Manchester’s only location specifically dedicated to afternoon tea aims to offer elegant dining in sumptuous surroundings. Set within the Grade II-listed Midland Hotel and overlooking St Peter’s Square, The Tea Room is a chic, relaxing space with crisp white table linen. A selection of fine loose-leaf teas includes three bespoke blends; try the malty black Assam and Indonesian blend or the smoky lapsang souchong with an intoxicating hit of whisky. Our dainty sandwiches came with various modern twists: from English cucumber with zingy Hendrick’s gin and apple chutney on dark malt bread, to prawn and crayfish Rockefeller on spinach bread. Freshly baked scones (still warm) arrived with Cornish clotted cream and a selection of jams, while attractive individual cakes included roasted pecan tart, Yorkshire rhubarb and custard, and a rich dark chocolate delice. A glass of chilled Champagne adds yet more indulgence to The Tea Room’s afternoon delight.