OpenPedro's Fish Restaurant and Takeaway
40 Terminus Rd, Eastbourne BN21 3LP, United Kingdom
Welcome to Dickens Tea Cottage
Dickens Tea Cottage is a charming traditional English tea-room nestled in Eastbourne. Open from Wednesday through Saturday, it specializes in serving delightful breakfasts, lunches, and exquisite afternoon teas. On Sundays, the cottage transforms for a cozy roast dinner service, creating the perfect ambiance for a relaxed family gathering. Enjoy the welcoming atmosphere, filled with fascinating decor and friendly staff, who make every visit feel special. With a robust selection of teas and delectable homemade pastries, this quaint cafe draws patrons for both its rich history and the warmth of its hospitality.
Welcome to Dickens Tea Cottage, a charming traditional English tea-room nestled in Eastbourne. Open Wednesday to Saturday, we delight guests with an exquisite selection of breakfasts, lunches, and scrumptious afternoon teas. Join us on Sundays for a delectable English roast dinner. Our cozy atmosphere is accented by fascinating decor, creating the perfect backdrop for enjoying our beloved scones, cakes, and a pot of tea. Experience heartfelt service from our family-run team and savor the warmth of our community-focused environment. Whether you're dining in or enjoying our delivery options, a delightful culinary experience awaits you at Dickens Tea Cottage.Services, Amenities and More
Service options
On-site services
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great tea selection
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Photo Gallery
View Menu Photos
Reviews Overview
Most Liked
Guests rave about the superb selection of teas, each brewed to perfection and served with a charming elegance. The homemade scones earn frequent praise as they are always fresh and flaky, often considered the best in the UK. The delicious shortbread and rich cakes complement the tea perfectly, creating a delightful experience. Patrons appreciate the warm hospitality of the staff, who provide thoughtful service, adding to the overall atmosphere. Also, the inviting decor filled with fascinating antiques captures the hearts of many, creating an Instagram-worthy background for teacups and cakes.
Most Disliked
Some guests mention that the limited opening days can be frustrating, with only Wednesday to Saturday serving a full menu and Sundays dedicated solely to roast dinners. A few reviews indicate that on busy days, there may be a wait for tables, which can detract from the experience. Occasionally, certain specialties may run out if popular items are not restocked promptly. It’s best to arrive early for afternoon tea to ensure a full selection of pastries. Despite these minor issues, most visitors leave with fond memories and a strong desire to return.
User Reviews
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maz m.
What a lovely way to celebrate our Mum's birthday! Afternoon tea for us all with delicious sandwiches, warm scones, shortbread and scrumptious cakes. A great choice to pick from , friendly service, such warmth given. A really lovely family run place and filled to the brim with fascinating decor and trinkets. We will definitely be going back again....and soon!
PY
Paul Y.
Five stars isn’t enough! We had a fantastic visit to the Dickens Tea Cottage. The scones were the best we had anywhere in the UK—fresh, flaky, and clearly made with love. The recipe has been passed down from the previous owners and it shows. The current owner and his daughter were absolutely lovely—charming, welcoming, and full of great conversation. This place is a true hidden gem. Highly recommend stopping in.
LC
Lisa C.
The most magical place in Eastbourne. I’ve had the loveliest day having their homemade cheese and onion flan. Also loved the elderflower drink! I was even returning later for the lemon crêpe! I can tell you this place is a must visit, and I will personally never forget this wonderful experience! Such sweet people xX
SC
Sabina C.
One of the cutest and cozy cafes in Sussex. Visited this place with my friend today and the atmosphere is unlike in any other cafe. We are definitely coming back again! The staff is also very friendly and crepes were nice.
NA
Nick A.
Really enjoyed eating here.We had the soup and a great toastie. Love the atmosphere and it was a great place. Really want to try the deserts next time . Which hopefully will be soon
WM
Wendy M.
This is Eastbourne’s precious little gem. And it’s only a few steps across the road from the Town Hall. The atmosphere, the Charles Dickens decor + memorabilia, the cosy comfort, the relaxed experience…And it’s provided by the adorable Maria + John. Maria, creates from her kitchen, with a little help from her small delightful team, everything so delicious, that we return time + time again to savour more. John is Maria’s Dad + he looks after front of house splendidly. Lovelier people are hard to find anywhere. You must try it…you won’t be disappointed!
JC
Joy C.
I had afternoon tea here yesterday with my two daughter's. It was wonderful. All the food was lovely, so were the people. They couldn't do enough for you. The price was very good as well. I'd recommend it to everyone. Just want to say thank you to them again.
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Location & Hours
Opening Hours
MondayOpen
TuesdayOpen
WednesdayOpen
ThursdayOpen
FridayOpen
SaturdayOpen
SundayOpen
Location
Frequently Asked Questions
Dickens Tea Cottage opens Wednesday through Saturday for breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon teas. On Sundays, it serves traditional English roast dinners from 11:15 AM to 2:30 PM.
Expect a delightful selection including cream teas, homemade scones, and delicious cakes. The drinks menu features various coffee options and a great tea selection.
Yes, this family-run tea room creates a warm atmosphere perfect for celebrating occasions like birthdays. Its cozy decor and friendly service enhance the experience for families.
Dickens Tea Cottage accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, making it convenient for diners.
Yes, Dickens Tea Cottage offers a wheelchair-accessible car park, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
Why visit Dickens Tea Cottage
A visit to Dickens Tea Cottage is a must for those seeking a unique escape from the modern hustle. The blend of historical charm and delicious food makes it an unforgettable experience. Make sure to try the afternoon tea, renowned for its generous portions and delectable scones. Arriving early on weekends ensures you snag a table and enjoy the full range of offerings without the wait. Engage in delightful conversations with the welcoming staff, who are eager to share their love for tea and baked goods. This cute and cozy cafe not only delights the palate but also warms the heart, making it a treasured spot in the community. Each visit is sure to leave a sweet aftertaste, making return trips a common occurrence.
