• A Cotswold afternoon tea at The Wood Norton ∙ An indelible memory

    Our first ever afternoon tea in the Cotswolds was one we enjoyed back in 2014 at The Wood Norton, a fabulous experience that set an impossibly high bar for all future afternoon teas.

    As we savoured each delicate morsel on the three-tiered stand, we sat gazing out at the picturesque garden and we knew we were indulging in something truly special.

    The Wood Norton’s champagne afternoon tea is more than just a meal. From the moment we were seated, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance. The soft clinking of china, the gentle hum of conversation, and the distant chirping of birds created a soothing ambience that perfectly complemented the culinary journey ahead.

    A masterpiece

    The afternoon tea itself was a masterpiece. A pot of fragrant Earl Grey, brewed to perfection, was accompanied by a selection of finger sandwiches that were both classic and innovative. The delicate cucumber and cream cheese sandwiches were a timeless favourite, while the smoked salmon and dill sandwiches offered a more adventurous flavour profile. Each bite was a burst of freshness, the bread soft and the fillings expertly balanced.

    Warm and fluffy scones

    The scones were the epitome of afternoon tea indulgence. Warm, fluffy, and buttery, they were served with clotted cream and strawberry jam. The combination of sweet and savoury was pure bliss. As we spread the rich, creamy clotted cream and the tangy jam onto the warm scones, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pure contentment.

    Sweet artistry

    The pièce de résistance, however, was the sweet cake tier. A dazzling array of miniature cakes and shortbread, each more tempting than the last, and a glass of lemon posset. Every bite was an absolute delight. The pastry chef’s artistry was evident in every detail.

    Bring on the Bubbly

    Of course, no afternoon tea is complete without a glass of champagne. The bubbly beverage added a touch of luxury to the experience, enhancing the flavours of the food and elevating the mood. As we sipped our champagne and enjoyed the exquisite treats, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for this unforgettable moment.

    An extraordinary experience

    The Wood Norton’s champagne afternoon tea is more than just a meal; it’s a memory. A memory that we cherish and that continues to inspire us to seek out new and exciting culinary experiences. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures in life can be the most extraordinary.