Dainty sandwiches, scones piled high with jam and cream and home-baked cakes. Treat yourself to afternoon tea with friends

Hanbury Manor Stroll through the Hertfordshire countryside and arrive at the stunning Jacobean Mansion, Hanbury Manor for an afternoon treat where the traditionally English art of drinking tea has become even more delicious.

With a selection of finely cut sandwiches, freshly baked scones, home-made cakes and pastries accompanied with a choice of teas or a glass of champagne, this afternoon tea is truly tempting.

Hanbury Manor, Marriott Hotel & Country Club, Ware SG12 0SD. 01920 487722. www.marriotthanburymanor.co.uk

St Michael’s Manor Hotel

St Michael’s Manor is a beautiful 16th century building hidden in the historic area of St Albans, only a short walk from its centre.

In 1965 the Newling Ward family converted the former residential home into a hotel and this year celebrate their 45th anniversary of private ownership. The emphasis has always been to provide great service in a relaxing environment.

The magnificent award-winning five-acre garden provides the perfect backdrop for its famous afternoon teas enjoyed on the lawn, in one of the luxurious lounges, the restaurant, conservatory or on the jetty, all of which overlook the lake.

St Michael’s Manor, Fishpool Street, St Albans AL3 4RY. 01727 864444. www.stmichaelsmanor.com West Lodge Park Approached by a sweeping, tree lined driveway West Lodge Park Hotel is the perfect setting for afternoon tea. Relax in the hotel lounge or on the terrace, overlooking 35 acres of beautiful gardens and arboretum.

Afternoon tea is available from 2.30pm to 6pm Monday to Saturday and from 3.30pm to 6pm on Sundays.

Enjoy delicious finger sandwiches, warm scones with clotted cream, home-made fruit tart and cake with coffee or tea or indulge with a Champagne Afternoon Tea.

After tea try your hand at croquet on the lawn or golf putting by the lake.

West Lodge Park Hotel, Cockfosters Road, Hadley Wood EN4 0PY. 020 8216 3900. www.bealeshotels.co.uk

Redcoats Farmhouse Hotel

Set amidst rolling Hertfordshire countryside lies the 15th century Redcoats Farmhouse Hotel with its award-winning restaurant, open log fires, oak beams, sympathetically decorated bedrooms and beautiful gardens. Here you will find everything you need for a relaxing afternoon tea.

Enjoy a delicious selection of delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jams and cream, plus our chef’s own recipe cakes and petit fours. Served with or without champagne, you may choose to sit by our open log fire, in our beautiful conservatory or outside in our splendid garden. Just perfect for that special gift with vouchers. Booking in advance is required.

Redcoats Farmhouse Hotel. Redcoats Green, Nr Hitchin, SG4 7JR. 01438 729500. www.redcoats.co.uk