The Queen's Platinum Jubilee is just a week away now, and that might inspire some to go out and enjoy an afternoon tea to celebrate the occasion.
It may be good to be prepared in case many people all try to book at once.
Here’s a roundup of some of the best places to get an afternoon tea in Southend, according to Tripadvisor reviews.
All venues listed here have at least a 4-star rating on Tripadvisor.
Afternoon tea in Southend
Aunt Sally’s Tea Room & Coffee Lounge
Where: 607 Southchurch Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2PN
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5
Starting this list off, we come to Aunt Sally's Tea Room & Coffe Lounge, which has received praise for its "lovely warm" service and food options.
Out of its 26 reviews, 22 of them have been rated as 'Excellent'.
One reviewer wrote: "This was my second afternoon tea here, the previous one being a couple of years ago. Once again I couldn't fault it, my friend and I were blown away by the gorgeous sandwiches and cakes, all beautifully presented, and lots of it!"
Anke's Tea and Coffee Lounge
Where: 481 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, Southend-on-Sea SS0 9LG
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5
Moving over to Westcliff now, Anke's Tea and Coffee Lounge is a good option for those looking for some light refreshment.
Out of its 124 reviews, 100 of them have been rated as 'Excellent'.
Praise has come in for its "great" coffee and "delicious" cakes.
One reviewer wrote: "One of my favourite places, been coming here for years, great food, great coffee, great selection of teas, great staff. Always get a warm welcome."
The Remedy Tea Shop
Where: 57 High Street, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1HZ
TripAdvisor rating: 4/5
The Remedy Tea Shop over on the High Street is another solid option for tea and cake, as well as savoury food.
Out of its 216 reviews, 99 of them have been rated as 'Excellent', with 63 as 'Very Good'.
One reviewer wrote: "Good valued, pleasant atmosphere and very polite cheerful staff. Even the rest room is nicely decorated. Thoroughly recommend."
The Novel Coffee Shop
Where: 98 London Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1PG
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5
A more unique option for tea, coffee and cake can be found with the Novel Coffee Shop on London Road.
As well as functioning as a coffee shop, they also sell secondhand books, DVDs and CDs in a "relaxed welcoming environment" according to their Facebook page.
Out of its 22 reviews, 19 of them have been rated as 'Excellent'.
One reviewer wrote: "Had a lovely afternoon here! Was waited on by superb staff that were warm and friendly and had a lovely conversation with a member of staff about their huge selection of books. Very hard to find a personable cafe like this anymore."
Evie's Parlour
Where: 182 Leigh Road, Leigh-on Sea, Southend-on-Sea, SS9 1BT
TripAdvisor rating: 4.5/5
Finally there is Evie's Parlour in Leigh-on-Sea is considered a good option for afternoon tea and cake by TripAdvisor reviewers.
Out of its 133 reviews, 98 of them have been rated as 'Excellent'.
Its sandwiches, scones and cakes have received much praise in particular.
One reviewer wrote: "Amazing Cream Tea in a lovely setting. Food was excellent it was great value for money and service was great.
"Would definitely recommend but make sure you make a reservation in advance as Evie’s is very popular."
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