Which historic homes in Cambridge offer high tea with a Victorian etiquette workshop?

As the antique hands of a clock strike three in the afternoon, there is no activity more quintessentially British than indulging in a lavish high tea. A tradition that has thrived since the 19th century, it is a time-honoured ritual of enjoying an assortment of sandwiches, scones with cream, and of course, copious amounts of freshly brewed tea. An afternoon tea takes pride in promising a coveted blend of luxury, history, and etiquette, harking back to the Victorian era. However, where can you embrace this tradition in Cambridge, the historic city known for its age-old academia and picturesque riverbanks, you ask? Let's explore the historic homes in Cambridge which provide a high tea paired with a Victorian etiquette workshop, ensuring a truly immersive experience.

The Queen Anne House

Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, the Queen Anne House, a 17th-century establishment, offers an unmatched afternoon tea experience. This house is a rich tapestry of history and elegance, making it the perfect backdrop to your high tea.

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The Queen Anne House has preserved the age-old tradition of afternoon tea which is served in delicate china under twinkling crystal chandeliers. The assortment of sandwiches, featuring salmon and cucumber, roast beef, and egg and cress, is a delightful treat to your taste buds. These are complemented by scones, served warm with clotted cream and strawberry preserve, and an array of cakes and pastries.

However, the house doesn't merely serve tea; it serves an experience. Alongside the traditional fare, guests can partake in a Victorian etiquette workshop. The workshop outlines the protocol of afternoon tea, from how to hold your napkin to the correct way of stirring your tea. An experience steeped in tradition, the Queen Anne House guarantees a memorable afternoon.

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The Fitzwilliam Museum

The Fitzwilliam Museum, an iconic institution in Cambridge, is renowned for its extensive collection of art and antiquities. However, it's not just the exhibits that draw in the crowds. The museum houses a tearoom which offers an immersive afternoon tea experience.

Housed in a historic room adorned with intricate murals, the afternoon tea at the Fitzwilliam Museum is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food. The tea selection is varied, with options ranging from traditional English Breakfast to exotic blends like Moroccan Mint. The sandwiches served are a classic affair, with options like coronation chicken and smoked salmon gracing the menu. Freshly baked scones, served with cream and preserves, along with a selection of cakes, complete the gastronomic journey.

The museum also hosts a Victorian etiquette workshop, providing a fascinating insight into the customs and manners of a bygone era. From the correct way to sip tea to the intricate art of conversation, the workshop is both enjoyable and educational.

The Varsity Hotel

Perched on the banks of the River Cam, The Varsity Hotel offers a high tea experience with breathtaking views of the historic city. Offering a contemporary twist to the traditional afternoon tea, this hotel provides an unforgettable experience.

The Varsity Hotel serves an extensive afternoon tea menu. From the sandwiches featuring unique fillings like brie and cranberry, to a variety of scones including plain, fruit and cheese, the array of options is sure to satisfy every palate. The star attraction, however, is the tea. Sourced from all over the world, the selection includes traditional blends as well as unique teas like Japanese Sakura.

The hotel also hosts etiquette workshops to provide an authentic Victorian experience. The workshop covers various aspects of Victorian customs, like the careful art of conversation and the correct way to serve and receive tea.

The Orchard Tea Garden

Harking back to since 1897, The Orchard Tea Garden in Grantchester, a small village nestled on the outskirts of Cambridge, has been a popular spot for afternoon tea. This rustic garden with its charming thatched-roof pavilion provides a delightful setting for a relaxed afternoon tea.

The Orchard Tea Garden serves a traditional afternoon tea menu, featuring a selection of sandwiches, warm scones with cream and jam, and a variety of cakes. An extensive range of teas, from traditional English black teas to delicate green teas, complements the food perfectly.

The Victorian etiquette workshop, conducted in the picturesque surroundings of the garden, provides a unique and educational experience. From learning how to pour tea correctly to understanding the importance of posture, the workshop offers a fascinating insight into the traditions of the Victorian era.

The University Arms Hotel

Located in the heart of Cambridge, The University Arms Hotel, a landmark since 1834, offers a sophisticated high tea experience. The hotel serves afternoon tea in its opulent drawing room, adorned with plush furnishings and a grand fireplace, providing a luxurious setting.

The afternoon tea at The University Arms is a lavish affair. A selection of sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and an assortment of pastries, are served on delicate china. The tea, carefully sourced from around the world, adds to the luxurious experience.

In addition to the sumptuous food, the hotel offers a Victorian etiquette workshop. Hosted by experts, this workshop covers the manners and customs of the Victorian era, ensuring guests leave with a deeper understanding of this historic tradition.

Kensington Palace

A stone's throw from Cambridge, Kensington Palace, famous as the residence of many British royals, offers an afternoon tea experience that is nothing short of royal. The palace's Orangery, a stunning 18th-century building, serves as the venue for a truly regal afternoon tea.

At Kensington Palace, the afternoon tea is a grand affair. Guests can indulge in a variety of sumptuous finger sandwiches, such as smoked salmon and cream cheese, cucumber and mint, and coronation chicken. Scones, served hot from the oven with clotted cream and homemade strawberry jam, are a treat to the senses. The tea, sourced from renowned tea estates around the globe, is served in fine bone china, adding a touch of elegance to the occasion.

Along with the high tea, Kensington Palace offers a Victorian etiquette workshop. The workshop, conducted by knowledgeable tour guides, provides a glimpse into the elaborate manners and customs of the Victorian era, from the proper way to use cutlery to the art of polite conversation. The palace's historic setting and the informative workshop ensure an unforgettable experience for the guests.

Downton Abbey

Fans of the popular TV series Downton Abbey would be thrilled to know that they can enjoy a high tea at the actual filming location, Highclere Castle, which is a short drive from Cambridge. The castle, a national historic landmark, opens its doors to visitors wanting to relive the grandeur of the Victorian era.

The afternoon tea at Downton Abbey is an elaborate event. An assortment of sandwiches, including traditional favourites like cucumber and cream cheese and egg and cress, and homemade scones served with clotted cream and strawberry jam, are presented on beautiful vintage crockery. A wide variety of loose leaf teas, ranging from traditional English Breakfast to exotic blends like Darjeeling and Assam, adds to the charm of the afternoon.

In addition to the tea service, visitors can participate in a Victorian etiquette workshop. Run by experienced guides, the workshop outlines the nuances of Victorian era manners, from the correct way to hold a teacup to the art of making conversation. The combination of the high tea and the etiquette workshop makes a visit to Downton Abbey a truly memorable experience.

Conclusion

Whether you’re an aficionado of the civilization of tea or just a curious traveller, these historic homes around Cambridge offer more than just a cup of tea. They offer a taste of history, a crash course in etiquette, and a delightful culinary experience - a trifecta that's hard to resist. Be it the regal surroundings of Kensington Palace, the TV-famous Downton Abbey, or the quaint charm of Cambridge’s local establishments, each location offers its unique twist on the traditional afternoon tea. So why not take a step back in time, immerse yourself in a world of Victorian manners, and enjoy an afternoon of savoring finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream, and a cup of tea served in delicate china? After all, high tea is not just a meal; it's an experience steeped in tradition, culture, and history.