Sit down to a three-course Southern tea at Hopsewee Plantation
1 Hour 15 Minutes
3-course tea, English teas
Enjoy an elegant, English-style tea with a Southern twist at the River Oak Cottage Tea Room at Hopsewee Plantation. Choose a three-course tea service or order from the full Lowcountry lunch menu on the Santee River waterfront.
Reservations are encouraged as space is limited. Mosquitoes are present in this natural setting, and seating may be outside on the porch depending on weather.
Activity takes place rain or shine. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, tickets will be refunded.
Wear comfortable shoes and skip high heels (they can damage the hardwood floors and may sink into the lawn). Mosquitoes are present in this natural setting, so bring insect repellent if you’re sensitive.
If you’re pairing this with a tour or class, book your tea room seating for 15 minutes after your tour ends. If you plan to eat before your tour or class, allow 1 hour for your meal.
Reserve in advance when you can. Space is limited, and large groups sometimes book the tea room.
Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides here, with several mentioning Yancy and Fancy by name for their storytelling abilities, historical insights, and genuine approach to sharing the property's complete history. The house tour itself impresses with its architectural details, particularly the intricate woodwork, and reviewers appreciate the honest presentation of the plantation's past, including the difficult realities of those who were enslaved there. The museum adds depth with its collection of artifacts that bring the history to life. Beyond the tours, the on-site tea room earns enthusiastic recommendations for its delicious food, beautiful river views, and charming Southern hospitality. Several guests mention returning specifically for the tea experience. The grounds sit on a scenic bluff overlooking the North Santee River, adding natural beauty to the historical experience. This seems to be a place that takes its educational mission seriously while creating a welcoming atmosphere, making it particularly valuable for those seeking a more complete and truthful understanding of Southern plantation history.
Beautiful historical place. Love the River Oak tea room. Food is delicious and this time I came home with my favorite tea. Musuem is very educational too.
Amy Vaughn
March 28, 2026
Beautiful historical place. Love the River Oak tea room. Food is delicious and this time I came home with my favorite tea. Musuem is very educational too.
Amy Vaughn
March 28, 2026