We have another little gem to share with you, Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Rooms in Maldon High Street. This quaint little café has become a regular haunt for us, and for good reason.
Maldon is a charming town in the English county of Essex, known for its historic buildings and scenic views. Unsurprisingly, it has become a popular destination for tourists looking to experience traditional English culture.
Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room fits perfectly into this setting with its cosy and welcoming atmosphere. The moment you step inside, you are greeted with the delicious scent of freshly baked scones and cheerful chatter.
Like our previous delightful discovery in Maldon, the Paparazzi restaurant just a short walk away, Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room is run by a lovely team passionate about serving high-quality, homemade food.
Their menu boasts an impressive selection of teas and coffee, as well as a tempting array of cakes and pastries. We highly recommend trying their afternoon tea.
Table of contents
Mrs Salisbury’s Maldon Review Video
Check out our video slideshow showing what to expect at Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room in Maldon.
Location
Nestled in the heart of Maldon, Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room is easily accessible and a must-visit spot in town. Whether wandering through the quaint streets or exploring the nearby Promenade Park, stop by for a cuppa and some delicious treats.
Address
Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room
Brights Path
63 High Street
Maldon CM9 5EP
United Kingdom
Booking a Table
You can walk-in for Breakfast and Lunch. However, you must book a table for an afternoon tea or one of their evening events. You can make reservations through their website.
Opening Hours
Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room is open daily from 9am – 4pm. They open an hour later on bank holidays. So plan your visit accordingly!
| Monday | 9am–4pm |
| Tuesday | 9am–4pm |
| Wednesday | 9am–4pm |
| Thursday | 9am–4pm |
| Friday | 9am–4pm |
| Saturday | 9am–4pm |
| Sunday | 9am–4pm |
| Bank Holidays | 10am–4pm |
Special Events and Private Bookings
Mrs Salisburys is not just a tea room, it’s a hub of exciting events and special occasions. They host various themed evenings catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
For instance, their Christmas meals are a hit among locals and tourists alike. These meals often comprise a special three-course menu served in a warm and festive atmosphere.
In addition to these, they host cheese and wine nights, where guests can indulge in a selection of fine cheeses paired with exquisite wines.
When the weather is pleasant, Mrs Salisbury takes advantage of it by organizing al fresco evenings such as Tapas or BBQ nights, another highlight at Mrs Salisbury in the summer.
History of Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room
Mrs Salisburys Tea Room in Maldon is set in the historic ‘Church House’, a building steeped in rich history and character. Dating back to approximately 1770, Edward Bright, a salt manufacturer and grocer, originally occupied the house. The tea room is nestled in the charmingly named Brights Path, a nod to its original occupant.
The story behind Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room adds to its charm. Once the residence of Mrs Salisbury and her family, the original tea room was located next door. As the business grew in popularity, Mrs Salisbury decided to open up her own home to the public.
Its architecture reflects the period in which it was built, with classic design elements that evoke a sense of nostalgia. The building’s facade has been preserved, maintaining its original character while adorned with vibrant pink paint, creating a captivating sight on the bustling high street. It effortlessly catches the eye of visitors, radiating a charming allure.
The result, a warm, homely Great British tea room, making visitors feel like they’re stepping into a lovingly maintained family home.
With the delicious food and friendly service, this unique setting makes Mrs Salisburys Tea Room a must-visit spot in Maldon. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, visiting this tea room is a wonderful opportunity to experience a piece of Maldon’s history while enjoying a delightful meal.
As you enter Brights Path, you’ll be greeted by charming signs inviting you to either step into the cosy tea room with its warm and inviting ambiance or enjoy al fresco dining in the pathway seating area.
Inside Seating
As frequent visitors to Mrs Sailsbury’s Tea Room, we’ve enjoyed experiencing a few of its distinct rooms. Inside, the tea room has a warm and cosy ambiance. The décor is tastefully done, reflecting the traditional British Tea Room culture. Each space offers a unique ambience that contributes to the overall charm of this historic establishment.
Drawing Room
Upon entering, you’ll find yourself in the Drawing Room, a cosy, intimate space with a dark, sophisticated vibe. On colder days, the warmth of the roaring log fire creates a comforting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a catch-up over coffee.
Bar Room
Adjacent to the Drawing Room is the Bar Room, an energetic area where you can watch baristas crafting perfect cappuccinos. The room is bright and lively, allowing you to enjoy your cup of tea while watching the world go by through the window. We have yet to sit in this room!
Library Room
Climb the stairs to the middle floor, and you’ll find the Library Room, one of the larger rooms with a window overlooking the churchyard. This room often hosts larger parties and private functions but is also open for breakfast and lunch services.
Observatory
On the same floor, you will find the Observatory. This large room features two generous windows that offer views of the courtyard and high street. The room’s pink walls and unique prints make it a visual feast, enhancing your dining experience.
The Nursery
The Nursery, also located on the middle floor, is the smallest room at Mrs Sailsburys. It seats up to eight people and emanates a calm, serene vibe, perfect for a quiet afternoon tea.
The Circus Room
At the top, you have The Circus Room, adorned with vintage hot air balloons and circus memorabilia, providing a whimsical and playful atmosphere.
The Jungle Room
Also, at the very top, you have The Jungle Room, with its floor-to-ceiling ‘vines’ and eye-catching decor, which offers class and intrigue. This is another room we have not been in yet!
Toilets
I acknowledge my eccentricity, but I cannot help but mention the remarkable toilet in this particular restaurant. Situated on the top floor, between the Circus and the Jungle, it exudes an undeniable charm.
I am genuinely tempted to indulge in a relaxing bath in this exquisite setting!
The middle toilet is equally beautiful, with a large walk in shower!
Outside Seating Area
Mrs Salisbury’s has two spots to choose from for al fresco dining.
The Pathway
The Pathway, located near the entrance on Bright’s Path, offers al fresco dining in a quiet side alley just off the heart of Maldon’s vibrant town centre.
The Secret Courtyard
The Secret Courtyard, hidden beside the main building, features heated pergolas, marble table tops, and French-style dining chairs.
Orangery
New for Winter 2023 they have created an orangery in the courtyard area.
The Orangery will provide a unique dining experience we visited for a festive Christmas afternoon tea.
Christmas Afternoon Tea
We thoroughly enjoyed our Christmas afternoon tea! I (Kay) had the gluten-free option, so that front tray is all mine! Luke brought his Mum and Dad to enjoy this festive meal together.
If you love afternoon teas, check out our other post about our visit to the Pump Rooms in Bath.
Mrs Salisburys Menu
Now, let’s discuss the food at Mrs Salisbury’s Tea Room. Their menu includes a range of omelettes, salads, jacket potatoes and sandwiches.
Kay’s favourite salad is the Portobello Mushroom, Smoked Streaky Bacon and Stilton salad, while Luke loves the Hot and Sticky Mango Chicken or the Kiln roasted salmon and prawn salad.
We also recommend their toasted sandwiches. Our favourites are the Sticky Mango with Mature Cheddar and the Cumberland Sausage with Caramelised Onion Chutney & Mature Cheddar Cheese.
Their ploughmans look amazing. We quite often make our own ploughman lunch or homemade cheese board so don’t order it!
Indulge in the delight of their generously portioned and utterly satisfying omelettes! Our personal favourites include the Camembert cheese with caramelized onion, as well as the mature cheddar with sun blush tomatoes and Portobello mushrooms.
They also have some signature dishes, vegan options and of course a selection of sweet treats.
Afternoon Tea
We’ve had the pleasure of indulging in their signature afternoon tea but have no photos to share as it was before we started our blog. The selection changes regularly but is always good value, delicious and can cater to dietary requirements. For me, opting for a gluten-free version, the staff has always been accommodating and attentive, ensuring my dietary needs are met without compromising taste or variety.
The delight begins with a selection of loose-leaf teas and Americano coffee, which you can enjoy unlimited refills. The variety of teas is impressive, catering to different tastes.
Luke, savours the standard afternoon tea. The fresh cut finger sandwiches are a favourite, each bite offering an explosion of flavours carefully curated by their chef. But it’s the warm fruit scones that truly steal the show, served fresh from the oven with a side of clotted cream and jam – a classic British treat.
The afternoon tea experience is not complete without their baked sweet treats. From delicate pastries to decadent cakes, each dessert is a masterpiece in itself, satisfying the sweet tooth while adding a touch of elegance to the overall dining experience.
Drinks
As well as the large selection of teas, there are soft drinks, wine, cocktails, beer and cider to choose from.
Our Review
In conclusion, Mrs Salisbury’s captures the essence of a Great British Tea Room. You’re transported to an earlier era of elegance and sophistication when you step into the property, located on the bustling Maldon High Street.
The venue is a testament to tasteful décor, with each room offering a lovely atmosphere to eat in. Whether the Drawing Room’s cosy warmth or the Circus Room’s whimsical charm, every corner of Mrs Salisbury’s adds to the overall experience.
What sets this tearoom apart, however, is the attentive service. The staff goes above and beyond to cater to your needs, whether accommodating dietary restrictions or making recommendations based on personal preferences.
The next time you find yourself in Maldon, visit Mrs Salisbury’s. It’s not just a tea room but a delightful experience that leaves a lasting impression. We’ll take pictures on our next visit for the festive afternoon tea to share with you all!
Mrs Salisburys in the Park
They also have a permanent kiosk at the Maldon Promenade Park, we will get some pictures on our next stroll!
Wickham Bishops
On another exciting note, Mrs Salisbury owns another delightful tea room in Wickham Bishops. We’ve heard great things about this sister location, and it is next on our list of places to visit and review.
If the Maldon location is anything to go by, we are certain that the Wickham Bishops tea room will offer an equally charming and satisfying experience. Stay tuned for our review of that visit soon!
More Places to Eat in Maldon
In addition to the charming tea rooms, Maldon High Street is a fantastic place for food lovers. From traditional British fare to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town.
If you’re in the mood for some fine dining, check out Paparazzi Restaurant. We’ve previously written our review of Paparazzi here .
For those who prefer Mediterranean or Turkish cuisine, Sark is a must-visit. Its stylish ambience perfectly complements the flavourful dishes on offer.
If it’s Italian cuisine you’re craving, Salt comes highly recommended. With its delicious menu, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to the heart of Italy.
You can see on the map how many restaurants there are on the Maldon High Street!
Places to stay in Maldon
With its rich history and picturesque landscapes, Maldon offers an array of accommodations form hotels, pub rooms or b&bs that cater to various preferences and budgets. Take a look for places to stay through bookings.com