Where to go in Canberra for a decadent high tea

An established tradition at the heritage-listed Hyatt Hotel, this afternoon high tea is held daily. Offering an array of savouries (including finger sandwiches) and sweets (think freshly baked scones, jam and cream and a selection of tempting cakes), you can finish your afternoon with a lakeside stroll through the Lennox Gardens. The only question is, jam before cream or cream before jam?

Available Friday to Sunday, for a special treat head to the Queen’s Terrace Café at Parliament House to enjoy tea, coffee, sparkling wine, and an array of food selections to nibble on – including dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options. Once you’re done, tour the gardens or enjoy the architecture to make it even more memorable.

High Tea at First Edition

At First Edition, Saturdays are for High Tea – the giggly kind. Starting at 11am for $69 per person, for two hours you can enjoy free-flowing teapot cocktails (with two options to choose from), a selection of decadent sweets – think: artisanal macarons and chocolate-coated strawberries – and savoury delights. Black caviar atop crispy potato cakes, anyone?

Howling Moon High Tea

Offering stunning views of the city and a unique take on high tea sweet and savoury bites, Howling Moon is the place to go if you’re looking for cocktails rather than coffee.

You’ll have to keep an eye out to see when they kick off again for 2025 – but it’s well worth the wait.

High Tea at Adore Tea  

Available at 11am on weekends, here you’ll discover a rotating menu inspired by the seasons. An example? For summer, you’ll receive a sparkling iced tea on arrival before enjoying a menu comprised of a variety of tea-infused canapés, desserts, and scones – all complemented by three types of tea. And honestly, they had us at a freshly baked blueberry, lemon and thyme scone served with whipped cream and a French Earl Grey tea-infused strawberry jam.

Magical Afternoon Tea at Space Kitchen

We couldn’t write a list of high tea options in Canberra without mentioning the magical afternoon tea at Space Kitchen. Created to celebrate winning the title of Australia’s Best Patisserie, this will hit the spot of anyone with a sweet tooth.

For $59 you’ll sample a mind-blowing selection of desserts including a Psychedelic Mushroom Strawberry Mousse and a Melba Peach custard.

This is all served alongside a hot drink of your choice from their extensive list or, if you want something with a bit more of a kick (candy is dandy, but liquor is quicker) for an extra $10 you’ll receive an alcoholic beverage on arrival.