Review: Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa afternoon tea

It was a glorious Friday afternoon, the perfect excuse to indulge in a luxury afternoon tea with stunning lakeside views.

Having previously enjoyed a cosy and welcoming afternoon tea at Whitesyke Garden Centre in Longtown, I thought I'd give this a try.

At Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa, traditional afternoon tea is served from £39 per person, with advance booking recommended.

As we arrived, the hotel grounds were buzzing with the atmosphere of a wedding. Guests gathered outside in the sunshine while a violinist provided a beautiful soundtrack to the afternoon.

The view of the lake from the table. (Image: NQ)

We were shown to a cosy dining room with plush sofas, a chandelier and panoramic views across the sparkling waters of Bassenthwaite Lake, looking even more beautiful glistening in the sun.

Before the food arrived, we were handed an extensive drinks menu offering far more than the standard tea or coffee options. Playing it safe, I opted for a latte.

A latte. (Image: NQ)

After a short while, the food arrived, and it looked the part.

Each of us was served two warm scones - one plain and one fruit - alongside fresh cream, jam and butter.

The savoury selection included three sandwiches, a quiche and a standout chorizo sausage roll, which arrived warm with flaky pastry - this was a standout for me.

Sandwich fillings included ham, egg mayonnaise and smoked salmon with cream cheese.

Afternoon tea for two at Armathwaite Hall. (Image: NQ)

The sweet treats were also impressive, with a mix of carrot cake, raspberry sponge, rich chocolate cake and a lemon meringue dessert.

Portions were generous enough that we couldn’t finish everything so takeaway boxes were happily provided.

Guests can also upgrade the experience with sparkling afternoon tea, which includes a glass of Prosecco for £45 per person,

Champagne afternoon tea for £50, or a celebration package featuring one of the hotel’s signature cocktails for £51.

Scones, butter, cream and jam. (Image: NQ)

The hotels website reads: "Armathwaite Hall is renowned for our afternoon tea experience, which forms part of our Lake District dining offering.

"Not only will you indulge in a traditional menu, but you will also be treated to stunning views of our 400-acre nature estate, plus the gorgeous Lake Bassenthwaite and, standing proud behind it, Mount Skiddaw."

For anyone looking to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the Lakes, this is a luxurious treat worth trying.

Next time, I’d be tempted to pair the afternoon tea with a spa visit and make a full day of it.