The most magical Christmas high teas around Australia

With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to get festive the fancy way.

If you’ve explored Australia’s Christmas markets, there’s another way you can get into the spirit this silly season. Festive high teas are popping up across the country, enticing guests with sweets, treats and irresistible eats.

But there’s more to high tea than getting dressed up and indulging. It’s a way to celebrate a special occasion, and what’s more special than Christmas? Combine two great things and you get something incredible. Now, pinkies up – these are the best places to book a festive high tea experience this year.

1. Queen Victoria Building, Sydney, NSW

When: 21 November – 24 December
Cost: $105; $65 (1–12 years)

High Tea with Santa at QVB, Sydney — Cheers to Christmas with Santa himself at QVB’s Tea Rooms.

You’re invited to Sydney’s Queen Victoria Building this Christmas to have High Tea with Santa ! Held in the historic ballroom, guests will be treated to a range of sweet and savoury delights, from freshly baked scones to delicate pastries.

You’re not the only one invited, though. Santa himself is taking a break from his busy schedule to pop in for a bite to eat and a photo! A professional photographer will be onsite to capture happy snaps with old Saint Nick before he jets off to the North Pole again.

2. The Cupcake Co., Southern Highlands, NSW

When: 1 November – 23 December
Cost: $59.95

Christmas cupcakes — The Berrima tea house specialises in cupcakes. (Image: Getty/Liudmila Chernetska)

Curated by a boutique cake and cupcake shop, it’s practically a given that this festive high tea will be nothing short of amazing. Quaint Berrima tea house The Cupcake Co. delivers an indulgent spread of sweets and treats made fresh for you.

Paired perfectly with a barista-made coffee or a pot of fresh loose-leaf tea, it’s an experience worth savouring over a sunny morning. Afterwards, explore the cosy town of Berrima or finish your day ticking off some of nearby Bowral’s best local highlights.

3. Shangri-La, Sydney, NSW

When: 27 November – 6 January
Cost: $98–$178

Shangri La Sydney high tea, NSW — Treat yourself to high tea with views of Sydney Harbour this Christmas.

High above the city, Shangri-La Sydney is transforming its Level 36 bar into a Christmas wonderland this festive season. Indulge in sweet treats like Christmas-tree-shaped cookies, reindeer tarts and Santa-red choux pastries, alongside savoury delights and scones with clotted cream.

Prices range between $98 and $168 per person on weekdays, depending on your choice of beverage (think tea, coffee, bubbles or French Champagne. Come the weekend, tack on $10 for each offering. It’s the kind of high tea that feels like luxury wrapped in a festive bow, capped off with views of the glittering harbour below.

4. Dorsett, Melbourne, Vic

When: 7 & 15 December
Cost: $80; $40 (children)

Dining at Dorsett Melbourne, Vic — Every bite tastes like Christmas magic at Dorsett Melbourne. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Indulge in a delightfully festive high tea at the Dorsett Melbourne this year, with just two exclusive dining experiences available. The elegantly curated offering includes unlimited freshly baked scones and sandwiches, plus your choice of premium coffee or tea.

Each morsel has been handcrafted by the luxury hotel’s pastry chef, guaranteeing good times (and great flavours) all round. Guests will also enjoy a complimentary drink upon arrival to kick off the festivities – we’ll cheers to that!

5. Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie, Bellbrae, Vic

When: 22 December
Cost: $71; $30.50 (3–12 years)

Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery, Vic — The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery hits the sweet spot.

Not only is the Great Ocean Road Australia’s top road trip adventure, it’s also home to one of the most mouth-watering pit stops – and this year, it’s hosting a festive high tea worth pulling over for. At the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery , guests can tuck into everything from turkey and ham to pastries and a giant chocolate fountain.

If you can’t make it to the coast, the celebration continues at the Chocolaterie’s sister venue in the Yarra Valley . The regional outpost is adding extra sparkle this season with an elf treasure hunt and a chocolate bauble-making workshop – perfect for chocoholics!

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6. The Langham, Melbourne, Vic

When: 24 November – 1 January
Cost: $138; $60 (1–12 years); $148; $70 (Sundays)

Christmas high tea at The Langham Melbourne, Vic — The Langham goes all out for its annual Christmas High Tea.

Celebrate the most wonderful time of year with The Langham Melbourne , which hosts a dreamy afternoon high tea come Christmas. The banquet is held at the onsite bar and lounge, Aria, a befitting space with plush sofas, marble tables and huge windows draped with wispy white curtains.

Indulge in a mouth-watering arrangement of salty and sweet treats that have been delicately designed and baked to perfection. If you miss Chrissie with the family this year, don’t fret. The Langham’s high tea runs until 1 January, so you can still celebrate with loved ones in style.

7. W Brisbane, Brisbane, Qld

When: 7 November – 28 December
Cost: $80 (tea/coffee) – $99 (Champagne); $45 (children)

Festive high tea at W Brisbane, Qld — Festive indulgence never looked so good at the W Brisbane.

If you’re in the Queensland capital this Christmas, head to the W Brisbane for a fun-filled high tea at the Living Room Bar . Devour a teetering tower of treats with your loved ones, paired with your choice of tea and coffee or Champagne.

Afterwards, get hands-on with a build-your-own gingerbread house kit courtesy of the W Brisbane, which you can take home to enjoy. Not only is the five-star hotel one of the best places to stay in Brissie, it’s a fantastic spot to celebrate the silly season.

8. QTea, Gold Coast, Qld

When: 15 November – 31 December
Cost: $69; $39 (5–12 years)

QTea at QT Gold Coast, Qld — Get festive the Gold Coast way this Christmas at QTea.

Dive into a sun-soaked Christmas high tea on the Gold Coast, where the usual elegance takes on a festive twist at QTea . Think beetroot-thyme macarons, smoked-salmon roulades, mini pavlovas and more – all within one of the Gold Coast’s most luxurious properties.

With your choice of tea or espresso, plus optional bubbles or even boozy iced tea, it’s the perfect excuse to gather friends and treat yourself. This sip-sational high tea offering is available until the end of December, running from 11am to 2pm daily.

9. Strangers’ Restaurant, Brisbane, Qld

When: 2–17 December
Cost: $69.50

Christmas-themed sweet treats — Strangers’ Restaurant is setting the table for merriment this Christmas. (Image: Getty/Mila Bond)

In the heart of the city with views across the Brisbane River, Queensland’s parliament building may not seem like the most festive of places. But come December, its onsite Strangers’ Restaurant transforms into a twinkling wonderland for its Christmas high tea.

The menu has been curated to include delectable festive-themed eats with warm, comforting flavours. Think everything from chocolate-filled pastries and cranberry scones to prawn rolls and pumpkin tarts – delicious!

10. Cataract on Paterson, Launceston, Tas

When: 14 December
Cost: $75; $35 (children 10 and under)

High tea at Cataract on Paterson in Launceston, Tas — Don’t skip Cataract on Paterson’s delicious, freshly baked scones.

Cataract on Paterson is one of the best restaurants in Launceston, partly due to its incredible food, and partly due to its very merry Christmas high tea . Start off with a festive-themed cocktail before diving into a range of sweet treats, savoury snacks and bottomless cups of tea.

It’s the perfect family day out, thanks to a mini high tea curated for your mini-me. The team at Cataract have taken the adult menu and shrunk it, turning bigger treats into bite-sized eats. There will also be presents for little ones, delivered by Santa Claus himself.

11. Hadley’s Orient Hotel, Hobart, Tas

When: Throughout December
Cost: $59

Plate of Christmas desserts — Dive into a high tea full of Christmas classics at Hadley’s. (Image: Getty/Mtreasure)

Tucked in the heart of Hobart’s charming city centre, this heritage hotel invites you to savour a joyfully festive afternoon tea in its beautifully restored atrium. Hadley’s Orient Hotel will be serving up freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and Christmas-themed sweet treats, all served with bubbles or tea.

Whether you’re celebrating with friends, family, or simply treating yourself, the venue’s holiday ambience, complete with seasonal decor and tailored table settings, makes for a memorable festive outing. It’s the perfect excuse to soak in the Chrissie spirit before the year ends.

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12. Hearth, Perth, WA

When: 1–31 December
Cost: $87; $49 (children)

Hearth's high tea package, Perth WA — Hearth’s high tea offering is inspired by Western Australia’s landscape.

Hearth at the Ritz Carlton Perth is going all out this Christmas by giving its signature afternoon tea a seasonal makeover. But it won’t be your usual menu. In true Hearth fashion, this high tea is inspired by Western Australia’s landscape, from coast to country.

Take a culinary journey through sweet and savoury flavours, all elevated by locally sourced ingredients like raw Forest Fresh honey and tea grown in Margaret River. Running seven days a week throughout December, this is one Santa would definitely approve of.

13. Cape Arid Rooms, Perth, WA

When: Until 5 February
Cost: $85; $45 (children 12 and under)

Cape Arid Rooms high tea in Perth, WA — The Spring to Summer high tea experience is perfectly suited to an Aussie Christmas.

As the days stretch into the warmer months, Cape Arid Rooms invites you to its Spring to Summer afternoon tea in the heart of Perth. Expect savoury bites such as smoked salmon and pumpkin, as well as sweet treats like brownies, tarts, mousse and seasonal fruits.

The tea selection is sure to impress, with 20 blends on offer labelled under profiles like rich and bold, rare and precious, sweet and mellow, plus filter coffee, too. It’s the perfect fit for an Aussie Christmas: fresh, light and inspired by summer.

14. The Q on Hallet, Adelaide, SA

When: 16 November
Cost: $70

A small Christmas cake — Experience high tea at one of Adelaide’s best art galleries. (Image: Getty/Liliboas)

Is there anywhere more fancy to have scones and a cuppa than one of Adelaide’s most beautiful art galleries? This year, the Q on Hallett in Adelaide is inviting you to do just that, with Christmas high tea under its twinkling chandeliers.

Devour 10 different treats, half savoury and half sweet, with your choice of Christmas punch or glass of bubbles on arrival, as well as free-flowing coffee and T2 tea! A browse through The Q’s stunning art collection is the perfect way to end the day.

15. Together & Co, Darwin, NT

When: 14 November – 25 December
Cost: $45; $25 (5–12 years)

Christmas-themed high tea — Upgrade your high tea experience to bottomless for just $10 extra. (Image: Getty/Yena Lou)

Starting mid-November and running every day until Christmas, Together & Co at Darwin’s Hilton Garden Inn is hosting a festive high tea of epic proportions. Taste your way through a tantalising menu that features everything from brownies and baked cheesecake to pork sliders and arancini.

Whether you prefer classics like fruit cake or want to try your luck with an eggnog shooter, your taste buds are sure to be thankful. Simply can’t get enough? You’re in luck – make the whole thing bottomless for just $10 extra a pop.

16. Hyatt Hotel, Canberra, ACT

When: 24–25 December
Cost: $79; $85 (weekends, with a 10 per cent Sunday surcharge)

High tea at Hyatt Hotel Canberra, ACT — Indulge in tiers of festive favourites at Hyatt Hotel Canberra. (Image: Pew Pew Studio)

Those in the nation’s capital this December should treat themselves to an indulgent high tea buffet courtesy of the Hyatt Hotel Canberra. Set up in the aptly named Tea Lounge, the exclusive experience will be held on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day only.

Sit down with your friends and family to munch on savoury sandwiches and sweet treats delivered to your table and paired with your choice of beverage. Too full to journey home? Book a stay and treat yourself to a cosy night at one of Canberra’s top hotels.

Are you looking to take the year off from hosting Christmas? Explore the best restaurants open on Christmas Day in Australia.

In recent years, Ballarat has emerged as one of Victoria’s most dynamic and daring cities. And, this spring, two unexpected creative showcases will take over the town.

No matter the season, it’s always a good time to visit Ballarat – but spring might be the most ideal. The weather is warmer, the skies are clearer, the flowers across its botanical landscapes are in bloom. And events in Ballarat transform the city into a playground of creativity.

This year, Ballarat will welcome both new and returning artistic events, best paired with a jaunt through the city’s eclectic array of things to eat, drink and explore. Here’s how to spend a spring weekend in this cool cultural hub.

The events

Two of the most exciting events hitting Ballarat this spring are the 2025 Ballarat International Foto Biennale and the inaugural edition of Sunnyside, a captivating and immersive art extravaganza.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply curious, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale is a must. The event permeates the entire city, with works by over 360 local and international photographers adorning over 100 buildings, businesses, streets and public spaces.

This year marks the 11th chapter and will centre on ‘Lifeforce’ – a theme that’s all about humanity and connection. Among the many talents on show, the headline artist is Campbell Addy, a British-Ghanaian creative who explores roots and identity. Be sure to visit before it ends in 2025 on 19 October.

Sunnyside

Sunnyside is making its debut this year, introducing a brand-new celebration of colour, creativity and community to Ballarat. The 17-day celebration, from 6 to 23 November, will feature immersive installations and experiences, talks, a vibrant opening night gala, and workshops covering everything from crochet to neon block printing.

Internationally acclaimed London-based artist Morag Myerscough will lead the celebration and convert Ballarat’s historic Mining Exchange – a gold rush era trading hall – and the city’s streets into a multi-sensory art spectacle.

While you’re there

Don’t miss out on everything else Ballarat has to offer. Here’s where to eat, drink, see and stay in the city.

Where to eat

Vibrant Latin American dishes at Pancho, adding flavour to Events in Ballarat. — Savour bold Latin American dishes at Pancho. (Image: Einwick)

For daytime dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Johnny Alloo does contemporary cafe fare in a warm and inviting space, while Hydrant Food Hall is a popular pick for breakfast and lunch classics. Eclectic Tastes makes seasonal dishes that incorporate plenty of local produce, giving you a great opportunity to taste the region’s flavours.

At night, head to Roy Hammond for delicious cocktails and contemporary Asian-inspired eats or Pancho for vibrant (and very good) Latin American food in fun surrounds. At Hop Temple, you’ll find an incredible selection of craft beers (more than 200, to be exact) and punchy pub fare, or you can head slightly out of town for tasty bistro classics at the historic and character-filled Buninyong Hotel .

In the mood for something fancy? Visit one of Ballarat’s many hatted restaurants, like Babae (produce-driven fine dining inspired by regional Victoria), Mr Jones (modern Asian by a chef with a Michelin pedigree) and Underbar (an ultra-exclusive spot doing ultra-refined tasting menus).

Where to drink

Food and wine tastings at Blue Pyrenees Estate, a refined experience beyond Events in Ballarat. — Relax over wine at Blue Pyrenees Estate. (Image: Visit Victoria)

No matter your poison, you’ll find a venue to suit in Ballarat. Aunty Jacks is a local institution, serving a generous line-up of beers made in the on-site brewery. Renard is perfect for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap, with a menu that spans creative signature cocktails, locally produced wines and Australian spirits.

Try some of Ballarat’s finest creations at one of its many boutique distilleries, including Grainery Lane and Itinerant Spirits. The former specialises in gin and vodka, while the latter offers gin, vodka and craft whiskey. Buy a bottle from either as a memento of your trip.

You can also venture a little further afield to one of the area’s renowned wineries and cellar doors. There are 25 scattered around the Pyrenees (Ballarat’s very own surrounding wine region), including Dalwhinnie, Summerfield and Blue Pyrenees Estate. Eastern Peake – a family-owned winery led by Young Gun of Wine 2025, Owen Latta – is also a must-visit.

What to see

A koala eating eucalyptus leaves at Ballarat Wildlife Park. — Meet a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’ve got time to spare after the thrill of the spring festivities, there’s lots to see and do. More art can be found in the city’s streets and laneways, with local street artists transforming the walls with impressive murals and installations.

Ballarat is equally renowned for its heritage architecture, much of which flourished during the gold rush. Notable buildings include Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Royal Hotel, all located centrally and within walking distance of one another.

Travelling with kids? Head to Sovereign Hill for a living-history adventure or Ballarat Wildlife Park to meet koalas, reptiles and free-roaming kangaroos.

Where to stay

An elegant suite at Hotel Vera, offering boutique comfort. — Enjoy all-out luxury at Hotel Vera. (Image: Visit Victoria)

If you’re venturing to the city by train and want to stay somewhere central, Quest Ballarat Station is an excellent pick. The modern serviced apartments are situated just 250m from the station and a short stroll from downtown Ballarat, making coming, going and exploring the city incredibly easy. There’s also an on-site gym, barbecue area and accessible rooms available.

For a touch of French luxe in regional Victoria, The Provincial Hotel is a standout choice, with gorgeously appointed rooms and suites in a restored heritage-listed building. The hotel is also conveniently located on Lydiard Street, which is lined with grand historic architecture.

If you’re after something truly luxe, book a few nights at Hotel Vera. The exclusive collection of only seven suites presents all-out opulence: think lush linens, designer furniture, works by notable artists and gilded touches. It also happens to house fine-dining favourite Babae, making it an optimal stay if you’re keen to try the restaurant.

Getting there

aerial of hop lane in ballarat — Turn your Ballarat visit into a memorable weekend. (Image: Einwick)

One of the best things about Ballarat is its proximity to Melbourne. It’s only 90 minutes away by car – an easy journey down the Western Freeway – or can be easily reached by rail. The train from Southern Cross to Ballarat Station takes less than 90 minutes and drops you right in the centre of town.

Start planning your stay at visitballarat.com.au.

The most magical Christmas high teas around Australia to celebrate the festive season