Ellenborough Park is a historic manor house in the Cotswolds, a place of timeless elegance and unrivalled hospitality, and one of our most iconic hotels. We love Ellenborough Park, everything about it is wonderful, so when we were back this week to enjoy a festive afternoon tea, the anticipation was sky-high.

Always more than what you came for

We were booked in for a festive afternoon tea experience. And I say ‘experience’ because any meal, any event, any afternoon tea at Ellenborough Park, is always more than “just” what you came for.

When we arrived, we were shown into The Great Hall and seated in the most comfortable chairs by a table overlooking the whole room and the stunning Christmas tree that stood tall in the corner. The roaring fireplace added to the cosy and inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect setting for a festive afternoon tea.

Impeccable service, as always

The service was impeccable, as it always is at Ellenborough Park, with attentive staff ensuring that our every need was met. Everyone was friendly, knowledgeable, and patient, and the service was a real highlight.

The festive afternoon tea was so lovely. One vegan, one traditional, both utterly delicious. Nothing makes this vegan happier than when the vegan option is not the lesser option, and this vegan festive afternoon tea was nothing short of spectacular, among the very best afternoon teas we’ve had ever!

The lower tier showcased a selection of exquisite finger sandwiches, each one more delicious than the last, and all plentifully filled. The top tier was a feast for the eyes, with a variety of festive cakes and pastries. Each bite was a burst of flavor, from the delicate macarons to the rich and decadent mince pies. And of course, no afternoon tea is complete without the classic scones, which were served with the finest clotted cream and strawberry jam. The scones were light and fluffy, the perfect accompaniment to the sweet treats. And the “cherry on top” was the delicious champagne and sparkling cocktail… such a fabulous experience.

As we delighted in each and every bite, peace and contentment was the overall feeling. The combination of delicious food, warm ambiance, and excellent service made for a truly memorable experience. The attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the afternoon tea, from the beautiful presentation to the high-quality ingredients.

Ellenborough Park truly knows how to do Christmas. The festive decorations, the warm and inviting atmosphere, and the impeccable service all contribute to an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, a festive afternoon tea at Ellenborough Park is a must-try.

∙ BOOK YOUR FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA AT ELLENBOROUGH PARK HERE ∙

So, if you’re looking for a magical way to spend a winter afternoon, we highly recommend booking a festive afternoon tea at Ellenborough Park. You won’t be disappointed.