Located in the heart of Barnstaple at The Strand, Tea By The Taw is a charming café that promises a delightful culinary experience. It stands out as a beloved local gem, frequently praised for its warm service and delicious offerings. A recent visit by Gary McDonnell highlighted the café's inviting atmosphere and stellar tuna mayo sandwich, set against a backdrop of playful seagulls outside. Meanwhile, Paul Waltham raved about generous portion sizes, making it an ideal stop for those cycling along the Tarka Trail.
The café excels in showcasing local produce, which shines in each dish. Reviewers universally adore the sumptuous scones, with Ann-Marie Johnson noting their size and flavor, while patricia ward celebrated the homemade quality of the cakes and pies. Afternoon tea, savored amidst the café’s shaded corner, brought a nostalgic touch with its traditional tea leaves. The welcoming staff adds to the homely vibe, ensuring all guests feel at ease, as observed by izzy jeffs, who remarked on the café's accommodating nature. Overall, Tea By The Taw is a must-visit for its exceptional food, remarkable service, and warm ambiance.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Has catering
Has seating
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Historic
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Children
Has kids' menu
Parking
Paid street parking
Photos
Reviews For Tea By The Taw
Gary McDonnell
Jun 29,2025
Fabulous lunch with wife and dog, spoilt only by seagulls outside waiting to pounce on table as soon as you get up! Service was brilliant and ladies who ran it were warm, welcoming and very apologetic because of seagulls! Don't let this deter you as its a little gem of a place and would definitely return to try lovely food. Tuna mayo sandwich btw was stunning! Many thanks again, keep up the great work.
Paul Waltham
Jun 11,2025
We had a great meal. Local produce teamed with awesome food. Warning the portion sizes are quite large, it wasn't a problem for me but my wife and mother. Good kids meals. Would definitely recommend it to anyone who is cycling on the Tarka Trail.
patricia ward
Jun 7,2025
Came across this lovely place today when we needed light refreshments with shade for our dog. The staff were delightful, and my afternoon tea a lovely treat. Tea with tea leaves is something l haven't had in a long time! My cuppa hit the spot. My hubby only wanted lemonade, and he said it was delicious. I had a quick glance at the cakes and pies, which all looked homemade and delightful. If l should ever find myself here again, l would return, thank you.
izzy jeffs
Jun 5,2025
Stunning scones! So accommodating to everyone's needs! Great find in Barnstaple!
Ann-Marie Johnson
May 15,2025
Wonderful food. Generous portions did not stint in toppings/fillings. The scones are delicious and enormous. Value for money.
Corina Zacks
May 14,2025
I booked a vintage high tea for a party of about 20. Tea by the Taw couldn't have been more accommodating, even with my numerous changes and emails back and forth, so so friendly. The food was absolutely amazing, so tasty and portions were fab! I would 1000% recommend Tea by Taw. I think I speak for the whole group when I say, thank you so much for a lovely afternoon celebrating a friends retirement
Kim Leonard
May 10,2025
Wonderful little find here for breakfast, dog friendly and table service. Loved the loose leaf tea and China crockery, all added to a delightful experience. We sat outside in the April sunshine with 4 dogs. We had a Taw breakfast, top notch, as well as a veggie breakfast, delicious! Friendly staff, would come along again.
Kat Grant
Mar 28,2025
Best book a table if you want to go lunch time. I enjoyed some lunch with my family. Special of loaded hunters chicken chips. Staff very friendly. If full it will be noisy but that can't be helped. Too full for cake, but their cakes are very nice too!
Reviews For Tea By The Taw