The Tearooms at Shamrock Cottage, at 73 Selwyn Road in Howick, is a tearoom in a historic cottage. The website says the building was first used in 1847 as a wet canteen for the newly arrived Fencible Corps, and later became the Royal Hotel, which gained a reputation as "the Honeymoon Hotel". The tearooms opened in December 2009, and serve home-made food made fresh on site, with a roaring fire and a sun-drenched courtyard.
The menu covers sweet and savoury food, including an all-day breakfast and lunch menu, chicken pies, cornish pasties, lemon slice, carrot cake and an ever-changing specials board. There are vegan and gluten-free options, gluten-free and dairy-free bread, and most dietary needs can be accommodated. High teas are held for public and private events, including birthdays and bridal showers, and the tearooms also cater. The café suits tables of all sizes, and reservations are made by phone on (09) 533 1370 during opening hours. Our pick in Howick for a high tea by the fire.