You can leave the grey pavements of Manchester behind and step directly through the looking glass at this whimsical tea room. Down a rabbit hole of peculiar décor and theatrical flair, reality quickly bends into an eccentric fantasy.
Dining with the Queen of Hearts
At Richmond Tea Rooms, the classic British afternoon tea gets a bold overhaul as you feel as if you’re dining with the Queen of Hearts. Guests can dig into an afternoon tea featuring towering, multi-tiered displays of finger sandwiches, baked scones loaded with clotted cream and jam, and bright, sweet treats to complete the feast. Diners can pair the culinary tower with traditional steaming pots of tea or elevate the celebration with glasses of fizz or a cocktail.
For those seeking a proper sugar rush, you’re in luck, too, thanks to a menu of cakes packed full of treats such as Victoria sponge cake, Boston cream cakes, chocolate fudge cake, carrot cake and more.
Alice in Wonderland-inspired décor and burlesque nights
The dining room at Richmond Tea Rooms borrows heavily from the famous Alice in Wonderland tale. Fairy lights drape across the ceiling, illuminating painted roses and lush floral arrangements to make you feel as though you’ve been invited to the Mad Hatter’s tea party.
Familiar “Eat Me” and “Drink Me” signs hang playfully overhead, adding to the space’s character. Visitors wanting a keepsake can also browse a small gift corner stocking quirky souvenirs. You’ll also find a spiral staircase that’s sure to put you in a spin.
Beyond the food, the location switches gears to host live entertainment. The schedule frequently features drag and burlesque shows, turning the tea room into a lively, glamorous stage for evening crowds.
Afternoon teas range in price from an Alice Afternoon Tea at £12 per person complete with tea, scones, clotted cream and jam to a Wonderland Champagne afternoon tea for £45 per person. Head to the Richmond Tea Rooms website to book a table for afternoon tea here.
Richmond Tea Rooms is located at 46 Sackville Street, Manchester, M1 3WE.
