Enchanted UK tea garden hidden in ancient woodland and next to waterfall

22 May 2024 , 11:38

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Falling Foss Tea Garden in Whitby, North Yorkshire (Image: TripAdvisor)

Nestled within an ancient forest and next to an enchanting waterfall is a whimsical tea garden that serves "out-of-this-world" hot chocolate and homemade treats.

Located in Sneaton Forest, Whitby, Falling Foss Tea Garden is as magical as it sounds. Described on its website as "a rustic, outdoor setting", this tea garden sits next to a picturesque waterfall and serves homemade bakes such as scones and cakes. Where possible, the tea garden sources its produce and ingredients from local suppliers.

Jack and Steph, the team behind the tea garden, found the derelict Midge Hall back in 2006. After falling in love with the building, they finally completed their purchase in 2008 and began restoring the building which had no mains power supply, sewage system or phone line. Today, the cottage stands completely renovated with log burners and cosy interiors.

Falling Foss Tea Garden in Whitby, North Yorkshire (TripAdvisor)

Jack and Steph state on their website: "It was an interesting time, especially with three children under the age of 5. Learning to live 'off grid' was particularly challenging. We now look back fondly on the memories of bathing the children by candlelight and reading bedtime stories with the use of a head torch."

In addition to a mention in Lonely Planet's 'Ultimate UK Travel List', Falling Foss Tea Garden has some amazing reviews on TripAdvisor. One visitor, who scored the tea garden five stars across all categories, said: "[The] food was lovely staff friendly and professional. The birds were so beautiful (and came quite close when offered a crumb), as was the views of the waterfall."

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Falling Foss waterfall is located next to the tea garden (TripAdvisor)

Another added: "A beautiful area which we visited purely by chance. Lovely surroundings and a wooden building serving cakes, snack meals and drinks. The staff were very efficient and friendly, and the scones, jam and cream were the best I’ve tasted in years. Would def recommend this lovely little place."

The nearby seaside town of Whitby, North Yorkshire, is also worth a visit. Its maritime heritage and nearby North York Moors National Park frequently attract tourists looking to explore the wonders of a historic port town.

The closest car park to the tea garden is the Forestry Commission Car Park at Falling Foss, a short walk (5 minutes) from the tea garden and waterfall. It's free to park but can fill up early in the day during peak season. Falling Foss Tea Garden is open from 10am to 4pm daily from April to October, subject to the weather.

Cyann Fielding