Back in 2007 when this blog was in its infancy and we were just setting off on culinary journey we got married. Since then it has come tradition to take Afternoon Tea whenever we are celebrating our anniversary or on holiday in the UK. Who can complain about setting an afternoon aside to eat lots of cake?
Earlier this year I happened to win Afternoon Tea for two at Swinfen Hall Hotel near Lichfield so decided to visit to celebrate our 5th wedding anniversary.
The long drive up to Swinfen Hall Hotel is quite spectacular. As we entered the hall we were greeted by the attentive staff and I’m glad I had dressed up for the occasion. This is no place for jeans, but then I’m the kind of woman that believes it is always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Hubs doesn’t always agree with this statement.
The afternoon tea was taken in one of the rooms overlooking the manicured gardens and wild deer park with classical music playing softly in the background. I knew we were in for a good afternoon when I spotted the Wedgwood crockery and silver plated cutlery. Possibly one of the poshest Afternoon Teas we’ve ever had.
As we settled down we were offered a selection of teas then the food was brought out. First a selection of sandwiches then a tower of cakes. For the sandwiches we had ham & tomato, cheese & pickle, salmon & cucumber along with a delicious hot Thai chicken sandwich which was one of the highlights for me. I want little hot sandwiches to appear more often in afternoon tea.
For the cakes there were the obligatory scones that were fluffy and still warm from the oven along with two mini Bakewell Tarts and a lemon sponge filled with Chantilly cream. The lemon cake was a perfect refreshing end to the afternoon.
You are are encouraged to bring your wellies/walking boots and go for a walk around the grounds, but due to the very wet English summer we are currently experiencing we gave it a miss. I would love to return soon with some girlfriends for an afternoon of posh tea and cake. At £14.95 I think it is great value for both the location and quality of food. Non-residents are welcome, but you must prebook as the hotel is sometimes hired out on an exclusive basis.
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