tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90044051573884375272024-03-06T01:36:29.583+00:00The Afternoon Tea ClubCarolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.comBlogger277125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-63980956556188781942023-11-28T00:25:00.003+00:002023-11-28T00:25:50.685+00:00Festive Afternoon Tea at Grandpa Greene's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_I_Rl3zy312DNM43gDj0vZP35n-G2K0THzlgLCfLbEsDh2D_JTQKQ6l-aABAkW7JlTyvb66Rkq786mdjh93CNENdSAIok5QixPEmnlnrou9RtSvtrAMHuSs-UGDfrHspSOY4i3BmO5RGXcC50-o_REo5L0VK-W9KCmdUTkA9nMf9fFJMypnhRQxcYewrg/s1250/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Christmas%20Afternoon%20Tea.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_I_Rl3zy312DNM43gDj0vZP35n-G2K0THzlgLCfLbEsDh2D_JTQKQ6l-aABAkW7JlTyvb66Rkq786mdjh93CNENdSAIok5QixPEmnlnrou9RtSvtrAMHuSs-UGDfrHspSOY4i3BmO5RGXcC50-o_REo5L0VK-W9KCmdUTkA9nMf9fFJMypnhRQxcYewrg/s16000/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Christmas%20Afternoon%20Tea.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Manchester is certainly not lacking in festive cheer at this time of year, but if the idea of wrestling your way through its famous markets sounds like your idea of a nightmare before Christmas, we may have found a perfect alternative that’s just a 40 minute drive outside of the city centre.<div><br /></div><div>We’ve been eyeing up <a href="https://www.grandpagreenes.co.uk/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Grandpa Greene’s</b></a> sweet treats ever since we saw its heavenly-looking Easter hot chocolates earlier this year - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CrL9BGeIIWW/?img_index=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">yes, that is a full chocolate egg inside that cup</a>. So when we saw the Oldham-based cafe had launched its festive afternoon tea, we quickly booked ourselves a spot for a wintry Monday afternoon. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaewF7sVuO0iPDSvG16A5gnZwAmxIiCJgHagGRhtz0ORW7FFFCLDHaPcYHtioyxtiPDu6U7u1OBySdQiOtClmuI3Njdc8LTjgoK7XTWoAAzcgYlwDoJTTxJjaw3G30OfkeRlTNLQHhxItcfMpad7r3ZktVMRWkf7_Yc5AurE4V2Q4M0_QhYXF5GS7MeiGW/s1333/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Indoor%20Garden%20Room.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaewF7sVuO0iPDSvG16A5gnZwAmxIiCJgHagGRhtz0ORW7FFFCLDHaPcYHtioyxtiPDu6U7u1OBySdQiOtClmuI3Njdc8LTjgoK7XTWoAAzcgYlwDoJTTxJjaw3G30OfkeRlTNLQHhxItcfMpad7r3ZktVMRWkf7_Yc5AurE4V2Q4M0_QhYXF5GS7MeiGW/s16000/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Indoor%20Garden%20Room.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div>Grandpa Greene's has two locations in close proximity but its afternoon tea is reserved for its Ice Cream Parlour and Café Bar hidden in the hills of Diggle, Saddleworth. While the cafe has become known for its canalside Igloo Village, we chose to eat in the Indoor Garden Room which gives you cosy countryside views in a toasty setting that’s akin to your traditional farm shop or garden centre cafe. However, the dining pods appeared incredibly popular during our visit, and it’s worth bearing in mind that if you do decide to opt for tea in a pod, you will likely be sharing with other guests unless reserving space for a large group.</div><div><br /></div><div>Afternoon tea is served with a choice of tea or coffee, plus a cup of hot chocolate complete with cream and marshmallows. We went for a cappuccino and a latte, both served in large, signature GG’s green cups and saucers.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLbUflehXOpMNKZK4DQMI_U05Fv2BBFSA4JcVS0EpMFulartTHq4HWGQV8IytIUDLb5sEzKphp86Upu-t9ciQKNkMku1pFFmnUnGKRaefBaY1qE62zB7u24ZB3N3-gx2fGwWMdPoSdjSuR7nHZZeHbYBk2BlPIEB1Jr9ptqgm2E9amAnVzXkWGHNG5XKBb/s1333/Grandpa%20Greene's%20latte.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLbUflehXOpMNKZK4DQMI_U05Fv2BBFSA4JcVS0EpMFulartTHq4HWGQV8IytIUDLb5sEzKphp86Upu-t9ciQKNkMku1pFFmnUnGKRaefBaY1qE62zB7u24ZB3N3-gx2fGwWMdPoSdjSuR7nHZZeHbYBk2BlPIEB1Jr9ptqgm2E9amAnVzXkWGHNG5XKBb/s16000/Grandpa%20Greene's%20latte.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Food arrives on a mini picnic bench style tea stand, and it is probably the most festive-looking picnic you’ll ever see. No item has been spared a sprinkling of festive sugar or indulgent chocolate coating. </div><div><br /></div><div>To start, there are five sandwiches each, presented in an open style with fillings including turkey and cranberry, egg mayonnaise, cucumber and cream cheese, tuna, and cheese and pickle. We could have happily eaten ten of the turkey and cranberry alone.</div><div><br /></div><div>Traditional fruit scones come paired with individual pots of jam and cream for each person, which is always a win in our books. The scones were a little difficult to slice into, however, they were a good generous size, particularly given the smorgasbord of sweets that comes next.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3L_7lbCldE5jT4jKmIudzUdVfu_wPqKgYcxPnSlzGiHHwMXlStVDe8wetUkXHiIIP1hdVdjgK4iutKAdmCpiwKyNcZxd-ETdyH-5Z73M9OBsuu96d9yvglmMB8v5rYLOuSpn87jaBlLbrmUwlGfDJIdbpvi9gQd5ZJOMI0ANGEqzE29eyUgjNezwWVDv/s1333/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Christmas%20tea%20sandwiches.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1333" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD3L_7lbCldE5jT4jKmIudzUdVfu_wPqKgYcxPnSlzGiHHwMXlStVDe8wetUkXHiIIP1hdVdjgK4iutKAdmCpiwKyNcZxd-ETdyH-5Z73M9OBsuu96d9yvglmMB8v5rYLOuSpn87jaBlLbrmUwlGfDJIdbpvi9gQd5ZJOMI0ANGEqzE29eyUgjNezwWVDv/s16000/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Christmas%20tea%20sandwiches.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Grandpa Greene’s festive afternoon tea is exactly what you’d get if you asked the prop designer on a Hallmark Christmas movie to dream up the cake display for a small town shop window - it has <i>everything</i>, and <i>everything</i> is covered in chocolate and sprinkles. Our eyes were immediately drawn to the mini gingerbread people peeping out of a pair of glass bottles filled with chocolate cream milkshake infused with ginger. Elsewhere you’ll find a stack of blondie bites and brownies topped with chocolate orange slices, and Oreo cookies dipped in more chocolate and rainbow sprinkles. You’ll also find mini mince pies, chocolate coins, wafer biscuits, and strawberries dipped in, you guessed it, more chocolate and sprinkles. </div><div><br /></div><div>We like to think of ourselves as strong contenders when it comes to tackling a generously portioned afternoon tea - in fact, <a href="https://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/08/top-tips-for-afternoon-tea-week.html">we’ve been known to indulge in TWO in one afternoon</a> - but Grandpa Greene’s festive selection was too much for even our well-trained metabolisms to handle. Luckily, this was anticipated, and the staff were more than happy to provide takeaway trays for us to load up our cakes for later. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFbb4F0n64f2QGjNHwvMacKJPP56e21WXE-B9p4EdpR99Uig0_hfb0Zs9BfP9TS25sd4Dr5kaBAUYI4W-6DXwHC_iHjCuiA19JEjJCDWLEKCwghyphenhyphenPIjL-3akSRGmQP7z9IBL3cCCYZaTqcA5c3IltPySCR_b0FbHUUnF6SPp9mAPrUPKbguLhyphenhyphenvdwmoQoK/s1250/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Afternoon%20Tea%20sweets.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1250" data-original-width="1000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFbb4F0n64f2QGjNHwvMacKJPP56e21WXE-B9p4EdpR99Uig0_hfb0Zs9BfP9TS25sd4Dr5kaBAUYI4W-6DXwHC_iHjCuiA19JEjJCDWLEKCwghyphenhyphenPIjL-3akSRGmQP7z9IBL3cCCYZaTqcA5c3IltPySCR_b0FbHUUnF6SPp9mAPrUPKbguLhyphenhyphenvdwmoQoK/s16000/Grandpa%20Greene's%20Afternoon%20Tea%20sweets.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>If you’re looking for something a little different to the annual hustle and bustle of a busy Christmas afternoon in Manchester, Grandpa Greene’s provides a pleasant setting for an afternoon tea that we think would appeal to all ages, and make for a good festive family afternoon out. It’s not the sophisticated fare more seasoned tea goers might expect (and Manchester has plenty of options this time of year, like <a href="https://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2019/06/afternoon-tea-at-honey-hotel-gotham.html" target="_blank">Hotel Gotham</a> and <a href="https://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2017/10/royal-afternoon-tea-at-midland-hotel.html" target="_blank">The Midland</a>, if that’s more your style), but it is cute, fun, and pure chocolate and candy-coated indulgence - exactly what Christmas requires.</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Grandpa Greene's festive afternoon tea is priced at £26pp. For more information and to book visit: <a href="https://www.grandpagreenes.co.uk/">https://www.grandpagreenes.co.uk/</a></b></div>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-63976671795809493532019-06-20T15:22:00.000+01:002019-06-20T15:25:46.350+01:00Afternoon Tea at Honey, Hotel Gotham<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0S8UGBxEJ8BGuV64CzM2PSFuWACY6VukPMVBuKJIf8vMIjwkIOn87wAdt_Vra-TJc0G_diNz4qVssf-OIvaTyC0YOifLDIuL5J4LBBv7dv7o7zGbKP8TofVvyejTvOiOWfLBeECS2RTc/s1600/IMG_8117+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0S8UGBxEJ8BGuV64CzM2PSFuWACY6VukPMVBuKJIf8vMIjwkIOn87wAdt_Vra-TJc0G_diNz4qVssf-OIvaTyC0YOifLDIuL5J4LBBv7dv7o7zGbKP8TofVvyejTvOiOWfLBeECS2RTc/s1600/IMG_8117+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
I'm always conscious that I don't look up enough. Life can be busy and we're all often a little guilty of whizzing around, phone in hand, thinking only about getting from A to B, without stopping to take in what's around us. But Manchester, albeit one of the busiest cities in the UK, is a place where you should definitely take a moment to look a little higher.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawgMOhgcbf6WGnFIP1tddk9BkvgOSvIf3J64RTGxWwgweqkJuPwu2N5uzx7sjGarLDvmHJdXHJdcpe80QcijSd_1PE7MRvBunXuvfayvys0DopYfwFAZBzce0gQIHZlXdAb3U8Enn4dk/s1600/IMG_8113+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjawgMOhgcbf6WGnFIP1tddk9BkvgOSvIf3J64RTGxWwgweqkJuPwu2N5uzx7sjGarLDvmHJdXHJdcpe80QcijSd_1PE7MRvBunXuvfayvys0DopYfwFAZBzce0gQIHZlXdAb3U8Enn4dk/s1600/IMG_8113+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
That's particularly true around Manchester's former banking area of King Street, where the historic architecture provides some impressive details to the city's ever evolving skyline. We recently got a front row seat at Honey, located atop the boutique <b><a href="https://www.hotelgotham.co.uk/">Hotel Gotham</a></b> housed in one of the city's listed buildings, when we stopped by for afternoon tea.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtCoE539R0jPZNbsmCGGwrScfudzcycKDlYDF_sMkB5CdAi6oLM9AcBTms2tGLotJWakf48tf2TOnqERD2sxLYC_BelE8C38ynRPdpKglSX392nZbbOy1ZY8HbDLnBYJWG9CKEx_mfHU/s1600/IMG_8156+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNtCoE539R0jPZNbsmCGGwrScfudzcycKDlYDF_sMkB5CdAi6oLM9AcBTms2tGLotJWakf48tf2TOnqERD2sxLYC_BelE8C38ynRPdpKglSX392nZbbOy1ZY8HbDLnBYJWG9CKEx_mfHU/s1600/IMG_8156+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Gotham has been on our hit list for quite some time after several failed attempts to reserve a spot (our fault as eternal late bookers) but this time, the Bat-Signal was calling, and undoubtedly worth the wait.<br />
<br />
With the sun shining through Gotham's stunning arch windows, tables are dressed in black cloths and accessorised with rolled-up Gotham Bugle newspapers which double as a hotel guide, a subtle nod to the Gotham theme - though, Gotham City fans note, you won't find much evidence of the Dark Knight himself.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOHFbsIw5xOG1WDqUkLwLS84EnF9RbIuZeYG1Zdw3ILMqrhfiq_eyeOKTPutfmw4NExUgBw-XE2pbTANbDPdVIH2qsc7-OGR2aFDH_mN22R-SlLR-bAFk_xvkTZqvp2vskwFPFNry25w/s1600/IMG_8144+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiOHFbsIw5xOG1WDqUkLwLS84EnF9RbIuZeYG1Zdw3ILMqrhfiq_eyeOKTPutfmw4NExUgBw-XE2pbTANbDPdVIH2qsc7-OGR2aFDH_mN22R-SlLR-bAFk_xvkTZqvp2vskwFPFNry25w/s1600/IMG_8144+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Diners can choose the Gotham Afternoon Tea or upgrade to a Champagne option. We went for the former, starting off with a traditional breakfast tea and Americano but if you peruse the menu, there are plenty of infusions and Gotham recommended teas to satisfy avid tea-explorers out there.<br />
<br />
The food arrived on an elegant three-tier silver stand, loaded with colour and some of the most perfect-looking scones you could wish for.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rSZ3cqPq-ayvrRu4EGQluq80qRRmWxPWj3WHhi21-MieySGBUxIwYFwm0pt03LETE-LvqzJ4OxGunxujkSfdXDtqqH8uujYk7RfbIquora7y8BsSOzQipY2r78uEaGXf_3RIe_sn6LQ/s1600/IMG_8140+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rSZ3cqPq-ayvrRu4EGQluq80qRRmWxPWj3WHhi21-MieySGBUxIwYFwm0pt03LETE-LvqzJ4OxGunxujkSfdXDtqqH8uujYk7RfbIquora7y8BsSOzQipY2r78uEaGXf_3RIe_sn6LQ/s1600/IMG_8140+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
To start, a selection of four sandwiches each, including; coronation chicken, smoked salmon and cream cheese, cucumber and crème fraiche, and truffled egg mayo. A dream combination of fillings and breads, all perfectly fresh, and each of our favourites ticked off. Good start.<br />
<br />
Next, the scones. I can't remember the last time we came across an afternoon tea with such a generous scone tier; two plain, two fruit, and a nice size too. The taste test certainly matched up, delightfully soft, served warm with a spot of jam and cream - though we could have perhaps done with a little more of each topping (I don't know if that says more about us than the portion sizes?!).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3AabNkkcU6s2Bl_AnpRdZoR-ytizCLb7r_u-l4ckAjFTa1Lp1H5iAsKSfPjmHsrQ1CG_A5ndkfAsi6mxnBEX9DsFJ2aIxiZnb96guNnMG902Iu1dOpHm9ARE4WWJHpCLoHXUNaAsGZM/s1600/IMG_8149+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ3AabNkkcU6s2Bl_AnpRdZoR-ytizCLb7r_u-l4ckAjFTa1Lp1H5iAsKSfPjmHsrQ1CG_A5ndkfAsi6mxnBEX9DsFJ2aIxiZnb96guNnMG902Iu1dOpHm9ARE4WWJHpCLoHXUNaAsGZM/s1600/IMG_8149+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Finally, the patisserie assortment was an eye-catching mix of classics, livened up by their bold and unexpectedly bright colour palette. We each had a miniature rhubarb cheesecake, strawberry tart, earl grey macaroon and Victoria sponge finished with a playful Barbie pink buttercream top. I couldn't honestly pick a favourite, and though traditionalists may miss a token slice of carrot cake or chocolate delice, you couldn't fault this selection of fun favourites.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgYGvhj40zJO6CLcf2C_E4LEemaZKvBN_dIIK0_-9a178ZD3zuuNiuMaPy6urbfbSvVn2Kh8h97KHnJ7nRXhWb-9twvRacCgTTK_oM77oAdshvr8XCrBMbc8a6Flb2DH3CXcXebIMF9Fk/s1600/IMG_8125+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1008" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgYGvhj40zJO6CLcf2C_E4LEemaZKvBN_dIIK0_-9a178ZD3zuuNiuMaPy6urbfbSvVn2Kh8h97KHnJ7nRXhWb-9twvRacCgTTK_oM77oAdshvr8XCrBMbc8a6Flb2DH3CXcXebIMF9Fk/s1600/IMG_8125+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
As locals to the Manchester area, we're often asked what our go-to afternoon tea spots are around the city. The list has stayed pretty much the same for a long time with a number of Manchester venues some of the most dear to our hearts. But we must say, with its delicious food and unique setting, we'll be adding Hotel Gotham to that list in future.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Gotham Afternoon Tea is priced at £25pp. For more information and to book visit: <a href="https://www.hotelgotham.co.uk/">https://www.hotelgotham.co.uk</a></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-30176233058148342482019-04-21T18:13:00.003+01:002019-04-21T18:21:06.094+01:00WIN Bettys 100th Anniversary Gift Set <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQEhBhzHoEjSQhpnuSI5rO69VwtuBvupLlVJhO_JqC7OCZrxdfgGlV4ezbrZZQU8zr01IWNkQ1SyElB_RtKxCY2b4Gb4QAhagInduYRwyFazejPAA-9551MLU_hQKuGrA5Q01xHS6NJA/s1600/IMG_8075+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQEhBhzHoEjSQhpnuSI5rO69VwtuBvupLlVJhO_JqC7OCZrxdfgGlV4ezbrZZQU8zr01IWNkQ1SyElB_RtKxCY2b4Gb4QAhagInduYRwyFazejPAA-9551MLU_hQKuGrA5Q01xHS6NJA/s1600/IMG_8075+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>COMPETITION TIME!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
As well as being Easter Sunday, today (21st April) also marks the celebration of #NationalTeaDay 2019 - a day to honour the Great British Brew in all its forms. To celebrate, we're offering one lucky person the chance to win a <a href="https://www.bettys.co.uk/tea-and-biscuits-gift-bag" target="_blank">Bettys 100th Anniversary tea and biscuits</a> gift set worth £9.95. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To enter, all you have to do is follow us over on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/teacupreview/" target="_blank">@TeacupReview</a> and comment on our <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwhpQjBnQ4C/" target="_blank">competition post</a>, sharing what your favourite type of tea is - ours is Earl Grey.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
The giveaway will close on 26th April, so get your entries in quick.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Good luck (and happy Easter!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Laura & Caroline x</div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #555555; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.1px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="background-color: white; clear: both; color: #555555; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 12.1px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPv6mjxs1Sp1be7T_0ebcCdWPnpS-pOe32Q7B8t4GSMrHms2cItHLap_u6xD3sxs5Mjjt-25vRSx8WuaMzyhYhooManf8S421GupdHMBEAMNXnXQT7VXjceHuhP7Eh3TL2hNoK3PCZvNM/s1600/IMG_8064+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPv6mjxs1Sp1be7T_0ebcCdWPnpS-pOe32Q7B8t4GSMrHms2cItHLap_u6xD3sxs5Mjjt-25vRSx8WuaMzyhYhooManf8S421GupdHMBEAMNXnXQT7VXjceHuhP7Eh3TL2hNoK3PCZvNM/s1600/IMG_8064+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: justify;">Open to UK residents only. Only one entry per person. Competition will close at midnight (BST) on 26/04/2019. The winner will be chosen and announced on 30/04/2019. The Afternoon Tea Club's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The Afternoon Tea Club is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied by third party connected to this competition. There will be no cash alternative. Winner will be notified via Instagram. By entering the competition the winner agrees to participate in such promotional activity on our website and Twitter. No responsibility can be taken for any entries which are not received for any reason. This </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: justify;">is an independent competition and is in no way affiliated with Facebook or Instagram.</span></div>
<br />Carolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-65776227490225769492019-03-19T13:29:00.000+00:002019-03-19T17:52:01.076+00:00Afternoon Tea at The Ivy, York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVI_m5VvkcrwxlkR_W8Whfx9lz9TFwXKYOrz7HaKPtJkBi1cfgO0NOoJwhB8Qz_PRoirgSpjTJdTLTdwvl90tSscsEfm24hjYdfVZ7-K9FSja4s7A7sH-RiZUTYtGuDxO3tmsGSNVPKg/s1600/IMG_7982+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzVI_m5VvkcrwxlkR_W8Whfx9lz9TFwXKYOrz7HaKPtJkBi1cfgO0NOoJwhB8Qz_PRoirgSpjTJdTLTdwvl90tSscsEfm24hjYdfVZ7-K9FSja4s7A7sH-RiZUTYtGuDxO3tmsGSNVPKg/s1600/IMG_7982+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>You really are spoilt for choice when it comes to afternoon tea in York, so take this as fair warning, as we're about to make your next tea choice that little bit more difficult. Sorry, not sorry.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5EdhbQrzFrkQolzCb7mMqnXcjUQzwONwfUzqMo5G9dGni-csmyVxouF3HRPlAnrY-GkCZonGz1ujGJJuiBBnJV1LS5dC-MkjqU09yf0itmcqo8ai6r6_Zx-CWIJkgx8IZm5fVvXqAQA/s1600/IMG_7929+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt5EdhbQrzFrkQolzCb7mMqnXcjUQzwONwfUzqMo5G9dGni-csmyVxouF3HRPlAnrY-GkCZonGz1ujGJJuiBBnJV1LS5dC-MkjqU09yf0itmcqo8ai6r6_Zx-CWIJkgx8IZm5fVvXqAQA/s1600/IMG_7929+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Right as you step into the centre of town, you'll spot <b>The Ivy</b> on St Helen's Square, a sophisticated restaurant that's both a relaxed retreat for lunch and ideal spot for evening cocktails. It also happens to offer a rather good afternoon tea, which we recently went along to try.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvWMAN029mJpO8jPR7SgszzT5SvajA23HhfZ9G6nQJOVHVn4a3-7Tfz6j0xcWgFimT9ClN-G-IKriU9ruLWFBzq-LvrafJh7AM8a1EXVJr_VF9SJhy6FAZ5aaJB6ef5KojH7OnKR3gSk/s1600/IMG_7953+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvvWMAN029mJpO8jPR7SgszzT5SvajA23HhfZ9G6nQJOVHVn4a3-7Tfz6j0xcWgFimT9ClN-G-IKriU9ruLWFBzq-LvrafJh7AM8a1EXVJr_VF9SJhy6FAZ5aaJB6ef5KojH7OnKR3gSk/s1600/IMG_7953+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Cosy up on The Ivy's mustard yellow booth seating where the formalities of white linen tablecloths are offset by chunky patterned cushions and walls filled with botanical illustrations and contemporary colourful art. Not to mention the spectacular bar area which is wrapped in an old black and white image of York from years gone by and rows of slender mirrored panels which reflect the myriad of colours around the room. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKEY2oaj2f91uvugRvRmaEw2wBA6r5wihfkJMhl7A59hH56t7sMTtTrZ0561wb9oLWJkFd8cG3b0MszmapNlzrfvre-EXYhxqDdYWe42fv0PckngZvUnOqP8Xe2ig_ep-D9OmWLrSBKc/s1600/IMG_7935+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKEY2oaj2f91uvugRvRmaEw2wBA6r5wihfkJMhl7A59hH56t7sMTtTrZ0561wb9oLWJkFd8cG3b0MszmapNlzrfvre-EXYhxqDdYWe42fv0PckngZvUnOqP8Xe2ig_ep-D9OmWLrSBKc/s1600/IMG_7935+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Once seated we were soon sipping on a glass of champagne each and perusing the tea menu. A great choice of traditional and floral flavours and extra points here for having a full description of the afternoon tea food menu too - ideal for bloggers like us who often forget to make notes about the sandwich selection due to being too distracted by pretty food. No? Just us then? For tea we opted for the Ivy 1917 breakfast blend and Ivy afternoon tea blend. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PClOqNGJUd0vqwkcJ_93sG9vztpXIrRLL_cSlLn2f5vGk8nY5-FjWt_DlqD9knE26nlhQvoMzrmoFNDgNxKgqc7T1YwEfbDK-8brsPHGwlmawXiXgeXsDHYQ84WN2BKjx68Mq9XqfJg/s1600/IMG_7952+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PClOqNGJUd0vqwkcJ_93sG9vztpXIrRLL_cSlLn2f5vGk8nY5-FjWt_DlqD9knE26nlhQvoMzrmoFNDgNxKgqc7T1YwEfbDK-8brsPHGwlmawXiXgeXsDHYQ84WN2BKjx68Mq9XqfJg/s1600/IMG_7952+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
First up, the savouries. The sandwich selection was good, if a little small, consisting of a delicious truffled chicken brioche roll, classic cucumber and dill finger sandwich, and open salmon and cream cheese on dark rye. While we would have liked to have seen a little more quantity on the savoury side, maybe a small pastry or another classic finger sandwich, you certainly could not argue with the quality of these afternoon tea favourites executed with a heightened sense of style.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSQCqfZD5CofEd0ARZxt2mD9GXcm51Ye3x35DT62VMS9uIHkR928ODMhg4T68_KbN-ZaWEFvapnfM4HhSRQuEhijmnu7OHyIMaIYnDMOg1bP0fo2FUm9MVZzVMNkqN_R4InxXjoi4a9I/s1600/IMG_7931+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXSQCqfZD5CofEd0ARZxt2mD9GXcm51Ye3x35DT62VMS9uIHkR928ODMhg4T68_KbN-ZaWEFvapnfM4HhSRQuEhijmnu7OHyIMaIYnDMOg1bP0fo2FUm9MVZzVMNkqN_R4InxXjoi4a9I/s1600/IMG_7931+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
For the scones, we won't lie, we found ourselves wondering for a moment if these were shop-bought or home-made, but it turns out The Ivy's perfectly proportioned fruit scones are in fact freshly baked. Presented on a separate cream tea stand and served with sizeable dollops of Dorset clotted cream, strawberry jam, and fresh strawberries, they did not disappoint.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfos0v9O9OLKSXI-6lWKSP6PmrNAyYokr81q6dT6E3jPudJeKSIN1BTymyTU6E8xUbO9vY3zcWyV5jIb53TdkKXCn9fQPSs_7nf-jEMl41s3cTKn_52D_R9C0Uw7LI1GzIfseXFC5FTJY/s1600/IMG_7950+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfos0v9O9OLKSXI-6lWKSP6PmrNAyYokr81q6dT6E3jPudJeKSIN1BTymyTU6E8xUbO9vY3zcWyV5jIb53TdkKXCn9fQPSs_7nf-jEMl41s3cTKn_52D_R9C0Uw7LI1GzIfseXFC5FTJY/s1600/IMG_7950+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
For us, the top tier ticked all the important boxes of an afternoon tea sweet selection. You've got your fruit, something chocolatey, and traditional flavours done with a twist. First, we had been eyeing up those crème brulee doughnuts from the second the stand arrived at our table and they were so good, we wish we could have taken more home! Followed by the raspberry cheesecake which added a little crunch and refreshing dash of fruit, and finally, the chocolate and salted caramel mousse, presented like cappuccinos in mini espresso cups, which were a nice way to finish. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvEZtbPj7gShxDrqlfGc1g4oDhB1xMdWKOSuPVnoJY-J0BqoR4Pwt5ywOTy55BgHvafDu5Yptlmgfd2Jfxwtbx0nqNWhy_pYDIzjA7zKje1wpiGrhIJBZpWLkEpj735EyIVT5luRPdPk/s1600/IMG_7961+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvEZtbPj7gShxDrqlfGc1g4oDhB1xMdWKOSuPVnoJY-J0BqoR4Pwt5ywOTy55BgHvafDu5Yptlmgfd2Jfxwtbx0nqNWhy_pYDIzjA7zKje1wpiGrhIJBZpWLkEpj735EyIVT5luRPdPk/s1600/IMG_7961+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Overall, our experience at The Ivy was great. The surroundings are beautiful and the staff were wonderfully attentive. Compared to some of our other recent excursions, it is quite a light afternoon tea offering, so we would probably recommend this more to regular tea-goers looking for a refined, yet informal pit stop whilst perusing York's cobbled streets. That said, where other venues might rely on novelties or themed teas to stand out from the crowd, The Ivy has certainly got the classics sorted and the style to go with it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQTH_bzSw7erdY3InKk_-azXjgVfOXnuVatNT5Iz6_o1InBhcDUzPAGWH1u658SFuYIPEo3PoEGfeLEw6oyxjqYyf8Pu0Qi45UU_6LG8ZpO59s6rMcJVUj5TSEA23cB9A_HRzZi1MiBk/s1600/IMG_7980+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuQTH_bzSw7erdY3InKk_-azXjgVfOXnuVatNT5Iz6_o1InBhcDUzPAGWH1u658SFuYIPEo3PoEGfeLEw6oyxjqYyf8Pu0Qi45UU_6LG8ZpO59s6rMcJVUj5TSEA23cB9A_HRzZi1MiBk/s1600/IMG_7980+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Champagne afternoon tea is priced at £26.50pp. For more information and to book visit: <a href="https://theivyyork.com/">https://theivyyork.com/</a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We were kindly provided with a complimentary tea for review, but as usual, all thoughts and opinions are very much our own!</span></div>
<br />Carolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-15277548504122838872019-03-06T13:32:00.001+00:002019-03-06T13:32:14.657+00:00Afternoon Tea at The Mount Royale Hotel, York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRXqjmO6bD6NUebKwTBdXG5Q7D-YdfawQ5i15X5g1hS54bW12OOg2GBDGz5jEZZWO9AKm6-414_OBXr8tPRqRGNbPYq8WSgbZpG5SOiaynd45DXiTHxBSbpGXTNMBFGWSLNvlb7S0Or4/s1600/IMG_8023+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGRXqjmO6bD6NUebKwTBdXG5Q7D-YdfawQ5i15X5g1hS54bW12OOg2GBDGz5jEZZWO9AKm6-414_OBXr8tPRqRGNbPYq8WSgbZpG5SOiaynd45DXiTHxBSbpGXTNMBFGWSLNvlb7S0Or4/s1600/IMG_8023+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
If you're heading into York for the day, you'd be forgiven for hopping off the train, heading straight into town for a wander through the Shambles and stopping along the way at a famous tea room. However, set your afternoon tea sights a little further and we promise, you will be glad you did, as we discovered last week when we were invited along to <b>The Mount Royale</b>, an independent hotel just a 10-minute stroll away from York Station, with an afternoon tea offering that should definitely be on your radar.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNhyphenhyphenY0Y1IEhxxNUyPAG3A19l8_9fgxaBBlkote2QlT9NYuG2tttJb0sLdRvklZB33lU7Q8CJ27RxMUDI0HMnBwndln6yl65mR75TMihoOblBKUSDZh65A8hXc7F1BXTuCoDC-_CLzioo/s1600/IMG_8050+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNhyphenhyphenY0Y1IEhxxNUyPAG3A19l8_9fgxaBBlkote2QlT9NYuG2tttJb0sLdRvklZB33lU7Q8CJ27RxMUDI0HMnBwndln6yl65mR75TMihoOblBKUSDZh65A8hXc7F1BXTuCoDC-_CLzioo/s1600/IMG_8050+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Pastel perfection awaits you inside <b>OXO's on the Mount</b> where its Royal Tea menu is served by appointment only in a lounge style setting that opens up right onto the hotel's impressive gardens. Created by the talented Karen Oxtoby, this afternoon tea is a beautiful blend of colour, flavour and design, filled with countless little details that make this a truly unique offering in a city that is already spoilt for choice when it comes to tea and cake.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-bhXUvCzbudfC0sg8Py9V6dr_t-x-5g1hlT-Ts7rceAR3T_z0ZF3H3JpweMIjSwiSGGYO48nnpeaom3tukMSnHg5G0oZC-44WqoUAZQyJq6kv4Xa-FCjgKCSEM9p0Cl9AnxTIA2QAUI/s1600/IMG_8002+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-bhXUvCzbudfC0sg8Py9V6dr_t-x-5g1hlT-Ts7rceAR3T_z0ZF3H3JpweMIjSwiSGGYO48nnpeaom3tukMSnHg5G0oZC-44WqoUAZQyJq6kv4Xa-FCjgKCSEM9p0Cl9AnxTIA2QAUI/s1600/IMG_8002+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
To start, presented on a separate serving dish are a range of finger sandwiches with a good selection of breads and fillings including ham and tomato, creamy coronation chicken, tuna and cucumber, egg mayo, and cheese an onion. There is even a cute candy-striped bag of salted crisps to accompany. Hands down our favourite was the coronation chicken, but there are enough flavours to satisfy even the fussiest of palettes - though a couple did only have one of each, so you might have to fight it out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZhUsvn8f84sv50o667RwP0TxnNq-KkI9lqjMUsCdlBKtfvmZszTqNlCmddOXDX_pTpe-lzqz5L3TZkWODWZuiN2TarWj6Akc7nLmL-2YIX9rGwEQ4yTPwT7LlqGlWeCQWOYZRhdbpYo/s1600/IMG_7995+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVZhUsvn8f84sv50o667RwP0TxnNq-KkI9lqjMUsCdlBKtfvmZszTqNlCmddOXDX_pTpe-lzqz5L3TZkWODWZuiN2TarWj6Akc7nLmL-2YIX9rGwEQ4yTPwT7LlqGlWeCQWOYZRhdbpYo/s1600/IMG_7995+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next up, the epicentre of any good afternoon tea - the scones. Not only did they look exquisite, perfectly proportioned and homemade with a dusting of sugar on top, the taste test definitely lived up to our high expectations. A very generous helping of jam and cream meant we could layer up on the good stuff to our heart's content and the personalisation of The Mount Royale's locally sourced branded strawberry jam really added that extra touch. However, don't go to overboard, as the best is yet to come.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5sqZRw5QybqCvB8BjSc4FpLanbURiDIG7sSFJVtmJsGaeDuvtsm8WlnfWc0AukTBG4IklqhOGDjynGQMRD-MGElBdiJL-IzyYRvulPGP9TOhukQhyphenhyphenzxhejqasnCZJR1HrBBYGGHyW2Y/s1600/IMG_7992+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5sqZRw5QybqCvB8BjSc4FpLanbURiDIG7sSFJVtmJsGaeDuvtsm8WlnfWc0AukTBG4IklqhOGDjynGQMRD-MGElBdiJL-IzyYRvulPGP9TOhukQhyphenhyphenzxhejqasnCZJR1HrBBYGGHyW2Y/s1600/IMG_7992+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Served on a two-tier floral stand, the sweet selection is so pretty and thoughtful, you almost feel bad for eating it. But the guilt lasts for all of two seconds when you tuck into this medley of afternoon tea classics and contemporary flavours. Are you a fan of peanut butter? Passionfruit? Amaretto? Take your pick, it's all here. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLgAMmuhKRG3hMEoLWmNQZspL8iX0h9KYgKQ3HXWzREJ0jAa1OfK9Qd3UHkV_rXZXIj1JBDruLRoS3MEPbLJ0C8J0Dv-2mZ85Yn_NnIWTDiHxWjCoC6JfqdN7JgBKzNIjzkf1QKnpEGdg/s1600/IMG_7999+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLgAMmuhKRG3hMEoLWmNQZspL8iX0h9KYgKQ3HXWzREJ0jAa1OfK9Qd3UHkV_rXZXIj1JBDruLRoS3MEPbLJ0C8J0Dv-2mZ85Yn_NnIWTDiHxWjCoC6JfqdN7JgBKzNIjzkf1QKnpEGdg/s1600/IMG_7999+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The traditionalists out there may deem this array of flavour to be a little OTT, and on another occasion, we might be inclined to agree, but here it works and care has been taken to ensure each piece feels special. The selection includes macaroons, sugar cookies, battenburg, eton mess, mini cupcakes, meringue, and even a milkshake, served in a small bottle coated in rainbow coloured hundreds and thousands, to wash it down. Whether it's the gold dusting, marble effect fondant, or coloured tissue paper parcels, you simply cannot fault the attention to detail and for £19.95 per person (£26.95 with champagne), it's an absolute steal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ9K_Pzn5JCqYCL1brCsIpogi9nk_Fm_MqjTuwr7pgEgBG2lw5bowmCNSPIh8uusRc8v9aJSN4yNBRQ5CfA8pEspLxg5rUNga6Uk42yygbAvrqTL8Tephz35_TwgEQcdtllxcuMqdTac/s1600/IMG_8039+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ9K_Pzn5JCqYCL1brCsIpogi9nk_Fm_MqjTuwr7pgEgBG2lw5bowmCNSPIh8uusRc8v9aJSN4yNBRQ5CfA8pEspLxg5rUNga6Uk42yygbAvrqTL8Tephz35_TwgEQcdtllxcuMqdTac/s1600/IMG_8039+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
To top it off, we each had substantial pots of breakfast tea and coffee paired with delicate mismatched teacups and saucers. For the tea connoisseurs out there, it might be good to have a tea menu for guests to choose from, particularly for those wanting to be a little more adventurous but for us, it was hardly a deal breaker.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSbIXCZqPx58hPhLW372I-KiZC7izFEHXfjL6gcFAk7-iTRh5r2b3cS_X_l3Jm1tda4UJeAlhvdFsKCV6kLOPrsyco7i_s8J3EeUkSLeXnfR4e8dZkmmm6o3ZqBkdEcyOy8CWOchZMhA/s1600/IMG_8029+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYSbIXCZqPx58hPhLW372I-KiZC7izFEHXfjL6gcFAk7-iTRh5r2b3cS_X_l3Jm1tda4UJeAlhvdFsKCV6kLOPrsyco7i_s8J3EeUkSLeXnfR4e8dZkmmm6o3ZqBkdEcyOy8CWOchZMhA/s1600/IMG_8029+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Overall, we loved our time at The Mount Royale. The setting was relaxed, the sun was shining, and the afternoon tea was a real treat. More people need to know about this place. If you're planning a visit to York any time soon and looking for something a little special, this is where you need to be. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQeqNO7hSMRem2BOfCW136EvbqlStlDhIRV3oglWk6BJwuK3v15W-jHKHlWlrZJ19MDh_jx40IpUeOg39E5sJ_rfe-E9WKp3oBkuOYmioa1njY_mBMAUclp32o2YvM65nym4XGPtRKK8/s1600/IMG_8017+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQeqNO7hSMRem2BOfCW136EvbqlStlDhIRV3oglWk6BJwuK3v15W-jHKHlWlrZJ19MDh_jx40IpUeOg39E5sJ_rfe-E9WKp3oBkuOYmioa1njY_mBMAUclp32o2YvM65nym4XGPtRKK8/s1600/IMG_8017+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>For more information and to book visit: <a href="http://www.mountroyale.co.uk/">http://www.mountroyale.co.uk/</a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We were kindly provided with a complimentary tea for review, but as usual, all thoughts and opinions are very much our own!</span></div>
<br />Carolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-47663356216787545762019-01-20T16:31:00.000+00:002019-01-21T13:27:09.539+00:00January Tea-Tox Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtQJjVluWit0FwCuAshMkJA2Oa6cuIobmQ2ziqVvWMsq4sGBReupPtKuFA2jjo_4VszsYT8R0ncOii2NTSr3WvBdnFrOI6Mbt_epeI1O9WefenikqZpygC9G1vnOOZ64g48XH8wse41o/s1600/IMG_7870+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPtQJjVluWit0FwCuAshMkJA2Oa6cuIobmQ2ziqVvWMsq4sGBReupPtKuFA2jjo_4VszsYT8R0ncOii2NTSr3WvBdnFrOI6Mbt_epeI1O9WefenikqZpygC9G1vnOOZ64g48XH8wse41o/s1600/IMG_7870+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">We’re just a few weeks into the new year and if you’re anything like us, you’ve just about finished off the mountain of chocolate you collected from various relatives and friends over the Christmas period and never want to see another Pringle again. So, that means it's the perfect time to start that detox you’ve been talking about but putting off since January 1st (you're not alone!). We’ve been trying out some healthy tea products that could give your detox the kickstart it needs and get you feeling re-energised. Time for a tea-tox!</span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVaBQhxQxn4mwIJkzf4bAYgiqx6cGDSZsk2EAfd5cR4U-Q1mgd4TwZUgU312OKFtoH8xTpgnE2cWxeApQaybC_1Ygw4pGtB8XAUA_aKtUGXVdz0U7j_MMGQySsArcrD4O8hMCLanvIeU/s1600/IMG_7840+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVaBQhxQxn4mwIJkzf4bAYgiqx6cGDSZsk2EAfd5cR4U-Q1mgd4TwZUgU312OKFtoH8xTpgnE2cWxeApQaybC_1Ygw4pGtB8XAUA_aKtUGXVdz0U7j_MMGQySsArcrD4O8hMCLanvIeU/s1600/IMG_7840+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>JING Tea</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Matcha, the traditional ceremonial Japanese green tea, has been hailed as somewhat of a super tea and with plenty of celebs and fitness influencers spotted sipping the stuff all over Instagram, it’s also become pretty fashionable. Health benefits and Insta-cred? Count us in. We’ve tried a fair few matcha teas in the past but found that often, we just didn’t have time for the full matcha experience. However, JING Tea has launched a new single-origin Matcha Japanese Green Tea sourced directly from a garden in Kagoshima, Japan, and matching Matcha Shaker, which allows you to enjoy matcha on-to-go. Simply pop in the matcha powder, add water, give it a shake and it’s ready. We fully recommend trying this matcha cold - full of antioxidants, super easy and refreshing.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
JING Matcha Green Tea (30g) (£24) and JING Matcha Shaker (£30) available from <a href="https://jingtea.com/" rel="nofollow">https://jingtea.com</a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFp0ERyvv_K73XEIxycjgqkw4Rp79DMzQmyPPay9hYZpMS16xBQ-Qoixq0Z7Oa_1o9aGUOh3c51ru-Z4aI4o4uBxvboMo8KB04EQ35axbGUEz5qkrui3UA68EnxXZxfk0QNS6mXiRcbbs/s1600/IMG_7874+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFp0ERyvv_K73XEIxycjgqkw4Rp79DMzQmyPPay9hYZpMS16xBQ-Qoixq0Z7Oa_1o9aGUOh3c51ru-Z4aI4o4uBxvboMo8KB04EQ35axbGUEz5qkrui3UA68EnxXZxfk0QNS6mXiRcbbs/s1600/IMG_7874+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Matcha NOW</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Speaking of tea on the go, Matcha NOW, offers a slightly different matcha experience. Packed with 137 times the antioxidants of regular green tea, Matcha NOW claims to deliver the potency and benefits which can be lost in premixed matcha. It comes served in a handy water bottle with special twisty cap, which releases fresh matcha into chilled purified water, right when you need a boost - ideal for carrying with you to the office or post-workout. We tried a few different flavours including ginger and turmeric, peppermint and 100% pure matcha. The ginger is incredibly powerful so certainly wakes you up, however our favourite had to be the classic flavour - great taste and just a really simple way to try matcha. Plus, for a bonus feel-good factor, Matcha NOW has just launched its #IQuitCoffee campaign and is donating 5% of all profits to the mental healthy charity, <a href="https://www.mind.org.uk/" rel="nofollow">Mind</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
From £2.99 each at <a href="https://www.matchanow.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.matchanow.co.uk</a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSVOQvliqpvRDwIdeipOpEIJTuYcSzo0bB3FsfcRdvm9eIULylbj-Y8QBE64ZtTqFgWJGhjGrpM9Oy057Av1pJFHzNojPy9v6YO8TiK1MPIWLwPu836-0piyk2sWiJPz2B6xA4WcG4pw/s1600/IMG_7915+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnSVOQvliqpvRDwIdeipOpEIJTuYcSzo0bB3FsfcRdvm9eIULylbj-Y8QBE64ZtTqFgWJGhjGrpM9Oy057Av1pJFHzNojPy9v6YO8TiK1MPIWLwPu836-0piyk2sWiJPz2B6xA4WcG4pw/s1600/IMG_7915+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Indigo Herbs</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If loose leaf tea is more your style, Glastonbury-based Indigo Herbs offers a purifying Super Cleanse Tea made from pure botanical ingredients including fennel, liquorice and ginger. If you’ve been hammering the caffeine and feel a little sluggish, this tea is said to help you recover from the effects of those nasty toxins. Just pop a couple of teaspoons into a pot, leave it to brew for around 10 mins and let the natural ingredients do their job. It smells incredible and has a great sweet taste with an aniseed kick. Ideal for relaxing at home and boosting your detox diet. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Available for £3.99 (50g) from <a href="https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk</a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbIdzsVXBy0HNOkeSboVqykPYk6DFT4Jj1amVCKEF_mJYsqDyKAa5lopJHfgvsxtuR7i7yodOme9YP3jGzhZlTmIslbwzrQhIubxVM2pM3CcSg-PYwDp5KJPKn05cl1X6ouwGePQE35E/s1600/IMG_7858+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><br />
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzbIdzsVXBy0HNOkeSboVqykPYk6DFT4Jj1amVCKEF_mJYsqDyKAa5lopJHfgvsxtuR7i7yodOme9YP3jGzhZlTmIslbwzrQhIubxVM2pM3CcSg-PYwDp5KJPKn05cl1X6ouwGePQE35E/s1600/IMG_7858+copy.jpg" /><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>OMGTea</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you’re looking for another easy way to try healthy matcha tea, OMGTea has created new single serve sachets of its Great Taste award-winning organic Japanese matcha. These are perfect for enjoying matcha at the office or even on your travels. Serve hot by mixing the powder and 80℃ water into a paste before topping with more water and whisking until frothy to deliver a rich, sweet flavour. Or try it cold by popping one sachet into a bottle with chilled water and shaking thoroughly - easy! For tea-tox points, OMGTea says the tea can help to burn calories and increase your energy levels.</div>
<br />
Available in packs of 14 for £14.95 from <a href="https://omgteas.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://omgteas.co.uk</a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Are you doing a January tea-tox? Let us know which teas you’re trying in the comments or on social <a href="http://www.twitter.com/teacupreview">@TeacupReview</a>!</b></div>
Carolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-3806618127012993312019-01-12T16:48:00.000+00:002019-01-12T16:48:45.648+00:00Evening Tea at The Midland, Manchester<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPNUlsK-Wwu12athZsiQMw6yCSA5n63_JMTnVTWLubVh9QfC1SkrKrcgSR-IX7AwRDypa8aZ-jwhulTWyOSr1JOMLOpsLZ_a0puHyxg6hxa4WUlvC2EDsWQMVeiKSIfJ2B3awH1Ez_2Y/s1600/IMG_6317+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuPNUlsK-Wwu12athZsiQMw6yCSA5n63_JMTnVTWLubVh9QfC1SkrKrcgSR-IX7AwRDypa8aZ-jwhulTWyOSr1JOMLOpsLZ_a0puHyxg6hxa4WUlvC2EDsWQMVeiKSIfJ2B3awH1Ez_2Y/s1600/IMG_6317+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Afternoons full of tea and cake are the best (obviously!) but do you know what can be more fun? Evenings full of tea and cake … and cocktails too, otherwise known as our new favourite past time, Evening Tea.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We discovered this little treat a few months back after struggling to find a free weekend for our afternoon adventures and landing upon <a href="https://tearoomatthemidland.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">The Midland</a> in Manchester, which on top of its traditional and <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2017/10/royal-afternoon-tea-at-midland-hotel.html">Royal Afternoon Tea</a>, offers the option of Evening Tea complete with gin and tonic. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Served in its beautiful Tea Room, said to be Manchester's only setting specifically designed for afternoon tea, this is the perfect evening oasis to unwind in after a busy day (particularly good for those early January back to work blues).<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
First comes gin number one, a local Manchester Three Rivers and tonic served with apricots and rosemary. A refreshing start to the first tier, which came loaded with a range of sandwiches and pastries including ox cheek & blue cheese croquette, crab cakes, tomato & goats cheese tart, and salmon and crème fraîche, along with coronation chicken and roast beef with horseradish finger sandwiches, each served on various types of fresh bread. We loved the mix of savoury options, fitting for an evening menu, and were huge fans of the croquette and creamy chicken filling. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next up, we were given a choice of plain or fruit scones so decided to opt for one each paired with clotted cream and a selection of jams. The scones were absolutely perfect from the look to the taste and it was great to get a choice of jam (even if we did go for classic raspberry) to make them all the more special.<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhrDm0wBV67cvxeSVujmnVvNflfjoTYkUjTIW37jC0vRwuK48rQmhOIGFGBI-FFzW8vQIDjUktjMZ1zzDhv-570cBcJPuDheTzCQD7XYvq0yZdQWY3zCMlzYLmjOpXeJyckWSc1s0ajI/s1600/IMG_6311+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhrDm0wBV67cvxeSVujmnVvNflfjoTYkUjTIW37jC0vRwuK48rQmhOIGFGBI-FFzW8vQIDjUktjMZ1zzDhv-570cBcJPuDheTzCQD7XYvq0yZdQWY3zCMlzYLmjOpXeJyckWSc1s0ajI/s1600/IMG_6311+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The second pairing of gin came in the form of a fruity Brockmans with strawberries, blackberries, raspberries. This one was definitely our favourite, a really smooth gin bursting with fruity flavour. Even if you're not usually a fan of gin, we reckon this is one that could change your mind. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
On to the final tier, a slightly smaller cake selection than your typical afternoon tea but a balanced one featuring carrot opera cake and a berry and chocolate macaroon, offering a welcome dash of colour to the primarily savoury stand. Both were delicious and though we both consider ourselves to have a bit of a sweet tooth, this was plenty to satisfy our cravings.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Overall we had a fab first Evening Tea experience. Available between 5.30-7pm Thursday to Sunday, it's an idyllic post-work getaway. Even if you just fancy treating yourself and a friend at the weekend (because January can be fun too) it's actually pretty good value at £35pp including gin. With more <span style="text-align: center;">late tea menus popping up around the UK, perhaps evening is the new afternoon. </span><br />
<span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>For more information and to book, visit: <a href="https://tearoomatthemidland.co.uk/">https://tearoomatthemidland.co.uk/</a></b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-66986804244673096922018-11-11T20:35:00.004+00:002018-11-11T20:35:50.017+00:00The Bridge, Prestbury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2PDVWr7Gvop8FV9bNAN5v2K_lgt8WFk6PZ6tOiCrdvxnu-rHAwrOevTn4xjJ5KbgFKKsj8sBQ_1cNXXETRhYR6MOlJxDjOmw6tptW6qovc6LJ5Wf0z6qoZb53uHzw5ABF0BahDSgW1rp/s1600/IMG_7636+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY2PDVWr7Gvop8FV9bNAN5v2K_lgt8WFk6PZ6tOiCrdvxnu-rHAwrOevTn4xjJ5KbgFKKsj8sBQ_1cNXXETRhYR6MOlJxDjOmw6tptW6qovc6LJ5Wf0z6qoZb53uHzw5ABF0BahDSgW1rp/s1600/IMG_7636+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Is there any better way to spend an autumnal day than by going for a peaceful country walk, wrapped up in your favourite coat and woolly hat, and topping off the afternoon with some good food? We think not, and though most people around us were enjoying a good Sunday roast (which looked amazing, FYI) our trip to <b><a href="https://thebridgecheshire.com/restaurant/">The Bridge, Prestbury</a></b> was of course for our preferred Sunday afternoon treat, afternoon tea. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrsz1-OixsuF9lrV8nxZo3awpHCVrE6bF0dDnal65KHIjuQ_DOZxieZpm-jWEzwTJOGnmqIjUYizeEftdJvT0FZ5rbOBlQ5gBFyCk1eW7vVB61Z8Qzr79g627jDYMoZjgDE9VuopMlvqJ/s1600/IMG_7647+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQrsz1-OixsuF9lrV8nxZo3awpHCVrE6bF0dDnal65KHIjuQ_DOZxieZpm-jWEzwTJOGnmqIjUYizeEftdJvT0FZ5rbOBlQ5gBFyCk1eW7vVB61Z8Qzr79g627jDYMoZjgDE9VuopMlvqJ/s1600/IMG_7647+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Recently refurbished, this Cheshire-based find, a short 10-minute drive from Macclesfield, is an idyllic place for tea. Outside, it has the charm of your go-to countryside pub with a modern splash of white and sage green, but inside, the styling in earthy tones, pinks and greys with floral decoration cascading from the walls and upholstery, gives it a feel of a contemporary restaurant akin to the The Botanist (another of our faves). Similar to its sister venue, <b><a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/02/afternoon-tea-at-vicarage-holmes-chapel.html">The Vicarage</a></b> in Holmes Chapel, part of the Flat Cap Hotels group which we paid a visit to earlier this year, it's light, open and brimming with both rural charisma and modern style. Can we just move in, please?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR05LaH9kbXnD6jykXASj9bxNOGumDdsP-JSh-Xj0F56luCUuvjzJTFhm2SGucR7cFarReEdEi05VNh-7gCCIBWgCfhyphenhyphensfRKuwDwIwmH42ADPJMSTLCktadxqDI1TWcvT6lPF98Q_wWDyK/s1600/IMG_7691+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR05LaH9kbXnD6jykXASj9bxNOGumDdsP-JSh-Xj0F56luCUuvjzJTFhm2SGucR7cFarReEdEi05VNh-7gCCIBWgCfhyphenhyphensfRKuwDwIwmH42ADPJMSTLCktadxqDI1TWcvT6lPF98Q_wWDyK/s1600/IMG_7691+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
But on to the main event, the food. The Bridge offers both a standard afternoon tea priced at £17.95 or prosecco tea for £21.95 - good news for gin fans, you can also opt for G&T. With the offer of prosecco, we of course obliged. The floral theme continues on the menu as our tea arrived on a three-tier stand, packed with colour and some of the most intricately decorated cakes we have seen on our recent travels. Bright pink cake with gold flecks? Count us in. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8w_gaBV7q-6Xz93hEBTTEDppO2KeAn0UW1zMedmRpGStbmny2PHacsPHuHq1GUBAAGsInkFOvJUbbKuQT9T0U2uROC3SxCDcanZkRfteGqFmQdNvaiwCR6XWnglmUWpVyMHCipEMekZO/s1600/IMG_7696+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8w_gaBV7q-6Xz93hEBTTEDppO2KeAn0UW1zMedmRpGStbmny2PHacsPHuHq1GUBAAGsInkFOvJUbbKuQT9T0U2uROC3SxCDcanZkRfteGqFmQdNvaiwCR6XWnglmUWpVyMHCipEMekZO/s1600/IMG_7696+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We started with an assortment of finger sandwiches with a range of breads and fillings including egg mayonnaise, ham, tomato and mustard, and salmon. The sandwiches were all wonderfully fresh and the salmon in particular, which is always a winner, was just delicious. The only fault here was on our part in that we didn't ask for more!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9S5fHIU2kAinGfpcR1hSVb-NSqvo_oIfV8fBcO4UdvtivbPQqsu5cbYBkkhdQGt5EnjoHTPmLlnUOpzPx8Vde3xdd_huH3FMLF6MBixLgJiBy0MbG3_VudyL_TcPwMXKDivlMeHB4Elq/s1600/IMG_7658+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9S5fHIU2kAinGfpcR1hSVb-NSqvo_oIfV8fBcO4UdvtivbPQqsu5cbYBkkhdQGt5EnjoHTPmLlnUOpzPx8Vde3xdd_huH3FMLF6MBixLgJiBy0MbG3_VudyL_TcPwMXKDivlMeHB4Elq/s1600/IMG_7658+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then on to the scones, a good size and top marks for the absolute holy grail of afternoon tea standards for us - a pot of jam and pot of cream, each! Not needing to worry about being sparing with the preserve, we lobbed the lot on to our fruit scones, lightly dusted with icing sugar, and they were fab.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3JWWxzji-ByaXg5U26B-AJiY4jP5Twa595zCNc597JEfipHUqJ8EQAjP4gm_EOjAbaOwJWKQKLXpehmP48gPxGz4oIdPBUlYOnF7QiCMhRzsp8bpBgro4caYh3PEjM8Pb42HTTk5lXHg/s1600/IMG_7719+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis3JWWxzji-ByaXg5U26B-AJiY4jP5Twa595zCNc597JEfipHUqJ8EQAjP4gm_EOjAbaOwJWKQKLXpehmP48gPxGz4oIdPBUlYOnF7QiCMhRzsp8bpBgro4caYh3PEjM8Pb42HTTk5lXHg/s1600/IMG_7719+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
On to the final tier and to those beautiful bold creations we mentioned earlier. The selection of homemade cakes (two of each, always a plus) were decorated to perfection and featured a range of contrasting flavours. This included a miniature lemon cake in the style of a rose, a berry mousse on a biscuit base, and a cream pastry topped with rhubarb flavours, and of course, those beautiful gold flakes. Though we adored the detail of the latter, our favourite had to be the lemon cake; bitesized, pretty, packed with flavour and it really complemented the restaurant’s interior style. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9eD7NAcNymoCrm6nOCUtEQwIh5L152pPNxC8UNAhFEO5-lWBT149n0avSdz3O1-jQpYPa-0B1j1FFbtBVgGb1u8FFKNpaRMGqzvWpcaicRexFyFZT6QokAPzIQujKYPAR5eNWrquMfzD/s1600/IMG_7656+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq9eD7NAcNymoCrm6nOCUtEQwIh5L152pPNxC8UNAhFEO5-lWBT149n0avSdz3O1-jQpYPa-0B1j1FFbtBVgGb1u8FFKNpaRMGqzvWpcaicRexFyFZT6QokAPzIQujKYPAR5eNWrquMfzD/s1600/IMG_7656+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Overall, we were really impressed by The Bridge. The restaurant itself is beautiful and the food can’t be faulted. If you’re looking for somewhere to unwind this weekend or treat yourself to a winter warmer without breaking the bank, we would certainly recommend adding it to your list. With seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients - we already can't wait to come back for Spring.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>For more information and to book, visit: <a href="https://thebridgecheshire.com/">https://thebridgecheshire.com</a></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-47479898881682460432018-09-12T13:29:00.000+01:002018-09-12T13:29:00.825+01:00Cake Break: Bean & Cole, Chester<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2AI4Idn-JcD1ZmlOEVmcR4B-kmKvp8rUVv3ZSArfvh5dd5UTjcGPUdvvof9inzXwn1bIqNlz4A3OVsNILymTVrNousJZ0tx1_UpDGPMtpL5kC5ZT5-Vi6iyMEdCcAb0lZI4AgdL7dx8/s1600/IMG_4001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2AI4Idn-JcD1ZmlOEVmcR4B-kmKvp8rUVv3ZSArfvh5dd5UTjcGPUdvvof9inzXwn1bIqNlz4A3OVsNILymTVrNousJZ0tx1_UpDGPMtpL5kC5ZT5-Vi6iyMEdCcAb0lZI4AgdL7dx8/s1600/IMG_4001.JPG" /></a></div>
<br />
When you've found somewhere that does that perfect latte and brownie combo, it can be very easy to get stuck in a routine of going to the same coffee spot week in, week out. Whilst we're all for cake-loyalty, that regularity can often mean you miss out on what that new coffee shop in town, the one you swear you've been meaning to try, has to offer. We found a perfect example this weekend when we popped into <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Coffee-Shop/Bean-Cole-1959392800950954/">Bean & Cole</a></b>, a new coffee house on Frodsham Street in Chester.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There is a lot to love about this place; cool stripped brick walls, colourful hippie-style seat cushions, selection of independent magazines, puppy-friendly atmosphere, but the stand-out feature of Bean & Cole has to be the coffee itself. We went for a latte and cappuccino, complete with smooth coffee art and colour block cups and saucers - perfect.<br />
<br />
Of course, all good coffee deserves good cake, and Bean & Cole offers a range of pastries, tray bakes and generous slices to accompany its menu. We opted for a coffee cake and have to say, it was one of the best we've ever had. So good, we felt incredibly guilty leaving any trace on the plate but this time the chunky portions (which by no means should be changed based on this critique!) managed to defeat us - we will back.<br />
<br />
Special mention must also go to the lovely team at Bean & Cole who were super friendly and made us so at home, we didn't want to leave.<br /><br />The coffee scene in Chester is certainly growing and that makes us very happy. If you're heading to the city any time soon, why not skip your usual high street haunts and grab your coffee break here? We promise you won't be disappointed.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Laura</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-89911685763135792742018-08-27T22:57:00.000+01:002018-08-28T08:47:42.131+01:005 things we're looking forward to on this year's Great British Bake Off<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rHUyXwQFE-wQdMu8vwdQm-he6bUWKhyphenhyphen2uhoAxun0gEX6XD1lak8a3F167mmmq65RNdahhPwxHqAjISbuP08sBHnonP6bATWgyL6winkt_0T1eUEGjTJVMA-yrycQCFnvSNr-rxLy8DU/s1600/GBBO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="1240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7rHUyXwQFE-wQdMu8vwdQm-he6bUWKhyphenhyphen2uhoAxun0gEX6XD1lak8a3F167mmmq65RNdahhPwxHqAjISbuP08sBHnonP6bATWgyL6winkt_0T1eUEGjTJVMA-yrycQCFnvSNr-rxLy8DU/s1600/GBBO.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In case you were feeling a little glum from the sugar comedown after <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/08/happy-afternoon-tea-week.html">Afternoon Tea Week</a>, the <b>Great British Bake Off</b> has returned just in time to fill the cake void in our lives. Here are five things we're looking forward to this series.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>1) Having an excuse to talk about cake again</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For the estimated three people in the UK who didn't get sucked into watching Love Island this year, the last few months have been a bit of a struggle, avoiding conversations and feeling like a bit of a social outcast whilst everyone else at the office sipped on personalised Love Island branded water bottles. With GBBO back on our TV screens, it's back to cakes, bakes and all the drama that goes with it. Finally!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>2) Noel's fabulous shirts</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, Mary Berry may have turned herself into an unexpected style icon during her reign (did anyone manage to get one of those <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/news/ms-bomber-jacket-worn-by-british-bake-off-star-mary-berry-sells-out-in-one-hour-9741218.html">Marks and Spencer bomber jackets</a>?) but last year we found ourselves looking forward to seeing Noel's choice of quirky shirt each week just as much as the star bakes. Ice cream prints, giant tomatoes, polka dot smiley faces - we'll be scouring Asos for copies in no time. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>3) Going back to basics</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Like any great afternoon tea, we love a good showstopper bake as much as an offer of bottomless prosecco, but sometimes it's the classics that steal the show. We're happy to hear some of this year's challenges have gone "back to basics" in a bid to encourage wannabe cake-goddesses like ourselves to get baking. No need to worry about any more 'Italian Week' fails this year then?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>4) Vegan Week</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
According to a recent survey there are around 3.5 million people in the UK choosing to enjoy a plant-based diet so it seems only fitting that this series should include a week dedicated to vegan recipes. With more and more menus offering great vegan options these days, there's no reason to think that no meat, eggs or dairy means you have to sacrifice on taste. We're excited to see what the team have come up with!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>5) The end of innuendo?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Okay so not so much as "looking forward to" the end of soggy bottoms but rather, intrigued as to how we might cope without them if the <a href="http://www.digitalspy.com/tv/great-british-bake-off/feature/a840295/great-british-bake-off-review-week-seven-toughest-yet/">rumours</a> are true. Noel and Sandi have said innuendo isn't really their thing and Paul has commented that it's "not the be all and end all of the show" (erm, we respectfully disagree). However, Prue has weighed in to say that though the jokes may not be planned, we'll definitely get some. As Noel stated last year; "If there's an opportunity for exposed bottoms we should embrace it". Rightly so.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Great British Bake Off returns to Channel 4 on 28th August.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image: Mark Bourdillon / Love Productions/Channel 4</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-31613993490541747282018-08-19T20:05:00.002+01:002018-08-19T20:05:39.867+01:00Afternoon Tea at Richmond Tea Rooms, Manchester<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw7DOGx_h6fU9IqeqpeAEZShbBefl9dBsEibxZvEnial9XdncGqk924waaO0blmZeGiEC4ezV2AtFdYzXlDcWJUEqpEc_uGph2Js1nnlkRE09AGSObfTiizdUmPnO1OMYShHy_1s4mlgPp/s1600/IMG_7633+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw7DOGx_h6fU9IqeqpeAEZShbBefl9dBsEibxZvEnial9XdncGqk924waaO0blmZeGiEC4ezV2AtFdYzXlDcWJUEqpEc_uGph2Js1nnlkRE09AGSObfTiizdUmPnO1OMYShHy_1s4mlgPp/s1600/IMG_7633+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
With a super busy week planned for the both of us, <b><a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/08/happy-afternoon-tea-week.html">Afternoon Tea Week</a></b> celebrations were very nearly non-existent for us at Afternoon Tea Club (must block out the entire week for cake next year) but luckily, <b>Richmond Tea Rooms</b> in Manchester were there to save the day with a post-work, early evening afternoon tea that's as sweet as its surroundings.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3RZOxtmhmD7FLjMlZgl1QNnLHD6wnyPmXzNFGSWFHWkmup9v6EJ7KPBXXHmU_E7WLfOWxvCinYq-_oDYWqQQIypgGaxVpxVwDdtUBGBQ7qODCKYTsYQnLzfDG-t6JYIOYrjWwZPsZSZM/s1600/IMG_7577+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3RZOxtmhmD7FLjMlZgl1QNnLHD6wnyPmXzNFGSWFHWkmup9v6EJ7KPBXXHmU_E7WLfOWxvCinYq-_oDYWqQQIypgGaxVpxVwDdtUBGBQ7qODCKYTsYQnLzfDG-t6JYIOYrjWwZPsZSZM/s1600/IMG_7577+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We've been to this Alice-themed wonderland a few times before for cake and coffee but we were yet to try its full Queen's Tea offering, so a sitting at 6pm (and 25% off) felt like the perfect excuse to tick it off our list.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If you're a fan of all things Mad Hatter, Richmond Tea Rooms is a must-visit, decked out in plush Queen of Hearts red, mismatched teapots and 'eat me, drink me' references, it's perfect for escaping reality for an hour or two. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff3wah-qLW2Ban6Pj7FI8y9jLe_V2UUVwq90BjrL259AfcO5yO2H9FvlYP0l2QXqEQFL18v9_3bhHQvXTpM0jfeSuheHTYj4MMY-zGTBcxsI21FggwGunSy2Tot4h3WTjVtCL1qEpvnrv/s1600/IMG_7621+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff3wah-qLW2Ban6Pj7FI8y9jLe_V2UUVwq90BjrL259AfcO5yO2H9FvlYP0l2QXqEQFL18v9_3bhHQvXTpM0jfeSuheHTYj4MMY-zGTBcxsI21FggwGunSy2Tot4h3WTjVtCL1qEpvnrv/s1600/IMG_7621+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
There are five tea options to choose from ranging from The Alice Tea (cream tea) to The Richmond Tea (complete with champagne). We went for The Queen's Tea which comes served on a classic three tier stand accompanied by colourful pots of refillable tea (breakfast tea and Afternoon Darjeeling - perfect). </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
To start, the savoury selection featured a range of fingers sandwiches including chicken mayo, cucumber and cream cheese, ham and tomato and egg mayo, plus a slice of tomato and onion bruschetta. A well-balanced selection and we loved that the sandwiches alternated between pairings of white and brown bread - a cute nod to the topsy turvy affair you might expect to find at the Hatter's tea party.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFClkXxuaamwu3VPoz-pN2Ni8iNOkE1uGR0qAm6Id3u0CT8Ep2wMhb3oUYjyWLHg-HJ8cYVvvOyRfC5ERVWN6uP6RediMCjvof4xDu2oZy1KP2v-thvBdUbV88oY-OSM3ncGIkL2XsYme/s1600/IMG_7574+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAFClkXxuaamwu3VPoz-pN2Ni8iNOkE1uGR0qAm6Id3u0CT8Ep2wMhb3oUYjyWLHg-HJ8cYVvvOyRfC5ERVWN6uP6RediMCjvof4xDu2oZy1KP2v-thvBdUbV88oY-OSM3ncGIkL2XsYme/s1600/IMG_7574+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next up were the sugar dusted fruit scones, and probably our favourite part for several reasons. One, they were huge. Two, the offer of more jam and cream earned instant points (more places should do this, there is nothing worse than fighting over the last drop of strawberry preserve). And three, they were just delicious! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Finally, the sweet selection was just as impressive offering an idyllic blend of cute cakes, fruity flavours and subtle gestures to the tea room's home of Manchester. On offer was a strawberry cupcake, chocolate delice layer cake, Manchester tart, and passion fruit trifle. We loved every bit of it, even if we did struggle to finish the lot. The passion fruit trifle was an absolute winner.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dJZhANRw-rBnel5l6Pa9zMWalE6ixYl3yTMy9Or1msBu-UV8arm4_YKx0qgFtvS3bqI4zvLH4T1ApTE0PN2wEyRlMjqWa1uJwp76yqzaO6mwqMOzAWAx2N6JAzzcdhD2-q6_cHqx72ik/s1600/IMG_7622+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dJZhANRw-rBnel5l6Pa9zMWalE6ixYl3yTMy9Or1msBu-UV8arm4_YKx0qgFtvS3bqI4zvLH4T1ApTE0PN2wEyRlMjqWa1uJwp76yqzaO6mwqMOzAWAx2N6JAzzcdhD2-q6_cHqx72ik/s1600/IMG_7622+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Overall, this is a great afternoon tea and worth a visit for the surroundings alone. At £18.95 per person for The Queen's Tea it's good value and there's even a gluten free option too. If you're looking for a true escape, and great tea and cake to go with it, this is the place to find it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For more information and to book visit: <a href="https://www.richmondtearooms.com/">https://www.richmondtearooms.com/</a></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-30778590462614087592018-08-15T12:59:00.002+01:002018-08-15T12:59:22.215+01:00Top Tips for Afternoon Tea Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCJEovvPhAqYr4_Mg24V_m-ArOxRMmsOVNQN5BS04mo1tMBpO2pop2lRbKyDN-vncMw2FPfnmwI-66LpjejejTGi5Y4FkDfHkTE3Rhbj0zzE1NLOmnTQ9xFuHm61HE1rrUjXQbfZrcDA/s1600/IMG_6790+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdCJEovvPhAqYr4_Mg24V_m-ArOxRMmsOVNQN5BS04mo1tMBpO2pop2lRbKyDN-vncMw2FPfnmwI-66LpjejejTGi5Y4FkDfHkTE3Rhbj0zzE1NLOmnTQ9xFuHm61HE1rrUjXQbfZrcDA/s1600/IMG_6790+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Heading out for tea and cake this <b>Afternoon Tea Week </b>(13-19th August)? Let us be your guides. Whether you're off somewhere special or looking to kick back with a cake break, here are our top tips for enjoying a great afternoon tea ...<br />
<br />
<b>1) Be adventurous</b><br />
Now, the amount of times we've used the words 'breakfast tea' on this blog may make this first tip seem a little hypocritical but hear us out! If you're not a regular tea-goer, use this as your opportunity to try something new. You might discover you're a fan of fruit teas or perhaps a smoky ceylon blend will ignite your senses with its smoky tones. It's Afternoon Tea Week and there are plenty of places bringing out the big guns with special limited edition menus, so make the most of it.<br />
<br />
<b>2) Do try the alternatives</b><br />
French fries might not sound like they belong on an afternoon tea stand but with a world of fabulous alternative afternoon tea menus on offer, you'll have forgotten those treasured scones were meant to be there in the first place. Keep your eye out for themed teas too like the quirky Punk Afternoon Tea at <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2015/07/the-afternoon-tea-club-reviews-baltic.html">The Baltic Social</a> or do away with dainty finger sandwiches and try <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2014/07/the-milestone-revisited-gentleman.html">The Milestone Hotel</a>'s Gentleman's Afternoon Tea complete with mini whiskey selection.<br />
<br />
<b>3) But also, don't knock the classics</b><br />
Victoria sponge, carrot cake, battenburg; they're classics for a reason and sometimes, if done right, a good collection of old favourites will do just the trick. There are a whole range of traditional afternoon tea menus out there at landmark venues such as <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2013/05/the-afternoon-tea-club-reviews-fortnum.html">Fortnum and Mason</a> and <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2013/09/charlotte-in-city-ritz-london.html">The Ritz</a> but there are also plenty of favourites to be found elsewhere around the UK for less than £20 at places like <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/08/afternoon-tea-at-chancery-liverpool.html">The Chancery</a> in Liverpool and <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/01/afternoon-tea-at-courthouse-knutsford.html">The Courthouse</a> in Knutsford.<br />
<br />
<b>4) Dress to impress?</b><br />
Afternoon tea may not be the formal affair it once was (though it can be a good excuse to dress up if you feel like it) but it's worth checking if the venue has any sort of dress code beforehand. If the Cat Cafe is on your list (which it should be) think casual and comfort, but if you're heading somewhere a little more fancy like <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2017/10/afternoon-tea-at-grosvenor-chester.html">The Grosvenor</a> in Chester, maybe give the trainers a miss. But above all else, be comfortable!<br />
<br />
<b>5) Too busy for tea?</b><br />
Afternoon Tea Week comes but once a year and if you've got a busy week ahead, fitting in a couple of hours in the middle of the day for cucumber sandwiches and fruit scones, may seem like a write-off. We feel your pain. However, fear not, if you still want to join in the fun, there are an increasing number of places around the UK serving "Evening Tea" as an alternative. It's got all the goods of afternoon tea but means you can get your cake fix after a busy day at work and throw in a cocktail or two for good measure. Try <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2017/10/royal-afternoon-tea-at-midland-hotel.html">The Midland</a> in Manchester for classic afternoon tea fare with a pairing of gin and tonic.<br />
<br />
<b>Bonus Tip - Double afternoon tea sounds like a good idea - it's not</b><br />
Living up North with increasingly busy lives, our afternoon tea trips to London have become more of a treat than a monthly tradition. So, on occasion, when we have boarded a train to the capital for the day, we have optimistically opted to make the most of our time by booking two lots of tea. On paper, this sounds like the best day ever. In reality, the cake becomes a struggle. Learn from our mistakes, don't do it.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
What are some of your top tips? Let us know in the comments!</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-78861532140001886272018-08-13T13:31:00.000+01:002018-08-13T13:31:26.128+01:00Happy Afternoon Tea Week!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDjQkxZJzIE0st3emALvfW4R7kLHl1jeswsrypoBIfpZExs6JnWQzG0Afgy7ir5kAfkOjUtksoL6U0_ZkT2v84nW08Yy67vWNH-3WsccAJunluhOBokgfq2Ec_0s5dr6_fPSTYYdO4OM/s1600/IMG_7497+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeDjQkxZJzIE0st3emALvfW4R7kLHl1jeswsrypoBIfpZExs6JnWQzG0Afgy7ir5kAfkOjUtksoL6U0_ZkT2v84nW08Yy67vWNH-3WsccAJunluhOBokgfq2Ec_0s5dr6_fPSTYYdO4OM/s1600/IMG_7497+copy.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">West Ivy, Bury</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For our fellow afternoon tea lovers out there, Christmas has come early in the form of <b>Afternoon Tea Week</b>, giving you the best excuse ever to indulge in tea and cake (come on, like we ever needed the excuse).<br />
<br />
Taking place on 13-19th August, there are plenty of great new menus and venues to try and all this week we will be bringing you plenty of inspiration to get you in the mood to celebrate. Plus we've got lots of new reviews from our recent travels up on the blog so go check them out too.<br />
<br />
Follow us over on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/teacupreview">Twitter</a></b> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/teacupreview"><b>Instagram</b></a> for all of the latest, then go grab your friends, choose your tea, and have a fab Afternoon Tea Week.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love Laura & Caroline x </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">P.s. Let us know how you're celebrating in the comments!</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-26106698491541761022018-08-13T08:49:00.000+01:002018-08-13T08:49:18.479+01:00Afternoon Tea at The Chancery, Liverpool<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyM0-_JapMS-H6wKaMl_8dLn0pU8uXZq9W_P53V2G8I_qarCKpOK1VicMXY2TPuatojkVRIfh3y9thEwLVCBjGLHcYqUC0rI-RGUvKjpDaoy_Uigl12HcmvTG2xiAem3cV8zRA1J3N-Hk/s1600/IMG_6820+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLyM0-_JapMS-H6wKaMl_8dLn0pU8uXZq9W_P53V2G8I_qarCKpOK1VicMXY2TPuatojkVRIfh3y9thEwLVCBjGLHcYqUC0rI-RGUvKjpDaoy_Uigl12HcmvTG2xiAem3cV8zRA1J3N-Hk/s1600/IMG_6820+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Sometimes artisan pastries, fancy chocolate work and dainty macaroons seem like the most sure fire ways to make an afternoon tea that little bit special. But every now and then, it can simply be about home comforts, traditional flavours and good stodgy slices of cake. At <b>The Chancery, Liverpool</b>, the latter is the order of the day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD8gOdSZ-HfqtG7NwxLE_b5Puum4prW3q3w41C_hYpaQ5eWfRV5EliMDaAWpCZvnmKTLk3J93j-jeUI3SAJH40B7VzWk8wuVAUp-WYhJ6zyk2X0e-529CU3c2mnpRxhZCU1Xq9K3zjVgV/s1600/IMG_6858+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwD8gOdSZ-HfqtG7NwxLE_b5Puum4prW3q3w41C_hYpaQ5eWfRV5EliMDaAWpCZvnmKTLk3J93j-jeUI3SAJH40B7VzWk8wuVAUp-WYhJ6zyk2X0e-529CU3c2mnpRxhZCU1Xq9K3zjVgV/s1600/IMG_6858+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
We visited The Chancery on a quiet rainy afternoon a few months back after spotting a last-minute deal which we figured would be rude to pass up on. Set just across the road from Liverpool's L1 shopping centre, The Chancery is in a central location but tucked back just enough to make it a good hideaway from the bustle of weekend shoppers.<br />
<br />
The restaurant was apparently inspired by a trip its owner took to New York around ten years ago which sparked the idea to combine casual style fine food in a bistro setting alongside a coffee and wine shop. You can definitely get a sense of that here. The huge windows feel very much like a Brooklyn loft and the collection of curious furnishings such as the church pew seating, nautical features and giant mural (an ode to Liverpool's naval past?) bring an injection of character that's unlike anywhere else around.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt2vC4yv1OK1j6RkH-UncqHVIA0_uUJMp73ut9Chz54oJC-7Y0M_VK01F_guAuxq22TBhExIniP3KTQkdDqGZY_PiW7lTQpsDuLDOmnBiWaXfdBhgf8eq8LsN24uonPZBAvPq2J-Sapb9/s1600/IMG_6837+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFt2vC4yv1OK1j6RkH-UncqHVIA0_uUJMp73ut9Chz54oJC-7Y0M_VK01F_guAuxq22TBhExIniP3KTQkdDqGZY_PiW7lTQpsDuLDOmnBiWaXfdBhgf8eq8LsN24uonPZBAvPq2J-Sapb9/s1600/IMG_6837+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Afternoon tea is presented on a cute two-tier polka dot stand complete with a hodgepodge of teacups and saucers and vintage-feel teapot filled with our go-to breakfast tea. We do love a mismatched tea set - so very Mad Hatter.<br />
<br />
You'll notice this isn't your typical delicate finger food assortment but rather a generous selection of classic flavours and styles. Starting with the sandwiches, cut into triangles, they are bursting with fillings including ham and tomato, egg mayonnaise, and cheese and onion. And there are plenty to go around so be sure to skip any pre-tea snacking.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_c5ccNePF8PRubQT_MJD8lIiPp4SyL1_tYFjTIp3lseJWeRLzGYl0IOTgC7o2rdmwiypA1EcItpGCuot1o0vi2Y1sCIRQHf0zEVqVk3CHX9u9uEUmX2W-AQDC62CPmzM3ymot6Dq-ZSK/s1600/IMG_6869.1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja_c5ccNePF8PRubQT_MJD8lIiPp4SyL1_tYFjTIp3lseJWeRLzGYl0IOTgC7o2rdmwiypA1EcItpGCuot1o0vi2Y1sCIRQHf0zEVqVk3CHX9u9uEUmX2W-AQDC62CPmzM3ymot6Dq-ZSK/s1600/IMG_6869.1+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Next up, the scones were a good chunky size, sprinkled with sugar and with a rustic fresh-out-of-the-oven feel. Served with lashings of jam and cream, they were absolutely delicious.<br />
<br />
Sharing the same tier, the sweet selection features a range of well-loved favourites cut into sizeable slices including carrot cake, chocolate sponge and macaroons. To the regular afternoon tea goers out there, this might seem like The Chancery is playing it safe, but believe us, it's much more difficult to do the classics right and these versions were incredible.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgky0hs7v_IyHgBmASHnNjFl9jNRUcAXcHGJ5iuN8Z-XKIsbOPWH1V7T4z5HLU9IZ6YV670WdVSsI7JLr2Ao2IdZ1KEBYb2Af_qGbQBcw3FWfCI8-EhlY9fAEw908jf7PXxLy19Wlcv1UEn/s1600/IMG_6861+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgky0hs7v_IyHgBmASHnNjFl9jNRUcAXcHGJ5iuN8Z-XKIsbOPWH1V7T4z5HLU9IZ6YV670WdVSsI7JLr2Ao2IdZ1KEBYb2Af_qGbQBcw3FWfCI8-EhlY9fAEw908jf7PXxLy19Wlcv1UEn/s1600/IMG_6861+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Overall this was a really nice afternoon tea, it ticks all of the right boxes and if you book in soon, it's a steal at £30 for two people. If you're looking for no gimmicks but plenty of good food, you can't go far wrong with The Chancery.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For more information and to book visit: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://thechanceryrestaurant.co.uk/">https://thechanceryrestaurant.co.uk/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you ever been to The Chancery? Let us know in the comments!</b></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-80960672862908543052018-08-08T13:16:00.001+01:002018-08-08T13:16:16.674+01:00Afternoon Tea at West Ivy, Bury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeu4vkK505k43GT42GPmlE5XgEsVIu3202v_PgkZFbNAFCtnrkEhMOCEv0R5PjdGzvB8F8eNYBUwwwfTNvCCh1OjIzO1jzqN76tBrk3vw9H3r3B2U9_1sL4zJFugz0m_zmCQVHKW6OJ4/s1600/IMG_7485+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFeu4vkK505k43GT42GPmlE5XgEsVIu3202v_PgkZFbNAFCtnrkEhMOCEv0R5PjdGzvB8F8eNYBUwwwfTNvCCh1OjIzO1jzqN76tBrk3vw9H3r3B2U9_1sL4zJFugz0m_zmCQVHKW6OJ4/s1600/IMG_7485+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Despite only being an hour up the road, until this past week I had never been to the Greater Manchester town of Bury. Yet this weekend I somehow ended up there twice, first for Chinese food and retro video games and second for afternoon tea. Even with my impressive Ms. Pac-Man skills, the tea may just have the edge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-3_uqjEo2iVOnF7eCkHwSyvVT1DegEq26PoPH7PrwrsVR667xelDbNjHMS-proSROLXnkdO1jOH6BMix9UVj7jtu_Ukdw-tRpCknJ4dNnbGiey02T32mtTE6aSZKvGWNf4kNgHppT4M/s1600/IMG_7490+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-3_uqjEo2iVOnF7eCkHwSyvVT1DegEq26PoPH7PrwrsVR667xelDbNjHMS-proSROLXnkdO1jOH6BMix9UVj7jtu_Ukdw-tRpCknJ4dNnbGiey02T32mtTE6aSZKvGWNf4kNgHppT4M/s1600/IMG_7490+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
We first spotted <b>West Ivy</b>'s afternoon tea whilst perusing our Twitter timeline for our next cake adventure and were instantly intrigued by its fun picnic-like presentation and pink strawberry milkshakes.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yFylSZt6eAvaklkMYOqjuIMhT9I4CpD_IL1XR5MbsQTLVGIdjtvMwJUQ9PVI229uu_xzOFWbCmgdlVSP1jfA6XArX8xl3EDl1skN2HF-vskmyig-obgq9NzrLrzLXOaBlA0LwGh3vJM/s1600/IMG_7497+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yFylSZt6eAvaklkMYOqjuIMhT9I4CpD_IL1XR5MbsQTLVGIdjtvMwJUQ9PVI229uu_xzOFWbCmgdlVSP1jfA6XArX8xl3EDl1skN2HF-vskmyig-obgq9NzrLrzLXOaBlA0LwGh3vJM/s1600/IMG_7497+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Opened earlier this year in a bid to deliver <a href="https://therockbury.com/west-ivy-restaurant-open-rock/">city centre dining without the price tag</a>, the restaurant is adjacent to a range of high street eateries which form part of The Rock shopping complex, complete with an outdoor decking area for soaking up the sun. This al fresco feel continues inside where greenery cascades from the ceiling and light pours in through wall-to-wall full-length windows. We wore sunglasses inside, don't judge.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMV4swx92C9NL2O_YzxLSV4-mpT8ErJAnoMdxiPRqtbn_fsGGj2ONjcuKffimfMdXz_HNNDLUebHcItsDUAArhV9Yc7aNOgI35iRniNBT8sI3cg9zM7qxBQQdhD4ExlgGu6bmbsU63KQ/s1600/IMG_7510+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEMV4swx92C9NL2O_YzxLSV4-mpT8ErJAnoMdxiPRqtbn_fsGGj2ONjcuKffimfMdXz_HNNDLUebHcItsDUAArhV9Yc7aNOgI35iRniNBT8sI3cg9zM7qxBQQdhD4ExlgGu6bmbsU63KQ/s1600/IMG_7510+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Word has clearly spread about West Ivy's unique offering as the restaurant was chock full with plenty of people enjoying afternoon tea, which added to the busy city dining ambience. When seated at our sun drenched window table, we were offered the option of prosecco, tea or coffee. It seemed odd that this was presented as an either/or choice - not a huge deal for us having only planned on hot drinks but might be one to check for those fancying some tea with a side of candy floss prosecco (yep, it's a thing).<br />
<br />
Tiny criticism here with the tea, but one our eagled eyed Twitter followers haven't failed to pick up on. Tea is served with the bag still in the cup and nowhere discreet to place once used. It's certainly not a deal breaker but it would have been better to have drinks served in a pot to allow enough time to brew and avoid any unsightly (read: non-Instagram worthy) tea stains.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqESSuDEGnk-KfJPbJDOXaVZrUAmKbsNaiqZK-qyyi3HIIk1l8yoepy7Z_-Ld82lKDENxNwPAGP92sKnF9p7STjdAEorllZW20y6ubzze124an33Vdtivqo81eddzvaUTOZtsoypQg_vI/s1600/IMG_7526+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqESSuDEGnk-KfJPbJDOXaVZrUAmKbsNaiqZK-qyyi3HIIk1l8yoepy7Z_-Ld82lKDENxNwPAGP92sKnF9p7STjdAEorllZW20y6ubzze124an33Vdtivqo81eddzvaUTOZtsoypQg_vI/s1600/IMG_7526+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Food comes served in a wooden picnic style basket which opens out into three tiers on each side to reveal a huge selection of food, glorious food. With a bowl of fries thrown in for good measure (similar to <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2015/07/the-afternoon-tea-club-reviews-baltic.html">The Baltic Social's Punk Tea</a>), this is undoubtedly an alternative afternoon tea - scone lovers, be warned, you won't find them here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EdUIdywSXwxCy_PEOiafbRwZ7e1q1vl-8BIP3Ub2iQYGDcy3YQiRDmOz1OiEpWa2jDixo2D2y8Muqe1Cs5B4h-vIzfZk_2pH5JElpYmA1e7PhBOoXLVAbZ1uKkGG7oqdwvJRjHycnrY/s1600/IMG_7537+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7EdUIdywSXwxCy_PEOiafbRwZ7e1q1vl-8BIP3Ub2iQYGDcy3YQiRDmOz1OiEpWa2jDixo2D2y8Muqe1Cs5B4h-vIzfZk_2pH5JElpYmA1e7PhBOoXLVAbZ1uKkGG7oqdwvJRjHycnrY/s1600/IMG_7537+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
What you will find though is a great variety of flavours and miniatures that will leave you feeling full but not in need of a forklift to take you home (if you've ever partaken in double afternoon tea, you'll know the feeling - will we ever learn?). To start, we had mini chicken salads served in individual dishes which were absolutely delicious, shortly followed by crushed avocado, tomato and radish on toast and chunky halloumi fries. Not to be a millennial cliché but the avocado on toast was amazing and the halloumi fries dipped in sweet chilli sauce were incredibly moreish.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKEnbDwQ9dgQ6ToxrGVa11byDP1FLcFm96zOzAFy8m-e8VWqK4sqGgqAlA25H016kAzFJJLT2zKppRRRk-og4aZSC8jLLiBCvcVuhFCYlYBRhRKO5CLIAyZ5tL58PCL132xKjgsh83hB4/s1600/IMG_7550+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKEnbDwQ9dgQ6ToxrGVa11byDP1FLcFm96zOzAFy8m-e8VWqK4sqGgqAlA25H016kAzFJJLT2zKppRRRk-og4aZSC8jLLiBCvcVuhFCYlYBRhRKO5CLIAyZ5tL58PCL132xKjgsh83hB4/s1600/IMG_7550+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
On to the final tiers, and the part that earns this tea the moniker of the "sweetest tea" we've ever had, the dessert selection will send you into a sure sugar coma. Mini donuts dipped in Hersheys chocolate sauce (one of our favourite things ever), slices of caramel cheesecake, miniature jam jars filled with toffee popcorn, and a giant, lightly toasted, marshmallow and chocolate brownie skewer. It's all so good. Plus, to top it off, you have a strawberry and cream milkshake on the side decorated with more marshmallows, otherwise known as "the pink unicorn shake". Heaven.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOtWrAQx8dvTOj2372Qfz3C939v5gl_rW4ZMPnRvwlrqH8e0wshhUjdeqlZXwnK5MChAV744JXXXy1cHWutyZi7tDGF3R2C2frOk7DsJ_P_jXQhlKy5sxQWEy1D3mwF8uYVj_iptE2Yg/s1600/IMG_7543+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNOtWrAQx8dvTOj2372Qfz3C939v5gl_rW4ZMPnRvwlrqH8e0wshhUjdeqlZXwnK5MChAV744JXXXy1cHWutyZi7tDGF3R2C2frOk7DsJ_P_jXQhlKy5sxQWEy1D3mwF8uYVj_iptE2Yg/s1600/IMG_7543+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
It's been a while since we've sampled an alternative afternoon tea and the West Ivy may have just reignited our love, though for the traditionalists out there, it might not satisfy your classic afternoon tea cravings. At £19.95 per person, it's a good price if you're after something a little different and the environment itself is perfect for a modern take on afternoon tea. If you're a bit of a sweet tooth, the West Ivy is an absolute must.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3uFeqbWrfAG67S2-zSxqjwB4TU5RnvdwstDrPtoE9uloeMFdXWSxUzyE-MnhySwT0LEw-lPlX74lkMLv-sQOHDFlWLYsdB4Madqj-5p-lf7gEM5SbQw2LQXVtm6b4t0Ptg5f8Xc0ylA/s1600/IMG_7572+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm3uFeqbWrfAG67S2-zSxqjwB4TU5RnvdwstDrPtoE9uloeMFdXWSxUzyE-MnhySwT0LEw-lPlX74lkMLv-sQOHDFlWLYsdB4Madqj-5p-lf7gEM5SbQw2LQXVtm6b4t0Ptg5f8Xc0ylA/s1600/IMG_7572+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For more information and to book visit: </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.westivy.co.uk/">http://www.westivy.co.uk/</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you been for an alternative afternoon tea? Let us know in the comments. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Words: Laura</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography: Caroline</span></div>
Carolinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16245469404789021113noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-62540857017262969582018-08-06T13:26:00.001+01:002018-08-06T13:27:00.602+01:00Afternoon Tea at The Townhouse Hotel, Chester<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGcNRfMzaSmzr31LS0SNoT2Ly7q6WU93o-6d2KWaBxiDcqtCXxBdsv73qn13ebAJi1E_qMXuMIjKTePD1XrebIYxKrf3BnV7om3YTnROfFCMIMmKoYR2xdg5Tdc1nV8a5UO2jQXwEgrLPa/s1600/IMG_7251+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1159" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGcNRfMzaSmzr31LS0SNoT2Ly7q6WU93o-6d2KWaBxiDcqtCXxBdsv73qn13ebAJi1E_qMXuMIjKTePD1XrebIYxKrf3BnV7om3YTnROfFCMIMmKoYR2xdg5Tdc1nV8a5UO2jQXwEgrLPa/s1600/IMG_7251+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
A stroll along Lower Bridge Street towards the River Dee is one of my favourite things to do on a lazy Sunday. Throw in a pit stop for pastries and prosecco on the way and you've pretty much described my ideal afternoon, which is exactly why we stopped by <b>The Townhouse Hotel</b> in Chester last month for a spot of afternoon tea.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuea8D_zua0dSYkFijJeaQQfmNfQg8G89k3ndRLM74qD6UfYImmW3VrtloFBw9lMFKyqlG9CX2kkLHnkwG6lwxzQhYx-tl3kiAAMT9kITGCiIPGsO0T58_Ls_SEx2PmUN8MoHrlcseh5ew/s1600/IMG_7272+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuea8D_zua0dSYkFijJeaQQfmNfQg8G89k3ndRLM74qD6UfYImmW3VrtloFBw9lMFKyqlG9CX2kkLHnkwG6lwxzQhYx-tl3kiAAMT9kITGCiIPGsO0T58_Ls_SEx2PmUN8MoHrlcseh5ew/s1600/IMG_7272+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Set in a Georgian style townhouse building, the hotel has a luxe feel right from the start with a teal colour scheme signposting your way in, which continues inside with a more contemporary feel accompanying its Victorian features. Afternoon tea is served in the bar area which bridges the lounge with the dining room. The latter may have been a slightly better location for tea but as it was a particularly quiet afternoon perhaps the bar area was preferable for service. Nonetheless, it's a pleasant setting, kitted out with velvety grey dining chairs and dark wood furnishings.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0J6niBIJ7KJoKAnwcysQhYctviE6HJadvHG5AnSAoYyp_4dm-H0J-azRhN6kTmwwIAaMLqpK6KGv2OzmfccemO6j1VBKlDtc1EQW-YOtWMxMGfA119Lz7nloZl2T3mrujYSyQ2JuGQBO/s1600/IMG_7282+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij0J6niBIJ7KJoKAnwcysQhYctviE6HJadvHG5AnSAoYyp_4dm-H0J-azRhN6kTmwwIAaMLqpK6KGv2OzmfccemO6j1VBKlDtc1EQW-YOtWMxMGfA119Lz7nloZl2T3mrujYSyQ2JuGQBO/s1600/IMG_7282+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
There are three options for tea; traditional, sparking and bottomless prosecco. We opted for sparkling which comes with a glass of prosecco each (as not to overindulge) but given the price of bottomless (£29.95pp), it's well worth upgrading if bubbles are your thing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpi2KFOtgJFqjbBN8nyYVYrP7UG1YG3CVS-U04uk1nWDopApNHSyUhX2UdExTMqYgi9dFvsr3IhRRPjlboKlL2jXNoWhqcNOaQ_5q72VmqNNIuxKxWwrlfGptQCsZLYEX-1XvsDMROOWx/s1600/IMG_7289+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmpi2KFOtgJFqjbBN8nyYVYrP7UG1YG3CVS-U04uk1nWDopApNHSyUhX2UdExTMqYgi9dFvsr3IhRRPjlboKlL2jXNoWhqcNOaQ_5q72VmqNNIuxKxWwrlfGptQCsZLYEX-1XvsDMROOWx/s1600/IMG_7289+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Tea is served on a two-tier slate stand and is chock full of different flavours, shapes and sizes. To start, the range of sandwiches include both finger sandwiches and brioche buns with fillings such as; roast Ham with fruit Chutney, roasted red pepper and hummus, egg and cress, cucumber and cream cheese, and smoked salmon and crème fraiche. The red pepper and hummus brioche was amazing and the overall selection was equally impressive and catered to just about every kind of palette. We're not particularly fussy so successfully scoffed the lot in no time at all and would have happily made room for more hummus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLXBfJn8bqm0RTwkoP4Nikls8gynbJlYW8xJdT0UZgfKz_nadR44RQ0DHhvdSwCo5JKDhyphenhyphenIEnqFcYv9_H3laZNkcH81XZN8rn98-wFPRGtPaKSXn69wFhFD_9uhEyAgXFS0p777GBzR8l/s1600/IMG_7308+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLXBfJn8bqm0RTwkoP4Nikls8gynbJlYW8xJdT0UZgfKz_nadR44RQ0DHhvdSwCo5JKDhyphenhyphenIEnqFcYv9_H3laZNkcH81XZN8rn98-wFPRGtPaKSXn69wFhFD_9uhEyAgXFS0p777GBzR8l/s1600/IMG_7308+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Next up, the scones aren't exactly presented as the main event here, nestled in amongst the rest of the patisserie selection, however they deserve their own little place to shine due to being deliciously soft served with a handsome dollop of jam and cream.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJ9M8-Al27jicxZGOaIknsLVfr0Bur8UgnOGBukWq3lvBfcFuu-5pkLN_GzYpW6zY0l-BiIvLHer4zfKgzDWXPLEVb1Yhr6aiTuTgwqzOv1JGAZ6cOtiTP8n8zdjPniwoYhC3lMx7jVS2/s1600/IMG_7300+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBX1zzuo3PshdJ56ePysmJRpoQKBdK6ZSprdydK7xjcNUzgBy8kToyOs_y6HsFrI3QSa9o8a8t83-AB2LskLZiEFuQDdYqnT8qDQrAkUwHOEt0L0JYksp3thyphenhyphenc342Di61m5am6ns5tk_A/s1600/IMG_7255+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMBX1zzuo3PshdJ56ePysmJRpoQKBdK6ZSprdydK7xjcNUzgBy8kToyOs_y6HsFrI3QSa9o8a8t83-AB2LskLZiEFuQDdYqnT8qDQrAkUwHOEt0L0JYksp3thyphenhyphenc342Di61m5am6ns5tk_A/s1600/IMG_7255+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The sweet selection was probably our favourite part (let's be honest, when is cake ever not our favourite part of anything?). Balanced out with exactly the right amount of chocolate, traditional flavours and fruit, the selection earns itself a big thumbs up. On offer was a chocolate and pistachio layer cake, white chocolate and coconut sponge (sooo good and unusual), ginger cake, and macaroons. It's been said a million times before, but we love a macaroon with afternoon tea, not least because they Instagram so well, and the blend of traditional with some unusual flavours made for a memorable top tier. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJ9M8-Al27jicxZGOaIknsLVfr0Bur8UgnOGBukWq3lvBfcFuu-5pkLN_GzYpW6zY0l-BiIvLHer4zfKgzDWXPLEVb1Yhr6aiTuTgwqzOv1JGAZ6cOtiTP8n8zdjPniwoYhC3lMx7jVS2/s1600/IMG_7300+copy.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Overall we had a lovely afternoon at The Townouse Hotel. There wasn't a great deal of atmosphere as we were one of only two groups dining at the time but that's a real shame, and hopefully not usually the case, as this is definitely a tea worth putting on your list. At £23.95 per person for sparkling, it's reasonably priced for a city centre tea, and if you're a prosecco lover, for £6 extra, two hours worth of free-flowing fizz makes its a no brainer.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSiGv_E5jl_DalVgRSNMd8wKC6jHWHmwAeVvbxMA0v9RFnJnsexzCEuvE5nTSrAJhQuH2UqV3qg-JdF9XAwjdr5-u5EHHgp3aNXBqOqCv6D8W29BpC6Gmk3BZ8ozV0VXZFxCHHQZrbaiU/s1600/IMG_7309+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPSiGv_E5jl_DalVgRSNMd8wKC6jHWHmwAeVvbxMA0v9RFnJnsexzCEuvE5nTSrAJhQuH2UqV3qg-JdF9XAwjdr5-u5EHHgp3aNXBqOqCv6D8W29BpC6Gmk3BZ8ozV0VXZFxCHHQZrbaiU/s1600/IMG_7309+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For more info and to book: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://chestertownhouse.com/afternoon-tea-chester/">https://chestertownhouse.com/afternoon-tea-chester/</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Have you ever visited The Townhouse Hotel? What did you think?</b></div>
<style>
<!--
/* Font Definitions */
@font-face
{font-family:"Cambria Math";
panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:roman;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;}
@font-face
{font-family:Calibri;
panose-1:2 15 5 2 2 2 4 3 2 4;
mso-font-charset:0;
mso-generic-font-family:swiss;
mso-font-pitch:variable;
mso-font-signature:-536859905 -1073732485 9 0 511 0;}
/* Style Definitions */
p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal
{mso-style-unhide:no;
mso-style-qformat:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
margin:0cm;
margin-bottom:.0001pt;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
.MsoChpDefault
{mso-style-type:export-only;
mso-default-props:yes;
font-family:"Calibri",sans-serif;
mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;
mso-fareast-language:EN-US;}
@page WordSection1
{size:612.0pt 792.0pt;
margin:72.0pt 72.0pt 72.0pt 72.0pt;
mso-header-margin:36.0pt;
mso-footer-margin:36.0pt;
mso-paper-source:0;}
div.WordSection1
{page:WordSection1;}
-->
</style>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-15150927695538482232018-05-18T03:13:00.000+01:002018-05-19T03:21:36.772+01:00Getting Chocolatey for the Royal Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGoSbk5CTnyztLO34_qfEaZc2C5GR8CwUtat2zgR2O2elP-MikifHnYTrL9VgyLN0OSdm9563YIJXrYL3IKj3XEihBGl-1jc4ACWKwto9PAnqGpTb8W1955NwRZMiAaiRqsqFXWDONbqt/s1600/IMG_7480+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixGoSbk5CTnyztLO34_qfEaZc2C5GR8CwUtat2zgR2O2elP-MikifHnYTrL9VgyLN0OSdm9563YIJXrYL3IKj3XEihBGl-1jc4ACWKwto9PAnqGpTb8W1955NwRZMiAaiRqsqFXWDONbqt/s1600/IMG_7480+copy.jpg" /></a><span style="text-align: justify;">Just a quick one from us on the eve of the Royal Wedding, to share these beautiful chocolates that dropped through our letterbox this morning. Inspired by the happy couple themselves, </span><span style="text-align: justify;">Choctopia's master chocolatier Matt Hancock has created a special selection of hand-crafted chocolates</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> to celebrate the big day.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">The blue 'Harry' is a banana and hazelnut caramel flavour, whilst the white chocolate 'Meghan' is flavoured decadently with rosewater and coconut. We tried both this evening and honestly couldn't pick a favourite, they were that good. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">Matt's style is quite unlike anything we've come across before and we're absolutely LOVING the bright colours of his creations - we've even heard that his other treats include chocolate portraits and glow in the dark chocolates - amazing, right? Check him out <a href="https://www.choctopia.net/" target="_blank">online</a>.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Which is your favourite flavour combination - The 'Harry' or the 'Meghan'?</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're still on the lookout for last minute Royal Wedding tea party inspiration, take a look at our last post <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/05/a-royal-wedding-tea-party-at-home.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br /></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-4406780223818732412018-05-16T22:07:00.002+01:002018-05-16T22:11:54.925+01:00A Royal Wedding Tea Party At Home<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6RhNFCoJrYWHv1buZkXWoWsOHrcjcOea8g6aPhM9nTucVklG3-j6hetGJyMrU2LFCLJkIZWJYE6SSVBpi6CC9x-WPNAaGPxBoTovB9jgHHT_varh97Mr97nJcT1LE8rJZLfNRYohKzBsF/s1600/IMG_7375+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6RhNFCoJrYWHv1buZkXWoWsOHrcjcOea8g6aPhM9nTucVklG3-j6hetGJyMrU2LFCLJkIZWJYE6SSVBpi6CC9x-WPNAaGPxBoTovB9jgHHT_varh97Mr97nJcT1LE8rJZLfNRYohKzBsF/s1600/IMG_7375+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>With less than a week to go until the Royal Wedding, it's time to start planning your celebrations - and what's more fitting than a Great British Tea Party?</b><br />
<br />
In case you're stuck for inspiration or are wondering where to begin, we've pulled together our essential Royal Wedding afternoon tea guide, to help you plan a party fit for the Queen.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg15PI1582XBJwZ-QZ8qP1nAw5-3ptCnX1LpTydnpt1PaI-c4hiKoSfsg2shJHDlIv8FOQ6PXZO6kPjCKlSQJcsM1Awp5q8OconvtNEb5QlZy3It_guC6XmhLOCX3PdkhC2GeWN1nw3t6/s1600/IMG_7338+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCg15PI1582XBJwZ-QZ8qP1nAw5-3ptCnX1LpTydnpt1PaI-c4hiKoSfsg2shJHDlIv8FOQ6PXZO6kPjCKlSQJcsM1Awp5q8OconvtNEb5QlZy3It_guC6XmhLOCX3PdkhC2GeWN1nw3t6/s1600/IMG_7338+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qa904E_fUkNmMnvRgHt28HLT7S0YWNuQhv3ElD54B4455KB04FqLmZopiPqATmW6iGLwNfu-Rua5QVCOmaETaKvqM_ZYZER2gtnhF5Gcvk2WWEuice8dleWQOIIpHKgV4ERwmrI5DWbR/s1600/IMG_7227+copy2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6qa904E_fUkNmMnvRgHt28HLT7S0YWNuQhv3ElD54B4455KB04FqLmZopiPqATmW6iGLwNfu-Rua5QVCOmaETaKvqM_ZYZER2gtnhF5Gcvk2WWEuice8dleWQOIIpHKgV4ERwmrI5DWbR/s1600/IMG_7227+copy2.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>The Decorations</b><br />
<br />
Celebrations like this are as 'extra' as they come, so get creative and show your colours - crack out the balloons, hang up some bunting and wear your Prince Harry mask with pride.<br />
<br />
It's important to remember that you don't need a big budget to make your party special, you can get multipacks of balloons from Card Factory and a rather snazzy Harry and Meghan flag from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=royal+wedding+flag&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3Aroyal+wedding+flag" target="_blank">Amazon</a> for a couple of pounds. However, if you're in the market for something a bit more special, then Bubblegum balloons, have an incredible range of ready to go decorations specially created for the big day. With beautiful tasselled tails, and a suitably apt slogan, their '<a href="https://bubblegumballoons.co.uk/sparkle-like-markle-orb-balloon.html" target="_blank">Sparkle Like Markle</a>' balloon is an absolute must for any Royal Wedding tea party.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1ylajw7XcSLSceEMxRCkoBEUybYlLkdJ2TW6CiCDB8mXOuv1HxGzYuRR7EiO5Uflw4yW8mLHTfXy-zMN-i3Gtshl4LxiDr-mCu_03XY7xcNeuLWOoEVh6Bpm87RkCBa4TAjKJH2hNrRy/s1600/IMG_7368+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil1ylajw7XcSLSceEMxRCkoBEUybYlLkdJ2TW6CiCDB8mXOuv1HxGzYuRR7EiO5Uflw4yW8mLHTfXy-zMN-i3Gtshl4LxiDr-mCu_03XY7xcNeuLWOoEVh6Bpm87RkCBa4TAjKJH2hNrRy/s1600/IMG_7368+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
As for crockery and table decorations, there are a couple of options. However, as the Royal wedding is a one-day-only event, we think your best bet would be to look for disposable party-ware that will give your gathering a touch of glitz without a significant investment. There are plenty of affordable pieces at Poundland, in a variety of designs including, Union Jack and gold spot. We opted for both of these to give a kitsch-yet-classy feel.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyD5oCvngVCkxOHJyr5FwejeZDldyuSl7lWY8ju5Yn90oUopRrhtEX9406VO3AobHKvOfD7OPDpRluPJl_easz0ccaPWAZeWD9InEPbb1x5kbejWUjzsfU1CT68GQQQ2fxdO1qsV-xgWF/s1600/IMG_7409+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyD5oCvngVCkxOHJyr5FwejeZDldyuSl7lWY8ju5Yn90oUopRrhtEX9406VO3AobHKvOfD7OPDpRluPJl_easz0ccaPWAZeWD9InEPbb1x5kbejWUjzsfU1CT68GQQQ2fxdO1qsV-xgWF/s1600/IMG_7409+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZxiLjl0lbIVqFJB6rJT6DzcfxYOZfgHh75BeC4yxZvA35UbSaUPhHi4mqejzg-fRslN8HIkQSskJ7FZ-3tIv1_nD-J7D-B5jNHt9-GTEkP8GJOEeArgrvp7jULVqUoVL-2dxAaWjM-ss/s1600/IMG_7377+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqZxiLjl0lbIVqFJB6rJT6DzcfxYOZfgHh75BeC4yxZvA35UbSaUPhHi4mqejzg-fRslN8HIkQSskJ7FZ-3tIv1_nD-J7D-B5jNHt9-GTEkP8GJOEeArgrvp7jULVqUoVL-2dxAaWjM-ss/s1600/IMG_7377+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>The Tea</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Sometimes a cup of PG Tips is all you need, but if you're after something fancier then there are a few special options that the tea aficionados amongst you will LOVE.<br />
<br />
One of our favourites is the limited edition Newby London <a href="https://www.newbyteas.co.uk/the-royal-wedding-tea-selection" target="_blank">Royal Wedding Tea Selection</a>, which is currently available at £28 online for 36 individually wrapped pyramids. With flavours ranging from English Breakfast to Earl Grey and Hunan Green Tea, this limited edition commemorative gift set is the perfect way to mark Harry and Meghan's big day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZXl91mVUJBF0_jEP3_FB4HYqrBB9d4T-g6YNvBo_H0VSIl12UWj4_1xCoPUYYDJhP5cvJ6oTIx8zTSF-ffJR6CNCMXCB7uJvqgEL0z3eAulrdZPG47hY1akUAlTNfs9msJxev6KqLbUz/s1600/IMG_7359+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicZXl91mVUJBF0_jEP3_FB4HYqrBB9d4T-g6YNvBo_H0VSIl12UWj4_1xCoPUYYDJhP5cvJ6oTIx8zTSF-ffJR6CNCMXCB7uJvqgEL0z3eAulrdZPG47hY1akUAlTNfs9msJxev6KqLbUz/s1600/IMG_7359+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<b>The Drinks</b><br />
<br />
What's tea without a splash of something else to help wash the cake down? Whether you're popping the corks with a bottle of <a href="https://www.champagne-bollinger.com/" target="_blank">Bolly</a>, opting for a refreshing lemonade or rustling up a fruit packed cocktail, it's important to have a variety of different drinks options available.<br />
<br />
For those of you who aren't feeling the alcohol at 11.30am, we've recently discovered a beautiful wine-substitute called <a href="https://botonique.com/" target="_blank">Botonique</a>, which is completely alcohol free and dare we say it, healthy. With low calories and negligable amounts of sugar, it's truly a guilt free drink, and whilst it doesn't exactly taste like wine or prosecco (nor does it claim to), it definitely has a quality which is reminiscient of both, making it a great food acompaniment - check them out on Ocado.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-TZ-vnLv2lo3k88kKLAIHQVjYMeDPS3CGmMi8NH3PBarDK2mYFMSCyS5EiEBSiLDn6zZ0NPBZ_FGBYaDiigWEtrIy1AY3PvxL6CWpY3Ur7EdfbQ_VkJlaqhNKseVojcQ-4bWLx7iTu-1/s1600/IMG_7461+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-TZ-vnLv2lo3k88kKLAIHQVjYMeDPS3CGmMi8NH3PBarDK2mYFMSCyS5EiEBSiLDn6zZ0NPBZ_FGBYaDiigWEtrIy1AY3PvxL6CWpY3Ur7EdfbQ_VkJlaqhNKseVojcQ-4bWLx7iTu-1/s1600/IMG_7461+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQtfKMXf11RCAOICJG1Q9pd5zElPxeiBJsD7yYCdK9-8664ajUERprwMjgnKq2qv2mZCjxWo6oZFeg9UqACQSKz5a77SIEwfjYJ5Ep2gFhNH2vW6Ut9py6AJEwmOTdCaxLzJztFPTG0Bu/s1600/IMG_7436+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQQtfKMXf11RCAOICJG1Q9pd5zElPxeiBJsD7yYCdK9-8664ajUERprwMjgnKq2qv2mZCjxWo6oZFeg9UqACQSKz5a77SIEwfjYJ5Ep2gFhNH2vW6Ut9py6AJEwmOTdCaxLzJztFPTG0Bu/s1600/IMG_7436+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
If you're in the market for a tipple, one of our favourites is Britain Cassis Blackcurrent liqueur. We tried this for the first time on Sunday and were impressed - think of a boozy Ribena with a sharp afterkick.<br />
<br />
With something like this there are so many options to drink: either straight, over ice, in prosecco or as part of a delicious cocktail - if you're looking for a bit of inspo, have a browse of their <a href="https://www.whiteherondrinks.co.uk/cocktails" target="_blank">Cocktail suggestions</a> on site.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_TQpUIsLeMcPneenXznTjBrezZQtgctDIVoR_ZJGGoBmo5muwK7k3HT_lJ8P-QgcE-iszrWp_Hy7NsjxB8w48OmMD8POCIbMjUmdiBZ99JIdXwUGtT7WAhgJ709bAIMNSdqL-wvugjBtY/s1600/IMG_7244+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_TQpUIsLeMcPneenXznTjBrezZQtgctDIVoR_ZJGGoBmo5muwK7k3HT_lJ8P-QgcE-iszrWp_Hy7NsjxB8w48OmMD8POCIbMjUmdiBZ99JIdXwUGtT7WAhgJ709bAIMNSdqL-wvugjBtY/s1600/IMG_7244+copy.jpg" /><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>The Food</b><br />
<br />
You all know the score when it comes to food - cake is key - and whether you're baking your own or buying a Mr Kiplings selection, it's important to have enough to go around. If you're feeling particularly ambitious and want to dust off your mixer, take a look at <a href="https://www.bakingmad.com/in-the-mix/how-to-throw-the-ultimate-tea-party" target="_blank">these recipes </a>for a bit of last minute inspo - we've tried the Baking Mad <a href="https://www.bakingmad.com/recipe/the-ultimate-chocolate-brownie" target="_blank">brownie bites</a> before and can vouch for their delectability.<br />
<br />
Not all of the treats needs to come in cake form though. Sometimes, the best afternoon teas are the ones that offer a good mix of textures and flavours. We're thinking Jelly and Ice cream, sweets, chocolate, finger sandwiches and crisps (hint: Red, White and Blue Tyrells are currently available in Poundland and we are obsessed!) - literally throw the calorie counter out of the window this weekend!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadeaM3fVYbL1RKREY7ubwWGGX1fKC_OzwvYXM48Bgl42TbU-4qd3m17XJVusAcEp9Jz9mez_EACt7EhohqciPu-0aRX04jgj3QRXojYIVLt4SGzvkh6tuYzReHKNFXA58C8FOZoU0ECwE/s1600/IMG_7345+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiadeaM3fVYbL1RKREY7ubwWGGX1fKC_OzwvYXM48Bgl42TbU-4qd3m17XJVusAcEp9Jz9mez_EACt7EhohqciPu-0aRX04jgj3QRXojYIVLt4SGzvkh6tuYzReHKNFXA58C8FOZoU0ECwE/s1600/IMG_7345+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
On the chocolate front, one of our favourites at the moment is from <a href="https://www.elizabethshaw.co.uk/our-chocolates/crisp-collections/" target="_blank">Elizabeth Shaw</a> (you might remember them from our <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/03/afternoon-tea-mothers-day-gift-guide.html" target="_blank">Mother's Day Guide</a>) who have a range of Chocolate crisps that are the perfect end to a meal. We're loving the salted caramel variety at the moment, but they also have a range of other flavours, including: mint and orange, which sound pretty great too.<br />
<br />
And finally - because we spotted them in Liberty last week and LOVED the packaging - we have a limited edition butterscotch biscuit set from Milly Green. These are seriously delicious and will make your room smell absolutely dreamy - we may or may not have finished off the entire packet already.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpXw9dyryrxBvIUS1SOGQUDm9bv9Y6IDGAXK2JNB64twGI2d2-1-Pw6vfvb4g631kw4RYpzQloFWWi7S7-q9LZEXoWgBUY7UEoezTf58Ol89dv0tZ0xLreR_rPEeAFon6XOa9TVMfcHcx/s1600/IMG_7326+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIpXw9dyryrxBvIUS1SOGQUDm9bv9Y6IDGAXK2JNB64twGI2d2-1-Pw6vfvb4g631kw4RYpzQloFWWi7S7-q9LZEXoWgBUY7UEoezTf58Ol89dv0tZ0xLreR_rPEeAFon6XOa9TVMfcHcx/s1600/IMG_7326+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Whetever you're doing on Saturday, we hope you have a great time. If you're celebrating with a tea party, don't forget to share your photos with us on Twitter, we'd love to share the festivities with you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>How will you be celebrating the Royal Wedding this weekend?</b></div>
<br />
Words and Photography: Caroline<br />
<br />
* Post contains PR samplesThe Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-30504679303705473902018-04-30T16:59:00.000+01:002018-05-13T13:54:19.226+01:00Afternoon Tea at King Street Townhouse, Manchester<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT80g4Vsshzcx-dw5aM3nrIsSm9gaU2m66K4zztNcz1RZGULTkoiy3PwgDsBLuAUu0QStRAzk2Cww6jeMdE6nE3Ch0UYDeH84Ff3Xo17zGhBcc5anuPoPpGEBbez1x-mZuszqT7IIz4WvJ/s1600/IMG_7194+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT80g4Vsshzcx-dw5aM3nrIsSm9gaU2m66K4zztNcz1RZGULTkoiy3PwgDsBLuAUu0QStRAzk2Cww6jeMdE6nE3Ch0UYDeH84Ff3Xo17zGhBcc5anuPoPpGEBbez1x-mZuszqT7IIz4WvJ/s1600/IMG_7194+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
I don't know about you, but this Winter lark has really been killing the mood recently, so whilst the sun is out and Spring has officially begun, it's time to embrace the seasonal afternoon tea in all its forms.<br />
<br />
If you know us well (or even just a little) then you'll probably be aware that we LOVE Great John Street Hotel, and whilst we haven't visited in a couple of years, they will always be ranked high on our list of all time favourites.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadOpzOTAHq9jjKyhKxGzkgKCnRN0GhFhVb-Vz-x7n5H9M6gXbCreZ9UXBYN9f8kotGiFOL7_u8L7wmvUgyFfqJ9wHPrxUI7VnpfIoQUjTwAg5-AwEvO6mgvOr9ax3qp7Z3cSQJdeK9M7o/s1600/IMG_7104+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgadOpzOTAHq9jjKyhKxGzkgKCnRN0GhFhVb-Vz-x7n5H9M6gXbCreZ9UXBYN9f8kotGiFOL7_u8L7wmvUgyFfqJ9wHPrxUI7VnpfIoQUjTwAg5-AwEvO6mgvOr9ax3qp7Z3cSQJdeK9M7o/s1600/IMG_7104+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPiMwrW9HQNFqrol8DLXCzMTtslvJT3Vx6PvsV4kIvsafs0mub0NHXvPsx7ZBYbS9fs3CtOFnYR_djBxXPrxRSQPIKG0e59FEcT7NDmkC1ZbPas-PgOD8BwXyOwoQ7G4g4KSLNQfAxqOC/s1600/IMG_7129+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOPiMwrW9HQNFqrol8DLXCzMTtslvJT3Vx6PvsV4kIvsafs0mub0NHXvPsx7ZBYbS9fs3CtOFnYR_djBxXPrxRSQPIKG0e59FEcT7NDmkC1ZbPas-PgOD8BwXyOwoQ7G4g4KSLNQfAxqOC/s1600/IMG_7129+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
Part of the Eclectic group, Great John Street Hotel is one of four residences in Greater Manchester, with the brand's most recent opening, The King Street Townhouse, launching in December 2015. Now, it may seem crazy that it's taken us almost two and a half years to make it there for tea, but let me assure you that it was it worth the wait.<br />
<br />
The "Traditional" and "Gentleman's" afternoon tea selections are served up daily in the hotel's Tavern, offering a good range of sweet and savoury treats for visitors to enjoy with a glass of bubbly or Jack Daniels (yum!). Menus change regularly, but during our visit last month we were treated to an Easter rendition of their Spring menu, which included: white chocolate mousse, carrot cake slices and miniature chocolate eggs - for up to date menus, see <a href="http://www.eclectichotels.co.uk/king-street-townhouse/afternoon-tea-.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXYJUfaeAcGsrzTOEStUnUONbxFZQel8jWhQt-97wRuBUUXVWyxv1wNxqXG03pCNdekgxI6Tmo0YitXMhyphenhyphenZleM20i7rW8LY-IbzS7EYuSaqntbcMpaxrqF5eGe4Nr6NsVsvh0rJM5MZDG/s1600/IMG_7118+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyXYJUfaeAcGsrzTOEStUnUONbxFZQel8jWhQt-97wRuBUUXVWyxv1wNxqXG03pCNdekgxI6Tmo0YitXMhyphenhyphenZleM20i7rW8LY-IbzS7EYuSaqntbcMpaxrqF5eGe4Nr6NsVsvh0rJM5MZDG/s1600/IMG_7118+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXbpTG3JYy6USU41ISQp1FsgCx445lzWEo3uYqCYB7h644L8NKETff1OjprehNJ8PuUbsid6uVCCidMKgqvAVZLZW-ZTtL5GpeCQVDGLkW0_laQQ6AWEVJ3MLU2QsV5SClaRfURIOB2oG/s1600/IMG_7184+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLXbpTG3JYy6USU41ISQp1FsgCx445lzWEo3uYqCYB7h644L8NKETff1OjprehNJ8PuUbsid6uVCCidMKgqvAVZLZW-ZTtL5GpeCQVDGLkW0_laQQ6AWEVJ3MLU2QsV5SClaRfURIOB2oG/s1600/IMG_7184+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
With Great John Street having such a strong reputation when it comes to afternoon tea, I have to admit that I was a little sceptical about King Street Townhouse - could they really live up to my expectations?<br />
<br />
Before our visit, I'd heard mixed reviews, with some people praising the tea, whilst others were a little more non-plussed. However, from my experience, I can only give them praise. The menu itself was incredibly well balanced, with a good mix of textures, which included: cake, macarons, scones, mousse and pastry, offering something for everyone. The flavours were similarly impressive, with the Carrot Cake in particular offering a lovely sweet-yet-earthy flavour, which was delicious.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-666E0Wi7Nqsruwm1HWWCAwXl_29ZC8aDqxmliMybkSqbzfxeERPQE3SSLkdaCO9ibzIAhNzF3UUQGLW-0m7wzW6c1F3mn00ywzH5YwcNA4zzW1jvmKwTxiB4wMjbZXtWY34IiFK3vhp/s1600/IMG_7168+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3-666E0Wi7Nqsruwm1HWWCAwXl_29ZC8aDqxmliMybkSqbzfxeERPQE3SSLkdaCO9ibzIAhNzF3UUQGLW-0m7wzW6c1F3mn00ywzH5YwcNA4zzW1jvmKwTxiB4wMjbZXtWY34IiFK3vhp/s1600/IMG_7168+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
In terms of environment, the Tavern's lounge has many qualities which are comparable to Great John Street, with comfortable arm chairs and homely nicknacks decorating the room, making for a really lovely place to spend an afternoon. However, a main point of differentiation for me, is the lack of natural light, which was a little disappointing - especially with summer approaching.<br />
<br />
That said, the hotel's central location is definitely to its advantage, sitting at the heart of Manchester's current Afternoon Tea hotspot, surrounded by other premium neighbours, The Hotel Gotham and Grand Pacific - the ideal excuse to take in two or even THREE teas in a day.<br />
<br />
Overall, we were really impressed with the Kingstreet Townhouse and would recommend it to anyone looking to venture out for a spot of cake with the girls (or guys)<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
For prices and more information:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.eclectichotels.co.uk/king-street-townhouse/tavern-afternoon-tea-lounge.aspx">http://www.eclectichotels.co.uk/king-street-townhouse/tavern-afternoon-tea-lounge.aspx</a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Have you ever visited the King Street Townhouse? What did you think?</b></div>
<br />The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-62345756415351059622018-03-04T23:16:00.001+00:002018-03-09T21:53:42.939+00:00Afternoon Tea Mother's Day Gift Guide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFWu5ZesogmG1KgS1OP5w-ibCUpbhp0JMDBkBn_NNR6nexCrZBIkfb84ZDx6XehKwxtuYJACvHR7okXTB67YcBqNMobQ9dr1BSmr2M39j4ecv1NdD22YO_gZerc8yOTbv-5s7lA1F_Osw/s1600/IMG_6980+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFWu5ZesogmG1KgS1OP5w-ibCUpbhp0JMDBkBn_NNR6nexCrZBIkfb84ZDx6XehKwxtuYJACvHR7okXTB67YcBqNMobQ9dr1BSmr2M39j4ecv1NdD22YO_gZerc8yOTbv-5s7lA1F_Osw/s1600/IMG_6980+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In case you hadn’t noticed the influx of pink, florals and gin sets filling up the shelves on the high street, <b>Mother’s Day</b> is just around the corner (11th March, FYI). Nothing says “I love you” quite like tea and cake, so what better way to show the special woman in your life how much you care than with some afternoon tea-inspired goodies? Whether you’re looking for the perfect little something for your coffee queen or a bit of a tea adventure, our Mother’s Day gift guide has got you covered.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjOTA8eR2pkGFAFUKCDY0iWzFV8H6Zg1VfOoAeVFeK15dIxqmi1swJZTtJ-3juTZVAV42-dy9F3kE1dyrFeyeQKNNB87Eup8tfypH9G3k4qRGe_702FSmchyphenhyphen1AP8uqV-VGkGeTq4C9YJA/s1600/IMG_6924+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1164" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjOTA8eR2pkGFAFUKCDY0iWzFV8H6Zg1VfOoAeVFeK15dIxqmi1swJZTtJ-3juTZVAV42-dy9F3kE1dyrFeyeQKNNB87Eup8tfypH9G3k4qRGe_702FSmchyphenhyphen1AP8uqV-VGkGeTq4C9YJA/s1600/IMG_6924+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>1. Clipper Organic Infusions | <i>RRP £2.39 available to buy online <a href="https://shop.clipper-teas.com/products/clipper-flower-power-organic-infusion-35-g" rel="nofollow">here</a> </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Florals, for Spring? Groundbreaking. If you did the flowers thing last year, maybe a floral tea could do just the trick? All made with pure ingredients and a clear conscience, Clipper's range of organic infusions and green teas are your go-to gift. Try Flower Power Infusion made with elderflower, hibiscus & limeflower or the wonderfully named, Calmer Chameleon Fusion with chamomile, honeybush & cinnamon which can be bought separately (20 bags per box) or as part of the Clipper's Tea Organic Infusions Sublime Selection which includes six different flavours presented in a neat gift box. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>2. Cake stand, teapot and teacup & saucer, Matalan | <i>RRP from £4 to £10 available to buy online <a href="https://www.matalan.co.uk/events/mothers-day?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=MothersDay&utm_term=TheAfternoonTeaClub&utm_content=blog" target="_blank">here</a> </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you fancy hosting your own Mother’s Day afternoon tea party, Matalan’s range of affordable <a href="https://www.matalan.co.uk/product/detail/s2676812_c000/teacup-saucer-blue?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=MothersDay&utm_term=TheAfternoonTeaClub&utm_content=blog" rel="nofollow">teacups</a>, teapots, <a href="https://www.matalan.co.uk/product/detail/s2676814_c000/2-tier-cake-stand-blue?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=MothersDay&utm_term=TheAfternoonTeaClub&utm_content=blog" rel="nofollow">cake stands</a> and much more has everything you need to throw a party even the Hatter himself would be jealous of. Our favourite has to be this adorable <a href="https://www.matalan.co.uk/product/detail/s2676811_c000/spot-teapot-25cm-x-15cm-x-15cm-white?utm_source=blog&utm_medium=organic_social&utm_campaign=MothersDay&utm_term=TheAfternoonTeaClub&utm_content=blog" rel="nofollow">gold polka-dot teapot</a> but with pieces in the range starting from as little as £4 there’s something to suit every style and budget.</div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dzjBpQ6H8Hbprf1V50RaKtA7Q3NKn24GjsDg3y6LYJjYHzcJ-UtzhPnx5ZgHb2_4nzbWiO6IahPaA-rwIgshgnBtZkK-Iz5VgjjSi2-mMBV0mzPdodt37MPJUc9Z9FKpBfyeaEQrhvtt/s1600/IMG_6994+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-dzjBpQ6H8Hbprf1V50RaKtA7Q3NKn24GjsDg3y6LYJjYHzcJ-UtzhPnx5ZgHb2_4nzbWiO6IahPaA-rwIgshgnBtZkK-Iz5VgjjSi2-mMBV0mzPdodt37MPJUc9Z9FKpBfyeaEQrhvtt/s1600/IMG_6994+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>3. Elizabeth Shaw Luxury Biscuits | <i>RRP £1.79 available to buy online <a href="https://www.elizabethshaw.co.uk/where-to-buy/" rel="nofollow">here</a></i> </b></div>
<div>
Tea and biscuits anyone? One is always better with the other so if tea is already on the cards why not try a selection of luxury biscuits from British chocolatier, Elizabeth Shaw. Choose from a variety of flavours including Raisin & Hazelnut, Coconut & Hazelnut, Raisin & Cocoa and Mint & Cocoa, topped with smooth milk or rich dark chocolate, available from all major UK supermarkets.</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDL7DDV93yZYdExyEz5ufjc6jf30oNDc79VnXMk14zqKXJjVaXwZIOgmu7j4xVLn-JauyfaJV4-zU3oYtNLKbHodvjntDgcIKV_8rikHZs0ZMzwi-1tlD22W3FQZvp-a9M72o-l7kHjvN/s1600/IMG_7076+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" /><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDDL7DDV93yZYdExyEz5ufjc6jf30oNDc79VnXMk14zqKXJjVaXwZIOgmu7j4xVLn-JauyfaJV4-zU3oYtNLKbHodvjntDgcIKV_8rikHZs0ZMzwi-1tlD22W3FQZvp-a9M72o-l7kHjvN/s1600/IMG_7076+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>4. 'Queen of Caffeine’ bone china mug, Bespoke Verse | <i>RRP £12 available to buy online <a href="https://www.bespokeverse.co.uk/collections/gifts-by-occasion-mothers-day/products/queen-of-caffeine-bone-china-mug?variant=1794511372312" rel="nofollow">here</a> </i></b></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Most will tell you being a mother is the best job in the world but it’s also a busy one. So for those who like a good caffeine boost to kickstart the day, sip in style with this sweet bone china mug from Bespoke Verse. The website specialises in a range of poetry-themed gifts and homeware including a rather brilliant “Ode to Poldark” mug which we might have to steal for ourselves (sorry mum!). </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoLlDTg2lh5czA2GXwDTrMTim7omJqltnkzJ_6Fxkkovm1PQz6vNCgc3t7Qo9nwofiONIb19aO2iduLHodPo4eTyQkCbqPfxfEI2h99sazTRXlW5RGKJOuInKZ1IzpagDZDEU0t-IYa2V/s1600/IMG_7024+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoLlDTg2lh5czA2GXwDTrMTim7omJqltnkzJ_6Fxkkovm1PQz6vNCgc3t7Qo9nwofiONIb19aO2iduLHodPo4eTyQkCbqPfxfEI2h99sazTRXlW5RGKJOuInKZ1IzpagDZDEU0t-IYa2V/s1600/IMG_7024+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>5. Personalised teacup and saucer, Find Me A Gift | <i>RRP £14.99 available to buy online <a href="https://www.findmeagift.co.uk/personalised-tea-cup-and-saucer-cupcake-design.html" rel="nofollow">here</a> </i></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The folks at Find Me A Gift have got Mother’s Day sorted with a dedicated gift section but we’ve done the searching for you (you're welcome) and our favourite has to be this personalised cup and saucer. Make mum the perfect breakfast in bed complete with a brew that comes decorated with your own personal message and mini cupcake print. Plus you can complete the set with a matching teapot. Beats any old card, don’t you think! </div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgathaI-WNbxkWekfpl5Yw6OEU1fGE_81MI-nojnazmfS0XIkhDLt2Ld3sByLLyqUxwtaC-lFngwo-JbRu4ypph7pVzMCCkx3cFsfV_pzzHjzZ4ciSPe2W7umjN7-Od-p7-0RPXA010mbj4/s1600/IMG_7026+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgathaI-WNbxkWekfpl5Yw6OEU1fGE_81MI-nojnazmfS0XIkhDLt2Ld3sByLLyqUxwtaC-lFngwo-JbRu4ypph7pVzMCCkx3cFsfV_pzzHjzZ4ciSPe2W7umjN7-Od-p7-0RPXA010mbj4/s1600/IMG_7026+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>6. Taste Tripper | <i>RRP £19.50 (one person) or £35 (two people) available to buy online <a href="https://tastetripper.com/central-london-taste-explorer" rel="nofollow">here</a></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you want to try something different, then this little yellow envelope may just have the answer. Taste Tripper takes you on a tour of some of London’s best cafes, bars and boutiques with a range of curated Explorer Packs created by people who just really love food. The Central London Explorer Pack includes four coffees, one tea and three chocolates to collect across Notting Hill, Chelsea, Soho and Covent Garden, plus recipes, fun facts and a map to help you navigate your guided taste tour. Get the two person pack and make a day of it!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-kmf-FxzGnZkWs7AVbNkON9nS-yaqA8N4SYeGuzZGC1qEedJwD20KKxEIeFM03lS9XJKYnTvu04xh2NDjvKGoVoZnp0tSBb6yfxpdn3ew_-IP86_Aiq7yAqeAFP8dYOxOYfVMkbgQzsuX/s1600/IMG_7043+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1132" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-kmf-FxzGnZkWs7AVbNkON9nS-yaqA8N4SYeGuzZGC1qEedJwD20KKxEIeFM03lS9XJKYnTvu04xh2NDjvKGoVoZnp0tSBb6yfxpdn3ew_-IP86_Aiq7yAqeAFP8dYOxOYfVMkbgQzsuX/s1600/IMG_7043+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>What are some of your Mother’s Day afternoon tea-themed gift suggestions? Let us know in the comments and join in the conversation on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/teacupreview" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/teacupreview" rel="nofollow">Instagram</a>.</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photography: Caroline</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Words: Laura</span>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-89603090090819971502018-02-25T19:37:00.002+00:002018-02-28T22:07:51.356+00:00Afternoon Tea at The Vicarage, Holmes Chapel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSwQ_iI14BPA6V3lRX6s2KxyJc_RTOX3kXLEIImnHM7M4lTQuCxSzMTR6ZHDRYGRayjEj867Z7DKeasi7pvvEkVNF3bUKYl9_aPQBcPumEFmAxiIuIq7S1SK8Em7frdEtIIsNixS0RCLP/s1600/IMG_6713+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1088" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSSwQ_iI14BPA6V3lRX6s2KxyJc_RTOX3kXLEIImnHM7M4lTQuCxSzMTR6ZHDRYGRayjEj867Z7DKeasi7pvvEkVNF3bUKYl9_aPQBcPumEFmAxiIuIq7S1SK8Em7frdEtIIsNixS0RCLP/s1600/IMG_6713+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>Back in January we took a trip to Knutsford to sample the afternoon tea menu at <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/01/afternoon-tea-at-courthouse-knutsford.html">The Courthouse</a> pub and hotel, part of the Flat Cap Hotels group. It was the perfect kickstart our 2018 afternoon tea calendar, so last week when we were invited to try its sister venue, The Vicarage in Holmes Chapel, naturally we hopped on another train with high cake-expectations. Here’s what we thought … </b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHkklv54QBYXvIWIefQNzwDTr0VJ3_ceGw62ME9gW4RpE9kTUXGpKk35-WYnWPtTWaBPdHw2Iny6I_I4QBTgP7M-73YILjTQ27wI0zD2YQnSrTsI0CjHoxRQa1A5RlQxoz51ydNCt2i4F/s1600/IMG_6742+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAHkklv54QBYXvIWIefQNzwDTr0VJ3_ceGw62ME9gW4RpE9kTUXGpKk35-WYnWPtTWaBPdHw2Iny6I_I4QBTgP7M-73YILjTQ27wI0zD2YQnSrTsI0CjHoxRQa1A5RlQxoz51ydNCt2i4F/s1600/IMG_6742+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
First things first, our only pop culture reference to this small Cheshire village is that it is the home of a certain former One Directioner, Harry Styles, so we may or may not have stopped off at his former place of work for a small slab of rocky road to take home. But famous musicians aside, this is a beautiful area and The Vicarage is in a prime spot, just moments away from the village centre and gazing out into the picturesque winter countryside.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0FKGzkoqTyknlvFr-EkXTDpx13ffnJ7ZEvxyPi-OLhbgOwL5vat7X54VhFn2hucSfBJM_miPnPcIVRhECEV_3YvTgu1PPeFICus_kK6SDLpNp9gUEmKk6_U645MZOm2CBeGlOQO1vyAG/s1600/IMG_6773+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim0FKGzkoqTyknlvFr-EkXTDpx13ffnJ7ZEvxyPi-OLhbgOwL5vat7X54VhFn2hucSfBJM_miPnPcIVRhECEV_3YvTgu1PPeFICus_kK6SDLpNp9gUEmKk6_U645MZOm2CBeGlOQO1vyAG/s1600/IMG_6773+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The Vicarage is a 17th Century Grade II listed country pub which has been restored to deliver just the right balance of contemporary and country chic. Afternoon tea is served in the attached conservatory which is oozing in natural light - a food bloggers best friend, we can assure you. Similar to The Courthouse, the style is very relaxed but The Vicarage really embraces its rustic surroundings with wooden furnishings restored with a neutral white colour palette, homely bookshelves and mismatched crockery including a commemorative Royal cup and saucer, which we were huge fans of. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt0WxoMGa6tsqtZo1IXZiRdOchs-CNspmP04Mwt7a7D6T0FfyD6e282Rr_-MdchdQB-1GgWq5TmAuRnNc0Z0ZkjLqEfKK1bKHjHkgx3hNnAMSOPMwJvmh0QWqrmetH3HZadC74IJ0WwUp/s1600/IMG_6775+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt0WxoMGa6tsqtZo1IXZiRdOchs-CNspmP04Mwt7a7D6T0FfyD6e282Rr_-MdchdQB-1GgWq5TmAuRnNc0Z0ZkjLqEfKK1bKHjHkgx3hNnAMSOPMwJvmh0QWqrmetH3HZadC74IJ0WwUp/s1600/IMG_6775+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKxSe_XxpCPt0-pkFNvZyn05V33O3y3hpuxeZHNgMOr3rui2_p8pa0KbgYz0b4ruMX7I8qzry3tmgL8MVULAlwnisTWVPoKN-hHxHf4mic03IOnNEggNO4H38YC_XhaGq-JKwOI001gC0/s1600/IMG_6777+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhKxSe_XxpCPt0-pkFNvZyn05V33O3y3hpuxeZHNgMOr3rui2_p8pa0KbgYz0b4ruMX7I8qzry3tmgL8MVULAlwnisTWVPoKN-hHxHf4mic03IOnNEggNO4H38YC_XhaGq-JKwOI001gC0/s1600/IMG_6777+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We were greeted straight away and offered a choice of tea or coffee, of which we choose one of each. Hot beverages arrived at the table promptly but our afternoon tea did take a rather long time to follow. Perhaps this isn’t usually the case and whilst it would have been preferable to have been informed of the wait time beforehand, we were sat comfortably enjoying our surroundings so this wasn’t a massive issue.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh8rRwPnpiWI7E7zhxh-v96ZAEpC0Wsu70h9H-AyYHjs_uO0G-5VAwNM36wu8bsRNYpBvJh1VcuoLAmNj9cIs07gDpkqNVtYdtfz-WH-2WsuYQc9MhCWMcZCKckzcaKrYq8_sK2Do-uWb/s1600/IMG_6780+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxh8rRwPnpiWI7E7zhxh-v96ZAEpC0Wsu70h9H-AyYHjs_uO0G-5VAwNM36wu8bsRNYpBvJh1VcuoLAmNj9cIs07gDpkqNVtYdtfz-WH-2WsuYQc9MhCWMcZCKckzcaKrYq8_sK2Do-uWb/s1600/IMG_6780+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
When the food did arrive however, it was presented beautifully on a floral three-tier stand, garnished with fresh strawberries. To begin, the savoury selection included egg and mayonnaise and ham finger sandwiches along with two open variations featuring pepperade and salmon bruschetta. To find a good dash of colour amongst a savoury selection is a rare and welcome touch and the flavours were well balanced, particularly the pepperade which we thought was delicious and could have happily eaten an entire plate of each!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vwHtG9k9Mb7UKjRvmdVzanoE6efJra42zlVWRBjRG4mPkZmLIzP79oAtTMaqPibnZuPxXvujDwmdjNQAMYlnZvxv5OrwcI9psn5eqQ4jEJVa4-Raa86t2wgKfBgRZ3HyGHo41ALcIxlH/s1600/IMG_6782+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vwHtG9k9Mb7UKjRvmdVzanoE6efJra42zlVWRBjRG4mPkZmLIzP79oAtTMaqPibnZuPxXvujDwmdjNQAMYlnZvxv5OrwcI9psn5eqQ4jEJVa4-Raa86t2wgKfBgRZ3HyGHo41ALcIxlH/s1600/IMG_6782+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi7de2Wn-BM_LXbdYRrKhieks_cjOwEZ20Jovytypzb7kTJxLaBoLdsQLqgjHJvbtdRvuf-udSokATx6jZBAvwykSlo8DWjGSLdosjjD7oPehKTuzjmKzt73SDQnmmzX2oo0k_-kGQoIvL/s1600/IMG_6790+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1185" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi7de2Wn-BM_LXbdYRrKhieks_cjOwEZ20Jovytypzb7kTJxLaBoLdsQLqgjHJvbtdRvuf-udSokATx6jZBAvwykSlo8DWjGSLdosjjD7oPehKTuzjmKzt73SDQnmmzX2oo0k_-kGQoIvL/s1600/IMG_6790+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next, the scones were huge, adding to that home-cooked feel where portion sizes are always a little more generous than a traditional tearoom. We were pleasantly surprised to find these were cherry scones, which is one of our all-time favourite flavours and accompanied with jam and clotted cream. Sadly, one of the scones was a little undercooked so we stuck to just the one between us - fortunately there was enough to go around, and it was tasty.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjOJiyQbLtFDyQN-cM1TtyngYrWTNP4HhtR-NPU0idVJrH1OuM5d__5nlR7t9CXQF3YXtz9yPXuB4MqGHpw6i03KstICnjTjmq8okzg4iIaVZwdWjbGXNICsTGV_f2y85Kg_N1J30FAUs/s1600/IMG_6794+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOjOJiyQbLtFDyQN-cM1TtyngYrWTNP4HhtR-NPU0idVJrH1OuM5d__5nlR7t9CXQF3YXtz9yPXuB4MqGHpw6i03KstICnjTjmq8okzg4iIaVZwdWjbGXNICsTGV_f2y85Kg_N1J30FAUs/s1600/IMG_6794+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Finally, the patisserie selection was good, even just to look at, with lots of textures and accents going on to keep things interesting, if a little citrus-heavy but that's completely dependent on personal taste. We each had a miniature chocolate orange slice, frangipane and lemon tart. Our favourite was a toss up between the frangipane and the chocolate orange. One, because the first was different and two because, well ... chocolate. You can't really go wrong.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0Im5IIVfUB7qL8Fp9pgs524n4hJEvr456E7RBYaTO_Ta7Ezc0wQRSaWAZq8KbzQ8YpkgaoCD3ASQLSCZ_Sj5BVK3Q45pKU0k4EeKRtbguKOeVft4xsSrbPxtG20akviRMjE1K_2yewaV/s1600/IMG_6801+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="995" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB0Im5IIVfUB7qL8Fp9pgs524n4hJEvr456E7RBYaTO_Ta7Ezc0wQRSaWAZq8KbzQ8YpkgaoCD3ASQLSCZ_Sj5BVK3Q45pKU0k4EeKRtbguKOeVft4xsSrbPxtG20akviRMjE1K_2yewaV/s1600/IMG_6801+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Overall our afternoon tea at The Vicarage was good. Service was great, the environment was beautiful and though there were a couple of things that could be improved upon for next time, this is a really lovely spot for an afternoon in the country side, and at £15pp it is a steal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Plus, the restaurant will be serving up a special savoury afternoon tea just in time for Mother’s Day - March 11th, FYI. We’re big fans of a savoury tea option and would recommend giving it a try if mini pies and toad in the holes are more your thing than delicate finger fare. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>For more information and to book, visit: <a href="http://www.thevicaragecheshire.com/">http://www.thevicaragecheshire.com/ </a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-63376323305193361782018-01-14T17:22:00.000+00:002018-01-14T17:22:02.133+00:00Win Afternoon Tea for Two at The Courthouse Knutsford<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbocGKGPsmQKbg6SPXbakrBOJW83mNY10kvR8YEnzGVUelV3PD-KNKjgN0S3o1jQYh_J1AMoVexTrX5HdpNej_mLodL-JW4zJ3zbPDyfwqjOJ7eEl8tsbF91_MVGUkya77vhgr5vsJ_t5i/s1600/IMG_6622+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbocGKGPsmQKbg6SPXbakrBOJW83mNY10kvR8YEnzGVUelV3PD-KNKjgN0S3o1jQYh_J1AMoVexTrX5HdpNej_mLodL-JW4zJ3zbPDyfwqjOJ7eEl8tsbF91_MVGUkya77vhgr5vsJ_t5i/s1600/IMG_6622+copy.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Feeling inspired by <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2018/01/afternoon-tea-at-courthouse-knutsford.html" target="_blank">yesterday's review</a> and fancy winning your own trip to <a href="https://www.thecourthousecheshire.com/" target="_blank">The Courthouse</a> in Knutsford? Read on...</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To get your new year well and truly started in style, we've joined up with the lovely folk at The Courthouse in Knutsford, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win afternoon tea for two at their beautiful restaurant in 2018. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For your chance to win, simply complete the Rafflecopter options below - winners will be announced on Monday 22nd January. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Good Luck!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a class="rcptr" data-raflid="8d2bdac56" data-template="" data-theme="classic" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8d2bdac56/" id="rcwidget_o0wivjba" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Open to UK residents only. Competition will close at midnight (BST) on 21/01/2018. The winner will be chosen and announced on 22/01/2018. The Afternoon Tea Club's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The Afternoon Tea Club is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied by third party connected to this competition. Winners will be responsible for their own transport costs to and from the venue. There will be no cash alternative. Winner will be notified via email/social media. By entering the competition the winner agrees to participate in such promotional activity on our website and Twitter. No responsibility can be taken for any entries which are not received for any reason.</span>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-91056675802854708072018-01-13T19:48:00.001+00:002018-01-13T20:14:26.912+00:00Afternoon Tea at The Courthouse, Knutsford<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJq4TjALq4i_qS8l8ReO7BTp_O4q5quPEMkGyZfKknUJwdjDyY5Ra_vuTL92dCWTUOOBuoyJYVe1WhqDcjfu4hxDtjo09CGXh_nou_4h6HgNzBnVocrnphjxuh5yi0y59_0_QBVVGm2AO/s1600/IMG_6614+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvJq4TjALq4i_qS8l8ReO7BTp_O4q5quPEMkGyZfKknUJwdjDyY5Ra_vuTL92dCWTUOOBuoyJYVe1WhqDcjfu4hxDtjo09CGXh_nou_4h6HgNzBnVocrnphjxuh5yi0y59_0_QBVVGm2AO/s1600/IMG_6614+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If, like us, you have decided against January dietary resolutions thanks to a mountain of excess chocolate still in your cupboards post- Christmas, we can highly recommend beating the January blues by taking some time out for afternoon tea. Last weekend, we took heed of our own advice and ventured to <b><a href="https://www.thecourthousecheshire.com/" rel="nofollow">The Courthouse Hotel</a></b> in Knutsford, but despite being a literal former-courthouse, this is not a place to be judged for indulging your cake-loving sins. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxMqrTCt6LwR3cFMr8-8g43ee_U2cd6-3MnMzjPB0FHM_bQmcU8QlBixi01_hCr-Iyrna9cbWMT0uP_8wPf3y5PCLqVCas5QZtM4DP5MMsthvLS6j8KrVVgmBm2oVMnn8Uz05eRBVF8Cm/s1600/IMG_6633+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxMqrTCt6LwR3cFMr8-8g43ee_U2cd6-3MnMzjPB0FHM_bQmcU8QlBixi01_hCr-Iyrna9cbWMT0uP_8wPf3y5PCLqVCas5QZtM4DP5MMsthvLS6j8KrVVgmBm2oVMnn8Uz05eRBVF8Cm/s1600/IMG_6633+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The Courthouse is a beautiful venue and in keeping with its foundations, dining takes place within the docks with an impressive bar as the focal point. The walls are covered in a sprawling collection of artwork, and if you look closely, some incorporate cool imagery of famous mugshots such as that of Elvis and even those of fiction, like Sirius Black - just our kind of place. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_2XBwe4mHiIWm3B7CM7XbuETJnlOE3Nhx0QXeAvptXHbrAtBtgQ41fEsUOYC2ggoAxZ719sraJSL9XMI-WPZbviLJVDAzD2ZsAiBdFXWO0PIUfUgJ09ZXTwHewyXCg8xnIhwry0Oj09rM/s1600/IMG_6671+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_2XBwe4mHiIWm3B7CM7XbuETJnlOE3Nhx0QXeAvptXHbrAtBtgQ41fEsUOYC2ggoAxZ719sraJSL9XMI-WPZbviLJVDAzD2ZsAiBdFXWO0PIUfUgJ09ZXTwHewyXCg8xnIhwry0Oj09rM/s1600/IMG_6671+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The venue offers several afternoon tea options. We went for traditional, served on pretty, mismatched floral tableware, but for those more adventurous, there are alternatives that include champagne and another that has been inspired by the current trend for gin. Despite not being massive gin fans ourselves, we can imagine that one goes down a treat. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5_fB8K8iw6HU7l-Fg8tXQNXKNkdgKbt4g5b3aYPNKWZevqmLaNS-mNyun5QuqYPjwO9Jr_Ey9CByckO57-0piX7thJ5bfmPP2nZmJJ2epG7o2VA1Lo1zfyz6pGszq_EysSDrSqfl-eoO/s1600/IMG_6640+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX5_fB8K8iw6HU7l-Fg8tXQNXKNkdgKbt4g5b3aYPNKWZevqmLaNS-mNyun5QuqYPjwO9Jr_Ey9CByckO57-0piX7thJ5bfmPP2nZmJJ2epG7o2VA1Lo1zfyz6pGszq_EysSDrSqfl-eoO/s1600/IMG_6640+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
To begin, finger sandwiches arrived perfectly fresh and came with four different fillings on a couple of different breads; salmon and crème fraîche, beef with horseradish, egg mayo, and cheese and onion. A good balance of fillings, and we’re always happy when salmon is on the menu. A good intro.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Next, despite taking our usual long break to take photos, the scones were still warm when we eventually tucked in and served with good amount of jam and cream. Plus, they were lightly spiced which we can assume has been adopted from their recent Christmas menu offering. Delicious.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZapGv0YRiFplIbV6NrpvhLFp7wW9ijFNx0ZQNifZVtYnM_Yj1rv7cIrO5iyYKDi6ub-aahtCijRHVZ7gLfIo5PW6VL6SDymnKtkpZ8NyQdLq0JodjCJRHRLy1YdsRZCJTqmtu6KYws9dF/s1600/IMG_6664+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="text-align: start;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZapGv0YRiFplIbV6NrpvhLFp7wW9ijFNx0ZQNifZVtYnM_Yj1rv7cIrO5iyYKDi6ub-aahtCijRHVZ7gLfIo5PW6VL6SDymnKtkpZ8NyQdLq0JodjCJRHRLy1YdsRZCJTqmtu6KYws9dF/s1600/IMG_6664+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Finally the pastries were also channelling a winter vibe thanks to a colour palette of greens and deep reds. We each had a green apple macaroon, chocolate orange profiterole, miniature battenberg, and berry mousse dome. The profiteroles were a favourite, a nice seasonal twist on the much-loved dessert, alongside the berry dome which was tart but complementary to the rest of the pastry flavours on our plates.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1PA9XE5NF2aY_1m7hAyS_V28k9MTvyguUCDP4zGuku2w25AcRJWDiYPQkXMDSGn751jHnN6NeC7d4O8zTVLguxsDQuarPgJactHNGcRuL1AIbAJqXPPCJ0_PkvTeGmRZnljaDmQjBYdg/s1600/IMG_6605+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI1PA9XE5NF2aY_1m7hAyS_V28k9MTvyguUCDP4zGuku2w25AcRJWDiYPQkXMDSGn751jHnN6NeC7d4O8zTVLguxsDQuarPgJactHNGcRuL1AIbAJqXPPCJ0_PkvTeGmRZnljaDmQjBYdg/s1600/IMG_6605+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Finally we washed this all down with a few cups of coffee and a generous pot of earl grey, and were left feeling pleasantly full, not wanting to move from our gorgeous surroundings.<br />
<br />
At £15.95 per person, traditional afternoon tea at The Courthouse is a steal, and if you're feeling the pinch in the wait between Christmas and January paydays (don't worry, we feel your pain!), the venue is offering 2 for 1 packages on afternoon tea until the end of the month. Bargain!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvz2MOrCZmM6xyPLyEtRyTbK6XlLoDfllBtcQsNcuzaRJ5Q4ZIYSWh6guuCNjz50vlA1jsH-wetMMZklc0aFegVYy2JTCP06pEr8-fzBajejuwiMSqD8kbPjgZY5KJeH1mvYPH-e9t6Siq/s1600/IMG_6646+2+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvz2MOrCZmM6xyPLyEtRyTbK6XlLoDfllBtcQsNcuzaRJ5Q4ZIYSWh6guuCNjz50vlA1jsH-wetMMZklc0aFegVYy2JTCP06pEr8-fzBajejuwiMSqD8kbPjgZY5KJeH1mvYPH-e9t6Siq/s1600/IMG_6646+2+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Overall we loved our afternoon at The Courthouse, the venue is beautiful with its subtle balance of tradition and quirkiness, and the food is fab. If it's a January pick me up you're after, you will find it here.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>For more information and booking, please visit:</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
https://www.thecourthousecheshire.com/</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Words: Laura</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Photography - Caroline</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">We were kindly provided with a complimentary tea for review, but as usual, all thoughts and opinions are very much our own!</span></div>
<script src="https://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js"></script>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-44905933420102152672017-12-19T20:59:00.001+00:002017-12-19T22:35:39.743+00:00Afternoon Tea at the Cat Cafe Manchester<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5uZwgrozTn-TLqVPyNvdrnKx4tFjiDHjDJ_S35xxPy2r8FjPS_03QOWjsDyVii4Ju98JqjXz9u7q-1RpE2biaNaMkjD723a4CQbzcmcIgeyEjpNx7468pk_qjgWdwhSBhkL6gE7-TNT5/s1600/IMG_6560+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN5uZwgrozTn-TLqVPyNvdrnKx4tFjiDHjDJ_S35xxPy2r8FjPS_03QOWjsDyVii4Ju98JqjXz9u7q-1RpE2biaNaMkjD723a4CQbzcmcIgeyEjpNx7468pk_qjgWdwhSBhkL6gE7-TNT5/s1600/IMG_6560+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">In case you haven't noticed the
recent feline inspired theme on our Instagram posts and gift guides, we are
definitely unabashed cat people. So when we heard about Cat Cafe Manchester's
new Christmas afternoon tea we couldn't wait to give it a try! </span><span style="color: #454545;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; min-height: 20.3px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">Our first tip would be to book
ahead. The cafe only allows a small number of visitors inside at any one time
(as not to overcrowd the cats!) and there was a hefty queue of people waiting
to go in when we arrived on Sunday afternoon. £12 will get you an hour of
kittie time with all hot and cold drinks included plus £1 for every additional
5 minutes spent in the cafe. Afternoon tea is priced separately at £8pp. </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPt3amnl4sNbaiXGeK29ns23SUMaMB3vKG70H-NesFvxq30H4pfJuChnegRJslYWrZpz1SsT7A8eTSa0GmEzIxj33l6hPT3u-CsC5zfejj8OcirkyS_1Vi6HvSmX8FUIYZpA5JlIoTVrsW/s1600/IMG_6539+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPt3amnl4sNbaiXGeK29ns23SUMaMB3vKG70H-NesFvxq30H4pfJuChnegRJslYWrZpz1SsT7A8eTSa0GmEzIxj33l6hPT3u-CsC5zfejj8OcirkyS_1Vi6HvSmX8FUIYZpA5JlIoTVrsW/s1600/IMG_6539+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4FBWRAXCDi9UzaviSyBs2x_zIKlR3UTHKARQDYE4KauFMV-QC1tg3TOICnxynkJugm3v591jFnhwXS5Jxd2ektFojgLn9FztIQx8wm6VCPUgZ9Yxx6JLU-PtGzTF1tePASXJf-mtnwP_/s1600/IMG_6555+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig4FBWRAXCDi9UzaviSyBs2x_zIKlR3UTHKARQDYE4KauFMV-QC1tg3TOICnxynkJugm3v591jFnhwXS5Jxd2ektFojgLn9FztIQx8wm6VCPUgZ9Yxx6JLU-PtGzTF1tePASXJf-mtnwP_/s1600/IMG_6555+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">The cafe itself feels like you've stepped into someone's living room/ pet shop, spaciously kitted out with comfy sofas, cushions and enough tunnels, bridges and boxes to keep the stars of the show entertained all day. Upon arrival we spotted a few cats hidden away on high shelves and curled up sleeping by the counter complete with a 'do not disturb' sign and completely unfazed by their adoring fans - truly, cats after our own hearts! </span><span style="color: #454545;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; min-height: 20.3px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">Drinks are ordered over the counter where you will find a selection of cat-inspired cakes and tray bakes to choose from. We opted for breakfast tea and a latte before indulging in hot chocolate generously topped with marshmallows and cream a little later on.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3BzXQomznuQSrF49Rkxdrc87Y5CWaTT8KjqbXvpeR1Pbxy3KcOMkSoTT9DDaj39Rq2Qepnoc8x-yRcZT__hDjvEqPRX_n7uVXOLK1HOCjSQnY6iL-9b9bB0SOSZkulRjeHCcF1er5d6D/s1600/IMG_6520+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1044" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3BzXQomznuQSrF49Rkxdrc87Y5CWaTT8KjqbXvpeR1Pbxy3KcOMkSoTT9DDaj39Rq2Qepnoc8x-yRcZT__hDjvEqPRX_n7uVXOLK1HOCjSQnY6iL-9b9bB0SOSZkulRjeHCcF1er5d6D/s1600/IMG_6520+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjkXHxC_jzMNA2TvjLUAwJYIWkjYOD-kBHPpqUwA8QfoZ53rUnt9xWwTQPgGIhcWOUbyxz8kpZoQHANco8LogdiFRXdvbfdEWdmcBP9eMYVhjwWoYYCSfqZ18DYVwHZLsRYdnmQLzD1l2g/s1600/IMG_6530+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjkXHxC_jzMNA2TvjLUAwJYIWkjYOD-kBHPpqUwA8QfoZ53rUnt9xWwTQPgGIhcWOUbyxz8kpZoQHANco8LogdiFRXdvbfdEWdmcBP9eMYVhjwWoYYCSfqZ18DYVwHZLsRYdnmQLzD1l2g/s1600/IMG_6530+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">Afternoon tea comes with two types of finger sandwiches; turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce, and cheese and chutney. There are four of each, it would have been good to have maybe one one more option in there to add a bit of variation but nonetheless, good stodgy fillings and perfectly fresh.</span><span style="color: #454545;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">The scones were good too, though shop bought as no hot food is prepared on site, they were very tasty and served with a good dollop of jam and cream.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6Oaqhct9mLZm-revbCHGZeIXApxjrBQcH3OX_fSl6DkOO99M67ft07_4zV8ctyciIpwm3CEal12TsqHIRt5j7J36BGpUxwIG3cq4kfLSmxICjXG4qDVMi81LoPFZj_OYpBKkbMmg2hzV/s1600/IMG_6519+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1079" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6Oaqhct9mLZm-revbCHGZeIXApxjrBQcH3OX_fSl6DkOO99M67ft07_4zV8ctyciIpwm3CEal12TsqHIRt5j7J36BGpUxwIG3cq4kfLSmxICjXG4qDVMi81LoPFZj_OYpBKkbMmg2hzV/s1600/IMG_6519+copy.jpg" /></a></span></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; min-height: 20.3px; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #454545;">To finish we tucked into slices of chocolate yule log, mini mince pies and two super cute gingerbread cat cookies. A really sweet mix of treats and just enough to leave us feeling full. </span></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #454545;">Later on, as though unleashed to the public (or paparazzi due to the entire cafe clamouring to take photos), more cats appeared from behind the counter ready to play. If we could have taken them all home, we would have definitely left with meowing pockets and handbags.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: ".sfuitext" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: ".sfuitext" , serif;"><b>For more information and booking please visit:</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: "sfuitext" , serif;"><b><a href="http://catcafe.co.uk/">http://catcafe.co.uk/</a></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #454545; font-family: ".sfuitext" , serif; font-size: 17pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Words: Laura</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Photography: Caroline </span></span></div>
The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9004405157388437527.post-57745125993817593362017-12-17T13:24:00.000+00:002017-12-18T10:39:13.339+00:00Afternoon Tea Lovers Gift Guide - Part Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji77n-oLb5mVsE6j_jW77ukci0ST_hexLe9QjxiC5xF1fMzq6tlwoOOopufAMllaoDijaM-nq0aPEpbDG9UsENIkhjcg0ZlGR1iMK1mbtsN7nnDf-QnhhZLumyBqXTXzcl_Cnhqje4CVpo/s1600/IMG_6480+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji77n-oLb5mVsE6j_jW77ukci0ST_hexLe9QjxiC5xF1fMzq6tlwoOOopufAMllaoDijaM-nq0aPEpbDG9UsENIkhjcg0ZlGR1iMK1mbtsN7nnDf-QnhhZLumyBqXTXzcl_Cnhqje4CVpo/s1600/IMG_6480+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes tea is the only gift you need, so why not spread the love this Christmas and share a cuppa with your faves? (or y'know treat yourself, because you deserve it?!)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last week we gave a round up of some of our top Afternoon Tea selections for the festive season, but if you're still on the hunt for that perfect gift, keep reading and feel inspired.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEfmLZe-7lbXXHpNwMD76N5pL3oTlrEQhFkeW2Bui1KdRgE3Rev7moxTInR-cOqT9PUY38oC1Ivk0sxfRNpcLJuUiyd5bx4FO-YOcWCsGx5HqSIILDaWpSTdmAPf0Smd3x9eKmYPcBLuc/s1600/IMG_6497+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKEfmLZe-7lbXXHpNwMD76N5pL3oTlrEQhFkeW2Bui1KdRgE3Rev7moxTInR-cOqT9PUY38oC1Ivk0sxfRNpcLJuUiyd5bx4FO-YOcWCsGx5HqSIILDaWpSTdmAPf0Smd3x9eKmYPcBLuc/s1600/IMG_6497+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>1. Festive Brews from JOES TEA CO | RRP £4.75 Each, available to buy online <a href="http://joesteacompany.com/tea/christmas-chai-rooibos/" target="_blank">here</a> (Christmas Chai Rooibos)</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
JOES TEA have recently become one of our absolute go to brands, so we were thrilled to find out that they have a Christmas range. Available in lots of different varieties, these blends are naturally organic and caffeine free, being the perfect treat to sip in front of the fire first thing Christmas morning - The spicy chai Christmas Chai Rooibos is our top pick, packing a delicious cinnamon punch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbzpHPbs3t5l7GhNlCZaaB125RAHQPTX0e3NAOMulloTvzW48IXgm3lV_6VO8_YOL9ArsbayoFuQKl0lCis9n0nyFOULBIpasEtCOM2bLwnLWmFdFaWvRSAABwpGwgpGp82t268jzn5pw/s1600/IMG_6505+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbzpHPbs3t5l7GhNlCZaaB125RAHQPTX0e3NAOMulloTvzW48IXgm3lV_6VO8_YOL9ArsbayoFuQKl0lCis9n0nyFOULBIpasEtCOM2bLwnLWmFdFaWvRSAABwpGwgpGp82t268jzn5pw/s1600/IMG_6505+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>2. Monin Syrups | RRP £4.75 Each, available to buy online <a href="https://www.monin.com/en-gb/products" target="_blank">here</a> </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
More of a coffee fan? No worries, we're here for ya. Perfect for the barista in your life, Monin Syrups are the go to brand for coffee connoisseurs everywhere, offering a sweet range of delicious syrups to incorporate into your festive caffeine boost - our favourites at the moment are Hazelnut and Salted Caramel. Salted Caramel Latte, anyone?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXanGV8XIQsUO0pqDOAlFcM6-e-pW1et0y8xmu222J5ulIvXZguo258Fg1AwssX_dS6n7RB_hkm7GIxiBKio2uMkCWE7EiLYsztLB2tB67bKt7gyYpWBXIOzXaInYUy04UwJ0IVfE0Z0AL/s1600/IMG_6491+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXanGV8XIQsUO0pqDOAlFcM6-e-pW1et0y8xmu222J5ulIvXZguo258Fg1AwssX_dS6n7RB_hkm7GIxiBKio2uMkCWE7EiLYsztLB2tB67bKt7gyYpWBXIOzXaInYUy04UwJ0IVfE0Z0AL/s1600/IMG_6491+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b>3. Bettys Toasted Marzipan Christmas Cake | RRP £10.00 Each, available to buy online <a href="https://www.bettys.co.uk/toasted-marzipan-christmas-cake" target="_blank">here</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bettys Christmas Cakes make a regular appearance in our Christmas Stockings every year and our absolute fave is this Marzipan treat. Packed with dense currents and glace cherries, this is guarenteed to bring a smile come Christmas day. If you're not feeling the marzipan, they also do a variety of other Christmas Cake selections, including traditional and Sloe Gin!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9PqObYNysufWL3BzC2iITNQqjvLKs8YcBpvvd_Vx7YuLrAwrSw41ZDIkI-zmbmM36v2c7L838gfVZwzPvEGaP9HZxLUJSt4KoZqWHKc2a-5c5dQ0rmit-BIfz5-UocAZEt0Ory3wReyj/s1600/IMG_6512+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9PqObYNysufWL3BzC2iITNQqjvLKs8YcBpvvd_Vx7YuLrAwrSw41ZDIkI-zmbmM36v2c7L838gfVZwzPvEGaP9HZxLUJSt4KoZqWHKc2a-5c5dQ0rmit-BIfz5-UocAZEt0Ory3wReyj/s1600/IMG_6512+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<b style="text-align: start;">4. Tea Fit For A Queen | RRP £10.00, available to buy online <a href="https://www.waterstones.com/book/tea-fit-for-a-queen/historic-royal-palaces-enterprises-limited/9780091958718" target="_blank">here</a><span id="goog_321376327"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_321376328"></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
If you're not eating cake, then you should at least be thinking about it, right? This little book from the Historic Royal Palaces, will help you do just that. Packed with pages upon pages of beautiful photography and recipe inspiration, this handbag sized hardback is ideal for home-made tea party planning - we can't wait to give some of the recipes a whirl at our next gathering.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So there you have it - gift ideas fit for the cake queens and tea lords in your life. We hope that these offer just a little bit of inspiration to those of you looking to grab that last minute stocking filler. Comment below with your favourite, or let us know which one you'd like to see under your tree this Christmas.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Words & Photography: Caroline</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzfs0bDYumCBfgCYEZYkZZ_oYxDsTrLooVgCFH41Ori3sG2Gs-DbxHvQDeGyni6mvms40rVwh2s-5hr1c5A3Uvl2lIS8li8q4rHWLUP3QMQ_FEMx1YBp-RPxSDNAjb25FKgQQ-mBCVNc6/s1600/IMG_6457+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigzfs0bDYumCBfgCYEZYkZZ_oYxDsTrLooVgCFH41Ori3sG2Gs-DbxHvQDeGyni6mvms40rVwh2s-5hr1c5A3Uvl2lIS8li8q4rHWLUP3QMQ_FEMx1YBp-RPxSDNAjb25FKgQQ-mBCVNc6/s1600/IMG_6457+copy.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>WIN</b><br />
Because we love you (and oh we really do!) we wanted to give one lucky reader the chance to have their very own festive treat, so are giving you the chance to win the sold out <a href="https://www.bettys.co.uk/christmas-coffee-and-biscuits-gift-bag" target="_blank">Bettys Christmas Gift</a> set from our <a href="http://www.theafternoonteaclub.com/2017/12/afternoon-tea-lovers-gift-guide-part-one.html" target="_blank">Afternoon Tea Lovers Gift Guide - Part One</a> that was posted last Monday.<br />
<br />
To be in with a chance of winning, simply head over to our twitter feed, follow and RT our pinned post <a href="https://twitter.com/TeacupReview/status/942576992184094722" target="_blank">HERE</a> - good luck!<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #555555; font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; text-align: justify;">Open to UK residents only. Only one entry per person. Competition will close at midnight (BST) on 20/12/2017. The winner will be chosen and announced on 21/12/2017. The Afternoon Tea Club's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. The Afternoon Tea Club is not responsible for inaccurate prize details supplied by third party connected to this competition. There will be no cash alternative. Winner will be notified via Twitter. By entering the competition the winner agrees to participate in such promotional activity on our website and Twitter. No responsibility can be taken for any entries which are not received for any reason.</span>The Afternoon Tea Clubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00620760459943792941noreply@blogger.com0