Alice’s Tea Cup, Millgate, Newark.

Alice’s Tea Cup in Newark is well worth a break from the bustling Market Square and shops. You will find it situated in a lovingly restored cottage a short stroll down Millgate, just opposite the Museum. Easy to spot with its invitingly cheery facade, windows decorated with strings of flower lights, flags and pennants.
A peek through the window reveals a vision of childhood straight from the pages of Arthur Ransome and Enid Blyton. Step in and discover a low ceiling, exposed wooden beams, cosy rugs, rustic matting, an inviting leather sofa and plump cushions, with tables, chairs and walls painted a cheery white. Eccentric curiosities and treasures are displayed in every nook and cranny: a retro microphone stand, an archaic typewriter, a top hat, tea pots and cups of all shapes and sizes, children’s toys and, of course, art prints and cards depicting scenes from Carroll’s Wonderland. Alice’s Tea Cup manages to be both charming and nostalgic without falling into the trap of being desperately twee. It promotes an idealistic sense of a lost England that, perhaps, never existed outside the pages of such classics.
The menu offers plenty of choice for the tea connoisseur, with some rare examples like Jasmine ‘Monkey King’ and Earl Grey Lavender amongst a superior selection. The coffee lover is well-catered for with a delicious, freshly ground brew you can have strong or medium, or the distinctive Costa Rican ‘La Minita’ recognised by aficionados for its quality. Of course there are always tempting, freshly baked homemade cakes from a menu that changes regularly – favourites include scones with strawberry jam and whipped cream, toasted teacakes, crumpets, chocolate & lime fairy cakes, coffee & walnut cake, and various tasty muffins. A delicious hot chocolate with marshmallows is also on hand for colder days, along with fruit cordials (including a superb mulberry variety) and bottles of vintage-style lemonade and ginger beer to quench your thirst.
Warm and attentive service, an unhurried, relaxed atmosphere and cosy rooms full of character (with a garden for summer dining) make this the perfect spot for a family treat or an indulgent lunch with friends. Alice’s Tea Cup is a haven for the tired shopper and a heaven for the lover of homemade cakes and speciality teas.