Victoria is famous for afternoon tea, and every December its tea rooms dress up for the season. Here’s where to go for festive afternoon tea and holiday brunch, from the grand Empress to cozy neighbourhood tea rooms.
Festive Tea at a Glance
| Where | What | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Empress | Festive Afternoon Tea | Nov 20 to Dec 31, 2026 |
| Oak Bay Beach Hotel | Festive Afternoon Tea, ocean views | From Nov 15, 2026 |
| Pendray Tea House | Christmas Afternoon Tea and Scottish High Tea | Holiday season |
| Butchart Gardens Dining Room | Holiday High Tea | Holiday season |
| White Heather Tea Room | Traditional afternoon tea | Year-round |
Fairmont Empress
The classic. The Empress’s signature tea is reimagined for the holidays from November 20 to December 31, 2026, in the Lobby Lounge, with the grand tree nearby. Full details.
Oak Bay Beach Hotel
The hotel’s Festive Afternoon Tea starts November 15, 2026, a coastal take on the tradition with views over the Salish Sea. Its regular Afternoon Tea by the Sea has been $89 per adult and $65 per child (12 and under). The hotel is also known for its Christmas Day brunch and has hosted Breakfast with Santa.
Pendray Tea House
In a heritage mansion at 309 Belleville Street on the Inner Harbour, the Pendray serves a Christmas Afternoon Tea with festive sweet and savoury treats and seasonal teas. For an evening meal, its Scottish High Tea is a hearty seasonal alternative to dinner. It’s a five-minute walk from the Clipper terminal and right across from the Coho ferry.
Butchart Gardens Dining Room
Have tea in the Butchart family’s original home. The Holiday High Tea includes a classic English trifle, currant scones, savoury sandwiches and house-made sweets, with gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan and dairy-sensitive versions. Pair it with an evening at the Magic of Christmas. Garden admission is required.
Neighbourhood Tea Rooms
- White Heather Tea Room (1885 Oak Bay Avenue): a local favourite and more relaxed. Pair it with a walk under the Oak Bay Avenue lights.
- The Teahouse at Abkhazi Garden: an intimate spot in a heritage garden. Check winter hours.
Christmas Day Brunch
For brunch on December 25, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s Grand Lobby brunch and the Fairmont Empress’s Christmas Day buffet are the big two. See Christmas dinner in Victoria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I have Christmas afternoon tea in Victoria?
At the Fairmont Empress, Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Pendray Tea House, Butchart Gardens Dining Room and White Heather Tea Room.
When does festive tea start at the Empress in 2026?
November 20, 2026, running to December 31.
Part of: Victoria Christmas Guide 2026
