Dainty sandwiches, delicious cakes, light and fluffy scones topped with jam and cream; what's not to love about afternoon tea?

The perfect pick-me-up between lunch and dinner (sometimes so lovely you won't need dinner), afternoon tea, or high tea as it's also known, is a treat to be enjoyed whether you have a sweet or savoury tooth.

We've taken a look at some of the best places to enjoy afternoon tea in Southampton and beyond.

Do you agree? Have we missed somewhere integral? Let us know where your favourites are in the comments.

  • Simons at Oxford, Southampton

​As well as delicious wine and cocktails, the afternoon tea menu at Simons look scrummy. Sandwiches include egg mayonnaise and watercress, cheddar and tomato chutney, seasoned cucumber and Scottish smoked salmon, cream cheese and rocket. Plus you can add a glass or a BOTTLE of Prosecco at an extra cost and make a proper afternoon of it.

  • Rosie Lea Tea House and Bakery, Brockenhurst

This award-winning tea room in the heart of the New Forest serves four different options for afternoon tea. From Afternoon Delights “Simplici – Tea” including either a sweet scone or cheddar scone and tea to the Royal-Tea with all the trimmings, you may want to take advantage of the scenery and walk it all afterwards. Absolutely delicious.

  • The Grand Harbour Hotel, Southampton

This luxury hotel offers three different types of afternoon tea ranging in cost from £7.95 to £45 for the Champagne afternoon tea for two. Perfect if you're after a quick but delicious refresment, or something for a special occasion.

  • Grand Cafe, Southampton

Not to be confused with the hotel (above), the Grand Cafe also offers the choice of a Champagne or prosecco afternoon tea. Sandwiches, scones and the chef's petits fours of the day are included as well as a wide variety of delicious teas. 

From a traditional cream tea to a full afternoon tea with or without a glass of fizz, this lovely hotel has all the ingredients for a fabulous afternoon. Perfect for a special occasion - or just a day with a y in the name.