Like many other countries particularly in Asia and Europe, the custom of drinking tea is longstanding. Not only the tea is considered as an important ingredient of a day’s routine but is also considered as a must while receiving guests and meeting up with the family. However, the variety of tea differs from one part of the country to the other for example some like black tea, some consume milk tea, and then there is green tea, aromatic jasmine tea, chamomile tea and many other kinds as well. There is a wide range of teas, which are all quite delicious, and worth trying if, you have not tried one. It is a common belief that tea revitalizes the senses and provide a refreshing effect on the senses.
English culture especially, predominantly follows the ritual of serving and drinking tea on important occasions as well as in their homes and offices. This practice was adopted after Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, during the 1800s. First, it was a private affair but with the passing time, the practice perpetuated. The popularity of this beverage has led to the formation of a number of teahouses and hotels that are dotted all across the country. These spots specialize in tea, and delicious snacks that go along well with it. The tea houses are exclusively set up to let the patrons enjoy their favourite along with some treats in a discreet and tranquil environment so that they could relax to the core.
We have gathered a list of best teahouses and hotel where the afternoon tea is served in the best possible way and provide a unique atmosphere for the visitors.
Brown’s Hotel Tea Tox, London:
If you prefer a healthy tea time then the legendary Brown Hotel offers you just that. Famed for being a favourite of the Queen herself, this hotel offers an exotic array of traditional English tea with low carb and healthy snacks. The tea is served in its elegant English teahouse, which is decorated with an artistic touch, and the menu is set using low sugar and low-fat constituents. The best delicacies to try are the smoked mackerel, open-faced smoked chicken sandwiches, soft-boiled quail eggs, fresh fruit sorbets and fruit jellies offering a perfect combination of sweet and savory. The best tea in the house that goes along well with these snacks is the silver needle white tea. Although all the food is very light its guaranteed to be satisfying
Teanamu Chaya Teahouse, Notting Hill,London:
With a large tea variety to choose from, the stupendous teahouse of Teanamu offers a ceremonious touch to this humble ritual of consuming afternoon tea. In addition to a variety of delightful and tasty choices, you can get to choose from a list of 18 authentic tea flavors to satiate your palate. The tea is served in meticulous self-boiling teapot on the table along with freshly prepared and preserved snacks. Get a taste of some amazing dim sum, sandwiches and the famous lo mai fan lotus leaf rice parcel along with your afternoon tea and have a blissful time.
The Quarterdeck, NareHotel, Cornwall:
Quarterdeck Tea Lounge in the Nare Hotel offers more of a yachtlike experience to its patrons. Its beautifully crafted terrace with the sea view in front provides an idealistic experience to the visitors to sip on their favourite cup of tea while relishing the view of the sunset. Along with delicious tea, get mouthwatering treats like scones with crème fresh and jam, smoked salmon sandwiches, strawberries and cream and a glass of sparkling champagne. So just, sit back and delve in the scenic view of the glimmering sapphire water and the Carne Beach below.
The Ritz, London:
Since over a century, the Ritz is providing its gracious services as a hotel, reflecting an impeccable degree of opulence and class. The afternoon tea is served in this hotel as a ritual since its inception and has the honour of hosting a number of renowned personalities. This tea is served in its spectacular and spacious Palm Court keeping in view the seamless staff service in addition to delicious treats. Choose from a range of smoked sandwiches, scones, apple pies, and cakes elaborately served on gorgeous cake stands. However, one thing that makes the place classy is the fact that only formal dressing is allowed inside the teahouse. Therefore,for men, jeans orsportswearetc. are not permissible. This keeps a traditional English look of the place, which is both classic and polite.
Jane AustenCentre, Bath:
To pay homage to the classical novelist Jane Austen the JaneAustenCentre offers its visitors to have a quiet afternoon with a wide range of tea at its Regency teahouse. this centre is located in a beautiful Gregoriantown house and is a perfect place for those looking to achieve a novel experience while satisfying their sweet tooth as well. The teahouseis decorated with the same classical décor as mentioned in Austen’s novels and portraits of important characters are hung on the walls of the hall. Moreover, to add the added effect the staff is also attired in the bonnets and garb. Champagne tea is especially famous here which is served with fresh toasty treats.
Hotel Café Royal, London:
This is a new addition in the capital’s afternoon tea scenario. Hotel Café Royal has launched the London Royal tea for the tea lovers who are looking to try something new and unique. Enjoy deliciously prepared macrons, delicate rolls, chorizo, onion and thyme Wellington Slice, berry mousse etc and other meaty treats. Moreover, choose your favourite from the extensive menu of tea including the herb teas and have a wonderful afternoon time.
The Bettys, York:
Treat yourself with elegance and class in an old-fashioned way and head to the Bettys in York. This charming place allows you to dine amidst a crafty and artistic deco and a tranquil ambience to reflect the classical English touch of the place. Wooden panel floors, huge white windows, a swirling staircase, ornate mirrors and beguiling live piano music add up to its enticing charm. While sipping on delicious tea you can have delicate finger sandwiches, scones with Yorkshire cream, fresh fruit pies and freshly baked cookies. The teahouse is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and it is necessary to book your reservation in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.