WHAT better way to while away a few hours on a summer's day than an afternoon tea. Whether you want to spend a little or are celebrating a special occasion, here’s our guide to afternoon tea venues across the area.

Chewton Glen

If you’re splashing out and after a grand setting, the Chewton Glen could be just the ticket. At £29.50, you can take enjoy Marryat's Afternoon Tea, named after the celebrated naval officer Captain Marryat, between 3pm and 4.30pm in The Dining Room or on the terrace if the weather is good. It’s a quintessentially English affair with sandwiches including smoked salmon with dill butter, egg and cress, roast beef and horseradish sauce and Somerset brie with pear chutney. Plus, you’ll get a selection of homemade cakes, plain and fruit scones.

The Cottonwood Boutique Hotel

Calling all chocoholics. The Cottonwood Boutique Hotel in East Overcliff Drive serves a chocolate afternoon tea priced at £16.95 per person which features assorted sandwiches, a chocolate scone which comes with cream and chocolate spread, plus a selection of chocolate cakes and chocolate dipped strawberries. And if that wasn’t enough chocolate for you, instead of tea or coffee and you can enjoy a hot chocolate or even a chocolate cocktail. The hotel also holds a chocolate buffet once a month, too.

The Cumberland Hotel

If you're more of a gin lover than a tea drinker, The Cumberland Hotel has got you covered. You can enjoy their afternoon tea served between 3pm and 5pm with a twist. Diners can tuck into a selection of finger sandwiches, homemade raisin and cinnamon scones, a selection of handmade miniature puddings and cakes, however, you will be able to enjoy it with a Hendrick's tea cocktail made using fresh cucumber, elderflower syrup, Hendrick's gin, gomme syrup, fresh lemon peel, plus an artisan Earl Grey tea, shaken on ice, for £27 per person.

The Living Room

For those who don't have a sweet tooth, The Living Room in Westbourne serves a savoury tea for £18 as part of their menu. Delights include sourdough bread, smoked cheese, charcuterie meats, pickles, candied bacon, savoury scones, butter and

homemade chilli jam. Plus, you can also tuck into a mini sausage roll, scotch egg and pork pie. A traditional afternoon tea is also served along with a gluten free and vegan variation, so everyone should be catered for.

Frieda’s Afternoon Tea Bus Tour

Want to enjoy afternoon tea while seeing the sights of Bournemouth? Then hop aboard Frieda’s afternoon tea bus and you can do just that. The journey starts at Bournemouth Pier before the bus makes its way to Boscombe Pier. Customers are able to enjoy sandwiches, cakes and pastries with a sea view as the bus travels along the coast with a few stops along the way. Costs £30 for adults and £25 for children.