Time for Tea Spring/Summer 2019

SPRING / SUMMER 2019 COLLECTION

Time for Tea

BARNYARD ADHigh Tea...

Kent’s Most Enchanting The BarnYard is the perfect setting to spend the afternoon indulging in our gorgeous high tea offering. Surrounded by 150 acres of picturesque landscape combining rolling hills, woodland & fruit orchards.

Our special high tea begins with a selection of finger sandwiches & delicious savouries before then indulging in warm scones served with clotted cream & jam, delicious chocolate dipped strawberries & other sweet treats enjoyed with your choice of speciality teas or coffee & jugs of home-made lemonade.

01634 235059 - restaurant@the-barnyard.com - www.the-barnyard.com The BarnYard, Oak Lane, Upchurch, Sittingbourne, Kent. ME9 7EZ

Welcome We love Afternoon Tea, which is such a very English tradition.

“Time for tea!” said Zebedee in the classic animated children’s TV series The Magic Roundabout, to the joy of viewers everywhere, young and old.

And of course the Mad Hatter’s tea party was a central part of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and is still celebrated in many places today.

So welcome to Time for Tea – MMM Media’s first special Afternoon Tea guide, perfectly timed for the spring and summer of 2019.

Do pull up a chair, and shall we pour? Because we are sure you will be busy poring over our tasty pages.

Afternoon Tea is a treat that today comes in many guises to accommodate all kinds of occasions, from Champagne teas, cream teas and strawberry teas to your own Mad Hatter’s tea parties.

It is a particular favourite with the ladies, having been invented by Queen Victoria’s Lady of the Bedchamber Anna Maria Russell, Duchess of Bedford, in the mid-1800s. A lifelong friend of Victoria, she had the bright idea of inviting friends to share small snacks with the already popular cup of tea to remedy her ‘sinking’ feeling between the main meals of the day.

Today, light bites range from delicious finger sandwiches (including cucumber and egg mayonnaise) to scones oozing with jam and cream, as well as cup cakes, big cakes and currant buns – often home-made.

When it comes to the drink itself, English Breakfast and Earl Grey teas are always favourite, with many more varieties available, including Darjeeling, Assam, Lapsang Souchong, Oolong, herbal and green teas.

Time for Tea has a range of venues for a great Afternoon Tea all mapped our for you on the next page, and when you arrive for your oh-so-sweet afternoon treat, don’t forget to tell them who sent you!

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­­ rights reserved. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the All publisher. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent from the publisher. ©MMM-Media Ltd 2019

A GUIDE TO FINDING THE BEST AFTERNOON TEA IN KENT

Tudor Park Marriott Hotel

Harpers

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The Barnyard

6

Mercure Great Danes

Whitstable Castle

Chatham

10

12

14

Rochester

8

Bears Trading Co

Whitstable

Rainham

Margate Herne Bay

Faversham

Longfield

Canterbury Maidstone

West Malling Tonbridge

Sandwich Boughton Monchelsea

Tunbridge Wells The Swan

5

Wingham

Lenham

Dover

Ashford

Grafty Green

Folkestone Hythe Brasserie on the Bay

Tenterden

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13 Eastwell Manor

Chilston Park

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13 London Beach Hotel

11 Ashford International Hotel

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West Malling

The Swan

Enjoy Afternoon Tea in one of the private dining rooms or in the beautiful garden during the warmer months

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or a special treat, indulge in a spot of Afternoon Tea at The Swan in West Malling. Served in the restaurant’s inviting private dining rooms, groups of 10 or more can enjoy a delicious spread of traditional favourites.

The fabulous menu features delicate finger sandwiches with a range of fillings, savoury favourites such as sausage rolls and goat’s cheese and caramelised onion tart, plus a selection of tempting cakes – and, of course, freshly baked scones with Cornish clotted cream and seasonal berry jam.

You’ll also enjoy plenty of tea and coffee.

The traditional afternoon menu is priced at £18.50 per person, or make your celebration extra special with the Sparkling Afternoon Tea option, priced at £28.50 per person, which includes a seasonal fizz cocktail on arrival and a glass of Prosecco with your meal.

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35 Swan Street West Malling ME19 6JU 01732 521918 @SwanWestMalling @swanwm e events@theswanwestmalling.co.uk w theswanwestmalling.co.uk OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday: Brunch: 9am-11.45am Weekends: 10am-11.45am Monday to Saturday: Lunch: 12noon-5.30pm Sunday: 12.30pm-5.45pm Monday to Saturday: Dinner: 5.30pm-10pm

Bearsted

Tudor Park Marriott Hotel and Country Club The pristine surroundings and polished atmosphere set the stage for a quintessentially British Afternoon Tea experience Ashford Road Bearsted Nr Maidstone 01622 734334

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xplore the countryside and acres of immaculate parkland of the Tudor Park Marriott Hotel & Country Club in the heart of Kent, just outside the county town of Maidstone.

Upon arriving, indulge in a traditional Afternoon Tea menu featuring a tempting range of sandwiches and sweet treats, with scones that defy gravity and come with lashings of cream!

You can also enjoy a choice of black, green, white, oolong and caffeine-free teas from the Twinings selection, or treat yourself and your guests to a lovely glass of Prosecco, sparkling rosé, Moet & Chandon Champagne or a refreshing Gordon’s pink gin spritz – all served in the bar lounge.

If you are an Afternoon Tea connoisseur, you won’t be disappointed and can look forward to a truly special occasion.

Tea availabe vailable from 2-4pm daily, from £18.50 pp.

@tudorparkmarriothotel @tudorpark tudorpark.events@marriot.co.uk e marriott.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Restaurant open daily: 6.30pm-10.30pm Afternoon Tea served: 2pm-6pm

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Maidstone

Harpers Coffee and Gifts Harpers coffee and gifts can be found in Market buildings in the heart of Maidstone – a street full of character and colonnades

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PICTURES: BANANASHED.CO.UK

his unique coffee and gift shop has been part of Maidstone for over 20 years, and has been in the hands of Nick and Claudine for the past two years. With them both coming from creative backgrounds, and sharing a passion for food and great coffee, the couple have injected new life into the coffee shop, with all the cakes, bakes and lunches home-made by them, and their excellent coffee roasted locally in Canterbury.

The shop has become a favourite amongst locals and new visitors to the town, as well as a community hub that hosts a number of groups over the week. The spacious café has 30 covers, with plenty of space to move around and baby-changing facilities to cater for families. Many customers return weekly.

The café offers a selection of home-made cakes, scones, teacakes, quiches, sandwiches, toasties, salads and more.

The shop is an eclectic mix of unique gifts and homeware and is a perfect place to find something a little different. From cushions and artwork to jewellery and children’s toys, Harpers is a refreshing alternative to the high street. Harpers can also cater for private parties and children’s birthday packages.

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12 Market Buildings Maidstone ME14 1HP 01622 757877 @harpersmaidstone @harpers_maidstone e info@harpersmaidstone.co.uk w harpersmaidstone.co.uk OPENING HOURS Monday to Saturday: 9am-5pm

Hollingbourne

Mercure Maidstone Great Danes

Enjoy Afternoon Tea against the backdrop of scenic and picturesque Kentish countryside, just a stone’s throw away from Leeds Castle Ashford Road Hollingbourne Nr Maidstone ME17 1RE 01622 528565

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eighbouring lovely Leeds Castle, the Mercure Maidstone is built around a Georgian country house with 26 acres of private grounds.

Offering free parking, it is close to Maidstone at Junction 8 of the M20 motorway, in the heart of Kent, and has free high-speed Wi-Fi available.

Mercure Maidstone provides a quiet and relaxed atmosphere to enjoy Afternoon Tea. On sunny afternoons, their summer terrace is perfect for taking in the stunning views of their grounds.

@mercuremaidstone @mercuremaidstone info@mercuremaidstone.co.uk e mercuremaidstone.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Breakfast Monday to Friday: 6.30am-9.30am Saturday: 7am-10am Sunday: 7.30am-10.30am

Please note, pictures are for illustration purposes only

Sunday Lunch 12.45pm-3pm Dinner Monday to Saturday: 6.30pm-9.30pm Sunday: 6.30-9pm Brasserie Bar Menu Light meals from 10am Brasserie Menu from 11am Bottomless Prosecco Afternoon Tea Table available: 1pm-3pm or 2pm-4pm

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TRADITIONAL AFTERNOON TEA IN KENT FOR £15 Why not indulge in a range of delicious treats this summer? The Mercure Maidstone’s tasty Afternoon Tea includes: Tea or coffee ~ finger sandwich selection and strawberry tart ~ scones with cream and strawberry preserve ~ raspberry Bakewell tart ~ chocolate chip brownie ~ vanilla slice Upgrade to Prosecco Afternoon Tea (one glass) for £20 or Champagne Afternoon Tea (one glass) for £22.

BOTTOMLESS PROSECCO AFTERNOON TEA FOR £29 Packed with a selection of sweet treats, sandwiches, fresh warm scones and tea and coffee, the Bottomless Prosecco Afternoon Tea is accompanied by free-flowing Prosecco or Rosé Prosecco for two hours, or Virgin Cocktails (if you drew the short straw and are driving!)

Perfect for birthday, hen and anniversary celebrations. So whatever the celebration, join us to raise a glass or two, or three!

Available on the following Saturdays: 2019 – 4 May, 1 June, 6 July, 3 August, 7 September, 5 October, 2 November 2020 – 4 January, 1 February T&Cs apply and booking is essential.

SUNDAY LUNCH IN THE BRASSERIE 2 COURSES £16.95, 3 COURSES £19.95 The hotel also offers delicious Sunday Roasts in the brasserie, overlooking the beautiful gardens, providing a stunning venue to catch up with your friends and family. Enjoy a walk around the gardens after your meal and appreciate ‘The Garden of England’.

Sunday lunch bookings are available from 12noon-3pm.

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Tankerton

The Bears Trading Company A unique gift shop, tea room & ice cream parlour in the heart of Tankerton, near Whitstable 134 Tankerton Road Tankerton Nr Whitstable CT5 2AN 01227 264950

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nce you enter you will feel like you have been transported across the pond to a log cabin set in the heart of Yosemite park. Larch-clad walls, brick fireplaces and subtle lighting create a warm, inviting atmosphere for a great dining experience. Walk on through the Bears to discover the secluded and tranquil south-facing garden.

Enjoy a Bears High Tea featuring a selection of freshly-made sandwiches, savouries, cakes and home-made scones with thick clotted cream and preserves, starting from £19.50. Booking is essential. Alternatively, just drop in for a menu of light snacks and lunches, home-made sweet treats and 14 varieties of beautiful ice cream. Save some time to explore the large array of gifts, cards and beautiful bears of all shapes and sizes. From the world famous Steiff bears to other collections, including Charlie Bear and Suki Silver tag limited edition bears, it’s a collector’s paradise.

@thebearstradingcompany @thebearstradingcompany thebearstradingcompany@gmail.com e thebearstradingcompany.co.uk w OPENING HOURS Monday: Closed Tuesday-Saturday: 9.30am-4pm Sunday: 10am -4pm

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Tenterden

TheLondon Beach Hotel The London Beach Hotel’s delicious Teas are available all year round but are particularly tempting as spring and summer approach

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ituated just outside the pretty and historic town of Tenterden, the London Beach Hotel is surrounded by beautiful countryside with stunning views across a parkland golf course and beyond.

And there is a magnificent conservatory and terrace where you can relax and enjoy a delicious Afternoon Tea. With high teas and Champagne teas, booking is essential as the cakes will be freshly made for you.

Indulge in a Champagne Tea and you’ll enjoy a wonderful menu, including fresh scones with clotted cream, strawberries and jam; an assortment of finger sandwiches, including smoked salmon, egg and cress, ham and mustard and cucumber and cream cheese; an assortment of handmade cakes; a pot of tea and a glass of local sparkling wine.

Afternoon Tea at the London Beach Hotel is a treat to remember!

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Ashford Road Tenterden TN30 6HX 01580 766279 @londonbeachspa @londonbeachhotel @thelondonbeach e enquiries@londonbeach.com w londonbeach.com OPENING HOURS Restaurant open daily: 7am-9pm Afternoon Tea served: 2pm-6pm

Time for Tea

More Places for Afternoon Tea EASTWELL MANOR

BOOK OF AFTERNOON TEA £9.99 NATIONAL TRUST

If you are searching for the perfect setting in Kent to enjoy a delicious and sophisticated Afternoon Tea, then look no further than Eastwell Manor at Boughton Lees, near Ashford.

Whether you are looking to book tea for two as a special treat for your loved one, a way to treat your mum when Mother’s Day comes around, a birthday celebration, hen party, baby shower or a chic and civilised ladies’ day out, the elegant countryside manor house is the ideal spot for your Afternoon Tea. Eastwell Park, Boughton Lees, Nr Ashford TN25 4HT 01233 227138 eastwellmanor.co.uk

DENBY GLAZED ‘HALO’-RIMMED TEA CUP £12 DEBENHAMS

WHITSTABLE CASTLE Whitstable Castle was first known as Tankerton Towers when it started life as a residence for the Pearson Family in the late 1790s. After a £3million refurbishment, the castle now provides a superb setting for special events.

The delicious Afternoon Tea menu features a selection of finger sandwiches, including egg and cress, cheddar and sweet onion chutney, salmon and cream cheese, honey roast ham and english mustard, and a courgette and cheddar mini quiche.

Follow that with fruit scones served with jam and cornish clotted cream and a selcetion of delectable cakes, including sticky lemon drizzle, mini cupcakes, macarons and home-made jam tarts.

Tower Hill, Whitstable CT5 2BW 01227 281726 whitstablecastle.co.uk

BIBA DECO PEACOCK TEAPOT £30 HOUSE OF FRASER

T2 GATSBY TAJ TEA CUP £18 JOHN LEWIS 12 | Time for Tea

CHILSTON PARK HOTEL Guests are delighted by the Afternoon Tea at this Lenham hotel.

There is no finer place to enjoy this tradition than in the Marble Lounge with its beautiful chandeliers. This great country house was built for pleasure and it is in the Marble Lounge where this spirit is most prevalent – here you can allow yourself to be outrageously indulgent as you devour a selection of carefully prepared pastries, sandwiches and the finest leaf tea.

Sandway, Lenham ME17 2BE 01622 859803 handpickedhotels.co.uk/chilstonpark

WEDGWOOD PAEONIA BLUSH TEA FOR ONE TEAPOT £130 JOHN LEWIS

CUCKOO 3-TIER CAKE STAND £135 WEDGEWOOD

THE BRASSERIE ON THE BAY Enjoy traditional Afternoon Tea in the spectacular setting of Prince’s Golf Club. Diners will enjoy the contemporary, modern feel of the Lodge at Prince’s in the 2AA Rosette-award restaurant, which has views over the Championship Links golf course.

Afternoon Tea includes a beautiful selection of sweet and savoury treats with scones, cakes and pastries, all served with a choice of teas and coffees. There is also the option of having a ‘Sparkling Afternoon’ with Westwell Sparkling, a wonderful Kentish wine.

The comfortable Lodge Lounge offers guests a warm friendly service and benefits from a sunny terrace during the summer.

All dietary requirements are well catered for.

Sandwich Bay, Sandwich CT13 9QB 01304 611118 13 | Time for Tea

PINK PANSY CAKE STAND £44.95 EMMA BRIDGEWATER

ROBERTO CAVALLI GARDEN BIRDS THREE-TIER CAKE STAND £650 HARRODS

ASHFORD INTERNATIONAL HOTEL

BUNGALOW JAZZY MILK JUG £49 LIBERTY OF LONDON

A short drive from the beautiful Kent Downs, the Ashford International Hotel offers guests a vibrant ambience, and in the summer boasts al fresco dining on the terrace. A sumptuous Afternoon Tea menu offers a range of delectable sandwiches, pastries and warm scones served with Cornish clotted cream and preserve.

Simone Weil Avenue, Ashford TN24 8UX 01233 219 988 qhotels.co.uk

PIP STUDIO ROYAL FLOWERS PORCELAIN TEASPOONS SET OF 4 £18 JOHN LEWIS

THE BARNYARD Situated in the Kent countryside, the BarnYard is a haven for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The venue incorporates a restaurant, luxury artisan farm shop, and The Giggleberry Tree – a French-inspired, vintage-themed gift shop selling beautiful home and garden wares.

Enjoy Kent’s ‘most enchanting Afternoon Tea’ al fresco on the patio, or treat yourself and book the special High Tea menu, including a selection of finger sandwiches and mini cakes, sausage rolls, choclatedipped strawberries, and jug of BarnYard lemonade.

Much of what is served is available to buy in the fantastic artisan farm shop. Pay a visit and sample Kent produce at its finest.

Oak Lane, Upchurch, Sittingbourne ME9 7EZ 01634 235059 the-barnyard.com

AYNSLEY COTTAGE GARDEN TEAPOT £39 HOUSE OF FRASER

ARTHUR PRICE SILVERPLATED LUXURY TEA STRAINER AND MATCHING DRIP CUP £59 DEBENHAMS 14 | Time for Tea

“There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as Afternoon Tea�

(Author Henry James)

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