The best festive high teas to book now – before it’s too late!

Taylah Darnell Taylah Darnell
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With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to get festive the fancy way.

You’ve heard of festive feasts and Christmas markets, but there’s another way you can get into the spirit this silly season. Festive high teas are popping up across the country, enticing guests with sweets, treats and irresistible eats.

But there’s more to high tea than getting dressed up and indulging. It’s a way to celebrate a special occasion – and what’s more special than Christmas? Combine two great things and you get something incredible. These are the 15 best festive high teas you need to book now!

1. Festive Afternoon Tea at The Fullerton, Sydney

When: 1–31 December
Cost: from $78 per person

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney is a luxurious hotel setting the table for a Festive Afternoon Tea this silly season. Running throughout December in the lead-up to Christmas, the delectable event invites guests and visitors alike to indulge in some delicious festive treats.

Whether you prefer sweet treats or savoury morsels, you’ll be spoilt for choice at The Fullerton. Wash everything down with your choice of tea, coffee or bubbles. The Festive Afternoon Tea will be held in The Bar, a cosy respite from the city and summer heat.

Festive Afternoon Tea at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney
Devour deliciousness at the Fullerton. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

2. Christmas High Tea with Sheraton, Sydney

When: 25 November – 31 December
Cost: $89 per adult; $45 for children aged 4–12

In the heart of Sydney’s CBD, the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park is another of the city’s top accommodation offerings. And come Christmas, the hotel hosts its Christmas High Tea, a festive take on its already-amazing high tea experience.

Held at The Gallery in the hotel’s lobby, the high tea includes a range of lavish sweet and savoury treats, as well as your choice of coffee and The Tea Centre loose-leaf teas. Feeling fancy? Upgrade your booking to include free-flowing champagne for just $30 per person.

Christmas High Tea at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park
You’ll be spoilt with Christmas-themed sweet treats at Sheraton.

3. High Tea with Santa, Sydney

When: 9 November – 24 December
Cost: $95 per person; $75 for children aged 1–12

You’re invited to Sydney’s Queen Victoria Building this Christmas to have High Tea with Santa! Held in the Team Room, executive chef Rob Crichton has created a bespoke Christmas-themed menu for all to enjoy, including sweet and savoury snacks.

You’re not the only one invited though. Santa himself is taking a break from his busy schedule to pop in for a bite to eat and a photo! A professional photographer will be onsite to capture happy snaps with old Saint Nick before he has to jet off to the North Pole in time for Christmas.

High Tea with Santa at the QVB Sydney
Don’t miss out on a photo opp with Santa!

4. Christmas High Tea with Mary Eats Cake, Melbourne

When: 1–31 December
Cost: $75 per person (weekdays); $79 per person (weekends)

Mary Eats Cake is one of Victoria’s most iconic catering services, known for delicious sweet treats served at both its Brunswick and Montrose venues. This year, the cake-loving company will be hosting a delightful Christmas High Tea like no other during December.

Think unlimited cups of tea, fresh scones, Christmas-themed mocktails and cocktails, four savoury bites, three sweet delights and a special Christmas cookie. Upgrade to the canapé package and you’ll be treated to a glass of sparkling on arrival, plus an extra food option per person.

Mary Eats Cake festive high tea in Melbourne
Mary Eats Cake is known for its iconic catering services.

5. Festive Afternoon Tea with The Langham, Melbourne

When: 1 December – 1 January
Cost: from $138 per person; $60 for children aged 3–12

Celebrate the most wonderful time of year with The Langham at its Festive Afternoon Tea in the Victorian capital. The banquet will be held at Aria Bar & Lounge, a befitting space with plush sofas, marble tables and huge windows draped with wispy white curtains.

Indulge in a mouth-watering arrangement of sweet and savoury festive-themed delights on three-tiered stands. And if you’ve missed Christmas Day with the family, don’t fret. The finger-licking event runs until 1 January, so you can still celebrate with loved ones in style.

Christmas High Tea at The Langham Melbourne
Get into the festive spirit with The Langham Melbourne.

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6. Festive High Tea with W Brisbane, Brisbane

When: 8 November – 29 December
Cost: starting at $79 per person; $45 for children aged 3–12

If you’re in the Queensland capital this Christmas, head to the W Brisbane for a fun-filled Festive High Tea at the Living Room Bar. Not only is the five-star hotel one of the best places to stay in Brisbane, but a fantastic spot to celebrate the silly season.

Devour a tower of sweet and savoury treats, paired with two hours of bottomless tea and coffee. Adults can also add on a delicious, spiced holiday highball cocktail or glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne upon arrival. Afterwards, get hands-on and build your own gingerbread house!

Festive High Tea with W Brisbane
Have fun building your own gingerbread house.

7. Nutcracker Christmas High Tea, Gold Coast

When: 16 December
Cost: $95 per person; $70 per child

For one day only, the Home of the Arts (HOTA) on Queensland’s sunny Gold Coast is hosting an exclusive Nutcracker Christmas High Tea. In an exciting turn of events, the festive feast will run in tangent with an enchanting live performance of The Nutcracker in HOTA’s Theatre 1.

Guests can expect a drool-worthy menu featuring smoked cheddar and caramelised onion scones, Gold Coast prawn toast, Choux au craquelin and Sugar Plum Fairy tarts. Adults can cheers to Christmas with a complimentary glass of prosecco too!

Festive High Tea at HOTA on the Gold Coast, Qld
Treat yourself to high tea before settling in for The Nutcracker at HOTA.

8. Christmas High Tea at Queensland Parliament, Brisbane

When: select dates between 26 November and 18 December
Cost: $69.50 per person

In the heart of the city with views across the Brisbane River, Queensland Parliament may not seem like the most festive of places. However, its Christmas High Tea, hosted within Strangers’ Restaurant, is one of the best on offer across the city.

The festive menu has been curated to include delectable festive eats with warm, comforting flavours. Think roast turkey, cranberry and brie focaccia, Mooloolaba prawns, smoked salmon and white chocolate snowballs with cherry compote.

9. Jingle & Mingle Christmas High Tea, Launceston

When: 15 December
Cost: $75 per person; $35 per child

Cataract on Paterson is one of the best restaurants in Launceston, party due to its incredible food, and partly due to its very merry Jingle & Mingle Christmas High Tea. Start off with a festive-themed cocktail before diving into a range of sweet treats, savoury snacks and bottomless tea.

Why not make it a family affair? The Cataract team has curated a mini high tea for your mini-me. There will be plenty of kids-sized treats, as well as presents, mistletoe and Santa himself! This is a one-day-only event, so be sure to book now if you’re around Launceston this Christmas.

Jingle & Mingle Christmas High Tea in Launceston
Celebrate the silly season with Cataract on Paterson in Launceston.

10. Christmas Choir Afternoon Tea, Hobart

When: 8 December, 15 December
Cost: $59 per person

If you like cake and carols, you’ll love the Christmas Choir Afternoon Tea hosted by Hadley’s Orient Hotel in Tassie’s capital of Hobart. The heritage-listed hotel takes its usual afternoon tea to the next level come the festive season with live performances by the Four Tune Finders.

The choir group, part of the Hobart Men’s Barbershop Harmony Club, promises to bring the festive cheer to your high tea experience. Listen to iconic Christmas carols as you feast on sweet and savoury bites including scones, sandwiches, tea and coffee.

11. Festive Afternoon Tea at Hearth, Perth

When: 1–31 December
Cost: from $87 per person; $49 per child

Hearth’s Signature Afternoon Tea is getting a seasonal makeover this year. Commonly known as one of Perth’s best restaurants, Hearth is hosting its Chrissie-themed event all month long this December.

Take a culinary journey through two courses – sweet and savoury – pockmarked with beverages like tea, coffee, sparkling and wine. The menu spotlights fresh local produce while keeping to its festive theme and includes vegetarian and vegan options. This isn’t one to miss!

Festive Afternoon Tea at Hearth in Perth, WA
A range of sweet and savoury bites will be on offer at Hearth.

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12. Festive High Tea at the Westin, Perth

When: 8 November – 5 January
Cost: from $79 per person

You’re in good hands with pastry chef Sarah Rix and executive chef Kevin Garcia, who are preparing a tasty menu for The Westin Perth’s Festive High Tea. Settle into your seats at Haven Lounge and let the experts do the rest, bringing you dishes like Bûche de Noёl and lobster brioche.

You can also sip on your choice of tea, coffee, a delicious, themed cocktail or glass of Moet & Chandon. Whether you want to get in early for a November sitting, dive in during December or go for Christmas round two come January, you’re sure to leave feeling sated.

Festive High Tea at the Westin Perth
Chefs Sarah Rix and Kevin Garcia deliver a delicious high tea. (Image: Shot By Thom)

13. Christmas High Tea at The Q, Adelaide

When: 16 November
Cost: $65 per person

Is there anywhere more fancy to have scones and a cuppa than a gorgeous art gallery? Didn’t think so! Located in the South Australian capital, The Q on Hallet is a stunning art gallery that plays host to a variety of community events, including its lovely Christmas High Tea.

Eat your way through five satisfying savouries and five scrumptious sweets, paired with bubbly, Christmas punch, coffee or a cup of T2 tea. Afterwards, full stomach allowing, browse The Q’s stunning range of art, which is up there with some of Adelaide’s best galleries.

14. Festive High Tea with Hilton, Darwin

When: until 15 December
Cost: $45 per person; $25 per child

Escape the heat of a Darwin summer this silly season by devouring your body weight in delicious Christmas-themed treats at Hilton Garden Inn’s Together & Co. The restaurant will play host to this year’s Festive High Tea, which will run daily until mid-December.

Seasonal snacks, perfectly brewed teas and a magical atmosphere combine to make it a cosy experience the whole family can enjoy. Think minced pies, fruit cake, smoked turkey sandwiches and eggnog shooters – yum! Make it bottomless for just $10 extra ($55 per person).

Festive High Tea at the Hilton Garden Inn in Darwin, NT
Hilton Darwin’s festive high tea will run daily until mid-December.

15. Festive High Tea with Hyatt, Canberra

When: 5–23 December
Cost: $85 per person; $50 for children aged 6–12

Those in the nation’s capital should treat themselves to the Hyatt Hotel Canberra’s Festive High Tea this December. Set up in the aptly named Tea Lounge to munch on savoury sandwiches, fresh baked scones and cute cakes, paired perfectly with a glass of sparkling wine.

As well as the high tea offering, the Hyatt Hotel Canberra is also offering a seafood buffet, as well as gourmet grazing-table lunches and dinners. These options will run at the same time but at differing price points ($105 per person and $65 per person respectively).

Festive high tea at Hyatt Hotel Canberra, ACT
Treat yourself to a festive high tea at Hyatt Hotel Canberra. (Image: Pew Pew Studio)

16. The Cupcake Co. Christmas High Tea, Berrima

When: 29 November – 22 December
Cost: $59.95 per person

Being a boutique cake and cupcake shop, it’s practically a given that this high tea will be nothing short of amazing. The Cupcake Co.’s indulgent Christmas high tea will see you work your way through freshly made scones with local jam and cream, assorted finger sandwiches, quiche, and a variety of sweet Christmas treats. These will be paired with either barista-made coffee or a pot of fresh loose-leaf tea. And, of course, everything will be served in festive Cristina Re crockery, adding an elegant touch to your experience.

Cupcake Co Christmas High Tea
Savour freshly baked scones, tasty finger sandwiches, and an array of sweet treats.

17. High tea on Little Lonsdale, Melbourne

When: 8 November – 22 December
Cost: $80 per person

Indulge in a delightful high tea experience at the charming Dorsett Melbourne, where warmth and sophistication come together. This elegantly curated offering features freshly baked scones, delectable sandwiches, and an enticing selection of savoury delights, all perfectly complemented by your choice of premium coffee or tea. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary drink upon arrival to kick off the festivities. While the exact menu is still under wraps, rest assured that each bite has been handcrafted by the luxe hotel’s talented pastry chef.

Dorsett Melbourne high tea
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at The Dorsett.

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Taylah Darnell
Taylah Darnell is Australian Traveller's Writer & Producer. She has been passionate about writing since she learnt to read, spending many hours either lost in the pages of books or attempting to write her own. This life-long love of words inspired her to study a Bachelor of Communication majoring in Creative Writing at the University of Technology Sydney, where she completed two editorial internships. She began her full-time career in publishing at Ocean Media before scoring her dream job with Australian Traveller. Now as Writer & Producer, Taylah passionately works across both digital platforms and print titles. When she's not wielding a red pen over magazine proofs, you can find Taylah among the aisles of a second-hand bookshop, following a good nature trail or cheering on her EPL team at 3am. While she's keen to visit places like Norway and New Zealand, her favourite place to explore will forever be her homeland.
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5 of the best day trips from Hobart

    Rachel Lay Rachel Lay
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    Hobart has quietly become our coolest capital, but the real wonder lies just beyond the city limits.

    In the cool shade of Kunyani/ Mt Wellington, Hobart has earned a reputation. Home to culture-defining Dark MOFO, the city blends rugged, raw wilderness and rule-breaking galleries. But, step beyond the thrumming capital’s border and you’ll find a new perspective: historic towns, Jurassic-era cliffs and a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. With ALL Accor as your home away from home, fill your days with epicurean odysseys and wild scenery on the best day trips from Hobart.

    Where to stay

    Behind every good road trip is the perfect home base. Somewhere central to review your camera roll, make the most of Hobart’s dining scene and relax before setting off again.

    For modern, Tasmanian-inspired design, book a stay at the Movenpick Hotel Hobart. Standing at the Salamanca Markets, look to the Hobart skyline and the award-winning hotel will catch your eye. As the third-tallest building in the CBD, the views across the harbour toward Antarctica are totally unique to your room. Here, end each day at the daily free chocolate hour (plus a free Movenpick ice cream for the little ones).

    For a more budget-conscious option, head to the picture book, sandstone buildings of Macquarie Street. Nestled along the buzzing, historic streetscape, you’ll find Tasmania’s biggest hotel: the Ibis Styles. Return home each day to defrost in one of the hotel’s two saunas. Make use of the proximity to MONA, or take an easy stroll to the candy-coloured cottages of Battery Point between your adventures.

    A stylish, Tasmanian-inspired bedroom at Mövenpick Hotel Hobart, your perfect base for relaxing after the best day trips from Hobart.
    Elevate your Hobart stay with sleek style at Mövenpick.

    1. Bruny Island

    Craggy cliffs and tropical-hued, white sand beaches signal your arrival to Bruny Island/ Lunawanna-Alonnah.

    Start your day trip at the island’s most iconic spot, the Neck Game Reserve. Scale the Trunganini steps to gaze out over the teensy stretch of land that juts through the sea connecting the two ends of the island.

    Catch a rare glimpse of the white furred wallabies that call Bruny Island home at Adventure Bay. Then, for ocean-fresh oysters, pull into the drive-thru window at Get Shucked. Sample Bruny Island cheese at the cellar door before catching the ferry home with an esky full of local produce.

    Bruny Island Neck is an isthmus of land connecting north and south Bruny Island.
    Begin your adventure with a climb and a view. (Image: Elise Weaver)

    2. Mount Wellington

    At 1271 metres, Mount Wellington watches protectively over Hobart. Follow the winding road to climb through alpine forest and tufts of snow to reach the summit. Gaze down over Hobart and out to sea, or over your shoulder to the southwestern wilderness.

    Reset your adrenaline with a mountain bike ride back down. Or, make like the locals and head into the mountain on foot. Try the hike to the Jurassic-period Organ Pipes which slips under the mountain’s magnificent dolerite cliffs (perfect for families thanks to the trail’s minimal incline).

    For a view of Mount Wellington itself, hike nearby Cathedral Rock.

    No matter where you are in Hobart you are never far away from the City's beloved mountain, Kunanyi / Mount Wellington
    Climb through alpine forest to the summit. (Image: Paul Flemming)

    2. Port Arthur

    Constructed entirely by convicts, the manicured gardens and penal buildings of Port Arthur offer a day trip that practically hums with history.

    The rugged, seagirt location was chosen for its difficult escape conditions. Now, you can cruise the coast below the towering, jagged cliffs of the Tasman National Park or wander the sloping fields of fragrant lavender.

    Tickets to Port Arthur include a walking tour and harbour cruise. See the Isle of the Dead where 1000 men are buried in marked and unmarked graves. And Point Puer, Britain’s first prison for children.

    The Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Australia's most important heritage sites and tourist destinations. Located on the scenic Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula in the south east of Tasmania, it offers a unique and essential experience for all visitors to the area.
    Wander convict-built grounds and gardens. (Image: Dearna Bond)

    3. Launceston

    You’ll find Launceston at the confluence of three rivers after an easy 2.5-hour drive from Hobart. Launceston is a patchwork of old and new. Here, heritage streetscapes meet modern architecture.

    Visit Cataract Gorge, the green, sun-dappled heart of the town and sacred meeting point for Tasmania’s indigenous communities. Pull up at roadside produce stalls that dot the Tamar Valley, or dine out. Launceston is, after all, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.

    Should the local wine scene persuade you, simply extend your time in Launceston at Peppers Silo (but definitely at least stop by the onsite restaurant, Grain of the Silo, for a farm fresh menu) or Mercure Launceston before heading back to Hobart.

    Walk the sunlit paths of Cataract Gorge. (Image: Nick H Visuals)

    4. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

    Take a 35-minute drive from your hotel and you’ll find Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. This social enterprise is run by a team of extremely passionate Tasmanians with a mission to look after critically endangered species who have found sanctuary here after facing extinction on the mainland.

    Choose to wander the sanctuary at your own pace or join a guided tour (free with your ticket) to come face to face with Tassie’s most iconic species. Tasmanian Devils, wombats and echidnas are part of the free tour. You can book up close encounters with your favourite animals, too.

    Bonorong is a Sanctuary for wildlife run by a passionate team of like-minded people. We're a social enterprise: a little business with a big heart.
    Snap a cuddle-worthy encounter. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    5. Richmond Village & Coal River Valley

    Richmond is a town that belongs in a snow globe. Fifty colonial-era, Georgian buildings have been painstakingly restored and turned into cafes, cosy restaurants and galleries. Visit Richmond Gaol, said to be the home of a prisoner so vile he inspired Charles Dickens to pen Oliver Twist’s Fagin.

    Then, follow the Coal River as it flows past grassy, duckling-dotted knolls and under the iconic Richmond Bridge, the oldest bridge in Australia. From the crest of the bridge, see the oldest Catholic Church in Australia. The river crawls past many cellar doors, perfect for a day of wine tasting.

    Richmond is a picture-perfect town in the Coal River Valley wine region, offering a glimpse into early colonial life, one of the best day trips from Hobart.
    Trace the river through history and wine country. (Image: Fin Matson)

    Plan your trip to Hobart and beyond with ALL Accor at All.com.