Richmond Tea Rooms

Tucked away on Sackville Street, Richmond Tea Rooms has long been a tentpole of the Gay Village’s daytime scene. While Manchester isn’t exactly short on places to grab a scone, few locations commit to a theme quite as wholeheartedly as this Lewis Carroll-inspired retreat.

The interior is split into several distinct spaces, each designed to make you feel like you’ve been shrunk down and dropped into Alice in Wonderland. You’ve got the Enchanted Forest, complete with twinkling lights and woodland textures, and the Orangery—a bright, sun-drenched spot that manages to feel like a summer garden even when Manchester’s weather is doing its worst. It’s camp, it’s cluttered in the best way possible, and it’s a welcome departure from the minimalist “Scandi-grey” aesthetic that has Colonised much of the city centre.

The food follows the traditional afternoon tea blueprint but with a level of customisation that’s appreciated. They offer several tiers of service, ranging from a simple cream tea to the full “Richmond Tea” experience. The cakes and sandwiches are prepared in-house, and the tea menu is surprisingly extensive, featuring rare and exotic blends alongside your standard builders’ brew. If you’re looking for something stronger, the cocktail list is geared toward the whimsical, though they do a very respectable gin and tonic.

Beyond the daily service, Richmond Tea Rooms is famous for its Mad Hatter’s Tea Parties. These are strictly over-18s affairs—less about quiet finger sandwiches and more about sing-a-longs, party games, and some of the city’s finest drag queens. It’s loud, chaotic, and exactly what you want from a late-night tea party in the Village.

Whether you’re taking your mum for a birthday treat or nursing a hangover with a pot of Earl Grey and a drag show, it remains one of the most reliable spots in the city for sheer character. Bookings are recommended, especially on weekends, as it’s a popular stop for celebrations of all stripes.

What to expect

• Immersive Decor: High-concept rooms ranging from forest glades to Victorian glasshouses.
• Afternoon Tea: Multiple versions available, including gluten-free and vegan options.
• Themed Events: Frequent burlesque nights and drag-hosted “Mad Hatter” parties.
• Location: Right in the heart of the Gay Village, just a five-minute walk from Piccadilly Station.