“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.” Henry James
Oh! There is nothing quite as perfectly English as afternoon tea. It has been a tradition for the gentry to take tea since the ritual was introduced by Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford in 1840. Anna became hungry at around four o’clock in the afternoon and hence, finger sandwiches, delicate cakes and pots of tea were brought.
Rosehill Travel has thoroughly researched the plentiful locations of where to take afternoon tea in The Cotswolds and the Lake District (some personally sampled), and we’d like to share our favourites with you now.
The Manor House Hotel, The Cotswolds
If you’re visiting Castle Combe for golf, you will undoubtedly be at The Manor House. A Michelin star restaurant, the afternoon tea here is spectacular in its presentation and enjoyment. Described as bringing a sense of glamourous tradition and occasion, tea can be taken in the lounge or on the pretty terrace. Afternoon tea at The Manor House Hotel
Armthwaite Hall, The Lake District
One of England’s true stately homes Armthwaite Hall serves a modern take on afternoon tea with the teas themselves being imported from all over the world. With vegan and coeliac menus also available, you can expect to be thrilled by the choice of finger sandwiches and fresh baked sweet treats. Afternoon tea at Armthwaite Hall
Lords of the Manor, The Cotswolds
This wonderous hotel, which boasts a stunning turret, serves a choice of ‘full’ or ‘cream’ tea. The full afternoon tea includes the classics of finger sandwiches and a selection of cakes and pastries, whilst the cream tea is another proud English tradition, consisting of sweet scones, strawberry conserve, and clotted cream. Afternoon tea at Lords of the Manor
Cragwood Country House Hotel and Restaurant, The Lake District
Cosy lounges or picturesque terraces with views of the majestic Langdale Pikes are the settings for afternoon tea at this Double AA rosette eatery. Fresh made sandwiches, homemade cakes and classic scones with clotted cream are accompanied by a selection of teas and infusions. Afternoon tea at Cragwood
All these incredible hotels feature in our pick of the best accommodation to stay in during your Lake District or Cotswolds breaks. We can vouch for the excellent service and standards of hospitality and would love to arrange a visit for you when you’re in England.
Do get in touch with your ideas for an exquisite afternoon tea tour. Call us on +44 (0)1452 595490 or complete the contact form with your queries. We look forward to speaking with you about one of our favourite traditions.
