A Taste of History: Experience Afternoon Tea at the Old Hall Ely

As the sun begins to set over the tranquil Cambridgeshire countryside, there’s no better way to indulge in a little bit of history and culture than by experiencing the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea. And where better to do so than at the Old Hall Ely, a stunning 15th-century manor house steeped in history and elegance. From the moment you step inside, you’re transported back in time to a bygone era of grandeur and sophistication. The scent of freshly-brewed tea, the tinkling of delicate china, and the gentle hum of conversation all come together to create a truly enchanting atmosphere. From sweet treats and delicate finger sandwiches to scones smothered in clotted cream and jam, the Old Hall Ely’s afternoon tea is a feast for the senses. So why not take a step back in time and indulge in a little bit of luxury with a taste of history at the Old Hall Ely?

History of Afternoon Tea

Afternoon tea has been a beloved tradition in England for over 150 years. The tradition can be traced back to the early 19th century when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, would get hungry between lunch and dinner. She began asking for a tray of tea, bread, and butter to be brought to her room in the late afternoon. Over time, she started inviting friends to join her, and the tradition of afternoon tea was born.

The popularity of afternoon tea really took off during the Victorian era. Upper-class women would dress up in their finest attire and gather in the drawing room to enjoy tea and snacks. The tradition soon spread beyond the upper classes, and by the early 20th century, afternoon tea had become a staple of British culture.

What to Expect During Afternoon Tea at the Old Hall Ely

The Old Hall Ely offers a truly unique and unforgettable afternoon tea experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the stunning architecture and charming gardens of this 15th-century manor house. You’ll then be ushered into one of the elegant dining rooms, where you’ll be seated at a beautifully set table complete with delicate china, silverware, and crisp linen.

Once you’re settled in, you’ll be presented with a selection of teas to choose from. The Old Hall Ely offers a wide range of teas, from classic blends to more exotic flavors. The staff is more than happy to help you choose the perfect tea to complement your food choices.

And speaking of food, the Old Hall Ely’s afternoon tea menu is a true feast for the senses. You’ll be treated to a selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an array of sweet treats. The menu changes seasonally, so you’re sure to find something new and exciting every time you visit.

The Ambiance and Decor of the Old Hall Ely

One of the things that sets the Old Hall Ely apart from other afternoon tea venues is the ambiance and decor. The manor house is steeped in history and elegance, with stunning architecture and charming gardens. The dining rooms are beautifully decorated with antique furniture, crystal chandeliers, and works of art.

The staff at the Old Hall Ely are also a highlight of the experience. They’re always friendly and welcoming, and they go above and beyond to make sure that every guest has a memorable experience.

Special Occasions and Events at the Old Hall Ely

The Old Hall Ely is the perfect venue for special occasions and events. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones to a special day out, the Old Hall Ely’s afternoon tea is the perfect choice.

The manor house is also available for private events, including weddings, corporate events, and parties. The stunning surroundings and impeccable service make it a truly unforgettable venue.

Reviews and Customer Experiences

The Old Hall Ely has received rave reviews from customers and critics alike. Guests praise the stunning surroundings, delicious food, and impeccable service. Many guests also comment on the attention to detail, from the perfectly brewed tea to the beautifully presented desserts.

One guest wrote, “The Old Hall Ely is the perfect place to indulge in a little bit of luxury and history. The food is delicious, the surroundings are stunning, and the service is impeccable.

Conclusion

Indulging in a little bit of history and culture has never been so delicious. The Old Hall Ely’s afternoon tea is a feast for the senses, with delicious food, a wide range of teas, and impeccable service. From the stunning surroundings to the attention to detail, every aspect of the experience is designed to transport you back in time to a bygone era of grandeur and sophistication. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of history at the Old Hall Ely?