Christmas time is a time for Tradition. The Victorians are the instigators of many of our Christmas traditions, such as the Christmas Card and Christmas Tree. Another thing the Victorians began was Afternoon Tea.
Invariably made up of small sandwiches, scones with cream and jam, and cakes. All served around 4 o’Clock in the afternoon. The modern equivalent is not much changed. Generally slightly earlier in the afternoon however. Tea or Coffee are available and there are even ones that include a glass of champagne, prosecco or gin for those who are more inclined that way.
My friend and I are avid afternoon tea lovers. Almost every occasion we will find a new afternoon tea experience. This one was at Chiseldon House in Swindon: The Hendrick Afternoon Tea. A short distance from the Junction of the M4 around 30 mins from Swindon town centre, traffic dependent naturally.
You couldn’t tell you were near a motorway upon arriving. Green surrounding a small country house. It is easy to find and signposted though you might miss the entrance to the house initially. It was beautifully dressed for Christmas, lights, wreaths and trees all decorated. You feel as though you were in the middle of nowhere. Quiet as anything.
Upon arrival we were shown in a room set for tea. Choosing to sit by the tree and near the window. We settled ourselves in for the afternoon. We were explained the process, and asked whether we wanted tea or coffee. The choice of tea was beyond extensive. Fruit teas, infusions, traditional or non-so, you could have what you wanted.
Once we were ready to begin, we were asked when we wanted our Gin Teapot, what Tonic we wanted alongside it. I chose Elderflower and my friend chose Lemon Tonic. The Lemon Tonic was particularly strong and the Elderflower made mine moorish to say the least.
The staff throughout the entire process were attentive without being smothering, and were warm and welcoming.
The food experience started with Spiced Apple Jelly topped with Granola. Served in a shot glass, it was a delicate start to the afternoon tea. Once finished we were presented with the circular display stand with the sandwiches, cakes and scones presented perfectly. The sandwiches on offer were: Egg mayo, salmon & cucumber and cheese & chutney, Cakes were; Brownie, choux profiterole and lemon tart. All just two mouthfuls really. Perfect for inbetween gossip and chatting. It was hard for staff to interrupt to be honest, we were so ingrossed in the conversation. The Scones were warm, one plain and one raisin, we naturally needed a top up on the cream and jam.
Of course we had to have the pronunciation of Scone chat and whether it is better to put the cream and then jam or the jam and then cream. We decided that it had to be cream and then jam, but then again we both have a sweet tooth so who is surprised by that.
During this we were served our gin and tonic, in a teapot with a Hendricks mug alongside. A nice touch, many a teapot and coffee pot were on our table felt very demure. There was ice in the teapot which kept it lovely and cold throughout the rest of the afternoon.
Once we had exhausted the coffee, gin and tonic, as well as the cakes. I have to say it is surprising how full you get during one of these meals. I was surprised we were unable to finish everything put in front of us. It was all delicious but just could not fancy that final cake. Alas another Afternoon tea experience finished, and I have to say one of the finest. Relaxed and picturesque setting, warm room with attentive service and delicious food. Who could want more for a catch up with an old friend. 
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