Afternoon Tea In Northumberland
Published: Wednesday 21st Jun 2017
Written by: The Original Cottages Team
Northumberland is well known for its intense history, its beautiful scenery and islands, however, not many people know that it is one of the best places to go for Afternoon tea in the UK.
There are several luxurious places to choose from but the price point is extremely reasonable so, if you’re looking for an amazing getaway and a delicious Afternoon tea, then look no further than Northumberland.
Doxford Hall
Doxford Hall is a breathtaking country house that has striking views of the Northumberland countryside. It was first built in the early 19th century and it attracts many visitors due to its close proximity to Alnwick, Holy Island of Lindisfarne and the Scottish Borders all a short drive away. Doxford Hall offers a classic Afternoon tea in its Georgian Tea room that overlooks its beautiful gardens that are frequently used for shooting and weddings. The Afternoon tea menu offers an array of sandwiches, such as Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese, Egg Mayonnaise and Tomato and Cheese and Pickle, and homemade cakes and scones. It costs £15.95 per person.
Slaley Hall
Hexham in Northumberland is home to Slaley Hall, an Edwardian Mansion on an impressive 1000 acres of countryside. It is only a few minutes’ drive from some of Northumberland’s historical sites, such a Hadrian’s Wall, and Hexham racecourse. Afternoon tea at Slaley Hall is a luxurious experiences as you will enjoy your delicious treats in The Dukes, the plush Drawing Room of the Mansion that contains suede high-backed chairs and stunning views of the countryside. The menu consists of savoury dishes such as smoked duck, orange scented carrot and micro salad, smoked salmon, caviar crème fraîche and pickled cucumber, while the sweet of course include homemade scones but also blood orange fondant, peach and strawberry charlotte and macaroons. The price is £20 per person or you can add a glass of Champagne for an extra £7.
The Northumberland Arms
With stunning views over the River Coquet, The Northumberland Arms offers a quaint Afternoon tea to those who want a nice, relaxing experience. The Northumberland Arms was built by Hugh Percy, 3rd Duke of Northumberland to be used as a coaching inn until it was converted. Today, it still holds its Georgian charm and offers a lovely classic Afternoon tea for only £10 per person.
Howick Hall
Howick Hall may not offer a classic Afternoon tea but it is the place where Earl Grey tea was invented. Charles, who was the 2nd Earl Grey, had tea blended by a Chinese mandarin who used bergamot and lime infusions and who also catered it to the well water on the grounds. It became a success in the Grey household and Lady Grey introduced it to her close circles in London who, in turn, asked to sell it to them. Twinings began to produce the tea and it has become a popular tea across the world. You can enjoy a cup of Early Grey on the very grounds that it was created and enjoy it with a selection of homemade snacks.
Alnwick Castle
Not just a place with architectural merit and a wealth of history, this medieval castle also offers an afternoon tea menu in its Courtyard Café serving fine sandwiches, cakes, scones and tea or coffee.
While you are at the castle, you can find out about its turbulent past, explore its immaculately maintained gardens and see the largest tree house in the worl
The White Swan
Also located in Alnwick is the White Swan, a 300 year old coaching inn set in the centre of the market town.
You can choose to dine indoors or outdoors, and their afternoon tea menu has a traditional feel, offering a selection of sandwiches, cakes, scones with preserves and cream, pastries as well as a choice of tea or coffee.