Great West Way Travel Magazine | Issue 08

THE GREAT WEST WAY'S

TEA SHOPS

The Great West Way is an absolute delight for tea aficionados.

From traditional British-style tearooms to modern, hipster

coffeehouses, the vast array of quaint independent shops

along the Great West Way is certain not to disappoint

A

great way to experience the sights and sounds

of the Great West Way is to take a tour of its

many delightful tea shops. Whether you are

looking for an afternoon pick-me-up or a cozy

evening hangout, these establishments offer something

for everyone. From traditional Victorian tearooms with

freshly baked scones to modern cafés serving locally

sourced artisanal teas, these fabulous tea shops will

definitely satisfy your cravings.

One such example is the charming 7 Flowers &

Tea in central Reading, located on Cross Street. With

its homey atmosphere and colourful interior, one can

quickly immerse themselves in a delightful afternoon

tea session here, sharing a pot of speciality tea and a

scrummy cake, while taking in the tranquil atmosphere

and fresh floral aroma.

Those who prefer their cuppa with a side of artsy

vibes should check out the Total Health Cafe on Eastcott

Hill. This is an eclectic cafe and art gallery serving freshly

baked pastries and cakes, freshly roasted coffee, teas

and plenty of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free food

options. There’s an incredibly friendly atmosphere and

plenty of seating options, including a garden courtyard

– perfect for those sunny summer days when you want

to soak up some sun whilst sipping your brew. They hold

art classes for adults and kids and for those looking for

something a bit different, they even sell CBD cookies

and chocolates, and stock a large range of CBD retail

products including balms, oils, vapes and even bath

bombs! If you’re in the mood for a spot of retail therapy

head to the nearby Designer Outlet Swindon give your

legs a rest at the wildly modern SOHO Coffee Co.

On the way out of London you’ll pass through

Richmond, which has all the cosmopolitan kudos of

the capital but in a more serene setting. Vegan and

vegetarian café Tide Tables is the epitome of this

gratifying fusion. Hidden under an arch of Richmond

Bridge, it leads out onto a garden with superlative views

of the River Thames. For something more traditional, →

40 GreatWestWay.co.uk