The Fairmont Empress is where everybody wants to go, and you're right - it's not worth it. I'm not sure why it's as popular as it is, but if what you want is to have a mediocre overpriced tea surrounded by busloads of tourists, that's where you can find it.

We always suggest that people go to Point Ellice House. It's an old family home in the middle of an industrial area, and when you first approach it you'll think you're in the wrong place. But once you're on the grounds, it's a real treat. You can have a self-guided audio tour of the house and hear about its history and about the family that lived there. Tea is served in the garden, which is filled with heritage plants and flowers. Check out pointellicehouse.ca.

Another possibility, very good but perhaps less interesting, is the Four Mile Pub. They do a lovely afternoon tea in an old pub; the ambiance isn't quite as much fun as Point Ellice House. I think you have to reserve if you want afternoon tea; it's served in the same dining room as their regular menu.

you can avoid the industrial approach if you arive by the little harbour ferries or by kayak or canoe. pt ellice house , a national historic site, has a brand new dock.

its a beautiful spot

AndrewDavid

The White Heather Tea Room www.whiteheather-tearoom.com or
Adrienne's Tea Garden www.adriennesteagarden.com are both good choices for an affordable tea.