Hunter Valley High Tea
The thought of high tea conjures elegant images to most minds: a daintily crooked pinkie finger, cups and saucers of fine bone china, sipping and savouring an exotic brew, cucumber sandwiches (without the crust, naturally) and a delicate array of cakes and sweets. Having worked in a teashop and been to my own share of tea ceremonies, it was several years ago that I discovered I had been laboring under a common misapprehension. The gentle ritual that my mind calls to the fore is far more akin to the afternoon tea ritual, and has very little to do with the traditional experience of high tea. Conventionally, the latter is a heavy meal served at the end of the working day and not exactly the haunt of British royalty.
That said, my original notion has enjoyed a revision to popularity in the last several years. I can feel a British accent come on as I spread jam and cream on my scone and do my best not to leave behind any crumbs. What better place than the Hunter Valley to enjoy frocking up with friends for freshly brewed pot of Darjeeling? Or Chai, Sencha, Earl Grey, Rooibos or good old English Breakfast?
With a few options available in the Hunter and surrounding areas, we’re pleased to bring you our own suggestions:
Bimbadgen offers sweet and savoury creations as part of their high tea seven days a week, as the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery. Situated in the heart of wine country, Bimbadgen more than deserves a look in and since 2002 has been home to the hugely successful concert series A Day on the Green, playing host to a staggering range of nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. Make a day of it and visit our friends at Bimbadgen when next you have the chance.
Tower Lodge brings exclusivity with a lack of pretention, and the charming service you’d naturally expect for a quaint afternoon. Nothing is too much trouble for the team at Tower, and the peaceful, private setting is ideal for an afternoon of luxury.
Camelot Lavender Gardens offer a picturesque location and follow up their high tea with a tour of their own Heritage Gardens and a meet and greet with their farm animals. Enjoy the aromas and flavours of your tea while overlooking the lavender and rose gardens: the perfect combination of sensual delights.
Chateau Elan presents a wonderfully decadent affair to enchant the most enthused tea drinker. Their extensive tea selection complements perfectly Chateau Elan’s tiers of treats and chocolate truffles. Satisfy your fondness for delectable fancies with a pot steeped in tradition.
The Sebel Kirkton Park is a classic heritage style hotel overlooking rose gardens and water features, wherein you may enjoy their pastries, preserves and impressive selection of sandwiches. The Sebel Kirkton Park provides the typical rural Hunter Valley experience.
Why not enjoy a leisurely afternoon sipping tea and nibbling on some treats the next time you take a break? With several options available, there’s no doubt you can find the perfect place to indulge your senses, unwind with friends, and enjoy the sweet, soft sensations the Hunter has waiting for you. And who knows? We might just see you there.