Bubbles Assemble! Who’s for Afternoon Tea?

Of all the seasons, autumn is the best. Who’s with me?

As much as I love the buzz of summer, the crowds? Not so much. But autumn is another story and another gorgeous colour altogether. We cling on to the last embers of warmth, while breathing a gentle sigh of relief as a quiet calm descends once again.

You’ve gotta grab these moments while you can and I’m a firm fan of celebrating the changing seasons in style. So mobilise your favourite people and head deep into the Tamar Valley – for the dreamiest afternoon tea.

Image: The Polizzi Collection

What?

Hotel Endsleigh, the Devon offering from the super-spoiling Polizzi Collection, has played a blinder, by offering its decadent afternoon tea experiences, in picnic form. Not wanting to deny people the chance to come and see the hotel’s stunning Grade I listed Humphry Repton gardens at such a gorgeous time of year, this is a winning combo: a serene walk where you can lose yourself among nature and chalk up some serious steps, followed by a delicious package of finger sandwiches, cakes, scones and clotted cream on the lawn for a totally guilt-free refuel.

Tempted? You should be – I’ve been with my clan and it was awesome.

Here’s the deal:

For £30 a head (a little more if you want celebratory bubbles) you get a fully-loaded rucksack, complete with picnic blanket, cutlery, and a map of the gardens, along with a hefty helping of treats freshly prepared by the chef. Rock up and collect, then you’re free to explore the grounds and pick your perfect spot. Of which there are many. You can be traditional and plump for the lawn in front of the main house with views across the valley, or you can disappear into the ferns and foliage, via a maze of paths alongside the babbling River Tamar, which winds its way through the grounds and set up camp to the soundtrack of waterfalls and birdsong.

Either way, the setting isn’t too shabby.

We spent a blissful hour on the lawn watching the clouds float by, while the Chief Scone Monitor loved running off exploring dense groves and grottoes, returning once in a while to munch on a cucumber sandwich.

The spread was divine – with leftovers for later – worth every single penny (and calorie).

Then, we followed the map for a short-ish circular wander, zigzagging over the streams every time we encountered a little bridge. The gardens, all 100 acres, seamlessly blend between formal walks among roses and yews, to more untamed areas, punctuated by crags and cascades and the remnants of old rockeries. Like something out of a Secret Seven adventure, there’s so much fun for kids and not a screen in sight.

Fancy it?

I say do it. Grab family, grab friends; go forth and treat yourselves. You won’t regret it.

Want to book?

Picnics can be collected from the house anytime between 12 pm – 4 pm. Book yours here.