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Rather than the typical flowers, chocolates and toiletry gift sets, hubby and I decided to take our mums out for tea for their Mother’s Day presents. We didn’t go on Mother’s Day itself as other plans had been arranged (plus everywhere gets busy on Mothering Sunday) so we booked up for a few weeks later. There are many places offering afternoon tea in London and Kent but we opted for the Chilston Park Hotel afternoon tea.
Chilston Park Hotel – an English country house
Tucked away in the Kent countryside, Chilston Park Hotel is an impressive 17th-century manor that mixes historic charm with modern luxury. From its grand staircase and antique furniture to beautiful gardens and a pretty lake, it’s the kind of place that feels like a step back in time – without giving up any comfort. Set within 77 acres of parkland in the village of Lenham, afternoon tea at Chilston Park is a quintessential English experience.
Our afternoon tea experience at Chilston Park
When we entered the hotel, there were quite a few other people enjoying afternoon teas but it didn’t feel particularly crowded. There was definitely a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere about the place. The decor was very English country house style too, with its large windows and ornate fireplaces.
We were seated in the light and airy dining room, Culpeper’s Restaurant (which is an award winning two AA Rosette restaurant). We were promptly asked what we would like to drink. Although there was a decent selection of teas available, and I do like a peppermint tea, we all decided to opt for the English Breakfast tea. I had to agree that it would be a better accompaniment with sandwiches and cakes.
There are several different afternoon tea options available but we chose the traditional tea. We were served a selection of finger sandwiches – ham & mustard, egg, salmon and cream cheese & cucumber. Plus two scones each with clotted cream and strawberry jam. Followed by some mini desserts.
The desserts were (from L-R) a lemon posset topped with marinated berries, carrot cake, macaroon, dark chocolate ganache and fresh fruit tartlet. All beautifully presented. Note that traditionally the desserts with an English afternoon tea are seasonal so are subject to change.
We managed to devour everything but our second scones, they were pretty big and our tummies were full! So we asked the waitress if we could have our scones in a takeaway box to enjoy later.
Following our tea we took a pleasant walk around the hotel grounds. A lovely place to spend some time on a sunny day. All in all, our mums enjoyed their afternoon and are now wondering when we can go back!
Booking your English Afternoon Tea
Chilston Park offers traditional afternoon tea, vegan afternoon tea and children’s afternoon tea. You can also have a cream tea or just a selection of cakes. Pre-booking is essential.
If you want to extend your visit to the hotel and make it a romantic retreat, you can book your stay at Chilston Park Hotel here.
Note: All information and dining details were correct at time of initially publishing this post. Some menu information will likely have changed since my visit.
If you enjoyed this post then you might enjoy some of my other afternoon tea in Kent and London posts:
Your afternoon tea looks fantastic. I always hear good things about Chilston Park, but haven’t been. I would quite happily munch through their afternoon tea by the looks of it, the ganache looks particularly up my street.
Sally @ Life Loving
I recommend it. They had different sorts of afternoon tea. My mum really wants to do the savoury option.
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