Top five afternoon teas in the Cotswolds

It's not only more fashionable than ever, but the cakes are better than ever they were.

Huffkins

This Cotswold-wide family of bakeries and tearooms offers a classic afternoon tea for two, served on a tiered stand. Sandwiches, warm scones and local clotted cream - it's all here, along with a selection of the exquisite Continental-style patisserie that has made Huffkins a household name. (www.huffkins.com)

Dormy House

Afternoon tea at this characterful boutique hotel is served in The Potting Shed - not an actual lean-to, but an on-site gastro-pub. Visitors with hearty appetites won't want to miss the Farmhouse Tea (above): cream cheese and bacon scones, mini sausage rolls, a mini Cotswold pasty, sandwiches and tarts. The slightly more refined Champagne Charlie tea comes with a glass of Veuve Clicquot. (dormyhouse.co.uk; 01386 852711)

Three Choirs Vineyard

If the sun is shining and you're in the mood for something a little different, book Three Choirs' afternoon tea package, which includes a tour of the vineyard and wine tasting for two. Expect finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream and jam and a selection of homemade cakes. (www.three-choirs-vineyards.co.uk; 01531 890223)

The Kitchen

The Kitchen was recently voted Best Local Tea Shop in the Cotswolds, and it's easy to see why: the cakes, slices, cupcakes, tarts, cookies, macaroons and gluten-free treats on offer are heavenly; the millionaire's shortbread come highly recommended. It's a good idea to book, as it gets busy even during the week. (www.thekitchenminch.co.uk; 01453 882655)

The Marshmallow

https://www.facebook.com/TheMarshmallowTearoom/photos/a.881909948490788.1073741827.628562800492172/987020551313060/?type=3&theater

Given an Award of Excellent by the Tea Guild for four years running, this traditional tearoom boasts an impressive selection of specialty brews from all over the world. Supplement your cup of Gunpowder or Spicy Chai with a slice of gateau from the teatime trolley, or warm buttered crumpets. (www.facebook.com/TheMarshmallowTearoom; 01608 651536)

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Rich, unctuous and wickedly good, clotted cream is the pride of the West Country.

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