Is there anything more glorious than getting together over Afternoon Tea?
Sweet treats, bitesize savoury delights and always accompanied by a delicious drink, this charming British tradition is a must-have for your summer celebrations.
Try it with a glass of something sparkling and you’ll experience the true taste of luxury.
So, put a date in the diary with your nearest and dearest and enjoy an indulgent afternoon tea full of fun, fizz and finger sandwiches.
History of Afternoon Tea
We owe Duchess of Bedford, Anna Maria Russell, for this ever-so English experience.
As the Victorian upper classes began to install kerosine lighting in the home, dinner became fashionably late. But this lady-in-waiting to Queen Victoria was understandably peckish! She devised a wonderful way to delicately dine between lunch and dinner – and so the glorious ritual of afternoon tea was born.
This timeless treat remains a much-loved British affair with endless contemporary appeal. Today, it’s enjoyed as an occasional indulgence steeped in tradition and historic charm. It’s a chance to catchup with loved ones, to treat yourself and others and get-together with the very best of friends.
‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.’
― Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady
Book your Afternoon Tea Experience
We’re all looking for ways to spice up our staycations and cherish the time we can now spend together. What better way than to celebrate over a sumptuous spread of artisanal delights, delicately poised on tiered cake stands?
Here’s a round-up of our favourite places to enjoy Afternoon Tea with a glass of Ridgeview…
Pennyhill Park
With breathtaking scenery, lavish interiors and an exquisite array of tantalising treats, Pennyhill Park’s exceptional afternoon tea is not to be missed.
Served in the Hillfield Bar and handmade by their dedicated pastry team, you can be sure of a treat for your tastebuds and a true sense of occasion. For a touch more opulence…
…add a glass of Ridgeview’s Bloomsbury NV, Fitzrovia Rosé, Blancs de Noirs or Rosé de Noirs.
Ockenden Manor
Enjoy an elegant afternoon tea at Ockenden Manor. Set within eight acres of stunning countryside, this Elizabethan manor house is the perfect place for a traditional afternoon tea experience.
Served in their charming drawing room or sun-soaked terrace, you’ll savour a selection of sandwiches, scones and sweet delights. Enhance the celebrations with a glass of Ridgeview’s Bloomsbury NV.
South Lodge
‘Delightful and delicious’, Afternoon Tea at South Lodge is a truly luxurious affair. Tuck into homemade sweet and savoury delicacies, from their award-winning restaurant team.
Relax in the beautiful surroundings of this luxury spa hotel and experience hospitality at it’s finest. For an extra special touch, add a glass of Ridgeview’s Bloomsbury NV.
Host your own Afternoon Tea
We’ve put together our top-tips and recipes for a simple way to host an elegant Afternoon Tea with a twist. Enjoy all the frill and thrills of this much-loved British past-time perfectly paired with your Ridgeview wine of choice.
START WITH SAVOURY
Enjoy a match made in heaven with Bloomsbury NV and Mary Berry’s smoked salmon and horseradish canapés. Or for an Asian twist, try Katsu Sandos with Blancs de Noirs.
These bite-size finger sandwiches with an assortment of fillings are an Afternoon Tea must-have. Try them with Cavendish NV for a touch of sparkle – just don’t forget to cut the crusts off!
CLASSIC SCONES
Here’s Paul Hollywood’s simple scone recipe for the most-British of treats.
Delicious whichever way you pronounce them!
Savour your scones with a glass of any of our Signature range but particularly Fitzrovia Rosé NV.
You could get really fancy and make your own Strawberry Jam.
We’ll forgive you if you buy the clotted cream.
SOMETHING SWEETER
Add a French twist with Raspberry Millefeuilles and Rosé de Noirs.
Or for that holiday feeling, how about these cocktail-inspired Strawberry Daiquiri and Pina Colada Fancies?
Try it the royal way with Mini Victoria Sponge Cakes from Mary Berry.
Named after Queen Victoria, this was her afternoon treat of choice and makes an unbeatable pairing with Fitzrovia Rosé.