There is something very special about the traditional British afternoon tea. It is a time-honoured tradition that dates back to 1840 when the seventh Duchess of Bedford – a close friend to Queen Victoria – would become hungry at around 4:00 pm. She would be served sandwiches, scones and tea to bridge the gap between lunch and dinner, and so the tradition began.
The modern-day afternoon tea continues to be hugely popular. Whether you are getting the girls together for an overdue catch-up, celebrating a birthday, or simply showing Dad how much you appreciate him, the afternoon tea has become the perfect treat for spending quality time together. It is an occasion that spans multiple generations and, let’s face it, who doesn’t like a tray (or crown) stacked with sandwiches, yummy pastries, cakes, freshly baked scones and lashings of clotted cream?
At our three hotels within the Sutton Hotel Collection, crafting the best and most exquisite afternoon tea in our local area has become something of a mission.
Afternoon Tea in Bath at the Francis Hotel
Take the Francis Hotel in Bath as an example. Located right in the heart of Bath city centre on Queen Square, the hotel is surrounded by the iconic Georgian architecture that you may recognise from Netflix drama Bridgerton. A tradition in itself. Sample our take on the grand institution of afternoon tea, served with a hint of theatre from our dessert trolley. Think platters of sandwiches and classic warm scones alongside modern pastries straight from our dessert trolley. All perfectly paired with your choice of hand-blended tea from Gillards of Bath.
A Royal and Regal Afternoon Tea in Windsor
At The Castle Hotel in Windsor, you are surrounded by royalty being just a few minute’s stroll from the gates of Windsor Castle, so it is only fitting that your afternoon tea will be served to you on a unique tray in the shape of a crown to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III (it also means we can squeeze more cakes on). Our recently revamped Royal Afternoon Tea celebrates our beloved royal family and the amazing talents of our kitchen team. It includes homemade jam made here at the hotel, Battenburg cakes which were one of her late majesty’s favourite and named after King Charles III grandmother; Princess Alice of Battenburg. It also includes coronation chicken sandwiches. Did you know that coronation chicken was first created in 1953, when renowned florist Constance Spry and cordon bleu chef Rosemary Hume catered for a banquet to celebrate the coronation of Elizabeth II?
Treat Yourself to Afternoon Tea in Mayfair
In the heart of bustling Mayfair, you will find The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, with it’s captivating location overlooking Royal Green Park. Enjoy our signature Fancies & Foliage afternoon tea, inspired by our living wall and the natural beauty of the nearby Royal Parks. Discover a seasonal selection of delicate sandwiches, freshly baked scones and beautifully crafted sweets, served in calm, elegant surroundings. A relaxed and delightful way to spend an afternoon in Mayfair.
Book a delicious afternoon tea with the Sutton Hotel Collection
Afternoon tea should be a treat that takes you away from the day-to-day, allows you to put down your phone or laptop for a couple of hours and just enjoy delicious food with great company. With our warm and friendly service alongside a tempting table of sandwiches, pastries, and cakes, you are guaranteed a delightful experience full of flavourful delights that will leave your taste buds tingling long after your visit has ended.