Time For Tea
Published: Friday 9th Aug 2019
Written by: Aimee Anderson
This week (12th - 18th August 2019) is Afternoon Tea Week. For those who've never enjoyed the delights of this quintessentially British tradition, it is an unmistakably indulgent treat for that difficult time of the day that falls in between lunch and dinner.
When your tummy starts to grumble during this challenging time of day, a delightful afternoon tea is the perfect way to deal with those hunger pains. Enjoy a cup of tea, a selection of sandwiches and some sweet treats to help you relax and unwind whilst taking time to refuel your body in readiness for the latter part of your day.
This British past-time has quite a regal history. It's origins begin with Anna, 7th Duchess of Bedford, who often found herself feeling weary in the middle of the day, and a pot of tea with a snack just seemed to be the best way to take care of it. She then invited friends to join her for this midday treat and the tradition of Afternoon Tea began. It became even more of a social event for the upper classes when Queen Victoria embraced the tradition and the concept of the ‘tea reception’ was born!
You don't need to be royalty to enjoy an Afternoon Tea these days, so to celebrate the glorious combination of tea, sandwiches, scones and cake we thought we'd give you our pick of the best Afternoon Tea's you can get in Suffolk!
After much gruelling sampling and tasting, our team has finally come to their conclusion...
1. Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa
Enjoy a luxurious Afternoon Tea in the picturesque surroundings of Constable Country at Stoke By Nayland Hotel, Golf & Spa. They offer a Traditional Afternoon Tea or you can add a glass of fizz or even a gin and tonic to add a touch of sparkle. You can enjoy it on one of the sunny terraces, first floor Gallery Restaurant or in front of a roaring fire in the Lounge Bar. Delicious!
Book your accommodation nearby at one of our Dedham Vale Lodges.
2. The Swan Hotel & Spa, Lavenham
The Swan Hotel is renowned for it's luxurious Afternoon Tea. They offer a range of a range of classic pastries, finger sandwiches, savouries and cakes (including the cutest meringue swan!) all within the splendour of the Gallery Restaurant. You can add a glass of fizz to celebrate a special occasion and for those that don't have a sweet tooth, they offer a Gentleman's Afternoon Tea made up entirely of savoury delights. Whilst visiting the historical town of Lavenham, this is a culinary experience you won't want to miss!
Book your accommodation nearby in one of our luxury self-catering holiday cottages in Lavenham.
3. Christine's Pattisserie, Woodbridge
Christine's is an independent cafe and pattisserie located in the centre of the market town of Woodbridge. A family run business, it serves the most delicious home-made food including delicious lunches, irresistible cakes and a truly fabulous Afternoon Tea. The owners have a real passion for food and look to source locally grown produce wherever they can.
Book your accommodation nearby in one of our luxury self-catering holiday cottages in Woodbridge.
4. The Cookhouse Restaurant,Suffolk Food Hall, Ipswich
Treat yourself to an Afternoon Tea whilst enjoying a view like no other! The Cookhouse Restaurant boasts stunning panoramic views of the river Orwell from its elevated position just on the outskirts of Ipswich. Their Afternoon Tea consists of a selection of sandwiches, cakes, savouries, a fruit scone with cream and jam and unlimited tea, or coffee.
Book your accommodation nearby in one of our luxury self-catering holiday cottages in the Heart of Suffolk.
5. Harriet's Cafe Tearooms, Bury St Edmunds
Set within one of the old Cornhill buildings in this historic market town Harriet's Tearoom benefits from a grand entrance and high ceilings adorned with chandeliers and a pianist playing on selected afternoons to add to the ambience. Full of history and charm, the building has been used as a library and part of an old fire station in years past and has had many retail uses since. They offer a range of speciality teas and their Afternoon Tea menu includes a miniature version as well as a celebration version complete with a glass of champagne. Indulge yourself at Harriet's where you enjoy a truly English experience in one of Suffolk’s favourite market towns.
Book your accommodation nearby in one of our luxury self-catering holiday cottages in the Bury St Edmunds.
