It’s national afternoon tea week next week- which is the perfect excuse to  visit some of Bromley's best afternoon tea venues.

As a nation famous for our tea drinking it is only appropriate that we have a yearly celebration, after all tea drinking is arguably our country’s biggest ritual. 

Introduced in Britain in the early 1840’s afternoon tea started off as a mini-meal used to curb people’s hunger before their evening meal at 8pm. 

The delightful affair usually comprises delicate finger sized sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet pastries and cakes. 

Afternoon tea can be enjoyed almost anywhere including at home or in the park. However, the most splendid way to enjoy this British tradition is whilst being waited on in a hotel or tea room.

No matter your budget or taste, there is guaranteed to be an afternoon tea venue on this list to suit your preferences.

Java and Chai Tea Room

News Shopper:

The Green Room is an innovative zero waste and packaging shop as well as quaint tea room. 

The family run business offers cream tea costing £5.95 and afternoon tea which is £16 per person. 

The afternoon tea includes: homemade cakes, scones, jam and sandwiches as well as tea or coffee. 

Owner, Fatos Bater said: "We homemake all of our afternoon teas, including the jam. 

"It's important to us that we use the best organic ingredients for our customers and we really try to go above and beyond to ensure they have a wonderful time."

The Bromley Court Hotel

News Shopper:

Afternoon tea at the Bromley Court Hotel is served in the Garden Restaurant with, you guess it, views out across their gardens. 

The teas are served between 2pm and 5pm daily and pre-booking is essential. 

Included in the high tea: selection of sandwiches, cakes and sweet treats, fruit and plain scones with jam and cream, tea and coffee. 

The traditional afternoon tea is £21.50 per person but for £27.00 you can add a gladd of prosecco. 

Hotel Manager at the Bromley Court Hotel, Mark Taylor, said: "Our traditional and quintessentially British afternoon teas are so special because of their quality and the unique setting which overlooks our landscaped gardens."

The Lavendar House Cafe

News Shopper:

The Lavendar House Cafe opened in 2009 and can be found in Sundridge Park Village.

The award winning cafe offers a range of high tea options including childrens afternoon tea and a take home service. 

Afternoon tea costs £19.50 and must be booked in advance. The tea includes: sparkling fruit presse, finger sandwiches, mini quiche, fruit scones with clotted cream and jam, homemade cakes, macaroons, brownie bites, strawberries or raspberries, chocolates served with bottomless tea and coffee. 

The cafe is taking part in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme so afternoon teas are half price between Mondays and Wednesdays for the rest of the month.

The Croft Tea Room

The Croft Tea Room can be found in St Mary Cray village. 

The multi-award-winning tea room costs just £10.95 per person and includes: your choice of sandwich, fruit or plain scone, cake, cream, butter and jam with tea or coffee. 

They also offer a prosecco option and a high tea that comes with a savoury course such as eggs Benedict, Florentine or Royale.

Did we miss your favourite place off the list? Let us know about it in the comments.