Two Manchester hotels have been recognised for their exceptional afternoon tea in the national Afternoon Tea Awards 2026. The Rex, formerly Hotel Gotham, and King Street Townhouse were among 28 venues to receive the 'Award of Excellence' for delivering the highest standards in afternoon tea service.
Prestigious Awards Celebrate Afternoon Tea Excellence
Held at the luxurious Raffles London at The OWO in the capital, The Afternoon Tea Awards 2026 celebrate the best in class when it comes to dainty finger sandwiches, exquisite cakes and top-notch tea. A team of independent judges looked at all aspects of the afternoon tea experience, from making a booking to paying the bill, with a strong focus on presentation and service. The awards are run by AfternoonTea.co.uk, the UK’s premier afternoon tea guide featuring over 800 venues across the UK and Ireland.
Representatives from the top three venues gathered to receive their awards and to hear the announcement of the winners of the 'Award of Excellence', which recognises the best in afternoon tea service and creativity.
Keith Newton on Diversity of Afternoon Tea
Keith Newton, Managing Director of AfternoonTea.co.uk, said: "What strikes me every year is how diverse afternoon tea has become. There is something for all tastes, from the timeless elegance of a classic traditional afternoon tea to the bold creativity of a contemporary or themed experience." He added: "Behind every award is a team of people who genuinely care about what they do, and it's a privilege to be able to recognise that on a national stage."
The Rex: Dramatic Rooftop Setting
At The Rex, judges were immediately struck by its dramatic rooftop setting. "The view across the rooftops of Manchester framed by the beautiful windows gave a dramatic start to the afternoon tea. The impressive view gave the room a feeling of grandeur," judges wrote. The Rex, which recently entered its new era after formerly being known as Hotel Gotham, is a luxury boutique hotel and private members retreat located at 100 King Street. Housed within a former bank, the hotel has 60 bedrooms, the 2 AA Rosette-awarded Reign restaurant, and Reserve, an exclusive private members’ club with outdoor terraces overlooking the city.
Recognised by AfternoonTea.co.uk for its exceptional service, refined menu and unforgettable setting above the city, The Lutyens Afternoon Tea at the hotel is named in honour of the building’s original designer, the celebrated British architect Edwin Lutyens. Served in Reign Restaurant on the sixth floor, diners can expect finger sandwiches cut with precision, warm scones ready for generous clouds of clotted cream and jewel-bright jam, all accompanied by a selection of fine teas.
Available from Thursday through Sunday, 12.30pm until 4pm, the summer afternoon tea starts at £35 with the addition of sparkling wine taking it up to £44, and Champagne, £48.50. It features a selection of sandwiches including Chicken Caesar, Parmesan, gem, bacon, and an assortment of home-baked cakes, treats and scones. They also offer gluten-free and vegetarian options, as well as a savoury choice and kids afternoon tea at £16.50.
King Street Townhouse: Warm and Welcoming Experience
At King Street Townhouse, it was the warmth of the experience that stood out: "The room has a warm, cosy feeling that was very welcoming. The lighting and music added to that feeling - it felt like somewhere you could relax." King Street Townhouse Hotel offers 40 guestrooms, ESPA Spa & Gym, and dedicated event spaces for weddings, special occasions, and corporate events. The Tavern restaurant serves exceptional British classics, while the Afternoon Tea Lounge serves decadent treats inspired by timeless flavours.
The Afternoon Tea at King Street Townhouse is one of Manchester’s most-loved experiences, served in the cosy elegance of the Afternoon Tea Lounge. Everything is handmade by top pastry chefs using quality seasonal ingredients, with a menu that changes twice each season. Served seven days a week, from 12pm until 6pm, the tea option is priced at £38 per person; the cocktail option at £49; and Laurent-Perrier Champagne option at £52. The traditional afternoon tea includes roast beef, horseradish and watercress sandwiches, sweet treats like blueberry, lemon & violet cake and a selection of teas by tea brand Newby. There is also a savoury afternoon tea option, which is followed up by a selection of British cheeses served with chutney, grapes, crackers, quince jelly and parmesan shortbread.
The luxury hotel recently underwent a transformation with a design refresh introducing newly reimagined event spaces and a collection of Signature Guestrooms, while honouring the building’s Grade II-listed heritage. This included updates to the hotel’s South Terrace and Lounge, long admired for its panoramic skyline views.
