Tea for two
9th February 2009
Planning a dinner a deux on Saturday? Scrap the supper plans and treat your lover to a teatime treat instead. Alexandra Fullerton finds the most romantic venues around the UK.
The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny
For an elegant outing west of the border, The Angel Hotel is ideal for a romance-filled afternoon. The elegant Georgian hotel does afternoon tea the traditional way, starting with crisp linen tablecloths and fine bone china crockery. Of course, they take their tea seriously too. Each brew is steeped in a teapot specific to that blend and their tea choices range from the classics (such as Assam and English Breakfast) to exotic Flowering Osmanthus green tea. It's no wonder The Angel was awarded the Tea Guild's Award of Excellence in 2008. Got a sweet tooth? The Angel's inhouse bakers prepare their scones, cakes and pastries fresh each morning. But if you fancy continuing the tea party at home, any uneaten cakes can be boxed up for you to enjoy somewhere more private...
Full afternoon tea £10.90 / www.angelhotelabergavenny.com
Little Bettys, York
If you're looking for somewhere private and intimate, Little Bettys is a hidden gem. As the smallest branch of family-owned Bettys Cafe and Tea Rooms, Little Bettys is housed in a charming listed building in the heart of York's mediaeval quarter. The cosy cafe - tucked away up a flight of winding stairs - is perfect for a romantic rendezvous. Settle down by the roaring log fire and and take your pick from the scrumptious cakes and scones on offer. We recommend Bettys' speciality: The Warm Yorkshire Fat Rascal, a plump scone full of fruit, citrus peel, almonds and cherries. Bettys also buy, import and blend all their own tea. You can choose from a huge array of blends but China Rose Petal - a black tea layered with rose petals - is a tea particularly suited for romance!
Traditional afternoon tea £15.75 / www.bettys.co.uk
The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
City lovers should head for the sleek and chic Lowry Hotel for their romantic treat. The hotel manages to mix slick modern design with classic service - it's the perfect venue for urban tea-taking. This year they're offering a special Lovers Afternoon Tea in The River Bar and Restaurant. As well as a wide choice of fresh teas you can take your pick from savoury sandwiches, scones and scrumptious cakes - including a Chocolate Cup with Raspberry Crush, Spiced Apple Fancy and Shortcake with Vanilla Sauce.
Afternoon tea £19.50 / www.thelowryhotel.com
Claridges, London
It's the fashion pack's favourite destination for afternoon tea and Claridges are renowned for their very special and utterly romantic Champagne afternoon teas. The Art Deco hotel's teas contain a selection of elegant finger sandwiches, a glass of champagne, freshly baked apple and raisin scones, French pastries, tea (of course - the hotel has 30 blends on offer) and, the final flourish, romantic macaroons. Once you've had your fill of tea and tasty treats venture out into nearby Mayfair to window-shop or flash your cash.
Cliveden, Buckinghamshire
It's one of England's grandest stately homes having hosted kings, queens, presidents and film stars (as well as a starring role in the Profumo Affair) but today Cliveden has been reincarnated as a luxury hotel. If you're planning a romantic afternoon steeped in history, tea at Cliveden will be an unforgettable experience. Starting with an extensive choice of tea including Earl Grey Extra, Sencha Fukujyu green tea and White Pai Mu Tan, the hotel's afternoon tea also contains sandwiches, pastries, scones (with home made jam) and, if you're feeling particularly decadent, a glass of champagne.
Full Afternoon Tea £24.50 / www.clivedenhouse.co.uk
The Ritz, London
Synonymous with teatime glamour, The Ritz is a capital venue to visit for a romantic outing (and is a spectacular setting for a proposal). Afternoon tea is held in the Palm Court - an opulent salon with ornate gilding and mirrored details - while guests are entertained by a concert pianist. The hotel's classic Afternoon Tea includes a selection of delicious sandwiches, pastries, scones and chocolate cake and a glass of champagne is a must! If things take an unexpected turn and your beau drops down on one knee you can always pop into Ritz Fine Jewellery http://www.ritzfinejewellery.com/ to pick out the perfect ring.
*All prices correct at time of writing
发表评论 取消回复