Gracie-Ann's Tea Room

You'll find this delightful spot tucked away on the first floor of The Trading Post in Paulsgrove, accessible by lift from the Kilshaws entrance. The vintage-inspired interior feels like stepping into your gran's front room – if your gran had impeccable taste in mismatched china and floral tablecloths. The afternoon tea here is the real deal, with towering stands of finger sandwiches, warm scones with proper clotted cream, and an impressive selection of homemade cakes that changes daily. Their Victoria sponge is particularly noteworthy, light as air with just the right amount of jam. At around £18 for a full afternoon tea, it's excellent value compared to the city centre options, and the portions are generous enough that you'll be rolling out the door.