A Winter Warmer at Kelham House Hotel

There’s nothing quite like that quintessentially English tradition of afternoon tea is there? The notion to me always conjures up bone china cups and saucers, speciality teas and of course perfectly cut sandwiches and delicious sweet delights, an absolute treat and a little escapism from the real world, if only for an afternoon. So when the gorgeous boutique hotel Kelham House invited us to give their Winter Afternoon Tea a whirl I was excited to indulge in a little foodie heaven in the Nottinghamshire countryside myself! Crunching over the gravel driveway as we arrived on a cold misty afternoon, Kelham House looked so inviting and on entering was even more so as we were welcomed into warm surroundings by equally warm and friendly staff. We were shown to our table in one of the period rooms at the front of the house, very grand with glittering chandaliers and long drapes at the elegant sash windows, overlooking the frozen grounds on the estate. With the Winter Afternoon Tea there is a choice of free flowing tea, coffee or a glass of warming mulled wine, all explained to us by our lovely waiter for the afternoon Joseph. Of course if you are celebrating or just pushing the boat out you can indulge in a glass of bubbly (Joseph Perrier Champagne) served alongside the traditional afternoon tea but with an accompaniment of delicious white chocolate and coconut truffles made in house of course! Once we had our drinks, a mulled wine and a beautiful pot of Earl Grey tea, served with lemon of course, we were presented with our afternoon tea. Three tiers of delectable sandwiches arrived including smoked salmon, cucumber & dill cream sauce and a warm croque-Monsieur. There was also freshly baked plain and sultana scones, dusted with icing sugar, served with chefs homemade strawberry jam and traditional clotted cream and followed by a trio of divine petit fours including a chocolate & salted caramel éclair and a Pear & frangipane slice; a truly beautiful display which was a shame to tuck into...but tuck in we did! I always feel the mark of good food is when every mouthful is interjected with mmm’s, heavenly face pulling, and followed by a momentary pause in conversation. If two women can break their chatter to appreciate fine fayre, then it is worthy of note and this is exactly what happened as we expertly tackled each tier! Once the last cake had been devoured and we had deliberated every mouthful, we sent our thanks to the chef and settled in the bar area for a final farewell coffee before making the journey home. Kelham House have got their Winter Afternoon Tea spot on with all the tradition you’d expect, yet coupled with fabulous homemade delights, beautiful surroundings and great staff to boot! For your own little bit of escapism why not take our advice and book your afternoon tea soon, you won’t be disappointed!’ Take a look at the afternoon tea menu here and for further information contact Kelham House or visit their website. Cockliffe Country House Hotel (the sister hotel to Kelham House) is also available for delicious afternoon teas - visit their website for more information.