine to Eat the Top Tier First

Tradition says to start with savouries and work your way up, but hey — life’s short and that lemon drizzle might be calling your name. We believe in cake before rules.

🥂 4. It’s an Occasion, So Make it Yours

Afternoon Tea should feel like a treat — whether it’s a birthday, catch-up, date day, or solo break. Dress up, dress down, sip slowly or devour every crumb. There’s no right way… only your way.

💬 Planning Your First Visit?

We’d love to welcome you. Whether you’re booking our standard Afternoon Tea or going all-out with a themed experience in the Wizard, Alice, or Gothic Room — we promise it’ll be special.

Behind the Scenes: What Goes Into Our Cakes at The Tea Rooms

Ever wonder what it takes to make those beautiful cakes you see on our counter — or in the party rooms?

At The Tea Rooms, every single cake is made from scratch with care, creativity, and a whole lot of love (plus a bit of icing sugar in our hair). In this post, we’re taking you behind the scenes to show you what really goes into the bakes that make our customers smile.

🧁 1. It Starts Early (and With a Very Good Playlist)

We’re in the kitchen before the sun’s up, prepping ingredients, preheating ovens, and setting the tone for the day. The smell of melted chocolate and baked sponge before 8am? It’s the dream. (Well, some mornings 😅)

And yes — there’s always music playing. Baking without a good soundtrack is just mixing.

🎂 2. Every Cake Has a Story

From custom birthday cakes to themed party desserts and afternoon tea favourites, each bake is made with someone in mind. We consider flavours, decorations, colours, and often get customer requests that add a personal twist.

Whether it’s a gothic treat for a themed event, or a stack of cupcakes for a child’s party — every single item is decorated by hand with love and care.

🧺 3. It’s Not Just About Looks — It’s About Quality

We use real ingredients (no cake mix shortcuts here), and we store and serve everything with care. That’s part of why our cakes taste as good as they look — and why we keep hearing, “That was the best cake I’ve ever had.”

💬 Want to Order a Cake?

If you’re planning a celebration, a themed event, or just want something a bit special — get in touch! We offer bespoke cakes, treat boxes, and can often add personalised extras too.

Why Our Wizard Room Is the Most Magical Party Spot in Folkestone

If you’re looking for a birthday party, celebration, or afternoon tea with a little extra magic, our Wizard Room might just be the perfect escape from the ordinary.

Hidden behind a brick wall and flickering candlelight, this themed room at The Tea Rooms in Folkestone is something really special. Here’s why it’s become one of the most talked-about party rooms around:

🪄 1. It Feels Like Stepping Into Another World

From enchanted décor and potion bottles to spellbound snacks and floating candles, the entire space has been designed to feel like a wizarding classroom — but much cosier (and tastier!).

It’s full of charm and mystery, perfect for fans of a certain magical world or anyone who loves a bit of fantasy with their afternoon tea.

🍰 2. The Food is Worthy of a Great Hall

Our Wizard Afternoon Tea includes a mix of magical savoury bites and sweet treats, themed drinks like Polyjuice Punch and Butterbeer, and even optional extras like a Potion Class to really bring the magic to life.

We also offer full Wizard Birthday Party Packages, including games, a party host, and themed decorations — you just bring the guests and we handle the magic!

🎉 3. It’s Made for Special Occasions (and Great Photos)

Whether it’s a birthday, baby shower, family day out, or surprise gift for a fan, the Wizard Room is all about making memories. We’ve had witches, wizards, and even dragons celebrate here — and everyone leaves smiling.

🗓️ Booking Info:

The Wizard Room is available to book for private events, and Wizard Afternoon Teas run on select dates during school holidays.

Spaces are limited and fill up quickly — especially during half term — so we always recommend booking in advance.

3 Reasons People Are Talking About Our Gothic Afternoon Tea in Folkestone

If you’ve been hunting for an afternoon tea that’s a little less pastel and a little more dramatic — you’ve just found it.

Our Gothic Afternoon Tea isn’t just about food (though yes, it’s delicious). It’s about the atmosphere, the detail, and the feeling that you’ve stepped into another world. Here’s why people can’t stop talking about it:

🕯️ 1. The Setting is Pure Theatre

From flickering candles, to moody stautes, our gothic setup is all about immersive atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just love a darker aesthetic, it’s moody, magical, and totally Instagram-worthy.

🧁 2. The Food is to Die For

We’ve taken the traditional afternoon tea and given it a luxurious twist — think rich flavours, seasonal ingredients, and a balance of sweet and savoury that leaves you satisfied and enchanted. Served with you r very own blood bag drink, and the option to add a cheeky potion (Vodka), if you're feeling fancy.

🎃 3. It’s a One-of-a-Kind Experience in Folkestone

You won’t find anything like this locally. It’s alternative, beautifully done, and a total treat whether you’re coming as a couple, a group of friends, or celebrating a special occasion.

🖤 Upcoming Gothic Afternoon Tea Dates:

Sunday June 22nd 12:30-14:30
Booking is essential — spaces go quickly and we keep the experience intimate.