Whittington's Tea Barge
A charming tea barge on the River Thames offering a unique afternoon tea experience with friendly service and delicious treats.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Whittington's Tea Barge
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming tea barge on the River Thames offering a unique afternoon tea experience with friendly service and delicious treats.
Book in advance
Reserve your spot, especially for peak times or special events, to ensure a memorable experience aboard the barge.
Check weather for comfort
Dress warmly if visiting on a cold day, as the outdoor seating and river location can be breezy.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Tea house, Hong Kong-style cafe
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+44 7778 787308
Address
Hills Meadow, George St, Reading RG4 8DH, United Kingdom
Website
whittingtons-teabarge.co.uk/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Afternoon Tea on a Thames Barge
Indulge in a delightful afternoon tea experience aboard a charming barge on the River Thames, complete with quaint china sets and a peaceful ambiance.
Unique Hong Kong-Style Menu
Savor authentic Hong Kong-style dishes, such as French toast and beef noodles, available on select days for a unique culinary adventure.
Warm and Welcoming Hospitality
Experience exceptional service from friendly owners who make you feel instantly welcome, adding a personal touch to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book in advance
Reserve your spot, especially for peak times or special events, to ensure a memorable experience aboard the barge.
Check weather for comfort
Dress warmly if visiting on a cold day, as the outdoor seating and river location can be breezy.
Explore themed menus
Look out for special menus like Hong Kong-style dishes for a unique culinary experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book in advance
Reserve your spot, especially for peak times or special events, to ensure a memorable experience aboard the barge.
Check weather for comfort
Dress warmly if visiting on a cold day, as the outdoor seating and river location can be breezy.
Explore themed menus
Look out for special menus like Hong Kong-style dishes for a unique culinary experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners rave about the unique and charming experience of afternoon tea on Whittington's Tea Barge, highlighting the delicious scones, warm hospitality, and picturesque riverside location. Many appreciate the blend of traditional British tea service with unique Hong Kong-inspired dishes, making it a memorable outing for families and couples alike. While generally praised, some reviews suggest booking in advance to guarantee a spot, especially for the popular Hong Kong-style menu.
"Took my elderly parents here for afternoon tea. There is a car park close by so not far for them to walk. One of the owners was immediately on hand to help and guide my Parents onto the boat and get seated. The other owner explained how the afternoon tea worked. We chose our sandwiches, tea and a cake each. We didn't have to wait long for the sandwiches, scones and tea, all served on quaint china sets and quirky teapots. The sandwiches are freshly made and the scones a good size. Several times we were asked if we wanted more tea or cream and jam. You just get one cake each rather than a selection but they were moist and tasty. Great location on the Thames although wrap up warm if its a cold day. Really good service from the friendly owners."
Annette Shortland
"I recently visited Whittington’s Tea Barge in Reading and loved it! Perfectly located along the River Thames, it’s a peaceful retreat just steps from a large car park—super convenient! The hospitality was outstanding; the host’s warmth and attentiveness made me feel instantly welcome. Coupled with great tea and treats, it’s a delightful spot for a relaxing break on a very reasonable price. A true gem! And I highly recommend the boat trip!"
Lincoln Fok
"A literal fairytale experience. We were lucky enough to sit at the front of the boat and enjoy our lunch and cream tea and scones which was delicious!! Highly recommend this to anyone who is visiting reading. The staff were the warmest, most welcoming people ever."
Hollie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
It offers a charming afternoon tea experience aboard a barge on the River Thames, providing a peaceful retreat with delightful food and warm hospitality.
Yes, it's recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak times or for special events, to secure your spot.
On Fridays, they offer Hong Kong-style dishes such as French toast and beef noodles, providing a unique culinary option.
Absolutely! It's a family-friendly spot that appeals to both adults and children, offering a special and memorable tea experience.
Yes, the vessel can be hired for private parties and events, offering a unique setting for celebrations.
The scones with clotted cream and jam are a highlight, along with the traditional English afternoon tea and the unique Hong Kong-style dishes.
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The 14 Best Afternoon Tea Spots in Berkshire
If you’re looking for an afternoon tea with a difference, then look no further than High Tea on Whittington’s Tea Barge in Reading. Enjoy sandwiches, scones with jam and lashings of clotted cream, a glass of bubbly and tea and coffee. Whittington’s Special Occasion Vintage Tea on this novel barge will set you back £20.00 per person (which includes a glass of bubbly) and will be a day you won’t forget in a hurry.
11 Berkshire spots to enjoy afternoon tea with your mum
An afternoon tea experience with a difference, this barge on the River Thames accessed from George Street, Caversham, Berkshire has a Mother's Day special with limited spaces. Charging £28 the High Tea experience includes sandwiches, homemade scones with lashings of jam and clotted cream, as well as cake, a glass of bubbly and the option of tea or coffee. All the information on booking can be found here.
Berkshire's best afternoon teas perfect for a birthday, baby shower or post-lockdown treat
A unique and quirky setting for a vintage afternoon tea onboard a barge on the River Thames. You can even hire the vessel for a private afternoon tea party cruise, tucking into freshly-prepared scones, cakes and sandwiches while spotting kingfishers and kits on the river. Whittington's afternoon teas range from £6 to £20 per person (if you add a glass of bubbly).
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