Beanstalk Tea Garden in Lewes

Came across this place on the last leg of a walk on the Downs a few years back. Returned today to find all was closed down and overgrown, despite a website i ducati g to the contrary. . How on earth someone managed to submit a good review on 4th Sep is rather strange. The location and feel of the garden, with the gravel pathways and cottage type beds, was once absolutely idyllic. Not surprised it hasn't survived - the following is what I drafted back then. Pethaps I should have read the signs... "There were lots of tables and chairs to choose from, some in some very welcome shade. We were rather dirty and sweaty, so didn't really notice the standard of the furniture. We sat and recovered, reading our papers. The drinks and lunch were of very good quality and tasty, so we didn't mind the above average prices. However, the speed of service and attitude of the older woman were bad. I can't therefore give a good rating.. The place was not crowded, and we had to remind them about our order (tea, cold drinks and salad) after 30 minutes - when an adjacent table was served before us, having arrived 10 minutes or so after us. When our order was delivered, our comment was "oh, lovely, we're ready for this", to which the woman replied "oh have you been waiting - we can only work so fast in this heat you know". Clearly someone who finds it easy to make it the customer's problem. Just an apology would have done. Shall go back though, for the location, but perhaps just for a cuppa next time (would possibly be cold tho).

Stumbled on this little hidden gem on a bike ride along the coach path. Beautiful cakes in a magical setting. Well worth stopping if you are on a walk or a ride.

Never having visited before, I was looking forward to a lovely afternoon tea. Unfortunately things got off to a bad start when we pointed out that the table we had booked was occupied by another group. We were informed that if someone had moved the “Reserved”sign, there was nothing they could do about it! We were relocated to another table which was OK, except that the next table had not been cleared and had attracted dozens of wasps that soon moved to our table as soon as our cakes arrived. I know we get wasps in the summer, but perhaps some citronella might have helped? As stated in other reviews, it was a great disappointment to have our tea served in paper cups and to be honest, the attitude of the staff and level of service left a lot to be desired. Other members of my group have been here before and all agreed it was disappointing. I may be wrong, but I believe that it’s closing down soon. If this is the case, it was as though the attitude of the staff was that we’re closing soon so why bother. Regardless - sorry, but it’s not somewhere I would rush to visit again.

Thank goodness it wasn't just us, my husband and I, who thought the Beanstalk tea rooms a great disappointment as far as the food and tea were concerned. I would not want to be unduly negative but having heard such wonderful reports in previous years of this tea room we were most surprised to find our tea, like that of others, was served in a takeaway cardboard cup which came with some scones which were flat and more like my first home made ones with cheap very sweet tasting jam that could have been Morrison's economy brand and a cake that was OK but nothing like that served at Driftwood Garden by Geoff Stonebank and at Badgers Tea rooms in Alfriston or Church Lane tea rooms in Seaford which are all delicious. The people sitting next to us said exactly the same so not just us being negative. May be an off day but it would put visitors off so perhaps some thought should be given for future reference. It took me, an old cripple on sticks, nearly an hour to reach the gardens from Firle Village, which WERE indeed beautiful, with not a sign in sight the whole way and nothing to let us know we were even heading in the right direction. No I'm sorry but we would hesitate to go again.

The Beanstalk has long been a favourite place for great cakes and other delights, set in a lovely rambling garden in a tranquil part of the South Downs. It was well worth the walk from Firle village. We were so disappointed that the ordering is now done from a kiosk where , I presume Saturday staff, struggled with our order of scones and tea. When this came the scones were already ‘ creamed and jammed’ and only one tea arrived with them. This was served in a paper cup. We finally got the other tea. So, what was once a really special place where we were able to ponder over the choice of delicious cakes, drink tea out of bone china and listen to the hum of bees, is now somewhere far less special: tea in cardboard and peering through the gloom to choose caked the staff have very little familiarity with. Shame…..

For many a year, we've been enjoying the splendour that is (was?) the Beanstalk Tea Garden (and almost wish we'd kept it our 'secret garden' as it has since grown to be very busy). I have been ill for a while, and was looking to return to its glorious garden for tea with one of the magnificent cakes. Imagine my immense disappointment, then, when we turned up to be told that I could get a cup of tea, but it would be served in a takeaway cup... Our cold drink was served in a 'plastic glass'. Anyone who enjoys a good cuppa knows that tea doesn't deserve to be spoiled by being chucked into a takeaway cup! Heavens! It needs to be savoured, and sipped from exquisite china tea cups. And, anyway, isn't that the whole point of a 'tea garden' — to serve tea, at least, in crockery? Ideally vintage crockery. We WILL return ... but ONLY and if the crockery returns.

My dear friend and I spent the afternoon here sitting outside in the garden next to a vintage caravan and all around us the wonders of a simple but beautiful garden for our get together. Somehow it is so much more civilised, when you have good company, convivial in a setting like this… lovely! We made our own private tour of the delightful gardens, inspired by the colours and scents and the lovely posies that were on sale of meadow flowers. We were served by a charming French lady and very efficient young teenager both of whom made us very welcome as we ordered a snack, drinks and naughty cake. I look forward so much to when they will have crockery again, all boho, quirky and mismatched. We didn’t have the tartlet and abundant fresh salads on this occasion but I am already seriously considering returning to slate my envy of the table next to us who were eating this very appealing looking dish! We had nice local lemonade and elderflower, a stonkingly big sausage bun and neat potato and leek cheesy turnover. A good selection of tea including green, and fruit and a very nice espresso. A very nice spot to spend an afternoon, and break the diet regime and certainly once the crockery returns I shall return and celebrate losing 7 kg by stuffing my face in the most refined manner possible. If you appreciate charm, and the beauty and simplicity of this harmonious space, you won’t be disappointed.

Idyllic setting and amazing menu, supported by a friendly relaxed team who made us feel welcome the minute we arrived. The garden is beautifully planted with trees. scented shrubs and perennials forming natural screens between the vintage tables and chairs. All the food is freshly made from veggie pastries to creative salads that blend regular with foraged, and options for most diets. The range of cakes is equally good, with their coffee being the best I’ve had anywhere for years. Happy note: the owner discreetly offered to help me from my car (I have mobility issues) and showed us the quickest path into the garden. This place is perfect, but don’t tell anyone!

Met my friends for an afternoon tea. The sun was shining and it is the most perfect setting. The waitress Was nice but wasn’t overly enthusiastic. The cakes were delicious but we were so disappointed that the tea came out in paper cups. It really let down the almost perfect afternoon tea!!

Where can I start. A sensation overload. Great to ground you back to what’s beautiful in the world. Wild peacocks roam. Dog friendly. Vegetarian and meat. Beautiful service. Wonderful food. Taste galore. Great use of sweet and savoury. Taking the surrounding flowers herbs and plants. Cakes marvellous. Staff lovely. The only drawback is now I’m telling everyone there will be a lot of interest.😵‍💫😂🥰

This has been our favourite 'secret'for the last 4 years. It's utterly charming. A wild rural, yet very pretty location, set at the foot of the downs, on some lovely walking trails. The food and salads are utterly amazingly delicious and fresh, and the homemade cakes amazing. A full afternoon tea easily surpasses all those we have tried at various hotels etc. The owner and staff are lovely. I dont like to spread the word too much as it's so special and selifishly dont want it to become overrun. We cant wait to return again when they reopen in May.

We parked in firle village and walked to the tea rooms which took about 20 minutes. Although they were busy the waitress cleared and cleaned tables as soon as available, so we placed our order and were seated inside 5 minutes. Lovely food, and really good coffee.

On a family walk we were delighted to find Beanstalk cafe open today (Bank holiday Monday). The cakes were delicious and my family down from London for the day found the whole experience charming.

Friends brought us to this tea garden this afternoon, Bank Hol Monday, as part of a mystery tour. Who would have thought such a wonderful hidden gem would be up such a terrible gutted track - but so worth the effort. Just don't take a low slung vehicle! Mature colourful rustic gardens hide nooks with tables and chairs round every corner. It's not pruned and trimmed so yes you do sometimes push past shrubs to get down the paths (noting below complaint) but it's all part of the charm and adds to the atmosphere. The friends that took.us said that pre Covid proper China plates and cups were used but it's understandable that they've had to adapt. The scones with cream and jam were delicious. Cakes looked good but the coffee and walnut cake was a bit dry and the 3 of us that tried it all ended up with weirdly dry mouths hence dropped a star in my rating. Apparently the BlackBerry lime and pistachio was good though. We managed to sit in the wooden gazebo hut and got visited by a peacock and another was in the grassy car park. All part of the fun experience. Unlike the reviewer below, there seemed to be sufficent staff - I think I saw 4, and the food and drinks were delivered promptly and accurately. Look forward to bringing others to this hidden gem! Also keep an eye for the gnome garden as you turn off the A27 - first house on right! Never seen so many gnomes (charity collection tin attached to fence if u enjoy it). Believe tea room only open until mid Sept when season ends.

The Beanstalk was a favourite of ours before lockdown but sadly, on reopening, it seems to have lost its way. Clearly short staffed today ( a Bank Holiday weekend Sunday) with one poor waitress serving all the busy tables struggling to carry massive trays and looking stressed. The garden is now very overgrown with the path between our table and the counter hanging with brambles, that negotiated we sat at a sticky table crawling with wasps which we eventually left when another table came free. The cake, pasty and lemonade were all tasty but sadly served in disposable cups and on plastic plates- we really miss the olde worlde quirky vintage bone China. Please come back the Beanstalk we all knew and loved!

Overheard someone talking about this place so decided to give it a go. Managed to find it after following the sat nav instructions which took us, down Bo Beep Lane. DON'T unless you're driving a 4x4 as the potholes in the road nearly ripped off...

A beautiful setting. Just off of road to firle place before lewes In Sussex. Off the beaten track. Wonderful food. I had a goats cheese and onion quiche with full salad. The range of taste in salad were exquisite. Small edible flowers peppered in salad....

My partner and I have been going to the Beanstalk for a few years now. We wanted to sayThank you to Caroline and her team. We are always made to feel welcomed and the food is always amazing!

Love it here. It's magical. Delicious food, beautiful setting, friendly service and loads of quirky places to sit.

To be honest this is the most beautiful tea garden I think I’ve ever visited! What’s not to love.. it’s in an idyllic setting a short walk through country lanes - the most amazing & heavenly cottage garden (people spend a fortune going to Chelsea...

Maybe the wet weather on the day of our visit wasn’t conducive to tea in the garden but we were so disappointed. The garden is very overgrown, surely the bushes could have been cut back from the path and then our clothing wouldn’t have got...

So happy to have found this gem tucked away on a corner of the Old Coach road just off the South Downs. Lovely staff, delicious cakes and coffee in a wild garden, such a beautiful setting. Will be back again and again!

The cakes were very yummy. Very friendly staff, who let us change our order. I went with a couple of friends, perfect place for catch up after walk on The Downs.

We’ve just had a delightful return to the Beanstalk Cafe. It remains a peaceful, beautiful and friendly place. A rambling garden with greens and purples, and the promise of roses to come. Natural, soft, flowers and beauty everywhere you look. It is in the middle...

So good to find Beanstalk open again. Lovely place for tea (actually cloudy lemonade this time as it was a warm day)and yummy cake midway through a walk amidst glorious downland countryside.

Such a shame it has been allowed to deterioate. It was a gem, off the beaten track literally. The road to it may damage your car. The car park now hosts the portaloo. The grounds itself are so overgrown with white smelly weeds. The coffee...

Fabulous. Quintessential English tea garden with fab selection of cakes. Tents & wooden gazebos and a peacock. Set in a rambling garden surrounded by fields. Such an Alice in wonderland moment of magic. Best to walk there- 20 mins walk from Firle. (Need to use...

Just wonderful, such a lovely peaceful and ideal place to be and great cakes and bits to have a spot of tea / lunch. Then nice local area to wander about in! Loved it!

A very cute little tea garden found on our walk. Very pricey lunches but well priced homemade cakes that tasted scrumptious.

I really love stopping off here when I have been on a long walk, it is tranquil and I get to have a slice of amazing gluten and dairy free cake, so much choice. Staff are amazing too, I love it. See you next season!

Lovely setting for lunch, your seated in a mature garden which in places gives a secluded feel. Food is good quality but is limited with choice but I’ve always found something to my fancy. Great dog walks around the area. Has a car park.

Lovely quirky out of the way place. Proper pot of tea and a nice lunch. The scones looked great. Beautiful garden.

Super place, Dog friendly and the view from around is lush with great walks on the doorstep too. A bit hard to find on the country road but so worth it. Gluten free cake was delicious.

A delightful experience. The afternoon tea was outstanding , as is the beautiful surrounding countryside

First visit. Pretty country garden and shabby-chic china, etc. Staff very, very slow to clear tables. Paid for tea and cake but then had to wait at least 20 minutes before it was brought out. Cakes delicious, home-made and unusual flavours, with several gluten-free options. Dog-friendly too. No problem with wasps, as mentioned in earlier reviews: plenty of wasp traps around.

4 attempts to discover whether bookable/ busy dates/ parking met with the same recorded voice stating "leave a message" eventually got a very rude human voice who sounded overwhelmed with work. We did not climb the Beanstalk!

Well this is a very lovely place for sure. However, on the day we visited sadly we were chased away by the bees, I realise this is a part of being in a rural setting- but it is something that needs attention. It would make me think twice about returning I gave to say. It was certainly the quickest I have ever eaten a piece of cake, which was really good indeed.

We went to the beanstalk for my birthday tea .Very busy had to wait for a table as you can,t book. Food delicious and reasonable priced lovely setting and quite hard to find.Only complaint absolutely swarming with wasps so made it not so enjoyable.

When I come here I feel as if I am going back in time to my aunt's garden on a summer afternoon. There is something magical about it and it leaves an impression upon me that I carry with me for a little while.Faultless, charming, lovely staff. Don't ever change a single thing.

I have no idea how anyone finds this place unless accompanied by someone who has been there already and knows the way! Get there and spend a few moments wandering in the ‘English cottage’ garden finding tucked away spots with table and chairs before finding the big, slightly elaborate so called ‘Indian tent’. Here are salads, cakes and drinks exactly as you would expect for an old fashioned English lunch or tea. Buffet salads, soup, and cakes or order the tea served on a stand mixing sandwiches and cakes. If the weather plays it’s part then it’s truly a unique English Sussex garden experience.

Stunning gardens and tucked away in a beautiful spot. Friendly and efficient staff, lovely food and beautifully laid out. Well worth a visit!

We were taken here as a surprise and that's just what it was! Located in the middle of nowhere, this little gem is a true find! Glorious setting, even on a wet day, friendly helpful staff, really good food with the atmosphere of 'a secret garden'! Afternoon tea was superb, great scones and the Bakewell cake was perfect. A 'must go back' find.

Eventually found our way to this intriguing deep set country restaurant.what a fun place to reach. We had salads and cakes amongst an overgrown garden with beautiful flowers and bushes.all unkempt in an organised manner.i know this sounds contra - victory but you will agree when you visit.A superb selection of genuine home made cakes. A good selection to form a salad plate with home made quich tartlets and for me a delicious Coronation Chicken. Tea to drink and for me a lovely real lemonade. The service was good and speedy by young staff. I shall of course wish to revisit, but fear this truthful review, I may regret sharing this information for the want of a seat next time ! But in all fairness to the small establishment....they deserve all.

Beautiful setting for this enchanting tea room and cafe. Caters for vegetarians, lactose free and gluten free. Tasty food and fabulous garden. Very hard to find as it is located at the end of a dirt track on a private estate. The post code and address will take you to another village nearby.

It was quite an experience trying to find this place but so glad we persevered with the dreadful coach road to it and total lack of signs! The Beanstalk is nestled in the hollow of the downs and is so pretty. It is only open from April to September and from Wednesday to Sunday from 11.00 - 5.30pm. The gardens are so beautifully overgrown with roses and sweet Peas! they hide the tables hidden around every corner so makes it quite private. Food gorgeous! You can have salads, sandwiches etc if you are there for lunch, or The Beanstalk afternoon tea- quintessentially English! Staff friendly and efficient. Prices reasonable considering the setting and the purely relaxing feel of the place. We arrived at 2.30 and suddenly it was 5.00pm! It was really hard to leave and join the rat race again! Do stop at the little gnome garden just along the road if you are driving. However this is mainly a walkers/ bikers place so if you do walk there you don’t have to suffer the Coach Road! We had to call me by car as one of our party couldn’t walk very far. It’s a little gem and will visit again!

Well, we had tried to find this more than once - but third time lucky ! And made all the more lovely by the walk from Firle along the track that is the Old Coach Road at the foot of Firle Beacon. Almost hidden amongst its garden of flowers and vegetables, with the most romantic Turkish tent, it really is the most magical place. And the most delicious tea, served on the prettiest antique flowery cups and saucers with a proper pot of tea ! I will be back for lunch as soon as possible !

Actually made it to the Beanstalk Cottage after trying once before on a rainy Sunday and unable to get there. Tried it today and on a glorious sunny afternoon managed to park in the car park. Sat down at a lovely corner table surrounded by beautifull trees and plants and ordered tea. Tea delivered by rather lovely Poldark looking lady Elinour Tomlinson who made us feel at ease and deliver the most amazing tea and cakes and sandwiches. The tea and sandwiches were great and the birdsong from the surrounding trees was magic. The place was packed but we were served straight away with an amazing selection of sandwiches and scones. I was awaiting the arrival of Adan Turner to complete the scene but this was not to be! Dream on Jillian! Really worth the effort to reach this beautiful house and all praise to the lady who runs it. Can't wait to visit again with my son and grandsons before they close in September. This should be recommended on the National Health for families in need of escape from the stress from daily life. Just half a day for families would be so beneficial. Broadwater Farm and Grenfell Tower families spring to mind. How wonderful if they could spend an afternoon here. Jillian.

I had heard great things about the Beanstalk Tea Garden and was really excited to visit. The setting is absolutely beautiful and lovely on a sunny day. I ordered the ham mixed salad plate which promised seasonal leaves, artisan bread and edible flowers. What actually came on the plate was a mix of things that felt like they had just come out of a packet. The roll was definitely not artisan or homemade, there was mixed beans that felt they had come straight from a can, guacamole and tzatziki that had clearly been purchased at a supermarket, some salad leaves and some rice. I thought I was mistaken in this costing £12.50 however when I spoke to staff they confirmed it was that much. When I complained about the value for money, the staff pointed out to maybe go for the afternoon tea next time where you get a drink, cake and sandwiches for just £1 more. Maybe this was just a one off day where the quality of ingredients was lacking however I seriously regret paying full price for this. I was hoping to purchase one of their delicious looking cakes but when the bill came to £17.50 for an iced coffee (way too sweet), lemonade and that salad plate, I did not feel I could justify it. Wish I had gone for the afternoon tea or a slice of cake instead!

A friend suggested we go on a magical mystery tour, and this is where we arrived for a quintessentially British lunch in the beautiful countryside. All the culinary delights are inside the Indian tea tent, where there’s an array of mouth watering delicious salads, asparagus and goats cheese tarts, roasted vegetable tart and cakes galore! I had the coronation chicken salad which, if it wasn’t being greedy, I could have had another helping it was so tasty. Freshly made artisan bread and butter. Sadly I was too full to have a piece of cake but as they offer afternoon (cream) tea I shall return!!! They don’t mind (well behaved) dogs and even better behaved children are welcome but you go there for peace and tranquillity, not to be disturbed by hordes of screaming children going into meltdown because it’s not McDonalds or such like!!! The natural wild garden is lovely and plenty of wildlife around. Highly recommend it.

This is a wonderful find for anyone who gets off the beaten track. The cakes are exquisite with many options, the cream scones are the best I have seen - ready loaded with jam and fresh strawberries and a generous glug of cream. The lunch time salads are delicious and the setting is a wonderful cottage garden with tables and chairs nestled in amongst the flowers. The resident peacock keeps visitors entertained.

Took us three attempts to find it but well worth persevering! It's not signposted and is at the end of a tiny track. But once you are there - oh, delight and deliciousness! A glorious wild garden with little tables and chairs strategically placed among the roses and geraniums and honeysuckle and pots; and at one end, a sort of tent cum summer house, full of wonderfully exotic mismatched cups and saucers, and laden with sumptuous cakes. I had ginger and marigold: it was definitely to die for, gooey and sticky and incredibly more-is. My husband had lemon drizzle cake which he enjoyed. A generous pot of decent tea and we were left to relax and enjoy. A mad hatters' tea party of a place. Go and find it!

Just the perfect place on a midsummers day. Tea with sandwiches and cake. All absolutely delicious. Paradise. The garden looked amazing and the place was full. So lovely to see such old English tradition still going strong and being done so well. Well done Caroline.

Gorgeous garden, fabulous cakes and lovely tea! Excellent quick and cheerful service. One good, clean loo and an impressive peacock, Mr. P. Super and unique place, in stunning countryside. Not expensive. Highly recommended.

Lovely little tea room/ tent. Not that easy to find from the road as no sign posts. Luckily husband used to live in firle so knew where to go. Delicious tea and cakes and very reasonably priced. Will definitely visit again

Visited the Beanstalk on Sat 8th June. Fabulous country garden, very quick service, especially as it was so busy, and the tastiest cakes I've ever eaten. Astonishing variety of unusual flavours - we had orange and lavender, and lemon and elderflower - both completely delicious. Can't wait to go again... a memorable experience...

Have visited before of an evening which was wonderful, so going on a sunny day was a real treat too! A hidden GEM of meadow garden and tables, cake,and lovely vintage china. Dogs are welcome and the staff very friendly highly recommend a visit .Beautiful views

If you walk the gentle stroll from Firle at the bottom of the Firle Beacon you will find this hidden gem. It's balm to the soul to sit in their gorgeous garden full of a riotous display of wild and cultivated flowers and enjoy their amazing cakes. I am not given to hyperbole but this place is genuinely stunning.

Beautiful salads and choice of Quiches and the cakes ohhh the cakes such a fabulous selection Home made Lemonade and Strong coffee and Mint Teas Resident peacock such a beauty

Delightful! As others have said, a special place & an oasis for ramblers. The sun shone whilst we enjoyed a lovely Beanstalk tea with sandwiches, cake & scone sat amongst rambling roses & cowslip with a peacock wandering around the garden.

What a find! A fabulous lunch in an ideal setting. About half a mile from Firle village, tucked away up an unmade lane is this wonderful place. I had Coronation Chicken with salad and my wife the tart. We intended to have cake later, but the main course was so filling we didn’t. Next time hopefully. A gem.

We walked up from Firle village through the woods to the Beanstalk Tea Gardens. We had tea and cakes sitting outside. Dogs allowed. We had Moroccan Orange Cake with tea in dainty tea cups and teapot. Staff really friendly and surroundings really lovely. Excellent way to have a countryside walk.

We have passed this tea garden during the winter before it opened and heard what a gem it was.We were on a circular walk from Firle via Charleston Farmhouse. It was a particularly windy day so we had coffee & cake in the marquee at the end of the house.Good choice of traditional and unusual cakes. Three black coffees came as a massive cafetière with enough for 8 cups.£6 for all that coffee.£7.00 for two cakes.Quick polite service.Lovely floral decoration with flowers from the garden on the tables.Will be back in warmer weather to enjoy eating out in the garden.

Just perfect. Helpful and friendly staff.Lots of “ goodies “ to choose from. Quirky tea room. We sat in The Begoda as we had our dog with us and we choose to sit outside. ( water also provides for our thirsty four legged friend). Very dog friendly establishment and we could have sat in the Indian tent if we had wanted to as well.Loved the old fashioned crockery. I had the Scones with a fresh strawberry also on the top. Delicious. I had read about this tea shop in the Country Living magazine and today we decided to make a special trip down from London. We were not disappointed and I shall definitely be returning with my friends who are also tea shop fanatics . Beautiful location, beautiful setting. Wonderful way to pass a couple of hours. Thankyou. Ps if you like garden gnomes then on the way to the tea gardens off the main road leading to the tea gardens, you will pass a cottage with a gnome garden. We stopped for a look.

Amazing little idyllic corner of Sussex - like out of some fairly tale. Piles of cakes in the sunshine in a filed with a peacock squawking ! Best place I've been all year.

This place is like a secret fairy garden - I absolutely love it here - its an enchanted garden where you can drink tea and eat cake in bliss.

A charming setting in their garden especially ~ full of interesting artefacts. Had visited earlier in 2018 for a lunchtime treat, but found the salad offerings rather sparse for the prices charged overall. However, at tea time the cakes etc were just right after a walk.A shame that this venue closes up from September to Easter time

I visited with my family for my cousins birthday and it was an absolutely lovely afternoon! The staff are delightful, the food is reasonable and delicious and the choice and variety for dietary requirements is brilliant! They do vegan, vegetarian, gluten free and dairy free cakes which are all very impressive and delicious! The only downfall is that they aren’t open for more of the year. My dad didn’t believe the sat nav for the address but with much persuasion we found the destination and it was correct as google maps directed us. Will be visiting multiple times in future, would be beautiful in the summer so that you can sit in the gardens.

I was very happy to come across this fantastic tea rooms on my walk on the way back from visiting Charleston Farmhouse. Great atmosphere, great service, beautiful gardens & great cake. Definitely worth visiting.

I've walked past it, along the old coach road, many times but the other day, with friends, I decided to call in to The Beanstalk. I'm so glad I did. My friends, from London, just could not believe that such a place existed. Perfect cakes were served with a lovely pot of tea, served in old-fashioned china cups, while sitting in a fantastically ramshackle garden. The two lovely girls serving us could not have been more welcoming. A highlight of my friends visit

Quirky, old fashioned, and fabulous. We had a job finding the tea gardens at first as we parked our car in Firle near the shop and it isn’t sign posted. Head out of the village. Walking past the brewery and on to the private road. Take the track to the left passing the farm yard and into the fields. Its the first building you come to. It took us about ten minutes to walk there. We found the staff very helpful and friendly. There is a good selection of delicious, proper cakes and the salad with quiche that we all had was very good and plentiful. All washed down with some home made lemonade and a bottle of ale from the Firle brewery. A very relaxed and peaceful afternoon.

Although I’d heard about The Beanstalk, we’d not walked in the area of Firle and so this was a first time visit. It’s probably the most romantic of tea/lunch rooms I’ve ever experienced! The slightly overgrown beautiful garden spaces, each within its own area, plus wrought iron or wooden tables and chairs, a tiny canravan and flowers spilling over bees and benches, plus a lovely Arabian tent attached to the cottage cafe itself, provided the perfect setting. A choice of fabulous cake including lemon and elderflower, pretty bone china pots of good tea and friendly service completed something very special. We will be back for more - perhaps lunch or one of the very ocassional suppers!

Visited this gem for lunch with a friend. We both had dietary requirements which they willingly accommodated. The little nah salad was delicious and the coffee and cake was excellent. Very peaceful part of the countryside too.

Thank you to all the lovely people who have visited the Tea Garden this Season. The Tea Garden will close on Sunday 23rd September.To those of you who have not enjoyed your visit I would have preferred you to be brave enough at the time to make your concerns directly to me rather than hide behind a key board. The issues could hopefully have been resolved at the time .I have had to this season clear up left items which include raw open nappies left on seats- bags of discarded dog poo dotted around the garden- various attempts to force entry into my home - unmentionable items left in the lavatory- perfume and hand sanitizers regularly stolen from the lavatory- rudeness of some individuals to absolutely charming young waiting staff only trying to do their best especially during extreme temperatures.To the lady from Eastbourne who took it upon herself to comment about my chickens keep please note. They are fed and watered twice daily. They benefit from leaves and vegetables recycled from the tea garden and in return I eat their eggs.We are a quirky establishment. If you prefer cafe late and macdonald speed service this is not the place for you.Instead enjoy a shabby cottage garden with odd chairs and tables with simple foods served on vintage china listening to birds and watching bees and butterfliesI look forward to welcoming you soon as some of the comments want to make one give upPs I am not wonder wasp woman with my manic wand to ensure a wasp free environment-

I found this on TA and decided to visit for tea.Finding it was a bit of a nightmare as our satnav took us to a load of cars parked on a wide grass verge but there was nothing else there, so we turned around and went back to two cottages near the start of the road, a lady there told us it was much further up the lane, we could park where the cars were but it was a long walk to the tearooms, so we carried on driving up the lane - the potholes in the private road are mammoth and if you have a low slung car, do not drive up here, leave it at the first parking place and walk up!We found a car park off to the left and parked. We noticed there were some chickens off to one side - not kept in a very nice place at all. There was also a peacock on top of a white van in the car park.We walked up the road and came to a house and carried on walking past that and saw some signs at the end which said to go to an entrance further down - a lady said, just go in there, it's all the same place and it was, I think they make you walk further down to avoid staff carrying crockery into the house.It's a bit of a weird set up as there are so many different places you can sit in but no signs anywhere telling you where to go to get served.You have to go into a big white tent to order what you want but there are no menus on the table so go into the tent first to get a menu and choose what cake you want as the cakes aren't listed on the menus!We took our dog with us but wished we hadn't as many of the tables are situated very close together and there isn't much space and the wasps are a complete nightmare.There were a couple of jars with loads of dead wasps in but they were old and not working anymore, the wasps just come straight at you and the food you get, especially if you get the scones with jam - the wasps love it! We had about 8 wasps coming at us all the time and had to eat really, really quickly to stop them!If I come again, I will bring something with me to kill them as they are such a menace and spoilt our time here.I had the high tea priced at £13.50, which had a pot of tea which gave 3 cups but the teacup is very small. It was very nice tea but I got that first and had an extremely long wait for my food to arrive and my tea was lukewarm by then.The sandwiches were ok, nothing special. The cake I chose was lemon and elderflower which I didn't like.The scones were the best bit - the jam and cream, which is placed on them already, were delicious, so I'd have them next time.My husband had an elderflower fizzy drink, which was a bit flat. He also had the pistachio cake which was lovely.He got his food 15 minutes before mine arrived.The garden is overgrown, you are walking into branches everywhere.The toilet was fairly clean but there is only one.I think it's overpriced for what you get. I was given a tea plate to put my food on which had a big crack down the middle which was stained brown - not good.

We were told of the Beanstalk by friends living in the area, without them we would never have discovered the Tea Rooms. It's located about a mile from the main road with the option of parking up this side of a hedge on a small open field to the right, about 100 meters before the Beanstalk or you can continue in to a small car parking area but the track is VERY rough. We plumped for afternoon tea consisting of a pot of tea (3 cups worth) Sandwiches and a cake each. Staff were very friendly serving out of a large tent which you can sit in for your cuppa but why would you when you can sit in the quirky (if overgrown) garden? The flower beds need some gardening attention but they provide screening from other tables where I guess 20-30 may be sitting but you'd never know! At risk of sounding like my wife (or Nan) it's just lovely. Prices are around average or perhaps below what I normally see out and about but the quality is spot-on. HIGHLY recommend a visit, especially if it's dry. Enjoy.

Spent a very pleasant afternoon here with a group of friends. We sat in the wooden methods and enjoyed a delightful afternoon tea. The scones are the best ever being they are baked with clotted cream. This is one place that you definitely need a sauna to find and it's almost like you are going on a magical mystery trip but trust me when you find it you won't be disappointed.

Left feeling like a naughty child after being spoken to awfully by a member of staff for daring to be lactose/Dairy intolerant. Even though I messaged a week before my visit. So for my 13.50 afternoon tea the only dairy free thing was one piece of cake! Very slow service too although we were a large party and they were busy but even so. Asked for a glass of water so I could take some tablets for my intolerance before eating and waited 10 minutes. Fair enough maybe not everyone can cater for dairy intolerance but the rudeness was unbelievable.

This was my second visit to the Tea Garden, this time I took my parents. We drove but last time we walked from Firle village car park. The weather wasn't as good but that didn't matter. The cakes were still as delicious and the garden still as beautiful. We will be back next Summer!

OK - if you're on a diet you may want to stay away but other than that it is a charming location with seats in hidden nooks, lovely flowers and cake to die for. Well worth the walk.

Have been to the Beanstalk twice, first time parked at Alciston church and then walked along dusty byways to get there (about 40 mins). Second time managed to find the turning to South Heighton - signpost says 'to farm only'. Ignore that, if you keep going you will get to the Beanstalk and can park opposite. Nobody would ever just come across this place! But it is well worth the effort for tea and cakes (or a lovely salad lunch) in their quintessentially English cottage gardens. Choose from a huge selection of gorgeous cakes and salads in the Indian Tea Tent, and then find one of the secluded tables dotted around the garden. After that there's nothing else to do but relax and enjoy! The resident peacock is delightful, the young waitrons are lovely and efficient, and the cakes are fabulous. What's not to like?

Been here once before and it was for a friends 60th birthday. It is a wonderful setting in the sussex countryside and not easy to find the first time. I went for a second visit and felt the price had increased and portion size reduced- one scone in the cream tea instead of two. I still enjoyed it and it is wonderful to get homemade cakes and not brought in ones. A lovely way to spend an afternoon.

Lovely lunch in such a quaint setting, little secluded table positions within a well established garden. Great Service and great food, have been a few times now and have never been let down.

An amazing find at the bottom of the Sussex downs. From A27 from Brighton ignore 2 turnings to girls on your tight and take the next right -private road. Keep going until you come to the tea rooms. We saw plenty of butterflies and bees going about their business on the various wild flowers in the garden. Tables are spread out in various nooks in the garden. If you are visiting Sussex from abroad and want to experience and English afternoon tea - you won’t get much more English. Several cakes to choose from at £3.50 a slice and tea around £2.00. Full English afternoon tea around £13.00 . I will be back

Salad lunch was lovely and was seasoned and arranged beautifully. The staff were absolutely charming and VERY efficient. Choosing a cake was like walking into the tent at the Great British Bake Off........on finals day. Tasted as wonderful as they looked. Looking forward to as many return visits as possible!

If you are happy to drive down a very bumpy private road you will arrive at the loveliest tea garden . it is well worth the drive just for everything they do. try the scones especially. recommendation is just go there!!!!!!!!

The Beanstalk Tea Room is just perfect. I ordered the full cream tea which was very reasonably priced. The sandwiches were freshly made, the scones melted in your mouth and there was a huge selection of cakes. We were entertained by a very friendly peacock who was almost beginning for food with his display of tail feathers. Highly recommended. My only concern was the lane to the tea room was very rutted and difficult to drive down. Possibly better to walk there.

We walked here from Charleston which took about half an hour. Didn’t want to splash out on lunch so shared an afternoon tea with an extra teapot, which proved ample. Fantastic range of cake. Entertained by peacock which was hell bent on sharing our tea -had to settle for a piece of rocket. I asked how to approach by road for my disabled mother. Turn down HeightonStreet, marked as a private road. The last bit of bumpy track leads to their car park.

Absolute gem of a place. Amazing cakes, beautiful tea gardens hidden just up the road from Firle. Staff polite and friendly too.

Quintessentially English, you could be in your own back cottage garden. Fantastic venue, fantastic food and fantastic service. Would very much recommend.

Out for a walk near the South Downs and we found this place in the middle of nowhere. We had lovely meal, the service was a little slow but the location is idyllic. The food was good quality and the garden a delightful place to spend 45 minutes.

Lovely lunch for my mothers 93rd Birthday Only slightly spoilt by the fact even though i booked a table several weeks ago none had been reserved. Luckily i managed to got the last table in the shadeLovely staff who were coping so well in the heat

Had known about this place for a while and today we visited. Once you have negotiated the bumpy road what a find. The pretty house attached to the tea shop is a delight. The garden a haven for bees and butterflies. Tea under a much needed umbrella temperature 32 degrees, lovely fresh sandwiches/scones and an interesting choice of cakes. Pretty china and a peacock roaming around made to the experience. Try it and see.

We discovered this tea room whilst walking on the Downs. I stopped to take a picture of the house and realised there was a tea room tucked behind. We selected 2 cakes..the vegan carrot and the elderflower, raspberry and lemon with a pot of tea for 2. Despite the cloudy day it was a visual delight to sit amongst the garden and relax in our own little secluded area. There were people at every table but spread throughout the garden creating a peaceful atmosphere to listen to the birdsong and watch the peacock strutting round. I will definitely come back again and enjoy introducing friends and family to this little gem. Someone had a bright idea and vision to bring a quintessential English touch to the tea room and it works beautifully.

Oh dear, I really don't want to tell you this BUT it is a truly remarkable, delicious and beautiful place. I tend to park in Firle and take a walk around Charleston Farmhouse, down more country track and "happen" upon it as a haven. If you're lucky the peacocks will join you for tea or lunch too. A joy!

We were thrilled to arrive to the rustic sounds of the Peacocks giving us a warm welcome to this hidden little gem, we were greeted with a cheerful friendly welcome from staff who explained the wonderful choice of cakes on display. We chose to sit in the marquee as it was slightly chilly outside despite a marvelous array of seating in cute areas among the garden. Mum was really excited to be taken to this unique cafe to share yummy cake as part of her 75th Birthday celebrations. Congratulations to all at Beanstalk for making this occasion such a memorable one.

What a wonderful spot to have a proper afternoon tea. Sure, it's not in a hotel which means it's not AS fancy as some non-EU visitors such as myself would imagine, but it was just my style: not overdone, simple, planted with an array of flowers but nothing that looked overly planned.And the tea service! All of the china on the shelves near the register was perfectly lovely, and we ordered two pots of tea, just to get a better look at them! To add to this, we ordered an Elderflower fizzy drink at the end, and they gave us biodegradable straws - thanks for your concern about the environment! We didn't see any plastic being served, and it made us really happy.The staff was helpful and all gave great recommendations for the best cakes to go with the tea and offered a few teas that weren't printed on the list.For being in the middle of what felt like nowhere (an estate and campsites nearby), it got really crowded on Bank Holiday Saturday around 2:30pm. We were lucky to get in when we did and had our choice of the tables!

What a wonderful place off the beaten track, I am so glad our friends daughter was in the know, we had a lovely afternoon tea. Thank you

Did a large detour from our walk, aiming at coffee at what sounds like a lovely café. But sometime between the most recent review (3 weeks ago) and today it has closed, presumably for the winter season? We were definitely in the right place, recognised the garden. While dithering about, the postman turned up, who confirmed it was the right place but now closed. There is no website, just a FB page, so difficult to know what the open season is.If you are planning a visit, best to phone ahead

Such a sweet place to have afternoon tea. It’s in the middle of no where but it’s great.The weather was rubbish but still had a chance to look round . Food was lovely and great value. Worth a visit . Would like to go back next year when re open in the sun .

We came across Beanstalk Tea Garden by chance whilst on our very first walk along the Old Coach Riad, a track we'd heard about but never found before. A lovely sunny August Bank Holuday weekend, which in itself is a bit of a rarity, when we came across this little gem. Wonderful location with stunning scenery. There were 6 of us and we just had tea and cakes. Lovely cup of tea and delicious cake all served at our table in a lovely round thatched seating area. A lovely find and one to which we will be returning regularly in the future to sample their other offerings. Highly recommended if you can find it.