FAQ and Tea House Policies & Rules

Do you have some questions? We have some answers!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

If you have a question that we didn’t already respond to in our Frequently Ask Questions below, please contact us.

When is the Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage Open?

Mondays: 11 AM to 5 PM
Tuesdays: CLOSED
Wednesdays: CLOSED
Thursdays: CLOSED
Fridays: 11 AM to 5 PM
Saturdays: 11 AM to 5 PM
Sundays: 1 PM to 5 PM

Reservations are required unless otherwise clearly stated.

How do I make a Reservation?

You can make a Reservation directly here on our website or by calling 757-231-5131.

A Reservation is composed of selecting your room and your Tea Service, and payment is required to finalize your reservation.

We never “pencil in” to hold a date for your reservations or “hold” a reservation for payment later.

What is the Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage’s phone number?

You can call or text us at 757-231-5131.

Why can’t I make a Reservation without selecting a Tea Service and Room?

You are required to book a Room and select a Tea Service to complete your Reservation.

Where is the Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage?

The Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage is located at: 2453 Pruden BlvdSuffolk, VA 23434
USA
.

What about my kid(s) under 8 years old? Can you make an exception for my kid(s)?

At this time, Stillwater Tea House welcomes guests ages 8 and older, no exceptions, unless otherwise stated on specific events. This policy helps us maintain a serene and charming atmosphere and ensures the safety of all guests.

We delightfully anticipate when your kids 7 years old and younger, are old enough to visit.

When was the Stillwater Tea House established?

Stillwater Tea House was established in 2014. You can read more on this About page.

How do I contact the Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage?

You can call, text, email, or even write us a sophisticated letter. The details for contacting us can be found on this Contact page.

What if I have a party of 9 or more people?

You can contact us here for parties of 9 or more people.

What if I want your Tea Services at another location?

You can contact us here about Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage Tea Services at other locations.

What if I want to rent the whole cottage?

You can contact us here about renting the whole Stillwater Tea House at Rose Cottage.

What is the Refund Policy?

We do not provide refunds. You can read our policies here; they are updated regularly, and we request that staff and guests respect all policies with no exceptions.

Why don’t I see availability on certain dates when I’m making a reservation?

You may not be seeing certain dates as being available for various reasons. One reason is that we close bookings on Tuesdays every week for the upcoming weekend. Another reason is that the date you’re trying to make a reservation for may already be fully booked. Or, we may just be completely closed that day.

What is a “Tea Tasting Event”?

A Tea Tasting Event is usually a multi-course meal for a themed Tea House event. We sell tickets that include whatever is outlined in that specific Tea Tasting Event menu. During Tea Tasting Event weekends, our regular Tea Service menu is not available, and the dates for regular reservations appear unavailable when making a regular reservation.

What if I left something behind at the Stillwater Tea House?

Please review our Lost and Found Policy. We only hold items for 30 days.

Tea House Policies

Cancellation Policy

While we do not issue refunds, we are pleased to offer gift certificates for future use should you need to cancel. Kindly provide 48 hours’ notice for parties of fewer than eight, and 72 hours’ notice for parties of ten or more. Your certificate will never expire and may be applied toward a later reservation.
In the case that you do not attend your reservation and do not give the above required notice, we will not offer gift certificates or reschedule your reservation.

ADA Compliance Policy

Stillwater Tea House is ADA-compliant. There is an accessible reserved parking spot, a ramp is available for entry, and a restroom is located on the first floor.

Inclement Weather Policy

Whether this is a nor’easter, a hurricane, snow, or ice, the Stillwater Tea House will be closed for the safety of everyone. We will make every effort to reschedule your reservation. Updates will be provided via email and phone as soon as information becomes available.

Lost and Found Policy

From time to time, unfortunately, guests lose items and belongings and we find them when they have departed. At times we are unsure which guest these belonged to. If you have lost something while visiting, please contact us as soon as possible, as we can only hold onto items for 30 days.

Tea House Rules

  1. If you break it, you buy it in the Gift Shop.*
  2. If it’s closed, don’t open it.
  3. If it’s open, don’t close it.
  4. If it’s on a shelf, wall, or mantel, don’t touch it.
  5. If you have food/beverages from outside, don’t bring them inside during your visit.**
  6. If you make a mess, let our staff know so we can help you clean it.
  7. If you’re in a public room, keep your phone/tablet on vibrate only.
  8. If you’re not 8 years old yet, wait to visit.
  9. If you want to take photos/videos, be mindful of other guests.
  10. If you’re not sure, just ask.
  11. If you abuse our servers in any way***, it results in immediate expulsion from the house.

*At Tea, 3 strikes and you’re responsible! In the Gift Shop, 1 strike and you’re responsible!

**There are never any exceptions to this policy, as it directly violates Health Department requirements.

***We don’t abide yelling, physical altercations, slurs, or profanity.

Children 8 Years and Older Policy

Age Limit
Stillwater Tea House warmly welcomes guests aged 8-10 years of age. Parties including children must reserve seating in the Rose Dining Room.

We are delighted to share that we are hoping to one day create a Tea Party Certification Course for younger guests, granting them the opportunity to enjoy tea with their families. Please sign our interest form if you’d like to receive updates in regard to this potential endeavor.

Conduct
Our beloved Rose Cottage was built in 1957. We kindly ask that children treat it as one might treat a cherished elder of over 70 years—with gentleness and respect. Running, jumping, and shouting are not permitted.

Children must remain under close supervision at all times, as older homes contain certain risks that newer building may not. This supervision includes accompaniment to the restroom and the Gift Shop. It should also be noted that tea service presents additional hazards, such as hot liquids and delicate china. For safety, please do not allow children to serve themselves or handle china improperly.

Finally, remind young guests to use the provided linens for hands and faces, ensuring their experience—and yours—remains elegant and refined.