There is perhaps nothing more quintessentially British than going for a proper afternoon tea. A banquet of finger sandwiches, cakes, as much tea as you can drink, and of course scones, jam, and cream, is a crucial part of our culture, and for very good reason.
This month, from 12-18 August, it was Afternoon Tea Week, a campaign dedicated to this sophisticated and delicious pastime.
We are very lucky to be based in Wilmslow at any time of year, and for an event like this, we are even more pleased. Our town is home to some fantastic options for an afternoon tea out, whether that is with friends, family, your spouse or partner, or simply an indulgent bit of self-care.
So, in the wake of Afternoon Tea Week, read on for five ideal locations to enjoy the delights of a proper British afternoon tea in and around Wilmslow.
1. Alderley Edge Hotel
Sitting just a 10-minute drive from the centre of Wilmslow, the boutique Alderley Edge Hotel is a luxurious venue where you can enjoy a high-quality afternoon tea.
Starting with savoury, the Alderley Edge Hotel afternoon tea boasts a selection of finger sandwiches and wraps, as well as a warm miniature sausage roll.
Then, tuck into delectable sweets, featuring homemade sultana scones, fresh macaroons, vanilla pannacotta and even more.
To drink, you can stick with loose-leaf tea, or upgrade to prosecco or champagne for a luxury feel to your afternoon.
Afterwards, it is just a short walk into the highly sought-after village of Alderley Edge, which you can explore at your leisure. Visit the nearby National Trust site featuring a red sandstone escarpment. Or, head to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jodrell Bank Observatory, home to the largest radio telescope in the UK.
2. Mottram Hall
The history of afternoon tea is that it was a creation of the seventh Duchess of Bedford, who often felt hungry between lunch and the evening meal at 8 pm. So, it seems fitting to enjoy afternoon tea in grounds befitting of a duchess by visiting Mottram Hall.
A Champneys property complete with hotel, golf course, and health spa, the Georgian country house at Mottram Hall has served up a delicious afternoon tea ever since it first opened its doors in 1940.
Choose from a range of artisan teas and infusions, or opt for something bubbly if you prefer. Then, enjoy finger sandwiches made from the highest quality ingredients and homemade scones with clotted cream.
What makes the Mottram Hall afternoon tea particularly special is the dainty pastries you enjoy for the sweet portion of the meal. From chocolate and espresso operas, to a rhubarb and custard choux bun, it is a fantastic take on the usual range of sweets you find on your cake stand.
While you are there for a visit, you could always take a walk around the grounds, book in to visit the health spa, or if you prefer a morning or afternoon on the links, take on the Par 72 golf course that once played host to the Senior PGA Championship.
3. The Clink Restaurant
A prison might not seem like the ideal location for a delicious afternoon tea. Yet, the Clink Restaurant at HMP Styal is often found in lists of the top 10 restaurants in Wilmslow, and serves up a highly-rated afternoon tea. In fact, as of 19 August, the Clink boasts a full 5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, and is even number 1 of 68 restaurants in Wilmslow.
The Clink Restaurants are run by the Clink Charity, which organises restaurants situated within working prisons with food prepared and served by those in prison there. So, not only can you enjoy a fantastic feast at the Clink, but you can also support a worthy cause while you do.
Enjoy a range of savoury sandwiches, scones complete with homemade jam, and a range of delicious sweets. They also have dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, ideal for meeting the dietary requirements you or any of your party may have.
Afternoon tea is served from 1 to 2 pm from Tuesday to Saturday. The Clink was closed over July and early August while heating repairs were carried out, but is now back to operating normally.
4. The Tea Room at Morley Nurseries
Morley Nurseries lies just a five-minute drive from the middle of Wilmslow, and has a fantastic independent Tea Room that serves a delicious afternoon tea.
Enjoy homemade finger sandwiches, scones, macaroons, and a range of cakes made by the owner that cannot fail to delight.
The Tea Room has been a huge attraction at the nurseries, with a 5/5 rating on Tripadvisor, and it was even recently nominated for another Good Food Award.
After enjoying an authentic homemade afternoon tea, you can get outside and spend some time looking at the plants on sale at the nursery itself.
5. Victors Alderley Edge
Victors Alderley Edge is well-known as one of the finest restaurants in the area. Situated in the heart of Alderley Edge, the distinctive eatery is perhaps most famous for the iconic wisteria trees that grow over the top while you enjoy your meal underneath.
Victors serves up a unique afternoon tea, featuring homemade finger sandwiches, brioche buns, and a range of sweet treats.
Choose from the classic menu, featuring smoked salmon, ham and mustard, and turkey and avocado sandwiches. Or, opt for the vegetarian equivalent with cucumber cream cheese sandwiches, and brioche rolls with egg mayo or avocado, hummus, and feta.
Then, enjoy scones with clotted cream, cookies, key lime pie, and cheesecake, all accompanied by unlimited tea.
This is a delicious afternoon tea in a spectacular area, perfect for a range of tastes. Make sure you book at least 24 hours in advance.
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Please note
This blog is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
