Manchester Cathedral, in the centre of the city, is home to a tearoom that offers sanctuary for those seeking tea and cake.
Proper Tea is owned by broadcaster Yvette Fielding who happens to be a fervent tea lover (with all that ghost hunting, I can understand the need for a good cup of tea) and the people behind Teacup Kitchen, which I’ve previously written about.
Just as at Teacup Kitchen, tea here is a serious business – choose from black, green, white, Earl Grey and flowering varieties along with some rare and exotic brews. It comes loose and with a timer to indicate that the leaves are brewed to perfection.
There’s a great selection of artisan coffees too and the menu offers a delicious selection of toasted sandwiches, soup, salads and platters including plenty of vegetarian options.
My homemade chicken, avocado, red pepper and pesto toasted sandwich on rye bread with purple slaw was fresh, tasty and filling.
Want more than a brew and a bite to eat? Make an occasion of your visit with morning tea, cream tea, high tea or afternoon tea (Prosecco optional)!
The atmosphere is bright and breezy and the décor modern with a retro nod; white and bright with many windows allowing natural light in and low hung filament light bulbs adding to the glow. Ray Charles was playing softly in the background during my visit.
Cakes adorn a vast counter on one side of the room behind which, containers of tea line shelves along the wall.
Proper Tea is set in Cathedral Yard and the church can be seen from your table. There are also a few tables outside for al fresco tea if the weather permits. It’s a perfect venue to escape shopping/work/study mayhem for a little while and enjoy divine refreshments in divine surroundings!
My sandwich and pot of Assam tea cost £8.50 and the service was friendly and attentive.
Proper Tea is open seven days a week – almost every table was taken during my Monday lunchtime visit by people of all ages.
The tearoom is right next to the cathedral and you can also enter via the visitor centre on Cateaton Street.
Built in the 13th Century and with some impressive architectural features, Manchester Cathedral is a beautiful thing to behold. Why not take one of the daily tours?