Grey skies and cold wind.  It is winter for sure.  That means staying inside curled up in bed drinking tea...or maybe that is just me.  But instead of staying bundled up at home why not get out of the house and visit these tearooms around the world.

1. Cross and Bluebird Tea Room

This little tearoom is nestled in the historic Tate Farmhouse outside of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.  The tablecloths, doilies, and needlepoint work were all hand made and the glassware is hand painted by local artists. They offer soups such as the popular chilled cucumber soup.  Many of the fruits, vegetables, and herbs are gown in the gardens that surround the tearoom.

2. Madison Tea Room and Garden

Located in the Athens, Georgia, this tearoom combines southern hospitality with English charm perfectly while serving a traditional afternoon tea.  The service is presented on fine British china that the owner has been collecting for over 30 years!  She also combines in traditional silver and china as well.  The owner welcomes children of all ages, serving younger guests a special children's tea with smaller tea cups and mini blueberry scones!    

3. Abkhazi Garden and Tea Room

In Victoria, British Columbia there is romantic and whimsical tearoom, the Abkhazi Tea Room.  In the 1940s the Prince and Princess Abkhazi moved from the country of Georgia to Canada and built this home.  They tended to an extensive garden in the back of the house.  When they passed away the house was given to the Land Conservatory.  Today afternoon tea is offered in what was once the drawing room. 

4. Tiny Tim's Tea Room

Travel to England to experience afternoon tea in its full glory.  Try Tiny Tim's in Canterbury, Kent.  This tearoom is housed in a building from the 1600s.  Enjoy tea in one of the sunrooms.  Tea is served in bone china and the tasty treats come on the traditional three-tiered cake stand.   If you visit on the weekends, your tea will be accompanied by a piano player.

5. The Ritz

For the ultimate splurge treat yourself to High Tea at the Ritz in London.  Dress code is strictly enforced, but who wouldn't mind dressing!  Tea is held in a special drawing room decorated with gold trimming, flowers, mirrors, and pastel colors.  The tea service includes tea sandwiches and little pastries and cakes to finish.