Lady Bedford's Tea Parlour

With a population of about 14,000 people Pinehurst North Carolina is so charming that thousands of people come here each year to visit. Golfing is by far the most popular activity but if that is not your cup of tea then head to the quaint and quiet downtown Pinehurst and you will find Lady Bedford's Tea Parlour and Gift Shoppe.

This past weekend I was accompanied by my loving mother, sweet sister in-law and my awesome neighbor for a ladies only afternoon.

Many times I have joked about having afternoon or high tea and after doing some research I had no idea there were so many different types of tea. During the 1800's there were only two main meals. One was a late breakfast and the next meal was not served until later in the evening. The Dutchess stomach could not hold fast between these meals so she started to have her friends over for snacks and tea. This became a common occurrence among high society. The different tea types depended on what was served with the tea. Here are a few:

Cream Tea: Tea served with a scone and Devonshire cream, butter or lemon curd.

Light Tea: This is the cream tea with added desserts

Full Tea: Both of the above with added savory items

Lady Bedford's had many sweet and savory dishes along side the freshest homemade desserts on the block. The tea flavors ranged from my personal favorite of Earl Grey and Chai Tea to Chocolate Cherry and Spiced Pear.

Fresh cup of Early Grey

Cute sugar cubes

Tea sandwiches and fresh greens with a feta cheese dressing

Chocolate creme brulee with fresh fruit

Mini assortment of sweets

My sweet sister in-law

Me and my neighbor peeking in the corner!


If you are ever in Pinehurst, make sure to stop by and visit the lovely tea room