Buckinghamshire foodies revealed their favourite spots for an afternoon tea treat.

The fans of the tasty tradition dating back to 1840 shared where to go on the weekend. While the pandemic forced people to enjoy at home, now most iconic tea rooms are open again, including a hidden gem in a 16th century cottage.

The Red Lion Tea Room in Bradenham had the best afternoon tea in the county, Bucks Free Press readers thought on social media.

READ MORE: Amersham Owned charity shop official opening approaches

Its £22 selection of cakes, scones, finger sandwiches served with tea or coffee was described as “better than the Ritz!”

Red Lion Tea Room on Bradenham Wood Lane is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 4pm, and tea with bubbles cost £24. Those fancying to stop by for afternoon tea should allow 24-hour notice.

A close second was The Apple Orchard on West Wycombe High Street.

At first look, the charming period cottage appears to be a gift and furniture shop, but it also has a hidden family- friendly café boasting a garden and indoor seating.

The Apple Orchard cafe is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 4.30pm, and on summer Sundays from 10am to 5pm. While the café has no set prize for afternoon tea, they have regularly changing selection of cakes and pastries, and pot of tea for two costs £5.5.

Third best afternoon tea was at the luxury hotel Cliveden House in Taplow.

Surrounded by stunning landscaped greenery and the Rose Garden, the its afternoon tea experiences started from £45 per person.

The luxury set offers traditional British savoury treats with modern touches, freshly baked scones with cream and homemade strawberry jam.

The sweet selection includes Queen Elizabeth’s favourite chocolate biscuit designed for Platinum Jubilee.

For those looking for extra indulgence, Cliveden also has a Champagne afternoon tea from £62 per person.

READ MORE: Tom Kerridge defends menu price at Hand and Flowers amid cost of living crisis

The Cliveden afternoon teas are served in The Cliveden Dining Room Monday to Saturday between 12pm and 2.30pm, and in The Great Hall on Sundays from 4.15 to 4.30pm.

Readers also named Stoke Place, Slice of Elegance, Tilly and the High Tea Bucks delivery and pick-up afternoon tea service, Haddenham Garden Centre, Crazy Bear Beaconsfield, Waddesdon Manor, Hartwell House Hotel near Aylesbury, Complete Angler Marlow, Danesfield House Hotel and Spa, and Missenden Abbey among their favourites.