Afternoon tea has made a bit of a comeback. Around Cheshire we have some of the best examples in Britain, including national award winners. Here’s my top ten
Mere Golf Resort, The Mere Golf Resort & Spa Take Afternoon Tea out on the terrace. Treat yourself to a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, alongside an assortment of mouth watering cakes and pastries. Served with a range of fresh leaf teas from ‘Tea’s from the Manor’. Mere Golf Resort and Spa, Chester Road, Knutsford, WA16 6LJ. Tel:01565 830155. www.themereresort.co.uk
The Lowry Hotel Indulge in chic luxury in the city with this unlimited Prosecco afternoon tea experience. Awarded one of the Tea Guild’s ‘2013 Top City & Country Hotels of Excellence’, the stylish Lowry offers a range of Prosecco cocktails from Buck’s Fizz to a sophisticated Bellini. All are served alongside a great selection of finger sandwiches and delectable cakes and pastries. The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Place, Chapel Wharf, Manchester, M3 5LH www.thelowryhotel.com/restaurants-and-bars/afternoon-tea
Mottram Hall Hotel Set in 270 acres of rolling parkland, De Vere Mottram Hall is the picture-perfect setting for indulgence. Complete with ornamental lake and sweeping drive, it’s an excellent venue for traditional afternoon tea. A ‘celebration of tea and its theatre’, their afternoon tea comes with an array of charming cakes and pastries, with an equally charming view to match. If visiting for a special occasion, why not add a glass of Moet & Chandon to add extra sparkle? Mottram Hall, Wilmslow Road, Mottram, St Andrew, Cheshire, SK10 4QT www.mottramhall.com
Peckforton Castle Dine like royalty at this Grade 1 castle built on the top of Peckforton Hills. You’ll enjoy fabulous views of the Cheshire countryside while tucking into a classic afternoon tea. French pastries, fancies and sandwiches are on offer alongside a pot of tea of your choice. If you’re feeling regal, swap your tea for a glass of Joseph Perrier champagne or a measure of Bombay Gin and tonic. Peckforton Castle, Stone House Lane, Peckforton, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 9TN www.peckfortoncastle.co.uk
Crewe Hall Relax in the Sheridan Lounge in the old hall and you’ll be greeted with a glass of sherry on arrival. You’ll sit in what was once Lord Crewe’s dining room where he entertained King George V and Queen Mary during their visit in 1913. A selection of treats from the Victorian kitchen is served on elegant tea stands, including freshly baked scones with clotted cream and homemade fruit conserve. £23.50 per person inclusive of freshly brewed tea & coffee & a glass of sherry on arrival. Crewe Hall, Weston Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW1 6UZ www.qhotels.co.uk/our-locations/crewe-hall/food-drink
Stockport Plaza Travel back in time and enjoy a brief encounter with afternoon tea at this atmospheric 1930’s cinema. Continual restoration over five years has restored the Plaza and Café Lounge to its former art deco glamour. With a variety of afternoon teas to choose from, why not try the classic ‘Plaza’ afternoon tea before catching a film or performance in the stunning cinema and theatre? The Plaza, Mersey Square, Stockport, Cheshire, SK1 1SP stockportplaza.co.uk/plaza-cafe
Ginger & Pickles Granted the Tea Guild’s ‘Award of Excellence’ in 2013, this is an ideal place to unwind with a refreshing cuppa in the heart of a floral market town. An assortment of homemade cakes and sandwiches adorn a traditional three tier stand, and are complemented by an extensive range of loose leaf and bagged tea served in Burleigh china teacups. You can also upgrade to a ‘Namptwiche Tea’, which is served with champagne. Ginger and Pickles, 3a, Mill Street, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 5ST www.gingerandpickles.co.uk
The Chester Grosvenor Hotel Indulge in a luxurious afternoon tea at this top class hotel in the heart of Chester. Relax in the Arkle Bar and Lounge and enjoy sweet creations made by award-winning chefs, served alongside finger sandwiches. Afternoon tea has been served here since 1882, so it’s an ideal choice if you want a slice of tradition. If celebrating a special occasion, why not opt for the ‘Decadent Champagne’ afternoon tea for two? This includes a half bottle of Irroy Carte d’Or Champagne with fresh strawberries and clotted cream. The Chester Grosvenor, Eastgate, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1LT www.chestergrosvenor.com
Davenport’s Tea Room Step into the curious world of Alice in Wonderland and enjoy afternoon tea at the UK’s official top tea venue of 2013. Deservedly the Tea Guild’s ‘Top Tea Place Award’, the pretty cakes and sandwiches at Davenport’s are served on vintage china tiered cake stands. There are four afternoon teas to choose from, with additional themed afternoon teas throughout the year including a ‘Mad Hatter’s Tea Party’ and Mother’s Day special. The Wonderland décor is inspired by the novel’s author Lewis Carroll, who was born in nearby Daresbury. Davenport’s Tea Room, Warrington Road, Bartington, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 4QU. www.davenportsfarmshop.co.uk
Alderley Edge Hotel, Alderley Edge Afternoon tea is a recent addition to the offering at the Alderley Edge, but the hotel got this quintessentially English ritual spot on from the outset. Set within the classic surroundings of the Alderley Restaurant, a collation of sweet and savoury treats is served on contemporary tiered stands with teas from the Alderley ‘Tea Alchemist’ and is available with champagne. The Alderley Edge Hotel were the winners of the 2014 North West Afternoon Tea of the Year in 2014 Cheshire Life Food and Drink Awards. Macclesfield Road, Alderley Edge, Cheshire SK9 7BJ www.alderleyedgehotel.com
