We asked you guys for your top recommendations for afternoon tea in town and you did not disappoint! 

As we are nearing the end of National Afternoon Tea Week, here is a fresh list of the best places in Reading for you to enjoy tea, cake, and scones. Enjoy!

On our callout to Facebook, one person said "I do like tea + scone at 7 Flowers & Tea on Cross Street."

Rated mostly five stars on TripAdvisor, the small independently run florist has had many a happy customer through its doors. 

One such person said "I had my daughter's Hen day here in February 2024. Flower arranging and afternoon tea. We were all made to feel very special.

"Flowers and tea were excellent. The staff were very helpful. Nothing was too much trouble. Will definitely be coming here again."

Another tea spot that multiple people gave their votes for was Whittingtons Tea Barge next to the River Thames. 

One person that visited the narrowboat serving teas, coffees, and cakes rated them five stars and wrote the following message: 

"Delicious afternoon tea in a barge on the Thames. Outside water laps against the windows and swans drift past. Inside warm smiles, flowers on the tables, bunting above, really good sandwiches, scones, cake and tea in prettiest mismatched china.

"Cheerful, relaxed atmosphere, owners so keen you should enjoy it, gluten free no trouble at all, very reasonable prices."

Another top contender mentioned was Waterwheel Bar at the Mill at Sonning. 

One person said in their five star review "Been twice now and booked again for later in the year - shows what a great place this is!


"It's a converted watermill where dinner is served first (buffet main course with excellent choice/quality, desert and drinks ordered and brought to your table)."

Other suggestions included Danesfield House Hotel in Henley, Riseley tea rooms, and The Avenue Deli. 

Another strong contender was Malmaison which is situated opposite Reading train station. 

One person who reviewed Malmaison said the following: "We have been wanting to check out some local afternoon teas and got a good impression from the Malmaison website that it would be a bit different and interesting.

"Fortunately, we were not disappointed. Presented with a good variety of teas, milk/alternatives, or other drinks if required to accompany a selection of tasty food including sliders, spicy beef wraps and warm scones with plenty of clotted cream and jam."