The Queen's Birthday long weekend is one of the best excuses to slow down, dress up and treat yourself to something genuinely special. In Victoria, the long weekend falls on Monday 8 June — in most other states, it's Monday 9 June. Whichever state you're in, it's the perfect mid-year occasion to book a proper high tea.
Why High Tea is Perfect for the Queen's Birthday Weekend
Winter is arriving in earnest by June, and there's nothing better suited to the season than a warm, unhurried high tea. Tiered stands of finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones, a pot of your favourite tea, and an afternoon with nowhere else to be. Long weekends mean venues are in a relaxed, celebratory mood — and so are you.
The one catch: venues fill quickly on long weekends. Book at least two to three weeks ahead, especially for weekend sessions at popular hotels and tearooms.
Melbourne Venues Worth Booking
The Langham Melbourne — The benchmark for luxury high tea in Melbourne. Set in the Langham's elegant Melba Restaurant on the banks of the Yarra, this is the experience to book if you want to make the long weekend feel genuinely special. Champagne upgrades available.
Collins Coffee House — One of Melbourne CBD's most beloved high tea spots, known for consistent quality, welcoming service and excellent value. Great for groups and ideal if you want a central city location.
Stamford Plaza Melbourne — A grand hotel experience in the heart of the CBD, with an impeccably presented high tea that pairs well with a glass of something sparkling to mark the occasion.
The Third Tier — For something more neighbourhood and intimate, The Third Tier in Brunswick East offers a carefully crafted high tea away from the city bustle.
Sydney Picks
Hyatt Regency Sydney — Sweeping harbour city views and a refined high tea offering make this one of Sydney's most reliable long weekend bookings. The Darling Harbour setting is hard to beat on a crisp winter afternoon.
The Fox Hole — Tucked into The Rocks, this is one of Sydney's most charming and characterful high tea settings. Ideal for those who prefer boutique over grand hotel.
Brisbane
Hyatt Regency Brisbane — Queensland's long weekend date may differ, but Brisbane's best high tea venues are worth planning around whenever you have a free afternoon. The Hyatt Regency offers a polished, contemporary experience in the CBD.
Book Early
June long weekends book out fast — particularly Saturday and Sunday sessions at Melbourne and Sydney hotel venues. If you're planning a group booking for a hen's, birthday, or family catch-up, aim to secure your spot at least three weeks out.
Browse all Melbourne venues → /venues/high-tea-melbourne
Browse all Sydney venues → /venues/high-tea-sydney