In Short
Pointy turrets, red brick and water all around: alongside the Elbphilharmonie, the Wasserschloss is probably one of Hamburg’s best-known photo spots. But this historic building in the Speicherstadt is just as beautiful inside as it is outside. You can soak up the special atmosphere over savoury dishes, cakes or a traditional British high tea. We chose the latter and spent a relaxing afternoon enjoying tea, sandwiches and sweet treats.
A Historic Setting With a Charm All Its Own
The Wasserschloss sits on a small peninsula right in the Speicherstadt and is surrounded by historic canals. The building was once used by winch operators, among others, and now houses a restaurant and a tea shop.
The Wasserschloss is just as special inside. The dining room resembles a covered courtyard with high ceilings and distinctive architecture. In addition to the main dining area, there is an upper level with more seating, as well as two terraces, where you can sit right by the water in good weather.
While you’re here, be sure to take a look inside the adjoining tea shop. It has an enormous selection of teas, accessories and lovely souvenirs. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, it’s worth browsing the shelves for a while.
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It’s Tea Time! High Tea at the Wasserschloss Hamburg
Alongside savoury dishes and cakes, the Wasserschloss in Hamburg also offers a traditional British high tea. It costs €29.90 per person, must be booked in advance and is available for groups of two or more. Each guest can choose their own pot of freshly brewed tea, served with a selection of savoury and sweet treats:
- Sandwiches with cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and roast beef
- Warm scones with clotted cream
- Homemade orange marmalade and strawberry jam
- Petit fours and delicate tea biscuits
- Small fruit tarts
- One pot of tea of your choice per person
From Savoury Sandwiches to Sweet Treats
High tea traditionally starts with savoury sandwiches before moving on to the sweet treats. The different sandwiches were a tasty start and added some variety before we turned our attention to the scones and pastries.
We especially enjoyed the combination of warm scones with clotted cream and the two fruity jams, along with the little petit fours, tea biscuits and fruit tarts. Overall, everything tasted really good. We also loved being able to choose our own tea from the wide selection. In a setting this special, a leisurely tea break is a real treat.
Our Verdict on High Tea at the Wasserschloss Hamburg
For us, high tea at the Wasserschloss in Hamburg is worth a visit above all for its unique atmosphere. Of course, you can find delicious sandwiches, scones and cakes elsewhere, but the historic setting right among the canals makes the afternoon feel special.
The service was friendly, although we would have appreciated an extra smile here and there. After all, warmer service makes a big difference to the atmosphere during a relaxed high tea. Even so, we would definitely book high tea again. For €29.90 per person you get a tasty selection of British classics in a truly lovely setting. We can especially imagine coming back for a birthday, a special occasion or simply a long, leisurely afternoon for two.
Overall Rating
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