The Hidden Treasure Tea Room is an independent vintage style tea room in the
heart of Exeter’s artisan West Quarter. It is a beautifully tranquil place to
relax, chat, meet friends and take time over the deliciously indulgent food and
drinks that are baked and prepared daily on the premises.

The menu includes a good selection of loose leaf teas, locally roasted organic coffee and traditional cold drinks offered alongside a constantly evolving spread of
homemade cakes, sweets treats and light lunches, all served on a collection of
fine vintage bone china. A must for vintage enthusiasts and cake lovers alike!

Non-dairy/vegan and non-wheat and gluten options are available every day. Traditional Afternoon Tea from £13.95 per person (booking advised).

Owner Vicki Parks says

“We also organise bespoke tea parties, supper clubs and special events in the tearoom and elsewhere, and are always up for a challenge or for trying out new ideas. The first Hidden Treasure tea parties were held in secret locations around Brixton, South London and patrons had to follow treasure hunt style clues to find them, hence the name.”

“I hope the food, service and events we produce today are still as unique and interesting as those early adventures in tea and cake!”

We are very proud that more than 95% of our china, furniture, linens and tableware are preloved or recycled. To us, vintage is not just a style or a look – it’s a way of life.

“In a world where we are continually encouraged to consume and upgrade, I believe there is something extremely beautiful in the concept of treasures. By that I mean particular items that have been cherished and are passed on between friends or generations of a family. In the early stages when I first described the business to people (mainly women of a certain age, I have to confess…) they began rifling through drawers and pulling out all these amazing things – linens embroidered by Great Great Grandmothers and a vast array of haberdashery and kitchenalia, much of which was produced long before I was born. Nowadays we are so accustomed to single use, disposable and mass produced and I think it’s a great shame. Many of the treasures in the shop have been gifted to me and the rest I have taken great pleasure in sourcing and collecting. Every piece has a history and I find that very inspiring.”

The Hidden Treasure Story

Although she is originally from Exeter, Vicki lived in London before setting up the tearoom, working as an actress and singing teacher. The piano (in the shop) is still her prize possession and her very favourite way to wind down at the end of a busy day. She says that in many ways the events side of the business is very similar to doing a show and she still gets the same buzz after a successful service, party or event.

“I love the atmosphere on Fore St and New Bridge St, with independent businesses popping up all the time. The neighbours are wonderful, and the other traders are warm, friendly and genuinely interested in what I’m doing. It’s a little oasis of vintage beauty and creativity. What more could a lady ask for?”