Nothing quite beats a scrumptious afternoon tea . So quintessentially English , it ’ s one of life ’ s greatest indulgences ; sweet pastries , classic finger sandwiches and copious amounts of tea ( or Champagne ). From high tea in luxurious country houses , to cosy cafes and classic scones , Maidstone has the answer to all your afternoon tea wishes , and here are a few favourites …
Chilston Park Hotel , Lenham A Grade-I listed manor house once frequented by eminent politicians , writers , lords and viscounts now plays host to one of the best afternoon teas around , and what finer way to eat tea and cake than in the setting of a beautiful historic country hotel ? Choose from the outrageously indulgent menu of sweet or savoury snacks , or both , and indulge in the carefully prepared selection of pastries , sandwiches and the finest loose leaf tea , all prepared by the hotel ’ s award-winning cheffing team . Sit in the marble lounge below its chandeliers , or in the Culpeper Restaurant . For extra special occasions , people can choose to take afternoon tea in one of the private dining rooms available .
www . handpickedhotels . co . uk / chilstonpark
Sonya ’ s Barn Bakery , Little Fant Farm , East Farleigh A quaint heritage cottage farm nestled in the picturesque Medway Fruit Orchard Valley surrounded by rolling countryside . Enjoy Sonya ’ s freshly made afternoon tea served on a mix of traditional bone china crockery while overlooking the fruit orchard . The rustic afternoon tea includes a selection of finger sandwiches , homemade cakes , scones and macaroons . Not too hungry ? You could opt for the smaller cream tea , or take your tea away with one of their picnic boxes . www . sonyasbarnbakery . online
The Bow Window Cafe , Lenham Located in the square in the delightful village of Lenham just a short drive from Maidstone . Their afternoon tea typically includes homemade finger sandwiches , mini bagels and generously sized scones with jam and clotted cream , as well as their renowned handmade cakes and desserts made in house by owner , Cem . These include red velvet cupcakes , mini cheesecakes , chocolate mousse and macaroons – sure to satisfy anyone ’ s sweet tooth . This spot is ideal for birthday treats and hen parties , where a glass of Prosecco is also available .
www . thebowwindowcafe . co . uk
Mercure Maidstone Great Danes Hotel , Hollingbourne Treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at the heart of the Garden of England . This hotel is popular amongst visitors and locals alike , with one of Kent ’ s more illustrious attractions , Leeds Castle , just a short drive away . Indulge in a range of delicious treats including delicious finger sandwiches , a selection of freshly made cakes , scones with jam and cream and your choice of speciality teas or coffee . For special occasions , upgrade and take advantage of afternoon tea with bottomless Prosecco ; Galanti Prosecco or Galanti Spumanti Rose , by the glass .
www . mercuremaidstone . co . uk / maidstone-restaurant
The Romney at Mote House , Maidstone Set in the beautiful Mote Park and surrounded by glorious countryside , The Romney at Moat House offers a unique location for afternoon tea . Try the traditional afternoon tea with all the trimmings including freshly made scones with cream and jam , pastries , finger sandwiches and sweet treats . For something a little lighter , they offer a delicate cream tea with fresh scones , clotted cream , jam and a wide range of teas . Gin lovers will appreciate the ‘ G & Tea ’ offering , sip on your favourite English gin and tonic while eating your afternoon tea . Sparkling afternoon tea is also available .
www . romneyrestaurant . co . uk / afternoon-tea
Fifi ’ s Brasserie , MuMu ’ s , Maidstone For an afternoon tea with a vintage twist head to Fifi ’ s situated at the heart of Maidstone town and sit amongst the vintage style backdrop to experience a Willy Wonka meets Claridges afternoon tea with a freshly prepared spread of luxury finger sandwiches , scones , homemade cakes and mini desserts served with a choice of loose leaf teas . You can also upgrade to a high tea with a chilled glass of Prosecco for special occasions . Children ’ s afternoon tea menu is also available .
www . fifisbrasserie . com
TIME FOR TEA
23