Miss Marple’s Tearoom

Miss Marple’s Tearoom is one of the most iconic and long-standing dining destinations in the Dandenong Ranges.

Located in the charming mountain village of Sassafras, this traditional English-style tearoom has welcomed visitors for decades and has become a must-visit for tourists exploring the region.

The tearoom first opened in the 1970s and was inspired by the famous fictional detective Miss Marple created by Agatha Christie. The venue embraces this theme through its décor, creating a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of an old English country cottage.

Inside, guests will find antique furnishings, lace tablecloths, vintage teapots and floral displays that transport visitors to a bygone era. The charming interior, combined with the cool mountain climate outside, makes it the perfect place to relax with a warm cup of tea.

Miss Marple’s Tearoom is best known for its classic English-style menu. Visitors come here to enjoy traditional afternoon tea, freshly baked scones with jam and cream, hearty soups and a selection of homemade cakes and desserts. One of the signature dishes is the famous Devonshire tea, which includes freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam and thick cream, accompanied by a pot of tea. This classic treat has made the tearoom a favourite destination for visitors wanting an authentic afternoon tea experience.

The tearoom also offers a range of substantial meals, making it suitable for breakfast or lunch. Menu options often include hearty pies, sandwiches and classic comfort food that complements the traditional tearoom setting. Many guests choose to sit by the windows overlooking Sassafras’ leafy streets while enjoying a relaxed meal after exploring the surrounding village shops.

Because of its long history and distinctive theme, Miss Marple’s Tearoom has become a landmark attraction in Sassafras. Visitors travelling through the Dandenong Ranges often include it as part of a day trip, pairing a meal at the tearoom with visits to nearby gardens, walking trails and scenic lookouts.

Whether you are stopping for a traditional Devonshire tea, a warm meal or simply a relaxing break during a mountain drive, Miss Marple’s Tearoom offers a memorable experience that captures the charm and nostalgia of the Dandenong Ranges.

Getting There

Miss Marple’s Tearoom is located in the picturesque village of Sassafras in the Dandenong Ranges, about 40 km east of Melbourne. The tearoom sits along the main shopping strip of Sassafras and is easy to reach as part of a scenic drive through the mountains.

Driving from Melbourne CBD
Driving is the easiest and most popular way to get there, with the trip usually taking about 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic.

A typical route is:

• Leave the CBD and take the Eastern Freeway (M3) heading east.
• Continue towards Ringwood.
• Follow Maroondah Highway through Ringwood and Croydon.
• Turn onto Mount Dandenong Road, which climbs into the Dandenong Ranges.
• Continue past Montrose and Mount Dandenong.
• Turn onto Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, which leads directly to Sassafras village.

Miss Marple’s Tearoom is located along the main street of Sassafras, with parking available along the roadside and in nearby public parking areas.

Public transport
Public transport is possible, though it requires a train-and-bus connection.

• Take the Belgrave Line train from Flinders Street Station in the CBD.
• Travel to Upper Ferntree Gully or Belgrave.
• From the station, catch a bus heading toward Olinda or Mount Dandenong.
• Get off at Sassafras village and walk a short distance to the tearoom.

The full journey usually takes around 1.5 hours, depending on connections.

Scenic drive option
Many visitors combine a stop at Miss Marple’s Tearoom with other nearby attractions such as SkyHigh Mount Dandenong, the gardens at Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden, or the shops and cafés in Olinda.

Because of the winding mountain roads and the number of nearby attractions, driving remains the most convenient way to visit Sassafras and enjoy the classic tearoom experience.