The Lake District in Cumbria, England, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and what better way to experience it than with a traditional British afternoon tea? From elegant country house settings to modern twists on the classic, the Lake District offers a wealth of options for the perfect afternoon tea experience.
Best Afternoon Tea Spots in the Lake District
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Cedar Manor, Windermere: This charming country house hotel is known for its extensive selection of local loose-leaf teas and elegant, traditional afternoon tea service.
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The Wild Boar, Kendal: Offering a modern take on the classic afternoon tea, The Wild Boar blends traditional elements with contemporary flavors and presentation.
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SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel, Windermere: For a truly luxurious afternoon tea experience, head to the Gilpin Hotel’s SOURCE restaurant, which offers a decadent spread in a stunning setting.
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Inn on the Lake, Ullswater: Enjoy a luxury afternoon tea while taking in the breathtaking views of Ullswater and the surrounding fells at this picturesque hotel.
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Hillthwaite Hotel, Windermere: With its elevated position overlooking Lake Windermere, the Hillthwaite Hotel offers an afternoon tea experience with unparalleled views.
Prices and Timings for Lake District Afternoon Tea
The cost of afternoon tea in the Lake District can vary, but here are some examples:
| Location | Price per Person |
|---|---|
| Inn on the Lake | £32.00 |
| Hillthwaite Hotel | £32.00 (US $40.70) |
| Bassenthwaite Lake Station Tea Room | From £30.00 (US $38.00) |
As for timings, most Lake District hotels and tea rooms serve afternoon tea between 12 noon and 5 pm, with some establishments offering it seven days a week.
Personalization and Gift Options
Many Lake District afternoon tea providers offer the opportunity to personalize the experience for special occasions. For example, the Inn on the Lake and Borrowdale Hotel both allow you to book afternoon tea for birthdays, anniversaries, and other celebrations.
Additionally, some venues, such as the Inn on the Lake, offer the option to purchase afternoon tea vouchers that can be personalized and sent via email or post, making them the perfect gift for loved ones.
Luxury Afternoon Tea with a View
Two standout options for a truly luxurious afternoon tea experience in the Lake District are the Inn on the Lake and the Hillthwaite Hotel.
The Inn on the Lake offers a stunning setting overlooking the serene waters of Ullswater, with the majestic fells providing a breathtaking backdrop. Guests can enjoy their afternoon tea while taking in this picturesque scene.
Similarly, the Hillthwaite Hotel boasts an elevated position overlooking Lake Windermere, allowing guests to savor their afternoon tea while admiring the stunning vistas from the hotel’s open-air terrace or bay windows.
Variety of Afternoon Tea Options
While the traditional afternoon tea with finger sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats is widely available throughout the Lake District, some venues offer unique variations on the classic.
The Wild Boar, for example, serves a modern twist on afternoon tea, with items like gin-centric options, mini fish and chips, and popcorn chicken. Some locations also offer seasonal variations, such as festive afternoon teas during the holiday season or themed teas for special events like Mother’s Day.
Booking and Reservations
To ensure you don’t miss out on the perfect afternoon tea experience, it’s recommended to book your reservation in advance, especially during peak seasons. Booking directly with the hotels and tea rooms can also help you secure the best rates.
Additional Tips
When planning your Lake District afternoon tea, keep the following tips in mind:
- Dress Code: While dress codes vary by location, smart casual attire is generally suitable.
- Accessibility: Many Lake District afternoon tea venues offer wheelchair accessibility and other accommodations for guests with disabilities.
The Lake District’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it the perfect setting for a quintessential British afternoon tea experience. Whether you opt for a traditional spread or a modern twist, you’re sure to find a memorable afternoon tea that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired by the region’s breathtaking landscapes.